Means and methods for preparing wires

Abstract

The present invention relates to a wire preparation system comprising a wire connectors storage module comprising one or more wire connector storages configured to store a bulk of individual wire connectors; where the wire preparation system comprises one or more modules / devices configured for separating and picking a single wire connector from the bulk of individual wire connectors.

Description

[0001] MEANS AND METHODS FOR PREPARING WIRES

[0002] RELATED APPLICATION / S

[0003] This application claims the benefit of priority of U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 63 / 726,715 filed on December 2, 2024, the contents of which are incorporated herein by reference in their entirety.

[0004] FIELD AND BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

[0005] The present invention, in some embodiments thereof, relates to means and methods for preparing wires and, more particularly, but not exclusively, to automated robotic systems for preparing wires and methods thereof.

[0006] Additional background art includes U.S. Patent No. US11398709 disclosing a crimping machine for crimping contact elements comprising a conveying device via which a separated wire ferrule is guided from a transport unit towards a crimping head.

[0007] U.S. Patent No. US 11121516 disclosing a crimping machine having a multiplicity of magazines for contact elements which are transportable to a transfer position via a conveyor device. A component to be crimped is then brought from the transfer position into a crimping position by means of a transport device. This transport device is assigned to all of the storage arrangements.

[0008] German utility model No. DE202019107002U1 disclosing a crimping machine with a crimping head for crimping stripped cable ends with contact elements, and with at least one feed pot which is arranged on an upper side of a jacket sheet, characterized in that adjacent to the jacket sheet or on the jacket sheet or lighting with different luminous colors is provided adjacent to the feed pot, via which operating states and / or technical information about the crimping machine and / or the feed pot can be displayed.

[0009] European Patent Application No. EP4399772A1 disclosing a pneumatic crimping tool having a crimping axis, along which a contact and a cable end can be introduced into a crimping opening, wherein a plurality of punches can be introduced into the crimping opening radially to the crimping axis. An adjusting wheel is provided, which comprises the crimping axis, the radial crimping depth being adjustable by rotating the adjusting wheel.

[0010] SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

[0011] Following is a non-exclusive list including some examples of embodiments of the invention. The invention also includes embodiments which include fewer than all the features in an example and embodiments using features from multiple examples, also if not expressly listed below. Example 1. A wire preparation system, comprising: a. a wire connectors storage module comprising one or more wire connector storages configured to store a bulk of individual wire connectors; b. a stripping module; c. a crimping module; wherein said wire preparation system comprises a picking device configured for separating and picking a single wire connector from said bulk of individual wire connectors.

[0012] Example 2. The wire preparation system according to example 1, wherein said picking device comprises a lifting bar.

[0013] Example 2a. The wire preparation system according to example 1 or example 2, wherein said picking device comprises a vacuum device.

[0014] Example 2b. The wire preparation system according to example 1 or examples 2-2a, further comprising at least one dynamic platform module configured for moving one or more modules within said wire preparation system.

[0015] Example 3. The wire preparation system according to example 1 or examples 2-2a-2b, wherein said at least one dynamic platform module comprises at least one arm connected to at least one actuator.

[0016] Example 4. The wire preparation system according to any one of examples 1-3, wherein said one or more modules are positioned on said at least one arm.

[0017] Example 5. The wire preparation system according to any one of examples 1-4, wherein said wire connectors storage module comprises two wire connector storages.

[0018] Example 6. The wire preparation system according to any one of examples 1-5, wherein each of said one or more wire connector storages comprises a wire connector bin configured for storing said bulk of individual wire connectors.

[0019] Example 7. The wire preparation system according to any one of examples 1-6, wherein said wire connector bin is a replaceable bin.

[0020] Example 8. The wire preparation system according to any one of examples 1-7, wherein said wire connector bin is a refillable bin.

[0021] Example 9. The wire preparation system according to any one of examples 1-8, wherein said wire connector bin comprises a geometry configured to avoid multiple wire connectors or no wire connector on said lift bar.

[0022] Example 10. The wire preparation system according to any one of examples 1-9, wherein said wire connector bin comprises a divider wall. Example 11. The wire preparation system according to any one of examples 1-10, wherein said wire connectors storage module is a carousel type wire connectors storage module configured to rotate on a longitudinal axis of said wire connectors storage module.

[0023] Example 12. The wire preparation system according to any one of examples 1-11, wherein said wire connectors storage module is a carousel type wire connectors storage module configured to stay static. Example 13. The wire preparation system according to any one of examples 1-12, wherein said one or more wire connector storages are arranged in a straight line.

[0024] Example 14. The wire preparation system according to any one of examples 1-13, wherein said rotate is clockwise or counterclockwise.

[0025] Example 15. The wire preparation system according to any one of examples 1-14, wherein each of said one or more wire connector storages comprises an opening on a bottom part of said wire connector bin and wherein said lifting arm enters said wire connector bin via said opening.

[0026] Example 16. The wire preparation system according to any one of examples 1-15, wherein said lifting bar is configured to move upwards and downwards within said wire connector storage.

[0027] Example 17. The wire preparation system according to any one of examples 1-16, wherein each of said one or more wire connector storages comprises a support / pushing sleeve positioned above said opening from which said lifting bar enters said wire connector bin.

[0028] Example 18. The wire preparation system according to any one of examples 1-17, wherein said support / pushing sleeve is configured for ensuring that said single wire connector is at a correct orientation.

[0029] Example 19. The wire preparation system according to any one of examples 1-18, wherein said support / pushing sleeve is configured for pushing said wire connector within a hollow passage in said lifting bar.

[0030] Example 20. The wire preparation system according to any one of examples 1-19, wherein said wire connectors storage module comprises an air compressed module configured for assisting in pushing said wire connector within said hollow passage in said lifting bar.

[0031] Example 21. The wire preparation system according to any one of examples 1 -20, wherein said wire connectors storage module comprises an air compressed module configured for mixing said bulk of individual wire connectors within said wire connector bin.

[0032] Example 22. The wire preparation system according to any one of examples 1-21, wherein said wire connectors storage module comprises a local vibratory element configured for mixing said bulk of individual wire connectors within said wire connector bin.

[0033] Example 23. The wire preparation system according to any one of examples 1-22, wherein said local vibratory element vibrates said lifting bar and / or said wire connector bin. Example 24. The wire preparation system according to any one of examples 1-23, wherein said lifting bar comprises a geometry configured for receiving a single wire connector.

[0034] Example 25. The wire preparation system according to any one of examples 1-24, wherein said lifting bar comprises a geometry configured for receiving a single wire connector at a certain directionality.

[0035] Example 26. The wire preparation system according to any one of examples 1-25, wherein said lifting bar comprises a hollow passage sized and shaped to receive a single wire connector.

[0036] Example 27. The wire preparation system according to any one of examples 1-26, further comprising a housing.

[0037] Example 28. The wire preparation system according to any one of examples 1-27, further comprising at least one opening on said housing, said opening configured to allow insertion of at least one wire into said wire preparation system, said wire in need to be prepared.

[0038] Example 29. The wire preparation system according to any one of examples 1-28, further comprising one or more electronic modules comprising one or more controllers, configured for actuating modules in said wire preparation system.

[0039] Example 30. The wire preparation system according to any one of examples 1-29, further comprising a unit interface.

[0040] Example 31. The wire preparation system according to any one of examples 1-30, further comprising a communication interface unit configured for interfacing between said wire preparation system and other automated machines.

[0041] Example 32. The wire preparation system according to any one of examples 1-31, further comprising a wire cutting element configured for cutting a wire to a required length.

[0042] Example 33. The wire preparation system according to any one of examples 1-32, further comprising one or more wire reels.

[0043] Example 34. The wire preparation system according to any one of examples 1-33, further comprising a wire connector sliding tube configured for allowing passage of at least one wire connector from a wire connectors storage module to at least one different module within said wire preparation system.

[0044] Example 35. The wire preparation system according to any one of examples 1-34, wherein said wire connector sliding tube is sized and shaped to allow a passage of a single wire connector.

[0045] Example 36. The wire preparation system according to any one of examples 1-35, wherein said crimping module is configured for receiving a single wire connector.

[0046] Example 37. The wire preparation system according to any one of examples 1-36, wherein said crimping module is configured for crimping said single wire connector onto a wire. Example 38. The wire preparation system according to any one of examples 1-37, wherein said stripping module is configured to strip at least a part of an insulation cover of a wire.

[0047] Example 39. The wire preparation system according to any one of examples 1-38, wherein said stripping module is configured to partially strip an insulation cover of a wire.

[0048] Example 40. The wire preparation system according to any one of examples 1-39, wherein said stripping module comprises a holder configured to hold a wire while said wire is being prepared.

[0049] Example 41. The wire preparation system according to any one of examples 1-40, wherein said stripping module comprises at least one blade configured to cut an insulation cover of a wire.

[0050] Example 42. The wire preparation system according to any one of examples 1-41, further comprising one or more sensors configured for the monitoring one or more wire preparation processes and / or modules in said wire preparation system.

[0051] Example 43. The wire preparation system according to any one of examples 1-42, wherein said one or more sensors are configured to detect that a wire has been inserted in said wire preparation system. Example 44. The wire preparation system according to any one of examples 1-43, wherein said one or more sensors are configured to detect that a single wire connector has been picked up by said lifting bar.

[0052] Example 45. The wire preparation system according to any one of examples 1-44, wherein said one or more sensors are configured to detect that a single wire connector has been positioned in said crimping module.

[0053] Example 46. The wire preparation system according to any one of examples 1-45, wherein said one or more sensors are configured to assess the success of the crimping action.

[0054] Example 47. The wire preparation system according to any one of examples 1-46, wherein said one or more sensors are configured to assess the success of the stripping action.

[0055] Example 48. A wire preparation system, comprising: a. a wire connectors storage module comprising one or more wire connector storages configured to store a bulk of individual wire connectors; b. a stripping module; c. a crimping module; wherein said wire preparation system comprises lifting bar configured for separating and picking a single wire connector from said bulk of individual wire connectors.

[0056] Example 49. The wire preparation system according to example 48, further comprising at least one dynamic platform module configured for moving one or more modules within said wire preparation system. Example 50. The wire preparation system according to example 48 or example 49, wherein said at least one dynamic platform module comprises at least one arm connected to at least one actuator.

[0057] Example 51. The wire preparation system according to any one of examples 48-50, wherein said one or more modules are positioned on said at least one arm.

[0058] Example 52. The wire preparation system according to any one of examples 48-51, wherein said wire connectors storage module comprises two wire connector storages.

[0059] Example 53. The wire preparation system according to any one of examples 48-52, wherein each of said one or more wire connector storages comprises a wire connector bin configured for storing said bulk of individual wire connectors.

[0060] Example 54. The wire preparation system according to any one of examples 48-53, wherein said wire connector bin is a replaceable bin.

[0061] Example 55. The wire preparation system according to any one of examples 48-54, wherein said wire connector bin is a refillable bin.

[0062] Example 56. The wire preparation system according to any one of examples 48-55, wherein said wire connector bin comprises a geometry configured to avoid multiple wire connectors or no wire connector on said lifting bar.

[0063] Example 57. The wire preparation system according to any one of examples 48-56, wherein said wire connector bin comprises a divider wall.

[0064] Example 58. The wire preparation system according to any one of examples 48-57, wherein said wire connectors storage module is a carousel type wire connectors storage module configured to rotate on a longitudinal axis of said wire connectors storage module.

[0065] Example 59. The wire preparation system according to any one of examples 48-58, wherein said wire connectors storage module is a carousel type wire connectors storage module configured to stay static.

[0066] Example 60. The wire preparation system according to any one of examples 48-59, wherein said one or more wire connector storages are arranged in a straight line.

[0067] Example 61. The wire preparation system according to any one of examples 48-60, wherein said rotate is clockwise or counterclockwise.

[0068] Example 62. The wire preparation system according to any one of examples 48-61, wherein each of said one or more wire connector storages comprises an opening on a bottom part of said wire connector bin and wherein said lifting bar enters said wire connector bin via said opening.

[0069] Example 63. The wire preparation system according to any one of examples 48-62, wherein said lifting bar is configured to move upwards and downwards within said wire connector storage. Example 64. The wire preparation system according to any one of examples 48-63, wherein each of said one or more wire connector storages comprises a support / pushing sleeve positioned above said opening from which said lifting bar enters said wire connector bin.

[0070] Example 65. The wire preparation system according to any one of examples 48-64, wherein said support / pushing sleeve is configured for ensuring that said single wire connector is at a correct orientation.

[0071] Example 66. The wire preparation system according to any one of examples 48-65, wherein said support / pushing sleeve is configured for pushing said wire connector within a hollow passage in said lifting bar.

[0072] Example 67. The wire preparation system according to any one of examples 48-66, wherein said wire connectors storage module comprises an air compressed module configured for assisting in pushing said wire connector within said hollow passage in said lifting bar.

[0073] Example 68. The wire preparation system according to any one of examples 48-67, wherein said wire connectors storage module comprises an air compressed module configured for mixing said bulk of individual wire connectors within said wire connector bin.

[0074] Example 69. The wire preparation system according to any one of examples 48-68, wherein said wire connectors storage module comprises a local vibratory element configured for mixing said bulk of individual wire connectors within said wire connector bin.

[0075] Example 70. The wire preparation system according to any one of examples 48-69, wherein said local vibratory element vibrates said lifting bar and / or said wire connector bin.

[0076] Example 71. The wire preparation system according to any one of examples 48-70, wherein said lifting bar comprises a geometry configured for receiving a single wire connector.

[0077] Example 72. The wire preparation system according to any one of examples 48-71, wherein said lifting bar comprises a geometry configured for receiving a single wire connector at a certain directionality.

[0078] Example 73. The wire preparation system according to any one of examples 48-72, wherein said lifting bar comprises a hollow passage sized and shaped to receive a single wire connector.

[0079] Example 74. The wire preparation system according to any one of examples 48-73, further comprising a housing.

[0080] Example 75. The wire preparation system according to any one of examples 48-74, further comprising at least one opening on said housing, said opening configured to allow insertion of at least one wire into said wire preparation system, said wire in need to be prepared. Example 76. The wire preparation system according to any one of examples 48-77, further comprising one or more electronic modules comprising one or more controllers, configured for actuating modules in said wire preparation system.

[0081] Example 77. The wire preparation system according to any one of examples 48-76, further comprising a unit interface.

[0082] Example 78. The wire preparation system according to any one of examples 48-77, further comprising a communication interface unit configured for interfacing between said wire preparation system and other automated machines.

[0083] Example 79. The wire preparation system according to any one of examples 48-78, further comprising a wire cutting element configured for cutting a wire to a required length.

[0084] Example 80. The wire preparation system according to any one of examples 48-79, further comprising one or more wire reels.

[0085] Example 81. The wire preparation system according to any one of examples 48-80, further comprising a wire connector sliding tube configured for allowing passage of at least one wire connector from a wire connectors storage module to at least one different module within said wire preparation system.

[0086] Example 82. The wire preparation system according to any one of examples 48-81, wherein said wire connector sliding tube is sized and shaped to allow a passage of a single wire connector.

[0087] Example 83. The wire preparation system according to any one of examples 48-82, wherein said crimping module is configured for receiving a single wire connector.

[0088] Example 84. The wire preparation system according to any one of examples 48-83, wherein said crimping module is configured for crimping said single wire connector onto a wire.

[0089] Example 85. The wire preparation system according to any one of examples 48-84, wherein said stripping module is configured to strip at least a part of an insulation cover of a wire.

[0090] Example 86. The wire preparation system according to any one of examples 48-85, wherein said stripping module is configured to partially strip an insulation cover of a wire.

[0091] Example 87. The wire preparation system according to any one of examples 48-86, wherein said stripping module comprises a holder configured to hold a wire while said wire is being prepared.

[0092] Example 88. The wire preparation system according to any one of examples 48-87, wherein said stripping module comprises at least one blade configured to cut an insulation cover of a wire.

[0093] Example 89. The wire preparation system according to any one of examples 48-88, further comprising one or more sensors configured for the monitoring one or more wire preparation processes and / or modules in said wire preparation system. Example 90. The wire preparation system according to any one of examples 48-89, wherein said one or more sensors are configured to detect that a wire has been inserted in said wire preparation system.

[0094] Example 91. The wire preparation system according to any one of examples 48-90, wherein said one or more sensors are configured to detect that a single wire connector has been picked up by said lifting bar.

[0095] Example 92. The wire preparation system according to any one of examples 48-91, wherein said one or more sensors are configured to detect that a single wire connector has been positioned in said crimping module.

[0096] Example 93. The wire preparation system according to any one of examples 48-92, wherein said one or more sensors are configured to assess the success of the crimping action.

[0097] Example 94. The wire preparation system according to any one of examples 48-93, wherein said one or more sensors are configured to assess the success of the stripping action.

[0098] Example 95. A wire preparation system, comprising: a. a wire connectors storage module comprising one or more wire connector storages configured to store a bulk of individual wire connectors; b. a stripping module; c. a crimping module; wherein said wire preparation system comprises a vacuum module configured for separating and picking a single wire connector from said bulk of individual wire connectors.

[0099] Example 96. The wire preparation system according to example 95, further comprising at least one dynamic platform module configured for moving one or more modules within said wire preparation system.

[0100] Example 97. The wire preparation system according to example 95 or example 96, wherein said at least one dynamic platform module comprises at least one arm connected to at least one actuator.

[0101] Example 98. The wire preparation system according to any one of examples 95-97, wherein said one or more modules are positioned on said at least one arm.

[0102] Example 99. The wire preparation system according to any one of examples 95-98, wherein said wire connectors storage module comprises two wire connector storages.

[0103] Example 100. The wire preparation system according to any one of examples 95-99, wherein each of said one or more wire connector storages comprises a wire connector bin configured for storing said bulk of individual wire connectors.

[0104] Example 101. The wire preparation system according to any one of examples 95-100, wherein said wire connector bin is a replaceable bin. Example 102. The wire preparation system according to any one of examples 95-101, wherein said wire connector bin is a refillable bin.

[0105] Example 103. The wire preparation system according to any one of examples 95-102, wherein said wire connector bin comprises a geometry configured to avoid multiple wire connectors or no wire connector on a lifting bar.

[0106] Example 104. The wire preparation system according to any one of examples 95-103, wherein said wire connector bin comprises a divider wall.

[0107] Example 105. The wire preparation system according to any one of examples 95-104, wherein said wire connectors storage module is a carousel type wire connectors storage module configured to rotate on a longitudinal axis of said wire connectors storage module.

[0108] Example 106. The wire preparation system according to any one of examples 95-105, wherein said wire connectors storage module is a carousel type wire connectors storage module configured to stay static.

[0109] Example 107. The wire preparation system according to any one of examples 95-106, wherein said one or more wire connector storages are arranged in a straight line.

[0110] Example 108. The wire preparation system according to any one of examples 95-107, wherein said rotate is clockwise or counterclockwise.

[0111] Example 109 The wire preparation system according to any one of examples 95-108, wherein each of said one or more wire connector storages comprises an opening on a bottom part of said wire connector bin and wherein said lifting arm enters said wire connector bin via said opening.

[0112] Example 110. The wire preparation system according to any one of examples 95-109, wherein said lifting bar is configured to move upwards and downwards within said wire connector storage.

[0113] Example 111. The wire preparation system according to any one of examples 95-110, wherein each of said one or more wire connector storages comprises a support / pushing sleeve positioned above said opening from which said lifting bar enters said wire connector bin.

[0114] Example 112. The wire preparation system according to any one of examples 95-111, wherein said support / pushing sleeve is configured for ensuring that said single wire connector is at a correct orientation.

[0115] Example 113. The wire preparation system according to any one of examples 95-112, wherein said support / pushing sleeve is configured for pushing said wire connector within a hollow passage in said lifting bar.

[0116] Example 114. The wire preparation system according to any one of examples 95-113, wherein said wire connectors storage module comprises an air compressed module configured for assisting in pushing said wire connector within said hollow passage in said lifting bar. Example 115. The wire preparation system according to any one of examples 95-114, wherein said wire connectors storage module comprises an air compressed module configured for mixing said bulk of individual wire connectors within said wire connector bin.

[0117] Example 116. The wire preparation system according to any one of examples 95-115, wherein said wire connectors storage module comprises a local vibratory element configured for mixing said bulk of individual wire connectors within said wire connector bin.

[0118] Example 117. The wire preparation system according to any one of examples 95-116, wherein said local vibratory element vibrates said lifting bar and / or said wire connector bin.

[0119] Example 118. The wire preparation system according to any one of examples 95-117, wherein said lifting bar comprises a geometry configured for receiving a single wire connector.

[0120] Example 119. The wire preparation system according to any one of examples 95-118, wherein said lifting bar comprises a geometry configured for receiving a single wire connector at a certain directionality.

[0121] Example 120. The wire preparation system according to any one of examples 95-119, wherein said lifting bar comprises a hollow passage sized and shaped to receive a single wire connector.

[0122] Example 121. The wire preparation system according to any one of examples 95-120, further comprising a housing.

[0123] Example 122. The wire preparation system according to any one of examples 95-121, further comprising at least one opening on said housing, said opening configured to allow insertion of at least one wire into said wire preparation system, said wire in need to be prepared.

[0124] Example 123. The wire preparation system according to any one of examples 95-122, further comprising one or more electronic modules comprising one or more controllers, configured for actuating modules in said wire preparation system.

[0125] Example 124. The wire preparation system according to any one of examples 95-123, further comprising a unit interface.

[0126] Example 125. The wire preparation system according to any one of examples 95-124, further comprising a communication interface unit configured for interfacing between said wire preparation system and other automated machines.

[0127] Example 126. The wire preparation system according to any one of examples 95-125, further comprising a wire cutting element configured for cutting a wire to a required length.

[0128] Example 127. The wire preparation system according to any one of examples 95-126, further comprising one or more wire reels.

[0129] Example 128. The wire preparation system according to any one of examples 95-127, further comprising a wire connector sliding tube configured for allowing passage of at least one wire connector from a wire connectors storage module to at least one different module within said wire preparation system.

[0130] Example 129. The wire preparation system according to any one of examples 95-128, wherein said wire connector sliding tube is sized and shaped to allow a passage of a single wire connector.

[0131] Example 130. The wire preparation system according to any one of examples 95-129, wherein said crimping module is configured for receiving a single wire connector.

[0132] Example 131. The wire preparation system according to any one of examples 95-130, wherein said crimping module is configured for crimping said single wire connector onto a wire.

[0133] Example 132. The wire preparation system according to any one of examples 95-131, wherein said stripping module is configured to strip at least a part of an insulation cover of a wire.

[0134] Example 133. The wire preparation system according to any one of examples 95-132, wherein said stripping module is configured to partially strip an insulation cover of a wire.

[0135] Example 134. The wire preparation system according to any one of examples 95-133, wherein said stripping module comprises a holder configured to hold a wire while said wire is being prepared.

[0136] Example 135. The wire preparation system according to any one of examples 95-134, wherein said stripping module comprises at least one blade configured to cut an insulation cover of a wire.

[0137] Example 136. The wire preparation system according to any one of examples 95-135, further comprising one or more sensors configured for the monitoring one or more wire preparation processes and / or modules in said wire preparation system.

[0138] Example 137. The wire preparation system according to any one of examples 95-136, wherein said one or more sensors are configured to detect that a wire has been inserted in said wire preparation system.

[0139] Example 138. The wire preparation system according to any one of examples 95-137, wherein said one or more sensors are configured to detect that a single wire connector has been picked up by said lifting bar.

[0140] Example 139. The wire preparation system according to any one of examples 95-138, wherein said one or more sensors are configured to detect that a single wire connector has been positioned in said crimping module.

[0141] Example 140. The wire preparation system according to any one of examples 95-139, wherein said one or more sensors are configured to assess the success of the crimping action.

[0142] Example 141. The wire preparation system according to any one of examples 95-140, wherein said one or more sensors are configured to assess the success of the stripping action.

[0143] Example 142. A method for extracting a single wire connector from a wire connector storage compartment, the method comprising: a. lifting a lifting bar thereby causing a single wire connector to enter a dedicated geometry in said lifting bar; b. bringing said lifting bar in contact with a support / pushing sleeve until said single wire connector contacts said support / pushing sleeve; c. causing said single wire connector to enter a hollow passage in said lifting bar; d. passing said hollow passage in said lifting bar and exit to a next module.

[0144] Example 143. The method according to example 142, wherein said passing is passive by means of gravity.

[0145] Example 144. The method according to example 142 or example 143, wherein said passing is active by means of a vacuum force.

[0146] Example 145. The method according to any one of examples 142-144, wherein said passing is active by means of an air pressurized force.

[0147] Example 146. A method for preparing a wire, comprising: a. receiving an indication that a wire in need to be prepared has been inserted; b. performing wire connector extraction process to extract a single wire connector; c. transferring said single wire connector to a crimping module; d. crimping said single wire connector to a wire.

[0148] Example 147. The method according to example 146, further comprising performing wire stripping process before said crimping.

[0149] Example 148. The method according to example 146 or example 147, further comprising automatically identifying a type and / or size of said wire; and further comprising selecting a dedicated wire connector accordingly.

[0150] Example 150. The method according to any one of examples 146-148, further comprising assessing a quality of said crimping.

[0151] Example 151. A method for stripping a wire, comprising: a. receiving an indication that a wire has been inserted; b. actuating a holding element thereby holding said wire; c. actuating a stripping element, thereby stripping an insulating cover from said wire and exposing a conductive core of said wire.

[0152] Example 152. The method according to example 151, further comprising reversing said actuation of said holding element, thereby releasing said wire.

[0153] Unless otherwise defined, all technical and / or scientific terms used herein have the same meaning as commonly understood by one of ordinary skill in the art to which the invention pertains. Although methods and materials similar or equivalent to those described herein can be used in the practice or testing of embodiments of the invention, exemplary methods and / or materials are described below. In case of conflict, the patent specification, including definitions, will control. In addition, the materials, methods, and examples are illustrative only and are not intended to be necessarily limiting.

[0154] As will be appreciated by one skilled in the art, some embodiments of the present invention may be embodied as a system, method or computer program product. Accordingly, some embodiments of the present invention may take the form of an entirely hardware embodiment, an entirely software embodiment (including firmware, resident software, micro-code, etc.) or an embodiment combining software and hardware aspects that may all generally be referred to herein as a “circuit,” “module” or “system.” Furthermore, some embodiments of the present invention may take the form of a computer program product embodied in one or more computer readable medium(s) having computer readable program code embodied thereon. Implementation of the method and / or system of some embodiments of the invention can involve performing and / or completing selected tasks manually, automatically, or a combination thereof. Moreover, according to actual instrumentation and equipment of some embodiments of the method and / or system of the invention, several selected tasks could be implemented by hardware, by software or by firmware and / or by a combination thereof, e.g., using an operating system.

[0155] For example, hardware for performing selected tasks according to some embodiments of the invention could be implemented as a chip or a circuit. As software, selected tasks according to some embodiments of the invention could be implemented as a plurality of software instructions being executed by a computer using any suitable operating system. In an exemplary embodiment of the invention, one or more tasks according to some exemplary embodiments of method and / or system as described herein are performed by a data processor, such as a computing platform for executing a plurality of instructions. Optionally, the data processor includes a volatile memory for storing instructions and / or data and / or a non-volatile storage, for example, a magnetic hard-disk and / or removable media, for storing instructions and / or data. Optionally, a network connection is provided as well. A display and / or a user input device such as a keyboard or mouse are optionally provided as well.

[0156] Any combination of one or more computer readable medium(s) may be utilized for some embodiments of the invention. The computer readable medium may be a computer readable signal medium or a computer readable storage medium. A computer readable storage medium may be, for example, but not limited to, an electronic, magnetic, optical, electromagnetic, infrared, or semiconductor system, apparatus, or device, or any suitable combination of the foregoing. More specific examples (a non-exhaustive list) of the computer readable storage medium would include the following: an electrical connection having one or more wires, a portable computer diskette, a hard disk, a random access memory (RAM), a read-only memory (ROM), an erasable programmable readonly memory (EPROM or Flash memory), an optical fiber, a portable compact disc read-only memory (CD-ROM), an optical storage device, a magnetic storage device, or any suitable combination of the foregoing. In the context of this document, a computer readable storage medium may be any tangible medium that can contain, or store a program for use by or in connection with an instruction execution system, apparatus, or device.

[0157] A computer readable signal medium may include a propagated data signal with computer readable program code embodied therein, for example, in baseband or as part of a carrier wave. Such a propagated signal may take any of a variety of forms, including, but not limited to, electro-magnetic, optical, or any suitable combination thereof. A computer readable signal medium may be any computer readable medium that is not a computer readable storage medium and that can communicate, propagate, or transport a program for use by or in connection with an instruction execution system, apparatus, or device.

[0158] Program code embodied on a computer readable medium and / or data used thereby may be transmitted using any appropriate medium, including but not limited to wireless, wireline, optical fiber cable, RF, etc., or any suitable combination of the foregoing.

[0159] Computer program code for carrying out operations for some embodiments of the present invention may be written in any combination of one or more programming languages, including an object-oriented programming language such as Java, Smalltalk, C++ or the like and conventional procedural programming languages, such as the "C" programming language or similar programming languages. The program code may execute entirely on the user's computer, partly on the user's computer, as a stand-alone software package, partly on the user's computer and partly on a remote computer or entirely on the remote computer or server. In the latter scenario, the remote computer may be connected to the user's computer through any type of network, including a local area network (LAN) or a wide area network (WAN), or the connection may be made to an external computer (for example, through the Internet using an Internet Service Provider).

[0160] Some embodiments of the present invention may be described below with reference to flowchart illustrations and / or block diagrams of methods, apparatus (systems) and computer program products according to embodiments of the invention. It will be understood that each block of the flowchart illustrations and / or block diagrams, and combinations of blocks in the flowchart illustrations and / or block diagrams, can be implemented by computer program instructions. These computer program instructions may be provided to a processor of a general -purpose computer, special purpose computer, or other programmable data processing apparatus to produce a machine, such that the instructions, which execute via the processor of the computer or other programmable data processing apparatus, create means for implementing the functions / acts specified in the flowchart and / or block diagram block or blocks.

[0161] These computer program instructions may also be stored in a computer readable medium that can direct a computer, other programmable data processing apparatus, or other devices to function in a particular manner, such that the instructions stored in the computer readable medium produce an article of manufacture including instructions which implement the function / act specified in the flowchart and / or block diagram block or blocks.

[0162] The computer program instructions may also be loaded onto a computer, other programmable data processing apparatus, or other devices to cause a series of operational steps to be performed on the computer, other programmable apparatus or other devices to produce a computer implemented process such that the instructions which execute on the computer or other programmable apparatus provide processes for implementing the functions / acts specified in the flowchart and / or block diagram block or blocks.

[0163] Some of the methods described herein are generally designed only for use by a computer, and may not be feasible or practical for performing purely manually, by a human expert. A human expert who wanted to manually perform similar tasks might be expected to use completely different methods, e.g., making use of expert knowledge and / or the pattern recognition capabilities of the human brain, which would be vastly more efficient than manually going through the steps of the methods described herein.

[0164] BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE SEVERAL VIEWS OF THE DRAWINGS

[0165] Some embodiments of the invention are herein described, by way of example only, with reference to the accompanying drawings. With specific reference now to the drawings in detail, it is stressed that the particulars shown are by way of example and for purposes of illustrative discussion of embodiments of the invention. In this regard, the description taken with the drawings makes apparent to those skilled in the art how embodiments of the invention may be practiced.

[0166] In the drawings:

[0167] Figure 1 is a schematic block diagram of the modules of an exemplary wire preparation system, according to some embodiments of the invention;

[0168] Figure 2 is a schematic representation of a first exemplary embodiment of a wire preparation system, according to some embodiments of the invention; Figures 3a-3e are schematic representations of an exemplary wire connectors storage module of an exemplary wire preparation system as shown in Figure 2, according to some embodiments of the invention;

[0169] Figures 4a-4g are schematic representations of parts of the exemplary wire preparation system involved in the method of extraction of wire connectors from wire connector storage compartments, according to some embodiments of the invention;

[0170] Figure 5 is a flowchart of an exemplary method of extraction of wire connectors from wire connector storage compartments, according to some embodiments of the invention;

[0171] Figure 6 is a schematic representation of an exemplary wire connector sliding tube, according to some embodiments of the invention;

[0172] Figure 7 is an exemplary crimping module, according to some embodiments of the invention;

[0173] Figures 8a-b are schematic representations of an exemplary stripping module, according to some embodiments of the invention;

[0174] Figures 9a-c are schematic representations of an exemplary dynamic platform module, according to some embodiments of the invention;

[0175] Figure 10 is a flowchart of an exemplary method of wire preparation, according to some embodiments of the invention;

[0176] Figure 11 is a flowchart of an exemplary method of stripping a wire (or wire stripping process), according to some embodiments of the invention;

[0177] Figures 12a-h are schematic representations of exemplary second embodiments of wire preparation systems, according to some embodiments of the invention;

[0178] Figures 13a-c are two schematic representations of a third exemplary embodiment of a wire preparation system, according to some embodiments of the invention;

[0179] Figures 14a-k are schematic representations of exemplary wire connectors storage compartments and parts thereof of an exemplary wire preparation system as shown in Figures 13a-c, according to some embodiments of the invention;

[0180] Figure 141 is a flowchart of an exemplary method of extracting a single wire connector from an exemplary wire connector storage compartment, according to some embodiments of the invention;

[0181] Figures 15a-e are schematic representations of an exemplary dynamic platform module, according to some embodiments of the invention;

[0182] Figure 16 is a schematic representation of an exemplary crimping module 106, according to some embodiments of the invention;

[0183] Figures 17a-c are schematic representations of an exemplary stripping module in the wire preparation system, according to some embodiments of the invention; Figure 18 is a flowchart of an exemplary method of wire preparation, according to some embodiments of the invention;

[0184] Figures 19a-b are schematic representations of an exemplary fourth embodiment of a wire preparation system, according to some embodiments of the invention;

[0185] Figures 19c-d are two schematic representations of an exemplary wire connectors storage module comprising one or more wire connector storages, according to some embodiments of the invention;

[0186] Figures 19e-h are schematic representations of exemplary wire connector storages, according to some embodiments of the invention;

[0187] Figures 19i-j are schematic representations of the actuation of the lifting bar, according to some embodiments of the invention;

[0188] Figure 19k is a schematic representation of a geometry of an exemplary lifting bar, according to some embodiments of the invention;

[0189] Figures 20a-c are schematic representations of an exemplary actuator of the lifting bar, according to some embodiments of the invention;

[0190] Figures 21a-b are schematic representations of an exemplary dynamic platform module with a crimping module of the wire preparation system, according to some embodiments of the invention;

[0191] Figure 22 is a schematic representation of an exemplary stripping module of an exemplary wire preparation system, according to some embodiments of the invention;

[0192] Figure 23 is a flowchart of an exemplary method of wire preparation using the wire preparation system, according to some embodiments of the invention;

[0193] Figures 24a-b are schematic representations of exemplary wire preparation systems with different numbers of channels, according to some embodiments of the invention;

[0194] Figure 25 is a schematic representation of an exemplary portable wire preparation system, according to some embodiments of the invention; and

[0195] Figures 26a-h are schematic representations of exemplary wire preparation systems, according to some embodiments of the invention.

[0196] DESCRIPTION OF SPECIFIC EMBODIMENTS OF THE INVENTION

[0197] The present invention, in some embodiments thereof, relates to means and methods for preparing wires and, more particularly, but not exclusively, to automated systems for preparing wires and methods thereof. Overview

[0198] An aspect of some embodiments of the invention relates to the preparation of wires to be used in electrical systems. In some embodiments, the preparation comprises one or more modules configured to perform one or more of: exposing the distal ends of the wire to allow the mounting of a connector on one or both distal ends; and mounting a connector onto the exposed distal ends. In some embodiments, the process is performed by an automated device / system. In some embodiments, the device / system is configured to prepare wires having different diameters or thickness. In some embodiments, the device / system is configured to mount a dedicated connector depending on the diameter or thickness of the wire. In some embodiments, the device / system is configured to mount a dedicated connector with a specific connector feature (e.g. length) that is selected for a certain component, that needs to be wired.

[0199] Before explaining at least one embodiment of the invention in detail, it is to be understood that the invention is not necessarily limited in its application to the details of construction and the arrangement of the components and / or methods set forth in the following description and / or illustrated in the drawings and / or the Examples. The invention is capable of other embodiments or of being practiced or carried out in various ways.

[0200] Referring now to Figure 1, showing a schematic block diagram of the modules of an exemplary wire preparation system, according to some embodiments of the invention.

[0201] In some embodiments, an exemplary wire preparation system 100 comprises one or more of the following modules and / or parts:

[0202] A wire connectors storage module 102 comprising one or more wire connector storages, each configured to store a plurality of wire connectors 120 (also called ferrules). In some embodiments, each wire connector storage stores a certain size of wire connector. In some embodiments, wire connectors are loose within the wire connector storages. For example, the wire connectors are not attached to each other but loosely stored in bulk within the wire connector storage. A potential advantage of storing the wire connectors not connected is that it allows an easy refilling of the wire connector storages and also allows to use any kind and type of wire connector, without the need to add further actions to the manufacturing process of the wire connectors.

[0203] At least one stripping module 104, configured to strip a covered distal end of a wire 122 (as shown for example in Figure 2) to expose the metallic wires comprised therein.

[0204] At least one crimping module 106, configured to attach a wire connector 120 to a stripped distal end of a wire 122 (connector 120 not shown in Figure 1).

[0205] At least one dynamic platform module 108. In some embodiments, the dynamic platform module 108 comprises a robotic and / or a manipulator and / or automatic component configured to move elements related to and during the wiring preparation process within the wire preparation system 100, for example moving wire connectors and / or moving the wire being prepared and / or moving other modules within the wire preparation system 100 (see below).

[0206] At least one opening 110 for inserting a distal end of a wire 122 in need to be prepared.

[0207] A housing 112 to house all the required modules together.

[0208] Dedicated electronic modules 114, comprising one or more controllers having memory with instructions to actuate modules of the exemplary wire preparation system 100. In some embodiments, electronic modules include a unit interface (UI), for example a touch screen, configured to permit the interaction between external systems and / or users and the wire preparation system 100. In some embodiments, the wire preparation system 100 is connected, either using a wireless or a wired connection, with an external system that provides instructions on what wires are required, comprising for example information on one or more if a length of a required wire, a type of required wire and a type of wire connector.

[0209] In some embodiments, optionally, the wire preparation system 100 comprises a communication interface unit (not shown) configured for interfacing between the wire preparation system 100 and other automated machines.

[0210] In some embodiments, optionally, the exemplary wire preparation system 100 comprises or has adjacent to the system, one or more wire reels 116 (optionally having wires having different diameters), which permit easy access to wires 122 in need of preparation close to and / or attached to the exemplary wire preparation system 100 (see below).

[0211] In some embodiments, optionally, the exemplary wire preparation system 100 comprises or has adjacent to the system, a wire cutting element allowing cutting the wire to length.

[0212] In the following paragraphs, several embodiments of wire preparation systems will be provided. While they may differ from each other in how the modules are organized and / or actuated, and / or in the inclusion or exclusion of one or more elements and / or modules, it should be understood that each wire preparation system may comprise the modules as shown in Figure 1 and may perform wire preparation methods that bring a wire from an unprepared state to a fully prepared state comprising a wire connector properly crimped at one or more of the distal ends of the wire.

[0213] Exemplary first embodiment of wire preparation system 200

[0214] Referring now to Figure 2, showing a schematic representation of a first exemplary embodiment of a wire preparation system 200, according to some embodiments of the invention. Figure 2 shows a half-transparent view of the exemplary wire preparation system 200 to allow easy viewing of the modules therein. Same parts are kept with same reference numbers in all Figures. In some embodiments, a wire preparation system 200 comprises a wire connectors storage module 102 comprising a plurality of wire connector storage compartments 202 (see also Figure 3b). In some embodiments, the wire connectors storage module 102 is a carousel-type wire connectors storage module 102 configured to rotate on its axis (see Figure 3a). In some embodiments, the wire preparation system 200 comprises a wire connector sliding tube 204 having a first end connected and / or located adjacent to the wire connectors storage module 102 and a second end connected and / or located adjacent to a crimping module 106. In some embodiments, the wire preparation system 200 comprises a stripping module 104. In some embodiments, the wire preparation system 200 comprises one or more operating panels 206 (for example touch screen and / or analog control panel) which allow for a user to operate and interact with the wire preparation system 200. In some embodiments, the wire preparation system 200 comprises one or more access panels (208 / 210) configured to allow a user to access the internal modules of the wire preparation system 200, for example in order to perform maintenance operations. In some embodiments, the wire preparation system 200 comprises one or more support structures 212, for example a support / pushing structure configured to hold in place modules and / or assist in the operation of modules (see below). wire preparation system 200

[0215] In the following paragraphs, the different modules / parts of the exemplary wire preparation system 200 will be explained.

[0216] Exemplary wire connectors storage module 102

[0217] Referring now to Figures 3a-3e, showing schematic representations of an exemplary wire connectors storage module 102 of an exemplary wire preparation system 200, as shown in Figure 2, according to some embodiments of the invention. In some embodiments, the exemplary wire connectors storage module 102 comprises a plurality of wire connector storage compartments 202 (also referred to wire connector storages). In this embodiment and as mentioned above, the exemplary wire connectors storage module 102 is a carousel-type storage module having a plurality of wire connector storage compartments 202 configured to rotate along a central longitudinal axis A. In some embodiments, the rotation is clockwise and / or counterclockwise. In some embodiments, the wire preparation system 200 comprises a dedicated motor (not shown) configured to provide the rotational action to the carousel-type wire connectors storage module 102.

[0218] In some embodiments, each wire connector storage compartment 202 comprises a wire connector bin 302 configured to store a plurality of wire connectors therein. In some embodiments, at a bottom part of the wire connector bin 302 there is an opening 304 (schematically shown in Figure 3b) sized and shaped to allow the entry of a lifting bar 306, which is positioned within an enclosing body 308 (schematically shown in Figure 3d). In some embodiments, the lifting bar 306 is configured to move upwards and downwards within the wire connector bin 302 (see method below), for example by means of a controlled step motor and / or a servo motor and / or a pneumatic mechanism or any other possible actuator.

[0219] In some embodiments, each wire connector storage compartment 202 comprises a support / pushing sleeve 310 positioned above the opening 304 from which the lifting bar 306 enters the connector bin 302. In some embodiments, the support / pushing sleeve 310 is configured to perform two actions: ensure that the wire connector 120 is at the correct orientation and push the wire connector within the lifting bar 306 once the lifting bar 306 reaches the support / pushing sleeve 310 (see below) thereby pushing down the wire connector into a hollow passage 316. In some embodiments, optionally, additionally or alternatively to the support / pushing sleeve 310, the exemplary wire preparation system 200 comprises an air compressed module (not shown) configured to apply pressurized air on the wire connector thereby pushing down the wire connector into a hollow passage 316 (see below) in the lifting bar 306. In some embodiments, the air compressed module provides the force necessary for delivering a wire connector through the sliding tube and into the crimping module, where the force is higher than the force of gravity.

[0220] In some embodiments, in order to break and / or mix from time to time the bundles of ferrules inside the bin, a local vibratory element is provided. In some embodiments, the local vibratory element is configured for vibrating the lifting bar 306 and / or the bin 302. In some embodiments, optionally, the vibration is provided by shaking the bin using the carousel motor. In some embodiments, optionally the lifting bar comprises one or more of fins, mixing elements, extending rods, configured to move around the wire connectors in the bin, thereby preventing from wire connectors to stick to each other. In some embodiments, the lifting bar 306 is configured to rotate (for example by means of a cam follower) to provide mixing of the wire connectors. In some embodiments, air pressure is used to mix the wire connectors in the bin.

[0221] Referring now to Figure 3e, showing a schematic representation of exemplary parts of the wire connectors storage module 102, according to some embodiments of the invention. Figure 3e shows a transparent view of the lifting bar 306 within the enclosing body 308 having a wire connector 120 attached therein, and a support / pushing sleeve 310. In some embodiments, the lifting bar 306 comprises an elongated body 312 having a wire -connector holding head 314. In some embodiments, the wire-connector holding head 314 comprises one or more structures configured to hold a wire connector 120 at a certain orientation, for example, the wire-connector holding head 314 shown in Figure 3e comprises a two-prong 318a-b head configured to hold a wire connector 120. In some embodiments, the wire-connector holding head 314 is designed to hold the wire connector 120 at a certain directionality. For example, the wire-connector holding head 314 shown in Figure 3e is configured to hold the wire connector 120 so the opening of the wire connector used to insert the wire within the wire connector faces up and the metallic part of the wire connector faces down, as schematically shown in Figure 3e. In some embodiments, a potential advantage of orienting the wire connector 120 is that it potentially simplifies the wire preparation process as it guarantees that the wire connector 120 is correctly oriented for the next step of the wire preparation process. In some embodiments, the elongated body 312 of the lifting bar 306 comprises a hollow passage 316 that extends from a top portion of the lifting bar 306 to a bottom portion of the lifting bar 306. In some embodiments, the hollow passage 316 of the lifting bar 306 is sized to allow the passage of a wire connector 120 from the top portion of the lifting bar 306 (where the wire-connector holding head 314 is located) to the bottom portion of the lifting bar 306 and allow the exit of wire connector 120 from the lifting bar 306. In that case the two-prong head will be designed as a spring to be slightly open and allow the wire connector to pass through the lifting bar 306.

[0222] In some embodiments, the lifting bar 306 and the prongs 318a-b are designed / configured to ensure picking only one ferrule.

[0223] In some embodiments, if two ferrules are picked (as detected for example by a sensor) air pressure is used to remove the excess wire connector. In some embodiments, alternatively, a mechanical removal element is used to remove the excess wire connector.

[0224] For example, the lifting bar prongs geometry and gap may be design for a wire connector of 1.5 mm2or 2 mm2or 4 mm2or 6mm2or alternatively can be design for a range of wire gauges for example for 1.5mm2to 4mm2.

[0225] Exemplary method of extraction of wire connectors from wire connector storage compartments 202

[0226] Referring now to Figures 4a-4g showing schematic representations of parts of the exemplary wire preparation system 200 involved in the method of extraction of wire connectors from wire connector storage compartments 202, according to some embodiments of the invention. Also referring to Figure 5, showing a flowchart of an exemplary method of extraction of wire connectors from wire connector storage compartments 202, according to some embodiments of the invention.

[0227] In some embodiments, as mentioned above, wire connectors are kept within the wire connector bin 302 loose from each other, without anything connecting between wire connectors. In some embodiments, an exemplary method for extracting a single wire connector 120 from a wire connector bin 302 storing a plurality of wire connectors 120 comprises one or more of the following actions:

[0228] 1. Lifting the lifting bar 306 (502): In some embodiments, the lifting bar 306 is lifted into the internal area of the wire connector bin 302, as schematically shown in Figure 4a. In some embodiments, the wire-connector holding head 314 of the lifting bar 306 enables the positioning of a single wire connector 120 (or ferrule) within the structures of the wire-connector holding head 314, as explained above.

[0229] 2. Bringing the lifting bar 306 in contact with the support / pushing sleeve 310 (504): In some embodiments, the lifting bar 306 is further lifted until reaching and / or until contacting the support / pushing sleeve 310, as schematically shown in Figure 4b.

[0230] 3. Causing the insertion of the wire connector 120 into the hollow passage 316 of the lifting bar 306 (506): In some embodiments, reaching and / or contacting the support / pushing sleeve 310 causes the wire connector 120 positioned within the structures of the wire -connector holding head 314 to be pushed down into the hollow passage 316 of the lifting bar 306, as schematically shown in Figure 4c. In some embodiments, the pushing sleeve will be spring loaded so in case of improper wire connector is lifted up, the pushing sleeve will retract and signal for malfunction.

[0231] 4. Allowing the wire connector 120 to pass the lifting bar 306 and exit into the next module (508): In some embodiments, the released wire connector 120 is allowed to pass through the hollow passage 316 until exiting the lifting bar 306, as schematically shown in Figures 4d, 4e and 4f. In some embodiments, the wire connector 120 exits the lifting bar 306 and directly enters the wire connector sliding tube 204, as schematically shown in Figure 4g. In some embodiments, the wire connector is released into the next module, not through a wire connector sliding tube 204 (see below).

[0232] In some embodiments, additionally or alternatively, the wire connector is pushed down through the opening 316 by air pressure. In some embodiments, additionally or alternatively, after the lifting bar lifts one wire connector, the wire connector is picked by a gripper (see below).

[0233] In some embodiments, this process is repeated as needed when requiring a certain wire connector. In some embodiments, the rotation of the storage module 102 positions a certain wire connector storage compartment 202 above of and / or aligned with the wire connector sliding tube 204, so once a single wire connector 120 is allowed to pass through the lifting bar 306 it reaches the wire connector sliding tube 204. Exemplary wire connector sliding tube 204

[0234] Referring now to figure 6, showing a schematic representation of an exemplary wire connector sliding tube 204, according to some embodiments of the invention. In some embodiments, an exemplary wire connector sliding tube 204 is a tube sized and shaped for passively transporting a single wire connector 120 from a wire connector storage compartment 202 into the crimping module 106. In some embodiments, a first end 602 of the wire connector sliding tube 204 is positioned in a fixed location within the exemplary wire preparation system 200. In some embodiments, the fixed location is positioned so the first end 602 of the wire connector sliding tube 204 is below and / or aligned with a location where the bottom part of the enclosing body 308 of the selected wire connector storage compartment 202 is located, from which the wire connector 102 is going to exit. In some embodiments, a second end 604 of the wire connector sliding tube 204 is positioned at a fixed location within the exemplary wire preparation system 200, so the second end is connected and / or adjacent to the crimping module 106. In some embodiments, the wire connector sliding tube 204 comprises a functional geometry which is configured to allow a smooth passage of a wire connector from the first end 602 to the second end 604, preferably so as to avoid for a wire connector 120 to get stuck within the wire connector sliding tube 204. In some embodiments, the first end 602 is positioned at a higher position than the second end 604, so as to allow gravity to bring the wire connector 102 from the first end 602 to the second end 604. In some embodiments, an exemplary wire connector sliding tube 204 can be made of any suitable material that allows for the smooth passage of a wire connector from the first end 602 to the second end 604, preferably while keeping the desired functional geometry of the wire connector sliding tube 204. In some embodiments, optionally, an additional air pressure or vacuum is connected to the tube 204 to help push the wire connector through the tube 204. In some embodiments, the sliding tube 204 comprises a length from about 0.01m to about Im (when a sliding tube is found). In some embodiments, the sliding tube 204 comprises an inner diameter that is big enough to prevent the wire connector to get stuck within the sliding tube 204, and small enough to prevent the wire connector from overturn. For example, for a ferrule having a 5mm diameter and a 10mm length, the inner diameter of the sliding tube 204 is from about 6mm to about 9mm.

[0235] In some embodiments, the passage of the wire connector from the wire connector storage compartment 202 through the wire connector sliding tube 204 into the crimping module 106 is passive, meaning gravity is the force moving the wire connector from one point to the next. In some embodiments, the passage of the wire connector from the wire connector storage compartment 202 through the wire connector sliding tube 204 into the crimping module 106 is active by means, for example, using a compressed air module or a vacuum module that provides the force necessary for delivering a wire connector through the sliding tube and into the crimping module, where the force is higher than the force of gravity.

[0236] In some embodiments a gripper is used to transport the ferrule instead of the tube 204 (see below).

[0237] In some embodiments, the tube 204 vibrates to ensure the passage of the wire connector.

[0238] Exemplary crimping module 106

[0239] Referring now to Figure 7, showing an exemplary crimping module, according to some embodiments of the invention. In some embodiments, an exemplary crimping module 106 is configured to receive a wire connector 120, for example from the wire connector sliding tube 204. In some embodiments, as mentioned above, during the extraction of the wire connector 120 from the wire connector storage compartment 202, the wire connector 120 is positioned with a certain orientation. In some embodiments, this orientation is kept while passing through the wire connector sliding tube 204, so when the wire connector 120 is delivered into the crimping module 106, the wire connector 120 is already in the right orientation. In some embodiments, the right orientation is the metallic part 702 of the wire connector 120 facing towards the crimping module 106, while the opening 704 for the insertion of the internal metallic wires 706 of a wire 122 is facing away from the crimping module 106 and ready to receive an end (a wire’s conductive core) 706 of a wire 122 (see below). In some embodiments, if the wire connector is facing the wrong direction, a rotating gripper can rotate the wire connector to the correct orientation. In some embodiments, the exemplary crimping module 106 works as well-known crimpers in the art, for example, rotation of internal parts of the crimping module 106 tight the wire connector 120 around the wire 122, thereby causing an irreversible attachment of the wire connector 120 to the wire 122. For example, the crimping mechanism comprises crimping jaws, optionally made of hardened steel and having slots or dies of varying sizes to accommodate different ferrule diameters. In some embodiments, closing the jaws applies pressure to the wire connector, compressing it around the wire. Exemplary types of jaws are one or more of jaws that generate a hexagonal crimping, which generate a hexagon-shaped crimp; jaws that generate a square crimping, which generate a square-shaped crimp; and jaws that generate an oval crimping, which generate an oval crimp. In some embodiments, optionally, the crimping module 106 comprises interchangeable dies, which allows adjusting the crimping module 106 to different types of crimping tasks, not just ferrules. In some embodiments, the crimping module 106 comprises a ratcheting mechanism configured to ensure that the correct amount of pressure is applied for a consistent crimp. In some embodiments, optionally, the ratchet prevents the crimping module 106 from releasing until the crimp is fully completed. In some embodiments, a potential advantage of this is that it potentially ensures a secure connection every time and avoids under-crimping or overcrimping, which could damage the wire or create a weak connection. In some embodiments, optionally, the crimping module 106 comprises an adjustable mechanism configured to allow adjusting the ratcheting tension for fine-tuning, based on the wire connector (ferrule) size and wire gauge. In some embodiments, the crimping module 106 comprises a self-adjusting wire-connector crimpers, configured to self-adjust, meaning they automatically adapt to the size of the wire connector. In some embodiments, a potential advantage of this is that it potentially eliminates the need to select the appropriate die or slot size manually. In some embodiments, the crimping module 106 comprises a release lever (not shown) configured to allow opening the jaws if needed, without completing the crimp. In some embodiments, a potential advantage of this is that it allows to reposition the wire connector if something goes wrong during crimping. In some embodiments, the crimping module 106 is configured to work with any gauge range (AWG or mm2), for example configured to work with the American Wire Gauge and / or mm2for European sizing. In some embodiments, the crimping module 106 is hydraulic and / or pneumatic and / or electric. In some embodiments, the crimping module 106 is configured to generate a secure, solid connection between the wire connector and the wire, ensuring that the electrical connection remains reliable overtime. In some embodiments, the crimping module 106 is configured to perform the crimping process in an easy, consistent, and repeatable manner.

[0240] In some embodiments, the crimping module 106 is used for holding the wire connector while its being transferred between modules. In some embodiments, a potential advantage of using the crimping module 106 to hold the wire connector is that it allows to manipulate the wire connector without applying unnecessary forces on it and potentially avoiding deforming the wire connector. In some embodiments, the holding force can be in a range of from about 2N to about 10N, while the crimping force is from about 1000N to about 4000N (for example using mechanical advantage arms- levers).

[0241] Exemplary stripping module 104

[0242] Referring now to Figures 8a-b, showing schematic representations of an exemplary stripping module 104, according to some embodiments of the invention. Figure 8b is a close-up of a part of the exemplary stripping module 104 shown in Figure 8a. In some embodiments, an exemplary stripping module 104 is configured to strip the external insulating (usually made of plastic) cover of a wire 122 and expose the internal conductive core 706 found within the wire 122. In some embodiments, the stripping module 104 comprises one or more of the following parts: a holding head 802 configured to move downwards and upwards by means (for example) of a first motor or a piston 812, as schematically shown by the arrow 808, responsible for holding the wire in place while the stripping action is performed. A stripping head 804, configured to move forwards and backwards by means (for example) of a second motor or a piston 814, responsible for performing the stripping action using a stripping adaptor 806 adapted grab the insulating cover and strip it away from the wire 122, using a horizontal movement, as schematically shown by arrow 810. In some embodiments, the downwards and upwards movement (arrow 808) also brings the stripping head 804 towards the wire and away from the wire.

[0243] In some embodiments, optionally, the strip head 804 only separates the insolation plastic but leaves it on the conductor. In some embodiments, this is useful for manual crimp of special connector elements.

[0244] In some embodiment, the amount (depth) that the strip head 804 is actuated (as done by the knife 806) for plastic removal is programable / adjustable to accommodate for different thickness of insolation.

[0245] Exemplary dynamic platform module 108

[0246] Referring now to Figures 9a-c, showing schematic representations of an exemplary dynamic platform module 108, according to some embodiments of the invention. In some embodiments, the exemplary dynamic platform module 108 is configured to move one or more modules within the wire preparation system 200. Figure 9a shows a perspective view showing an exemplary dynamic platform module 108 and two additional modules mounted on the dynamic platform module 108: the crimping module 106 and the stripping module 104. Figures 9b and 9c show upper views showing the exemplary dynamic platform module 108 and exemplary movements performed. In some embodiments, an exemplary dynamic platform module 108 comprises a base 902, onto which the other modules are positioned. In some embodiments, an exemplary dynamic platform module 108 comprises a moving mechanism 904, in these figures a piston is provided as a non-limiting example, configured to move the base 902. In some embodiments, possible moving mechanisms can be motors, pistons, mechanical arms, etc. Figure 9b shows the piston retracted, as shown by arrow 906, which causes the base 902 to move following the arrow 908. In this position, the crimping module 106 is facing the wire connector sliding tube 204 and is ready to receive a wire connector 120 (as explained above), while the stripping module 104 is facing the opening for wire insertion 110 (not shown) from which a wire will be inserted to be stripped (as explained above). Figure 9c shows the piston extended, as shown by arrow 910, which causes the base 902 to move following the arrow 912. In this position, the crimping module 106 is facing the opening for wire insertion 110 (opening 110 not shown) from which a stripped wire will be inserted to be crimped (as explained above). In some embodiments, the dynamic platform module 108 is configured to move the crimp head and strip head in a linear fashion by using linear actuators (for example, a motor and / or a piston, etc.)

[0247] In some embodiments, the dynamic platform module 108 is configured to move from module to module by a manual lever. In some embodiments, a potential advantage of using a manual lever is that it potentially reduces the costs of the system. In some embodiments, one or more of the modules are manually actuated, for example by using a pedal and / or by pressing a button; for example, the actuation of the crimping module.

[0248] Exemplary connector bin 302 designs options

[0249] In some embodiments, the connector bin 302 is a replaceable bin configured to be replaced with a full bin once the bin is empty.

[0250] In some embodiments, the connector bin 302 is a dedicated bin for each type of wire connector.

[0251] In some embodiments, the connector bin 302 is a disposable bin made of a discardable material, optionally a recyclable material (for example, cardboard).

[0252] In some embodiments, the connector bin 302 can be manually refilled. In some embodiments, the connector bins 302 are closed units that cannot be refilled but by an authorized personnel member.

[0253] In some embodiments, the connector bin 302 is manufactured to have a geometry so as to avoid multiple wire connectors or no wire connector on the lift bar. In some embodiments, the geometry of the connector bin 302 minimizes multiple ferrule pickup for example by using sloped walls to the bin and bin separator wall.

[0254] In some embodiments, the lifting bar is part of the connector bin 302 and made from cheap material (for example, plastic) or can be integrated to the base system (and thus made from durable materials).

[0255] Exemplary sensors

[0256] In some embodiments, the exemplary wire preparation system 200 comprises one or more sensors configured for the monitoring of the processes and modules in the system. For example, in some embodiments, the system comprises a dedicated sensor positioned adjacent to the opening for wire insertion 110 configured to perform at least two actions: 1. Identify that a wire has been inserted in the opening; and 2. Identify the type / size of wire that has been inserted. In some embodiments, a potential advantage of having a sensor adjacent to the opening for wire insertion 110 is that it allows the reductions of actions in the process, for example, manually activating the system and / or manually inputting the type / size of wire. In some embodiments, an additional sensor can be, sensors in the wire connector bins 302 configured to monitor the quantity of the wire connectors in the bin and possible alert when low in numbers. In some embodiments, additional sensors can be: a sensor in the crimping module 106 configured to assess whether the wire connector has been correctly crimped; a sensor in the stripping module 104 configured to assess whether the wire has been correctly stripped from the isolation cover. In some embodiments, the exemplary wire preparation system 200 comprises a barcode reader and / or a RFID on each connector bin 302 and each wire connector cartridge / bags. In some embodiments, these are used to ensure correct matching between bins and wire connectors. In some embodiments, an optical sensor is used to detect if a wire connector was picked by the lifting bar. In some embodiments, a force sensor is used for example to validate the integrity of the crimping of the wire connector. In some embodiments, a camera is embedded in the system to allow reviewing of process or analysis of error events. In some embodiments, videos are sent to the manufactures for further analysis and / or for periodic maintenance check. In some embodiments, the exemplary wire preparation system 200 comprises one or more sensors for accumulating statistics to indicate wear or fatigue of elements and for maintenance requirements. In some embodiments, the exemplary wire preparation system 200 comprises one or more sensors to detect a wire connector presence / absence on the lifting bar.

[0257] Exemplary overall method of wire preparation

[0258] Referring now to Figure 10, showing a flowchart of an exemplary method of wire preparation, according to some embodiments of the invention.

[0259] In some embodiments, an exemplary method of preparing a wire comprises one or more of the following actions:

[0260] In some embodiments, at the beginning of the process and optionally at the resting position of the system, the base 902 is positioned as schematically shown in Figure 9b, having the stripping module 104 facing the opening for wire insertion 110 and the crimping module 106 is facing the wire connector sliding tube 204 and is ready to receive a wire connector 120.

[0261] 1. Receiving an indication that a wire in need to be prepared has been inserted in the system (1002).

[0262] 2. In some embodiments, optionally, the method comprises: automatically identifying the type / size of wire that was inserted in order to automatically choose the correct wire connector (1004). In some embodiments, the type / size of wire is manually inputted into the system. In some embodiments, when combined with automation, the data is transferred directly and automatically through software communication. In some embodiments, once the type / size of the wire has been identified / received, the relevant wire connector storage compartment 202 is positioned above the wire connector transfer system or the sliding tube 204.

[0263] In some embodiments, at this point two processes begin: a. the extraction of a wire connector from a wire connector storage compartment 202; and b. the stripping of the wire. In some embodiments, the two processes are performed at the same time. In some embodiments, the processes are performed one after the other (for example first (a) and then (b), or vice versa).

[0264] In some embodiments, the user may require stripping only (without crimping). In some embodiments, the stripping can be a full removal of the isolation material or a partial removal of the isolation material (cut and slightly pull the isolation segment a few millimeters and it is left on the metal conductor).

[0265] 3. Performing wire connector extraction process (1006). For example, as shown in Figures 4a-4g and Figure 5. In some embodiments, optionally, the wire connector extraction process further comprises: assessing the successful delivery of a wire connector into the crimping module.

[0266] 4. Performing stripping the wire process (1008).

[0267] 5. Transferring the wire connector (ferrule) from the extraction point to the stripped wire by rotating the base (1010). In some embodiments, rotating the base comprises positioning the base as shown for example in Figure 9c, where the crimping module 106 is facing the opening for wire insertion 110.

[0268] 6. Inserting the wire connector on the stripped wire and performing the crimping the wire process (1012).

[0269] 7. In some embodiments, optionally, the process comprises assessing the quality of the connection between the crimped wire connector and the wire. In some embodiments, assessing the connection comprises performing a push-pull action on the wire, while holding the wire connector (see below) using for example a force sensor.

[0270] Referring now to Figure 11, showing a flowchart of an exemplary method of stripping a wire (or wire stripping process), according to some embodiments of the invention. In some embodiments, an exemplary method of stripping a wire (wire stripping process) comprises one or more of the following actions:

[0271] 1. Receiving an indication that a wire has been inserted in the system (1102).

[0272] 2. Actuating the holding head, thereby holding the wire (1104).

[0273] 3. Actuating the stripping head, thereby stripping the insulating cover from the wire and exposing the conductive core of the wire (1106). 4. Reversing the actuation of the holding head, thereby releasing the recently stripped wire

[0274] (1108).

[0275] Exemplary second embodiments of wire preparation systems 300 / 400 / 500

[0276] Referring now to Figures 12a-h, showing schematic representations of exemplary second embodiments of wire preparation systems 300 / 400 / 500, according to some embodiments of the invention.

[0277] As mentioned above, for example in Figures 2 and 3a, the wire connectors storage modules 102 comprises a carousel configuration. In some embodiments, other configurations are also possible.

[0278] Exemplary alternative embodiments of wire connectors storage modules

[0279] More specifically, referring now to Figures 12a-d, showing schematic representations of an alternative embodiment of wire connectors storage modules 102 according to some embodiments of the invention. For Figures 12a-d, the wire preparation system will be referred to wire preparation system 300. In some embodiments, the exemplary wire preparation system 300 comprises a similar configuration of the dynamic platform module 108 on which the crimping module 106 and the stripping module 104 are positioned, as shown for the exemplary wire preparation system 200 shown in Figure 2, and the operation thereof are also similar. In the case of wire preparation system 300, the main difference is the wire connectors storage module 102 that is not configured as a carousel, but as a line of wire connector storage compartments 202. In some embodiments, the exemplary wire preparation system 300 comprises an additional dynamic platform module 1202 onto which the wire connector sliding tube 204 is mounted. In some embodiments, the dynamic platform module 1202 comprises a motor and it is configured to move laterally between the wire connector storage compartments 202, as schematically shown by arrow 1204. In some embodiments, the process of extracting a single wire connector is the same as disclosed above. In some embodiments, instead of rotating the wire connectors storage module 102 to bring the specific wire connector storage compartment 202 to the static wire connector sliding tube 204, the wire connectors storage module 102 (with the plurality of wire connector storage compartment 202) remain static and the wire connector sliding tube 204 is dynamically brought under the specific wire connector storage compartment 202.

[0280] Referring now to Figures 12e-f showing schematic representations of an alternative embodiment of wire connectors storage modules 102 according to some embodiments of the invention. For Figures 12e-f, the wire preparation system will be referred to wire preparation system 400. In some embodiments, the exemplary wire preparation system 400 comprises a similar configuration of the dynamic platform module 108 on which the crimping module 106 and the stripping module 104 are positioned, as shown for the exemplary wire preparation system 200 shown in Figure 2, and the operation thereof are also similar. In the case of wire preparation system 400, the main difference is the wire connectors storage module 102 that is not configured as a carousel, but as a line of wire connector storage compartments 202. In some embodiments, the exemplary wire preparation system 300 comprises a static redirection module 1206 onto which all the enclosing bodies 308 of each of the wire connectors storage modules 102 are connected. Additionally, the wire connector sliding tube 204 is also connected to the static redirection module 1206. In some embodiments, the single wire connector is extracted from a specific wire connector compartment 202 transferred into the static redirection module 1206 and further transferred into the wire connector sliding tube 204. In some embodiments, the transfer of the wire connectors within the static redirection module 1206 can be performed, for example, by providing dedicated channels within the static redirection module 1206. In some embodiments, instead of rotating the wire connectors storage module 102 to bring the specific wire connector storage compartment 202 to the static wire connector sliding tube 204, or dynamically bringing the wire connector sliding tube 204 under the specific wire connector storage compartment 202, both the wire connectors storage module 102 and the wire connector sliding tube 204 remain static, and the transfer of the wire connector is performed via the static redirection module 1206.

[0281] Referring now to Figures 12g-h showing schematic representations of an alternative embodiment of wire connectors storage modules 102 according to some embodiments of the invention. For Figures 12g-h, the wire preparation system will be referred to wire preparation system 500. Exemplary wire preparation system 500 is like wire preparation system 400 with the difference that the static redirection module 1206 is not standing, but laying down, and each of the enclosing bodies 308 of each of the wire connectors storage modules 102 is elongated to become a tube.

[0282] Exemplary third embodiment of wire preparation system 600

[0283] Referring now to Figures 13a-c, showing two schematic representations of a third exemplary embodiment of a wire preparation system 600, according to some embodiments of the invention. Figure 13a shows a line-drawing of the exemplary wire preparation system 600, Figure 13b shows a half-transparent view of the exemplary wire preparation system 600 to allow easy viewing of the modules therein, and Figure 13c is a line-drawing showing the internal modules of the exemplary wire preparation system 600. Same parts are still kept with same reference numbers in all Figures, unless stated otherwise.

[0284] In some embodiments, a wire preparation system 600 comprises a wire connectors storage module 102 comprising a plurality of wire connector storage compartments 1302. In some embodiments, the wire connectors storage module 102 is fixed, meaning the individual wire connector storage compartments 1302 remain static during the wire preparation process (contrary for example to the carousel-type that rotates) and are arranged in a concentric manner, as schematically shown in Figures 13a-c. In some embodiments, a potential advantage of positioning the wire connector storage compartments 1302 in a concentric manner is that it allows for a dynamic module within the wire preparation system 600 to reach each wire connector storage compartments 1302, as will be further explained below.

[0285] In some embodiments, the abovementioned wire preparation system 600 allows for the use of a single storage module (for use with only one type of wire connector) or dual storage module - in this case the dynamic module 1304 can be simplified and become a static unit serving only one storage unit 102.

[0286] In some embodiments, the dual storage is designed with a manual switch over between bins, for example, by using manual lever to move the dynamic module.

[0287] In some embodiments, the wire preparation system 200 comprises a stripping module 104 (seen only in Figures 13b-c).

[0288] In some embodiments, the wire preparation system 600 comprises one or more operating panels 206 (for example touch screen and / or analog control panel) which allow for a user to operate and interact with the wire preparation system 600.

[0289] In some embodiments, the wire preparation system 600 comprises a dynamic platform module 1304 (seen only in Figures 13b-c).

[0290] In some embodiments, the wire preparation system 600 comprises a crimping module 106.

[0291] In some embodiments, the wire preparation system 600 comprises an opening 110 for inserting a distal end of a wire 122 in need to be prepared. As can be seen in Figures 13a-b, the opening 110 for inserting a distal end of a wire 122 is positioned such the wire 122 is inserted vertically (from above), contrary to the opening 110 found in the wire preparation system 200 shown in Figure 2.

[0292] In some embodiments, the wire preparation system 600 comprises a housing 112 to house all the required modules together.

[0293] In some embodiments, the wire preparation system 600 comprises dedicated electronic modules 114 (not shown), comprising one or more controllers having memory with instructions to actuate modules of the exemplary wire preparation system 600.

[0294] In some embodiments, optionally, the exemplary wire preparation system 600 comprises or has adjacent to the system, one or more wire reels 116 (not shown) (optionally having wires having different diameters), which permit easy access to wires 122 in need of preparation close to and / or atached to the exemplary wire preparation system 600. In some embodiments, optionally, a cuting system is adjacent to the system (manually or controlled cuting of wire from a reel)

[0295] Description of exemplary modules / parts of the exemplary wire preparation system 600

[0296] In the following paragraphs, the different modules / parts of the exemplary wire preparation system 600 will be explained.

[0297] Exemplary wire connectors storage compartments 1302 of the exemplary wire preparation system 600

[0298] Referring now to Figures 14a-k showing schematic representations of exemplary wire connectors storage compartments 1302 and parts thereof of an exemplary wire preparation system 600, as shown in Figures 13a-c, according to some embodiments of the invention.

[0299] In some embodiments, the exemplary wire connectors storage module 102 comprises a plurality of wire connector storage compartments 1032. In this embodiment and as mentioned above, the wire connector storage compartments 1032 of the exemplary wire connectors storage module 102 are arranged in around the dynamic platform module 1304 (see below), optionally in a circle or semicircle manner, so as to allow for the dynamic platform module 1304 to reach each of the wire connector storage compartments 1032. This is shown for example in Figure 13c. In some embodiments, alternatively, a linear arrangement is possible where the dynamic module moves laterally between storage compartments.

[0300] In some embodiments, each wire connector storage compartment 1302 comprises a wire connector bin 1402 configured to store a plurality of wire connectors therein (not shown in Figure 14a). In some embodiments, each wire connector storage compartment 1302 comprises a wire connector retrieval mechanism 1404, which will be further described in relation to Figure 14b, below. In some embodiments, each wire connector storage compartment 1302 comprises a wire connector support / pushing sleeve 1406, which will be further described in relation to Figure 14c, below.

[0301] In some embodiments, each wire connector storage compartment 1302 optionally comprises a wire connector remover 1407, configured to remove extra wire connectors that might get stuck on the movable arm 1410 (see below). In some embodiments, the wire connector remover 1407 can be for example a mechanical remover or a remover based on compressed air or vacuum.

[0302] Referring now to Figure 14b, showing a schematic representation of an exemplary wire connector retrieval mechanism 1404, according to some embodiments of the invention. In some embodiments, an exemplary wire connector retrieval mechanism 1404 comprises a static base 1408 and a movable arm 1410. In some embodiments, the movable arm 1410 is configured to move vertically (up and down) as schematically shown by arrow 1412, while the static base 1408 remains static. In some embodiments, the movable arm 1410 moves within a space 1414 (shown in Figure 14c) in the static base 1408.

[0303] Referring now to Figure 14c, showing a schematic representation of an exemplary static base 1408, according to some embodiments of the invention. In some embodiments, an exemplary static base 1408 comprises a hollowed body 1416 comprising a space 1414 extending within from a top side to a bottom side of the hollowed body 1416. In some embodiments, the space 1414 is sized and shaped to receive therein the movable arm 1410. In some embodiments, an exemplary static base 1408 comprises a first wire connector holding structure 1418, which in this embodiment comprise two prongs 1420a-b extending vertically from the hollowed body 1416. In some embodiments, the first wire connector holding structure 1418 comprises a shape configured to receive therein a wire connector (see below). In some embodiments, other configurations are possible for the first wire connector holding structure 1418, which do not include two prongs 1420a-b, for example a ring.

[0304] Referring now to Figure 14d, showing a schematic representation of an exemplary movable arm 1410, according to some embodiments of the invention. In some embodiments, an exemplary movable arm 1410 comprises a hollowed body 1422 comprising a space 1424 extending within from a top side to a bottom side of the hollowed body 1422. In some embodiments, the space 1424 is sized and shaped to receive therein a wire connector. In some embodiments, an exemplary movable arm 1410 comprises a second wire connector holding structure 1426, which in this embodiment comprise two prongs 1428a-b extending vertically from the hollowed body 1422. In some embodiments, the second wire connector holding structure 1426 comprises a shape configured to receive therein a wire connector (see below). In some embodiments, other configurations are possible for the second wire connector holding structure 1426, which do not include two prongs 1428a-b, for example a ring. In some embodiments, an exemplary movable arm 1410 comprises a spring mechanism 1430a-b which helps with the movement of the movable arm 1410. In some embodiments, as mentioned above, the exemplary movable arm 1410 is configured to move vertically (up and down) within the static base 1408.

[0305] Referring now to Figure 14e, showing a schematic representation of the two distinct configurations of an exemplary wire connector retrieval mechanism 1404, according to some embodiments of the invention. In some embodiments, the exemplary wire connector retrieval mechanism 1404 comprises two configurations, a retracted configuration and an extended configuration. In some embodiments, the exemplary movable arm 1410 comprises a lower position and an upper position. In some embodiments, in a retracted configuration of the wire connector retrieval mechanism 1404, the movable arm 1410 is in a lower position. In some embodiments, in an extended configuration of the wire connector retrieval mechanism 1404, the movable arm 1410 is in an upper position. In some embodiments, in the retracted configuration of the wire connector retrieval mechanism 1404, the wire connector retrieval mechanism 1404 is configured to allow the insertion of a single wire connector within the first wire connector holding structure 1418 and the second wire connector holding structure 1426. Figure 14f shows a zoom-in view of the wire connector retrieval mechanism 1404 in the retracted configuration. In some embodiments, in the retracted configuration, the two prongs 1420a-b of the static base 1408 and the two prongs 1428a-b of the movable arm 1410 are perpendicular to each other, generating a dedicated space 1432 comprising a dedicated geometry configured to receive a single (and no more than one) wire connector. In some embodiments, the dedicated geometry additionally allows, not only the insertion of a single wire connector, but also a single wire connector in a specific directionality. In some embodiments, the directionality is the metallic end of the wire connector facing down, while the opening in the wire connector for the wire faces up.

[0306] In some embodiments, the extending arm is part of the storage container and it is made of disposable materials. In some embodiments, the extending arm is reusable and it is part of the system and it is not replaced when new storage containers are replaced.

[0307] Referring now to Figure 14g, showing a schematic representation of an exemplary wire connector support / pushing sleeve 1406, according to some embodiments of the invention. In some embodiments, an exemplary wire connector support / pushing sleeve 1406 is positioned above the location where the movable arm 1410 extends. In some embodiments, an exemplary wire connector support / pushing sleeve 1406 comprises a body 1434 having a geometry on the top part configured to engage a wire connector, only when is positioned at a correct directionality, as explained above. In some embodiments, if a wire connector arrives at the wire connector support / pushing sleeve 1406 having a wrong directionality, the wire connector is pushed away. In some embodiments, when a wire connector arrives at the wire connector support / pushing sleeve 1406 with a correct directionality, the wire connector is pushed down within the movable arm 1410, as will be explained below.

[0308] In some embodiments, optionally, additionally or alternatively to the wire connector support / pushing sleeve 1406, the exemplary wire preparation system 600 comprises an air compressed module (not shown) configured to apply pressurized air on the wire connector thereby pushing down the wire connector into the space 1424 extending within from a top side to a bottom side of the hollowed body 1422. In some embodiments, the air compressed module provides the force necessary for delivering a wire connector through the sliding tube and into the crimping module, where the force is higher than the force of gravity. In some embodiments, vacuum is used to pull the ferrule. In some embodiments, the geometrical design of the movable arm 1410 is configured to accommodate and pick a single type wire connector or one from a selected group of wire connectors, for example, wire connectors having sizes of 1.5mmA2 to 2.5mmA2 or wire connectors smaller than 2.5mmA2 or wire connectors larger than 4mmA2, etc.

[0309] Exemplary method of extraction of wire connectors from wire connector storage compartments 1302 as shown in the exemplary wire preparation system 600

[0310] Referring now to Figures 14h-k showing schematic representations of a method of extracting a single wire connector from an exemplary wire connector storage compartment 1302, and to Figure 141 showing a flowchart of an exemplary method of extracting a single wire connector from an exemplary wire connector storage compartment 1302, according to some embodiments of the invention.

[0311] In some embodiments, as mentioned above, wire connectors are kept within the wire connector bin 1402 loose from each other, without anything connecting between wire connectors. In some embodiments, an exemplary method for extracting a single wire connector 120 from a wire connector bin 1402 storing a plurality of wire connectors 120 comprises one or more of the following actions:

[0312] 1. Lifting the movable arm 1410 (1436): In some embodiments, the movable arm 1410 is lifted into the internal area of the wire connector bin 1402, as schematically shown in Figure 14h.

[0313] 2. Bringing the movable arm 1410 in contact with the wire connector support / pushing sleeve 1406 (1438): In some embodiments, the movable arm 1410 is further lifted until reaching and / or until contacting the wire connector support / pushing sleeve 1406, as schematically shown in Figure 14i.

[0314] 3. Causing the insertion of the wire connector 120 into the space 1424 of the movable arm 1410 (1440): In some embodiments, reaching and / or contacting the wire connector support / pushing sleeve 1406 causes the wire connector 120 positioned within the structures of the movable arm 1410 to be pushed down into the space 1424 of the movable arm 1410, as schematically shown in Figure 14j.

[0315] 4. Allowing the wire connector 120 to pass the movable arm 1410 and the static base 1408 (1442): In some embodiments, the released wire connector 120 is allowed to pass through the space 1424 of the movable arm 1410 and the static base 1408, as schematically shown in Figure 14k. Exemplary dynamic platform module 1304

[0316] Referring now to Figures 15a-e, showing schematic representations of an exemplary dynamic platform module 1304, according to some embodiments of the invention. In some embodiments, the exemplary dynamic platform module 1304 is configured to move one or more modules within the wire preparation system 600. Figures 15a-b show a perspective view and a side view, respectively, showing an exemplary dynamic platform module 1304 and one additional module mounted on the dynamic platform module 1304: the crimping module 106.

[0317] In some embodiments, the exemplary dynamic platform module 1304 comprises one or more of the following parts:

[0318] A holder 1502 configured to attach the dynamic platform module 1304 to the wire preparation system 600, for example to a part of the housing 112. In some embodiments, the holder 1502 comprises a peripheral side 1504 and a central side 1506. In some embodiments, the holder 1502 extends vertically from the peripheral side 1504 (which is close to the housing of the wire preparation system 600) to the central side 1506, which is at a central area of the wire preparation system 600.

[0319] A central rod 1508 comprising a proximal end 1510 and a distal end 1512. The central rod 1508 extends from its proximal end 1510 at the central side 1506 of the holder 1502, downwards.

[0320] An arm 1514 comprising a proximal end 1516 and a distal end 1518, the proximal end 1516 connected to the distal end 1512 of the central rod 1518.

[0321] In this embodiment, the crimping module 106, is located at the distal end 1518 of the arm 1510.

[0322] In some embodiments, the exemplary dynamic platform module 1304 is configured to perform at least two distinct movements: a rotational movement around a longitudinal axis “B” of the central rod 1508, actuated by a first motor 1520; and a vertical movement along the longitudinal axis “B” of the central rod 1508, actuated by a second motor 1522. In some embodiments, the rotational movement and the vertical movement are configured to move the arm 1514 at its proximal end 1516, thereby rotating the arm 1514 so as to move around the module (in this case the crimping module 106) between the wire connectors storage compartments 1302 (see below), as schematically shown in Figure 15c, and to move up and down the arm 1510 which will cause the movement up and down of the module, as schematically shown in Figure 15d.

[0323] Referring now to Figure 15e, schematically showing the arm 1514 has been rotated to be positioned under a specific wire connectors storage compartment 1302, where a single wire connector will be positioned within the crimping module 106 once it exits through the movable arm 1410 of the wire connector retrieval mechanism 1404 (see Figure 14i). Exemplary crimping module 106 in the wire preparation system 600

[0324] Referring now to Figure 16, showing a schematic representation of an exemplary crimping module 106, according to some embodiments of the invention. In some embodiments, the crimping module is similar as explained above in relation to Figure 7. In some embodiments, the crimping module 106 is positioned at the distal end 1518 of the arm 1514.

[0325] Exemplary stripping module 104 in the wire preparation system 600

[0326] Referring now to Figures 17a-c, showing schematic representations of an exemplary stripping module 104 in the wire preparation system 600, according to some embodiments of the invention. In some embodiments, an exemplary stripping module 104 is configured to strip the external insulating (usually made of plastic) cover of a wire 122 and expose the internal conductive core 706 found within the wire 122. In some embodiments, the stripping module 104 comprises one or more of the following parts: a motor head 1702 with a rod 1704 extending downwards and configured to move downwards and upwards an arm 1706, as schematically shown in Figure 17b. In some embodiments, the stripping jaws 1708a-b are positioned on the arm 1706, and are configured to move towards each other in order (schematically shown in Figure 17c) to hold the external insulating cover, once the jaws are closed, the arm is moved down, thereby stripping the external insulating cover.

[0327] In some embodiments, the movement of the stripping jaws 1708a-b towards each other is controlled (for example, by servo motor, stepper motor, etc.) to ensure proper cut depth of the insulators, which may depend on the wire type.

[0328] Exemplary sensors

[0329] In some embodiments, similarly to what was disclosed above, the exemplary wire preparation system 600 comprises one or more sensors configured for the monitoring of the processes and modules in the system. For example, in some embodiments, the system comprises a dedicated sensor positioned adjacent to the opening for wire insertion 110 configured to perform at least two actions: 1. Identify that a wire has been inserted in the opening; and 2. Identify the type / size of wire that has been inserted. In some embodiments, a potential advantage of having a sensor adjacent to the opening for wire insertion 110 is that it allows the reductions of actions in the process, for example, manually activating the system and / or manually inputting the type / size of wire. In some embodiments, an additional sensor can be, sensors in the wire connector bins 1402 configured to monitor the quantity of the wire connectors in the bin and possible alert when low in numbers, sensors near the crimping module configured to assess that there is a wire connector positioned within the crimping module, a sensor in the stripping module to assess whether the wire has been successfully stripped. In some embodiments, additional sensors can be: a sensor in the crimping module 106 configured to assess whether the wire connector has been correctly crimped; a sensor in the stripping module 104 configured to assess whether the wire has been correctly stripped from the isolation cover. In some embodiments, the exemplary wire preparation system comprises a barcode reader and / or a RFID on each connector bin and each wire connector cartridge / bags. In some embodiments, these are used to ensure correct matching between bins and wire connectors. In some embodiments, an optical sensor is used to detect if a wire connector was picked by the lifting bar. In some embodiments, a force sensor is used for example to validate the integrity of the crimping of the wire connector. In some embodiments, a camera is embedded in the system to allow reviewing of process or analysis of error events. In some embodiments, videos are sent to the manufactures for further analysis and / or for periodic maintenance check. In some embodiments, the exemplary wire preparation system comprises one or more sensors for accumulating statistics to indicate wear or fatigue of elements and for maintenance requirements. In some embodiments, the exemplary wire preparation system comprises one or more sensors to detect a wire connector presence / absence on the lifting bar.

[0330] Exemplary overall method of wire preparation

[0331] Referring now to Figure 18, showing a flowchart of an exemplary method of wire preparation, according to some embodiments of the invention.

[0332] In some embodiments, an exemplary method of preparing a wire in an exemplary wire preparation system 600 comprises one or more of the following actions:

[0333] 1. Sensing that a wire has been inserted into the opening (1802).

[0334] 2. Performing stripping action (1804).

[0335] In some embodiments, the stripping action comprises elevating the arm 1706 of the stripping module to a predetermined desired height (1806). Closing the stripping jaws 1708a-b (1808). Lowering the arm 1706 of the stripping module (1810), thereby stripping the external insulating cover.

[0336] 3. Extracting a single wire connector from a dedicated wire connectors storage compartment 1302 (1812).

[0337] In some embodiments, extracting a single wire connector is as explained in the method as shown in Figure 14 J.

[0338] 4. Rotating the arm 1514 of the dynamic platform module 1304 until reaching the dedicated wire connectors storage compartment 1302 (1814).

[0339] 5. Lifting the arm 1514 of the dynamic platform module 1304 until reaching the wire connector retrieval mechanism 1404 of dedicated wire connectors storage compartment 1302 (1816). 6. Receiving a single wire connector within the crimping module (1818).

[0340] In some embodiments, if the wire connector is not found, the method is repeated until success is achieved.

[0341] 7. Rotating the arm 1514 of the dynamic platform module 1304 until reaching the location of the stripped wire (1820).

[0342] 8. Inserting the wire into the wire connector (1822).

[0343] 9. Crimping the wire connector onto the wire (1824).

[0344] Exemplary fourth embodiment of a wire preparation system 700

[0345] Referring now to Figures 19a-b, showing schematic representations of an exemplary fourth embodiment of a wire preparation system 700, according to some embodiments of the invention. Figure 19a shows a schematic view of the wire preparation system 700 with the housing, while Figure 19b shows a schematic view of the wire preparation system 700 without the housing showing the internal modules of the system.

[0346] Similar to previously shown systems, the wire preparation system 700 comprises the following modules and / or parts (similar parts were kept with the same reference numbers as in previous Figures):

[0347] A wire connectors storage module 102 comprising one or more wire connector storages 1902 (six shown), each configured to store a plurality of wire connectors 120 (also called ferrules). In some embodiments, each wire connector storage 1902 stores a certain size / type of wire connector. In some embodiments, wire connectors are loose within the wire connector storages 1902. For example, the wire connectors are not attached to each other but loosely stored in bulk within the wire connector storage. A potential advantage of storing the wire connectors not connected is that it allows an easy refilling of the wire connector storages and also allows to use any kind and type of wire connector, without the need to add further actions to the manufacturing process of the wire connectors.

[0348] At least one stripping module 104, configured to strip a covered distal end of a wire 122 to expose the metallic conductive wires comprised therein.

[0349] At least one crimping module 106, configured to attach a wire connector 120 to a stripped distal end of a wire 122 (connector 120 not shown in Figure 19b).

[0350] At least one dynamic platform module 108. In some embodiments, the dynamic platform module 108 comprises a robotic and / or automatic component configured to move elements / modules related to and during the wiring preparation process within the wire preparation system 100, for example moving wire connectors and / or moving the wire being prepared and / or moving other modules within the wire preparation system 100 (see below). At least one opening 110 for inserting a distal end of a wire 122 in need to be prepared.

[0351] A housing 112 to house all the required modules together.

[0352] One or more operating panels 206 (for example touch screen and / or analog control panel) which allow for a user to operate and interact with the wire preparation system 200. In some embodiments, alternatively, an interface to external devices is provided for example to an automatic system.

[0353] Exemplary wire connectors storage module 102 of the wire preparation system 700

[0354] Referring now to Figures 19c-d, showing two schematic representations of an exemplary wire connectors storage module 102 comprising one or more wire connector storages 1902, according to some embodiments of the invention. In some embodiments, the exemplary wire connectors storage module 102 is a carousel-type wire connectors storage module 102 configured to rotate on its axis by means, for example, of a motor 1904. In some embodiments, the exemplary wire connectors storage module 102 comprises a base 1906 onto which the plurality of wire connector storages 1902 are mounted. In some embodiments, rotation of the wire connectors storage module 102 is done by rotating the base 1906.

[0355] Referring now to Figures 19e-f, showing schematic representations of exemplary wire connector storages 1902, according to some embodiments of the invention. Figure 19f shows a cross section of the exemplary wire connector storage 1902 shown in Figure 19e.

[0356] In some embodiments, an exemplary wire connector storage 1902 comprises a wire connector bin 1908, a lifting bar 1910, a replaceable cartridge 1912 and a wire connector support / pushing bar 1914.

[0357] In some embodiments, the wire connector bin 1908 comprises a divider 1920 configured to limit the number of wire connectors that enter the area where the lifting bar 1910 is located.

[0358] In some embodiments, the replaceable cartridge 1912 is configured to be inserted within the wire connector bin 1908, as schematically shown in Figures 19g-h. In some embodiments, the exemplary wire connector storage 1902 comprises a mechanism that allows the insertion of the replaceable cartridge 1912 into the wire connector bin 1908 in a correct directionality and up to a dedicated height. For example, in the exemplary wire connector storage 1902, the correct directionality is ensured by providing a dedicated geometry to both the replaceable cartridge 1912 and the wire connector bin 1908, so as to allow a single correct positioning of the replaceable cartridge 1912 in the wire connector bin 1908. In some embodiments, optionally, a replaceable cartridge can fit into specific bin(s) for example to match ferrule type by means of unique geometry. Additionally, for example, the dedicated height is ensured by providing a stopper mechanism. In the exemplary wire connector storage 1902, the stopping mechanism comprises a couple of protrusions 1916 on the replaceable cartridge 1912 and a couple of matching indentations 1918 in the wire connector bin 1908. It should be understood that the stopping mechanism can be reversed and / or can be different, the stopping mechanism shown in Figures 19g-h were provided to allow a person having skills in the art to understand the invention and are not intended not be limiting in any way.

[0359] Referring now to Figures 19i-j, showing schematic representations of the actuation of the lifting bar 1910, according to some embodiments of the invention. Figure 19i schematically shows the actuation of the lifting bar 1910 without a wire connector 120, while Figure 19j schematically shows the actuation of the lifting bar 1910 with a wire connector 120. In some embodiments, as explained above, the lifting bar 1910 is actuated and brought up. The lifting bar 1910 comprises a geometry 1916 that allows a single wire connector 120 to be positioned within an area on the top part of the lifting bar 1910, as schematically shown in Figure 19k. Once the lifting bar 1910 reaches the wire connector support / pushing bar 1914, the wire connector 120 is pushed within the lifting bar 1910.

[0360] Exemplary actuator of the lifting bar 1910 of the wire preparation system 700

[0361] Referring now to Figures 20a-c, showing schematic representations of an exemplary actuator 2002 of the lifting bar 1910, according to some embodiments of the invention. Figure 20a shows a schematic general view of the wire connectors storage module 102 with the actuator 2002, Figure 20b shows a simplified view of the wire connectors storage module 102 showing only one connector storage 1902 and the actuator 2002 engaging the lifting bar 1910 of that specific connector storage 1902, while Figure 20c shows only a part of the actuator 2002 engaging the lifting bar 1910. In some embodiments, the actuator 2002 comprises a motor 2004 that actuates rod 2006 comprising an engager 2008 on its distal end.

[0362] In some embodiments, the engager 2008 is configured to rotate to allow the rotation of the wire connectors storage module 102 until bringing the required connector storage 1902 to the location where the actuator 2002 will engage the lifting bar 1910. In some embodiments, the engager 2008 is configured to move up and down to cause the up-down movement of the lifting bar 1910, as schematically shown by the arrows in Figure 20c.

[0363] Exemplary dynamic platform module 108 with crimping module 106 of the wire preparation system 700

[0364] Referring now to Figures 21a-b, showing schematic representations of an exemplary dynamic platform module 108 with a crimping module 106 of the wire preparation system 700, according to some embodiments of the invention. In some embodiments, an exemplary dynamic platform module 108 comprises a motor 2102 and an arm 2104. In some embodiments, the motor 2102 is configured to actuate the arm 2104 to move from a first state to a second state. In this case, the states are either an upright state, as schematically shown in Figure 21a, or a sideways state, as schematically shown in Figure 21b. In the specific embodiment of the wire preparation system 700, the crimping module 106 is positioned on the arm 2104 of the dynamic platform module 108. In some embodiments, the crimping module 106 is positioned under the actuatcdjifting bar 1910 (by the actuator 2002) so when a single wire connector 120 is extracted from a required wire connector storage 1902, it falls directly into the crimping module 106 (without the need to use a wire connector sliding tube 204 as shown for example in Figure 6 in relation to the wire preparation system 200).

[0365] In some embodiments, actuation of the arm 2104 brings the crimping module 106 with the single wire connector 120 into a position to continue with the wire preparation process (see below), after the single wire connector 120 is received within the crimping module 106.

[0366] Exemplary stripping module 104 of the wire preparation system 700

[0367] Referring now to Figure 22, showing a schematic representation of an exemplary stripping module 104 of an exemplary wire preparation system 700, according to some embodiments of the invention. In some embodiments, as explained above, an exemplary stripping module 104 is configured to strip the external insulating (usually made of plastic) cover of a wire 122 and expose the internal conductive core found within the wire 122. In some embodiments, the stripping module 104 comprises one or more of the following parts: a holding head 2202 configured to move downwards and upwards by means (for example) of a first motor or a piston (in Figure 22, the holding head 2202 is in the downwards position), and it is responsible for holding the wire in place while the stripping action is performed. In some embodiments, the holding head 2202 does not move up and down, it is static, and the only movement performed is the opening and closing of the head to hold or release the wire. A stripping head 2204, configured to move forwards and backwards by means (for example) of a second motor or a piston and responsible for performing the stripping action.

[0368] In some embodiments, optionally, the strip head 2204 only separates the insolation plastic but leaves it on the conductor. In some embodiments, this is useful for manual crimp of special connector elements.

[0369] In some embodiment, the amount (depth) that the strip head 2204 is actuated for plastic removal is programable / adjustable to accommodate for different thickness of insolation. Exemplary overall method of wire preparation using the wire preparation system 700

[0370] Referring now to Figure 23, showing a flowchart of an exemplary method of wire preparation using the wire preparation system 700, according to some embodiments of the invention.

[0371] In some embodiments, an exemplary method of preparing a wire in an exemplary wire preparation system 700 comprises one or more of the following actions:

[0372] 1. Sensing that a wire has been inserted into the opening (2302).

[0373] 2. Performing stripping action (2304).

[0374] 3. Extracting a single wire connector from a dedicated wire connectors storage compartment 1912 (2306).

[0375] In some embodiments, extracting a single wire connector is as explained in the method as shown in Figures 19i-j.

[0376] 4. Rotating the arm 2104 of the dynamic platform module to bring the crimping module 120 in front the stripped wire (2308).

[0377] 5. Inserting the wire into the wire connector (2310).

[0378] 6. Crimping the wire connector onto the wire (2312).

[0379] Exemplary single, double and multiple channel wire preparation systems

[0380] Referring now to Figures 24a-b, showing schematic representations of exemplary wire preparation systems with different numbers of channels, according to some embodiments of the invention.

[0381] In some embodiments, the number of channels means the number of types of wire connectors it carries. For example, in some embodiments, an exemplary wire preparation system comprises a single channel, as schematically shown in Figure 24a, which means it carries a single type of wire connector. Another example is shown in Figure 24b, showing a schematic representation of an exemplary wire preparation system having 6 channels. In some embodiments, wire preparation system comprises 1 channel, two channels, three channels, four channels or any number of channels. In some embodiments, the dynamic module is moved between channels manually.

[0382] Exemplary portable wire preparation system

[0383] Referring now to Figure 25, showing a schematic representation of an exemplary portable wire preparation system, according to some embodiments of the invention. In some embodiments, exemplary portable wire preparation systems 800 comprise one or more of the following parts: a wire preparation system 2400 comprising one or more wire connector storages 2402, a cart 2404, one or more wire reels 2406, a wire holder 2408, optional length measuring wheels 2410 for example the wire is pulled through two contacting wheels, one of them fitted with encoder to measure the wire length, a wire cutter 2412. In some embodiments, the portable wire preparation system is configured to be an autonomous system which allows preparation of wires anywhere.

[0384] Exemplary vacuum modules

[0385] In some embodiments, any of the abovementioned wiring systems comprise one or more vacuum modules. In some embodiments, the vacuum module is configured to perform the recovery of a single wire connector from a dedicated wire connectors storage compartment and / or the transport of a single wire connector from a dedicated wire connectors storage compartment to a different module within the system.

[0386] In some embodiments, there is a single vacuum module that serves all the dedicated wire connectors storage compartments. In some embodiments, each dedicated wire connectors storage compartment comprises its own vacuum module.

[0387] In some embodiments, the vacuum module is configured to recover a single wire connector from a bottom part of the wire connectors storage compartment. In this case, optionally, the lifting bar is absent. In some embodiments, the vacuum module is configured to recover a single wire connector from a top part of the wire connectors storage compartment and recover the single wire connector from the lifting bar.

[0388] In some embodiments, the vacuum module comprises one or more sensors configured to monitor the recovery and / or transport processes.

[0389] In some embodiments, when a lifting bar is absent, the directionality of the wire connector might not be ensured. In these cases, the system comprises a sensor configured to detect the directionality of the wire connector and, if the direction is wrong, the system actuates a reversing element configured to rotate the directionality of the wire connector. In some embodiments, the system comprises a mechanical reversing element that rotates only wire connectors that are in the wrong direction, while allowing to pass wire connectors that are in the correct direction. In some embodiments, wire connectors that are delivered in a wrong direction are ejected from the vacuum system before reaching the next module. In some embodiments, this is performed buy using, for example, and additional mechanical / pressure / vacuum element.

[0390] In some embodiments, the vacuum modules comprise one or more tubes configured to allow the movement of the wire connectors within the system to any required module.

[0391] In some embodiments, a tube is used to provide the vacuum. In some embodiments, the tube ends may be designed to fit certain wire connector type (For example, diameter) and blocking other types (For example, bigger ferrules). General information about stripping processes

[0392] In the following paragraphs general information will be provided regarding the stripping activities of the exemplary wire preparation systems, the information is valis for any stripping module described herein.

[0393] In some embodiments, the stripping actions comprise one or more of the following actions:

[0394] Detection of the wire: In some embodiments, the system is configured to detect that a wire has been inserted into the wire preparation system. In some embodiments, the system is optionally configured to detect if the wire is already stripped or not. In some embodiments, the distal end of the wire is also detected and the correct position of the distal end within the system is verified.

[0395] Holding the wire: In some embodiments, the system is configured to hold the wire while being manipulated during the wire preparation process.

[0396] Positioning of the wire: In some embodiments, the system comprises a dedicated holder configured to hold the wire in a certain orientation, for example, to hold the wire in a central longitudinal orientation within the system. In some embodiments, a potential advantage of holding the wire in a central longitudinal orientation is that it potentially ensures that the wire is being manipulated properly during the whole process.

[0397] Stripping the wire: In some embodiments, the system comprises one or more blades configured to strip the insulation from the wire and exposing the conductive core. In some embodiments, the removal of the insulation is complete. In some embodiments, the removal of the insulation is partial and the insulation is left on the conductive core while a distal part of the insulation is left on the core.

[0398] In some embodiments, the stripping module comprises one or more motors and / or actuators configured to actuate the different parts of the stripping module in the correct directions and / or in the correct dimensions (how much the part will move - for example in the case of partial removal of the insulation, the insulation is slightly moved distally without actually removing the insulation from the core).

[0399] Exemplary wire preparation system

[0400] Referring now to Figures 26a-h, showing schematic representation of exemplary wire preparation systems, according to some embodiments of the invention.

[0401] Figure 26a shows a general external view of an exemplary wire preparation system 2600. In some embodiments, a wire preparation system is characterized by the possibility to be scalable and modular in order to meet the required needs, for example, output quantity, type of wires, interconnection with other systems, like labeling systems, automatic wiring systems, etc. In some embodiments, the wire preparation system comprises one or more of the following:

[0402] 1. An encasement 2602 configured to house all the mechanical parts. In some embodiments, the encasement 2602 has a double role: on one side it protects the mechanical parts from outside elements, and, on the other side, it protects the user from the moving mechanism. In some embodiments, the encasement 2602 can be adapted to any size.

[0403] 2. A multi-channel wire inlet 2604. In some embodiments, the system 2600 is configured to receive multiple types of wires to be used during the wire preparation method. For example, the system 2600 is configured to have from 1 inlet channel to 16 inlet channels, or 30 inlet channels, or more.

[0404] 3. Core components 2606 of the wire preparation system (see below);

[0405] 4. A user interface 2608.

[0406] 5. An exit duct for prepared wires 2610.

[0407] Exemplary Core components 2606

[0408] Referring now to Figure 26b, showing a schematic representation of exemplary core components 2606 of the wire preparation system, according to some embodiments of the invention.

[0409] In some embodiments, the core components comprise one or more of the components as shown, for example, in either of the previously disclosed Figures and their related written explanations. For the sake of allowing a person having skills in the art to understand the invention, a general explanation of the components will be now provided. More and / or other details can be found herein elsewhere and are intended to be part of this exemplary embodiment.

[0410] In some embodiments, the core components comprise or more of the following:

[0411] 1. A carousel 2612, as disclosed above, configured for housing ferrules in Ferrule containers 2624. In some embodiments, the carousel is configured to rotate (arrow 2614) in order to provide the proper ferrule. For example, ferrules from 0.5mm up to 6mm and in lengths of 8, 10 or 12 mm.

[0412] 2. The strip and crimp mechanisms 2616, as disclosed above, optionally fully automated with no manual setup required and with auto-recovery station for cases that ferrules get jammed.

[0413] 3. Additional components relevant to this embodiment, for example a handle 2618 for extracting the core components out of the encasement 2602; an access door for maintenance 2620; and a wire recovery station 2622. Exemplary Ferrule containers 2624

[0414] Referring now to Figure 26c, showing schematic representations of exemplary ferrule containers 2624, according to some embodiments of the invention.

[0415] In some embodiments, the ferrule containers 2624 comprise one or more of the components as shown, for example, in either of the previously disclosed Figures and their related written explanations. For the sake of allowing a person having skills in the art to understand the invention, a general explanation of parts of the ferrule containers 2624 will be now provided. More and / or other details can be found herein elsewhere and are intended to be part of this exemplary embodiment.

[0416] In some embodiments, the ferrule containers 2624 comprise or more of the following:

[0417] 1. A main container for ferrules 2626.

[0418] 2. An optional front label 2628 with relevant information regarding the container / ferrules.

[0419] 3. An optional rear label 2630 with relevant information regarding the container / ferrules.

[0420] 4. The lifting bar 2632 (in the right side shown in a lower position).

[0421] 5. Ferrule release springs 2634.

[0422] 6. And other components as disclosed above.

[0423] Exemplary multiple configurations of wire preparation system with additional systems

[0424] Referring now to Figures 26d-h showing schematic representations of combinations of systems, according to some embodiments of the invention. In some embodiments, the wire preparation system 2600 is configured to be an independent system and / or be a part of a bigger modular system related to wire preparation, manipulation and incorporation into electrical panels.

[0425] Figure 26d shows an exemplary wire preparation system 2600 configured as a stand-alone system, from which prepared wires are dropped into a box 2636.

[0426] Figure 26e shows an exemplary wire preparation system 2600 connected to a bundles module 2638, which is configured to receive prepared wires and bundle them together, for example using tape, wires, cords or any other attaching means.

[0427] Figure 26f shows an exemplary wire preparation system 2600 connected to a labeling module 2640, which is configured to receive prepared wires and label them.

[0428] Figure 26g shows an exemplary wire preparation system 2600 connected to a labeling module 2640, which is configured to receive prepared wires and label them, then, the labeled wires are passed to a bundles module 2638, which is configured to receive prepared labeled wires and bundle them together, for example using tape, wires, cords or any other attaching means. Figure 26g shows an exemplary wire preparation system 2600 connected to an automate wiring module 2640, which is configured to receive prepared wires and wire them into electrical panels in an automated manner.

[0429] Summary of the disclosure

[0430] According to an aspect of some embodiments of the present disclosure there is provided a wire preparation system, comprising: a. a wire connectors storage module comprising one or more wire connector storages configured to store a bulk of individual wire connectors; b. a stripping module; c. a crimping module; wherein said wire preparation system comprises a picking device configured for separating and picking a single wire connector from said bulk of individual wire connectors. According to some embodiments of the disclosure, the picking device comprises a lifting bar. According to some embodiments of the disclosure, the picking device comprises a vacuum device. According to some embodiments of the disclosure, the wire preparation system further comprises at least one dynamic platform module configured for moving one or more modules within said wire preparation system. According to some embodiments of the disclosure, the at least one dynamic platform module comprises at least one arm connected to at least one actuator. According to some embodiments of the disclosure, the one or more modules are positioned on said at least one arm. According to some embodiments of the disclosure, the wire connectors storage module comprises two wire connector storages. According to some embodiments of the disclosure, each of said one or more wire connector storages comprises a wire connector bin configured for storing said bulk of individual wire connectors. According to some embodiments of the disclosure, the wire connector bin is a replaceable bin. According to some embodiments of the disclosure, the wire connector bin is a refillable bin. According to some embodiments of the disclosure, the wire connector bin comprises a geometry configured to avoid multiple wire connectors or no wire connector on said lift bar. According to some embodiments of the disclosure, the wire connector bin comprises a divider wall.

[0431] According to some embodiments of the disclosure, the wire connectors storage module is a carousel type wire connectors storage module configured to rotate on a longitudinal axis of said wire connectors storage module. According to some embodiments of the disclosure, the wire connectors storage module is a carousel type wire connectors storage module configured to stay static. According to some embodiments of the disclosure, the one or more wire connector storages are arranged in a straight line. According to some embodiments of the disclosure, the rotate is clockwise or counterclockwise. According to some embodiments of the disclosure, each of said one or more wire connector storages comprises an opening on a bottom part of said wire connector bin and wherein said lifting arm enters said wire connector bin via said opening. According to some embodiments of the disclosure, the lifting bar is configured to move upwards and downwards within said wire connector storage. According to some embodiments of the disclosure, each of said one or more wire connector storages comprises a support / pushing sleeve positioned above said opening from which said lifting bar enters said wire connector bin. According to some embodiments of the disclosure, the support / pushing sleeve is configured for ensuring that said single wire connector is at a correct orientation. According to some embodiments of the disclosure, the support / pushing sleeve is configured for pushing said wire connector within a hollow passage in said lifting bar. According to some embodiments of the disclosure, the wire connectors storage module comprises an air compressed module configured for assisting in pushing said wire connector within said hollow passage in said lifting bar. According to some embodiments of the disclosure, the wire connectors storage module comprises an air compressed module configured for mixing said bulk of individual wire connectors within said wire connector bin. According to some embodiments of the disclosure, the wire connectors storage module comprises a local vibratory element configured for mixing said bulk of individual wire connectors within said wire connector bin. According to some embodiments of the disclosure, the local vibratory element vibrates said lifting bar and / or said wire connector bin. According to some embodiments of the disclosure, the lifting bar comprises a geometry configured for receiving a single wire connector. According to some embodiments of the disclosure, the lifting bar comprises a geometry configured for receiving a single wire connector at a certain directionality. According to some embodiments of the disclosure, the lifting bar comprises a hollow passage sized and shaped to receive a single wire connector. According to some embodiments of the disclosure, the wire preparation system further comprises a housing.

[0432] According to some embodiments of the disclosure, the wire preparation system further comprises at least one opening on said housing, said opening configured to allow insertion of at least one wire into said wire preparation system, said wire in need to be prepared. According to some embodiments of the disclosure, the wire preparation system further comprises one or more electronic modules comprising one or more controllers, configured for actuating modules in said wire preparation system. According to some embodiments of the disclosure, the wire preparation system further comprises a unit interface. According to some embodiments of the disclosure, the wire preparation system further comprises a communication interface unit configured for interfacing between said wire preparation system and other automated machines. According to some embodiments of the disclosure, the wire preparation system further comprises a wire cutting element configured for cutting a wire to a required length. According to some embodiments of the disclosure, the wire preparation system further comprises one or more wire reels. According to some embodiments of the disclosure, the wire preparation system further comprises a wire connector sliding tube configured for allowing passage of at least one wire connector from a wire connectors storage module to at least one different module within said wire preparation system. According to some embodiments of the disclosure, the wire connector sliding tube is sized and shaped to allow a passage of a single wire connector. According to some embodiments of the disclosure, the crimping module is configured for receiving a single wire connector. According to some embodiments of the disclosure, the crimping module is configured for crimping said single wire connector onto a wire. According to some embodiments of the disclosure, the stripping module is configured to strip at least a part of an insulation cover of a wire. According to some embodiments of the disclosure, the stripping module is configured to partially strip an insulation cover of a wire. According to some embodiments of the disclosure, the stripping module comprises a holder configured to hold a wire while said wire is being prepared. According to some embodiments of the disclosure, the stripping module comprises at least one blade configured to cut an insulation cover of a wire. According to some embodiments of the disclosure, the wire preparation system further comprises one or more sensors configured for the monitoring one or more wire preparation processes and / or modules in said wire preparation system. According to some embodiments of the disclosure, the one or more sensors are configured to detect that a wire has been inserted in said wire preparation system. According to some embodiments of the disclosure, the one or more sensors are configured to detect that a single wire connector has been picked up by said lifting bar. According to some embodiments of the disclosure, the one or more sensors are configured to detect that a single wire connector has been positioned in said crimping module. According to some embodiments of the disclosure, the one or more sensors are configured to assess the success of the crimping action. According to some embodiments of the disclosure, the one or more sensors are configured to assess the success of the stripping action.

[0433] According to an aspect of some embodiments of the present disclosure there is provided a wire preparation system, comprising: a. a wire connectors storage module comprising one or more wire connector storages configured to store a bulk of individual wire connectors; b. a stripping module; c. a crimping module; wherein said wire preparation system comprises lifting bar configured for separating and picking a single wire connector from said bulk of individual wire connectors. According to some embodiments of the disclosure, the wire preparation system further comprises at least one dynamic platform module configured for moving one or more modules within said wire preparation system. According to some embodiments of the disclosure, the at least one dynamic platform module comprises at least one arm connected to at least one actuator. According to some embodiments of the disclosure, the one or more modules are positioned on said at least one arm. According to some embodiments of the disclosure, the wire connectors storage module comprises two wire connector storages.

[0434] According to some embodiments of the disclosure, each of said one or more wire connector storages comprises a wire connector bin configured for storing said bulk of individual wire connectors. According to some embodiments of the disclosure, the wire connector bin is a replaceable bin. According to some embodiments of the disclosure, the wire connector bin is a refillable bin. According to some embodiments of the disclosure, the wire connector bin comprises a geometry configured to avoid multiple wire connectors or no wire connector on said lifting bar. According to some embodiments of the disclosure, the wire connector bin comprises a divider wall. According to some embodiments of the disclosure, the wire connectors storage module is a carousel type wire connectors storage module configured to rotate on a longitudinal axis of said wire connectors storage module. According to some embodiments of the disclosure, the wire connectors storage module is a carousel type wire connectors storage module configured to stay static. According to some embodiments of the disclosure, the one or more wire connector storages are arranged in a straight line.

[0435] According to some embodiments of the disclosure, the rotate is clockwise or counterclockwise. According to some embodiments of the disclosure, each of said one or more wire connector storages comprises an opening on a bottom part of said wire connector bin and wherein said lifting bar enters said wire connector bin via said opening. According to some embodiments of the disclosure, the lifting bar is configured to move upwards and downwards within said wire connector storage. According to some embodiments of the disclosure, each of said one or more wire connector storages comprises a support / pushing sleeve positioned above said opening from which said lifting bar enters said wire connector bin. According to some embodiments of the disclosure, the support / pushing sleeve is configured for ensuring that said single wire connector is at a correct orientation. According to some embodiments of the disclosure, the support / pushing sleeve is configured for pushing said wire connector within a hollow passage in said lifting bar. According to some embodiments of the disclosure, the wire connectors storage module comprises an air compressed module configured for assisting in pushing said wire connector within said hollow passage in said lifting bar. According to some embodiments of the disclosure, the wire connectors storage module comprises an air compressed module configured for mixing said bulk of individual wire connectors within said wire connector bin. According to some embodiments of the disclosure, the wire connectors storage module comprises a local vibratory element configured for mixing said bulk of individual wire connectors within said wire connector bin. According to some embodiments of the disclosure, the local vibratory element vibrates said lifting bar and / or said wire connector bin. According to some embodiments of the disclosure, the lifting bar comprises a geometry configured for receiving a single wire connector. According to some embodiments of the disclosure, the lifting bar comprises a geometry configured for receiving a single wire connector at a certain directionality. According to some embodiments of the disclosure, the lifting bar comprises a hollow passage sized and shaped to receive a single wire connector. According to some embodiments of the disclosure, the wire preparation system further comprises a housing.

[0436] According to some embodiments of the disclosure, the wire preparation system further comprises at least one opening on said housing, said opening configured to allow insertion of at least one wire into said wire preparation system, said wire in need to be prepared. According to some embodiments of the disclosure, the wire preparation system further comprises one or more electronic modules comprising one or more controllers, configured for actuating modules in said wire preparation system. According to some embodiments of the disclosure, the wire preparation system further comprises a unit interface. According to some embodiments of the disclosure, the wire preparation system further comprises a communication interface unit configured for interfacing between said wire preparation system and other automated machines. According to some embodiments of the disclosure, the wire preparation system further comprises a wire cutting element configured for cutting a wire to a required length. According to some embodiments of the disclosure, the wire preparation system further comprises one or more wire reels. According to some embodiments of the disclosure, the wire preparation system further comprises a wire connector sliding tube configured for allowing passage of at least one wire connector from a wire connectors storage module to at least one different module within said wire preparation system. According to some embodiments of the disclosure, the wire connector sliding tube is sized and shaped to allow a passage of a single wire connector. According to some embodiments of the disclosure, the crimping module is configured for receiving a single wire connector. According to some embodiments of the disclosure, the crimping module is configured for crimping said single wire connector onto a wire. According to some embodiments of the disclosure, the stripping module is configured to strip at least a part of an insulation cover of a wire. According to some embodiments of the disclosure, the stripping module is configured to partially strip an insulation cover of a wire. According to some embodiments of the disclosure, the stripping module comprises a holder configured to hold a wire while said wire is being prepared. According to some embodiments of the disclosure, the stripping module comprises at least one blade configured to cut an insulation cover of a wire. According to some embodiments of the disclosure, the wire preparation system further comprises one or more sensors configured for the monitoring one or more wire preparation processes and / or modules in said wire preparation system. According to some embodiments of the disclosure, the one or more sensors are configured to detect that a wire has been inserted in said wire preparation system. According to some embodiments of the disclosure, the one or more sensors are configured to detect that a single wire connector has been picked up by said lifting bar. According to some embodiments of the disclosure, the one or more sensors are configured to detect that a single wire connector has been positioned in said crimping module. According to some embodiments of the disclosure, the one or more sensors are configured to assess the success of the crimping action. According to some embodiments of the disclosure, the one or more sensors are configured to assess the success of the stripping action.

[0437] According to an aspect of some embodiments of the present disclosure there is provided a wire preparation system, comprising: a. a wire connectors storage module comprising one or more wire connector storages configured to store a bulk of individual wire connectors; b. a stripping module; c. a crimping module; wherein said wire preparation system comprises a vacuum module configured for separating and picking a single wire connector from said bulk of individual wire connectors. According to some embodiments of the disclosure, the wire preparation system further comprises at least one dynamic platform module configured for moving one or more modules within said wire preparation system. According to some embodiments of the disclosure, the at least one dynamic platform module comprises at least one arm connected to at least one actuator. According to some embodiments of the disclosure, the one or more modules are positioned on said at least one arm. According to some embodiments of the disclosure, the wire connectors storage module comprises two wire connector storages.

[0438] According to some embodiments of the disclosure, each of said one or more wire connector storages comprises a wire connector bin configured for storing said bulk of individual wire connectors. According to some embodiments of the disclosure, the wire connector bin is a replaceable bin. According to some embodiments of the disclosure, the wire connector bin is a refillable bin. According to some embodiments of the disclosure, the wire connector bin comprises a geometry configured to avoid multiple wire connectors or no wire connector on a lifting bar. According to some embodiments of the disclosure, the wire connector bin comprises a divider wall. According to some embodiments of the disclosure, the wire connectors storage module is a carousel type wire connectors storage module configured to rotate on a longitudinal axis of said wire connectors storage module. According to some embodiments of the disclosure, the wire connectors storage module is a carousel type wire connectors storage module configured to stay static. According to some embodiments of the disclosure, the one or more wire connector storages are arranged in a straight line. According to some embodiments of the disclosure, the rotate is clockwise or counterclockwise. According to some embodiments of the disclosure, each of said one or more wire connector storages comprises an opening on a bottom part of said wire connector bin and wherein said lifting arm enters said wire connector bin via said opening. According to some embodiments of the disclosure, the lifting bar is configured to move upwards and downwards within said wire connector storage. According to some embodiments of the disclosure, each of said one or more wire connector storages comprises a support / pushing sleeve positioned above said opening from which said lifting bar enters said wire connector bin. According to some embodiments of the disclosure, the support / pushing sleeve is configured for ensuring that said single wire connector is at a correct orientation. According to some embodiments of the disclosure, the support / pushing sleeve is configured for pushing said wire connector within a hollow passage in said lifting bar. According to some embodiments of the disclosure, the wire connectors storage module comprises an air compressed module configured for assisting in pushing said wire connector within said hollow passage in said lifting bar. According to some embodiments of the disclosure, the wire connectors storage module comprises an air compressed module configured for mixing said bulk of individual wire connectors within said wire connector bin. According to some embodiments of the disclosure, the wire connectors storage module comprises a local vibratory element configured for mixing said bulk of individual wire connectors within said wire connector bin. According to some embodiments of the disclosure, the local vibratory element vibrates said lifting bar and / or said wire connector bin. According to some embodiments of the disclosure, the lifting bar comprises a geometry configured for receiving a single wire connector. According to some embodiments of the disclosure, the lifting bar comprises a geometry configured for receiving a single wire connector at a certain directionality. According to some embodiments of the disclosure, the lifting bar comprises a hollow passage sized and shaped to receive a single wire connector. According to some embodiments of the disclosure, the wire preparation system further comprises a housing.

[0439] According to some embodiments of the disclosure, the wire preparation system further comprises at least one opening on said housing, said opening configured to allow insertion of at least one wire into said wire preparation system, said wire in need to be prepared. According to some embodiments of the disclosure, the wire preparation system further comprises one or more electronic modules comprising one or more controllers, configured for actuating modules in said wire preparation system. According to some embodiments of the disclosure, the wire preparation system further comprises a unit interface. According to some embodiments of the disclosure, the wire preparation system further comprises a communication interface unit configured for interfacing between said wire preparation system and other automated machines. According to some embodiments of the disclosure, the wire preparation system further comprises a wire cutting element configured for cutting a wire to a required length. According to some embodiments of the disclosure, the wire preparation system further comprises one or more wire reels. According to some embodiments of the disclosure, the wire preparation system further comprises a wire connector sliding tube configured for allowing passage of at least one wire connector from a wire connectors storage module to at least one different module within said wire preparation system. According to some embodiments of the disclosure, the wire connector sliding tube is sized and shaped to allow a passage of a single wire connector. According to some embodiments of the disclosure, the crimping module is configured for receiving a single wire connector. According to some embodiments of the disclosure, the crimping module is configured for crimping said single wire connector onto a wire. According to some embodiments of the disclosure, the stripping module is configured to strip at least a part of an insulation cover of a wire. According to some embodiments of the disclosure, the stripping module is configured to partially strip an insulation cover of a wire. According to some embodiments of the disclosure, the stripping module comprises a holder configured to hold a wire while said wire is being prepared. According to some embodiments of the disclosure, the stripping module comprises at least one blade configured to cut an insulation cover of a wire. According to some embodiments of the disclosure, the wire preparation system further comprises one or more sensors configured for the monitoring one or more wire preparation processes and / or modules in said wire preparation system. According to some embodiments of the disclosure, the one or more sensors are configured to detect that a wire has been inserted in said wire preparation system. According to some embodiments of the disclosure, the one or more sensors are configured to detect that a single wire connector has been picked up by said lifting bar. According to some embodiments of the disclosure, the one or more sensors are configured to detect that a single wire connector has been positioned in said crimping module. According to some embodiments of the disclosure, the one or more sensors are configured to assess the success of the crimping action. According to some embodiments of the disclosure, the one or more sensors are configured to assess the success of the stripping action.

[0440] According to an aspect of some embodiments of the present disclosure there is provided a method for extracting a single wire connector from a wire connector storage compartment, the method comprising: a. lifting a lifting bar thereby causing a single wire connector to enter a dedicated geometry in said lifting bar; b. bringing said lifting bar in contact with a support / pushing sleeve until said single wire connector contacts said support / pushing sleeve; c. causing said single wire connector to enter a hollow passage in said lifting bar; d. passing said hollow passage in said lifting bar and exit to a next module. According to some embodiments of the disclosure, the passing is passive by means of gravity. According to some embodiments of the disclosure, the passing is active by means of a vacuum force. According to some embodiments of the disclosure, the passing is active by means of an air pressurized force. According to an aspect of some embodiments of the present disclosure there is provided a method for preparing a wire, comprising: a. receiving an indication that a wire in need to be prepared has been inserted; b. performing wire connector extraction process to extract a single wire connector; c. transferring said single wire connector to a crimping module; d. crimping said single wire connector to a wire. According to some embodiments of the disclosure, the method further comprises performing wire stripping process before said crimping. According to some embodiments of the disclosure, the method further comprises automatically identifying a type and / or size of said wire; and further comprising selecting a dedicated wire connector accordingly. According to some embodiments of the disclosure, the method further comprises assessing a quality of said crimping.

[0441] According to an aspect of some embodiments of the present disclosure there is provided a method for stripping a wire, comprising: a. receiving an indication that a wire has been inserted; b. actuating a holding element thereby holding said wire; c. actuating a stripping element, thereby stripping an insulating cover from said wire and exposing a conductive core of said wire. According to some embodiments of the disclosure, the method further comprises reversing said actuation of said holding element, thereby releasing said wire.

[0442] As used herein with reference to quantity or value, the term “about” means “within ± 10 % of’.

[0443] The terms “comprises”, “comprising”, “includes”, “including”, “has”, “having” and their conjugates mean “including but not limited to”.

[0444] The term “consisting of’ means “including and limited to”.

[0445] The term “consisting essentially of’ means that the composition, method or structure may include additional ingredients, steps and / or parts, but only if the additional ingredients, steps and / or parts do not materially alter the basic and novel characteristics of the claimed composition, method or structure.

[0446] As used herein, the singular forms “a”, “an” and “the” include plural references unless the context clearly dictates otherwise. For example, the term “a compound” or “at least one compound” may include a plurality of compounds, including mixtures thereof.

[0447] Throughout this application, embodiments of this invention may be presented with reference to a range format. It should be understood that the description in range format is merely for convenience and brevity and should not be construed as an inflexible limitation on the scope of the invention. Accordingly, the description of a range should be considered to have specifically disclosed all the possible subranges as well as individual numerical values within that range. For example, description of a range such as “from 1 to 6” should be considered to have specifically disclosed subranges such as “from 1 to 3”, “from 1 to 4”, “from 1 to 5”, “from 2 to 4”, “from 2 to 6”, “from 3 to 6”, etc.; as well as individual numbers within that range, for example, 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, and 6. This applies regardless of the breadth of the range.

[0448] Whenever a numerical range is indicated herein (for example “10-15”, “10 to 15”, or any pair of numbers linked by these another such range indication), it is meant to include any number (fractional or integral) within the indicated range limits, including the range limits, unless the context clearly dictates otherwise. The phrases “range / ranging / ranges between” a first indicate number and a second indicate number and “range / ranging / ranges from” a first indicate number “to”, “up to”, “until” or “through” (or another such range-indicating term) a second indicate number are used herein interchangeably and are meant to include the first and second indicated numbers and all the fractional and integral numbers therebetween.

[0449] Unless otherwise indicated, numbers used herein and any number ranges based thereon are approximations within the accuracy of reasonable measurement and rounding errors as understood by persons skilled in the art

[0450] It is appreciated that certain features of the invention, which are, for clarity, described in the context of separate embodiments, may also be provided in combination in a single embodiment. Conversely, various features of the invention, which are, for brevity, described in the context of a single embodiment, may also be provided separately or in any suitable subcombination or as suitable in any other described embodiment of the invention. Certain features described in the context of various embodiments are not to be considered essential features of those embodiments, unless the embodiment is inoperative without those elements.

[0451] It is the intent of the applicant(s) that all publications, patents and patent applications referred to in this specification are to be incorporated in their entirety by reference into the specification, as if each individual publication, patent or patent application was specifically and individually noted when referenced that it is to be incorporated herein by reference. In addition, citation or identification of any reference in this application shall not be construed as an admission that such reference is available as prior art to the present invention. To the extent that section headings are used, they should not be construed as necessarily limiting. In addition, any priority document(s) of this application is / are hereby incorporated herein by reference in its / their entirety.

Claims

WHAT IS CLAIMED IS:

1. A wire preparation system, comprising: a. a wire connectors storage module comprising one or more wire connector storages configured to store a bulk of individual wire connectors; b. a stripping module; c a crimping module; wherein said wire preparation system comprises a picking device configured for separating and picking a single wire connector from said bulk of individual wire connectors.

2. The wire preparation system according to claim 1, wherein said picking device comprises a lifting bar.

3. The wire preparation system according to claim 1 or claim 2, wherein said picking device comprises a vacuum device.

4. The wire preparation system according to any one of claims 1-3, further comprising at least one dynamic platform module configured for moving one or more modules within said wire preparation system.

5. The wire preparation system according to any one of claims 1-4, wherein said at least one dynamic platform module comprises at least one arm connected to at least one actuator.

6. The wire preparation system according to any one of claims 1-5, wherein said one or more modules are positioned on said at least one arm.

7. The wire preparation system according to any one of claims 1-6, wherein said wire connectors storage module comprises two wire connector storages.

8. The wire preparation system according to any one of claims 1-7, wherein each of said one or more wire connector storages comprises a wire connector bin configured for storing said bulk of individual wire connectors.

9. The wire preparation system according to any one of claims 1-8, wherein said wire connector bin is a replaceable bin.

10. The wire preparation system according to any one of claims 1-9, wherein said wire connector bin is a refillable bin.

11. The wire preparation system according to any one of claims 1-10, wherein said wire connector bin comprises a geometry configured to avoid multiple wire connectors or no wire connector on said lift bar.

12. The wire preparation system according to any one of claims 1-11, wherein said wire connector bin comprises a divider wall.

13. The wire preparation system according to any one of claims 1-12, wherein said wire connectors storage module is a carousel type wire connectors storage module configured to rotate on a longitudinal axis of said wire connectors storage module.

14. The wire preparation system according to any one of claims 1-13, wherein said wire connectors storage module is a carousel type wire connectors storage module configured to stay static.

15. The wire preparation system according to any one of claims 1-14, wherein said one or more wire connector storages are arranged in a straight line.

16. The wire preparation system according to any one of claims 1-15, wherein said rotate is clockwise or counterclockwise.

17. The wire preparation system according to any one of claims 1-16, wherein each of said one or more wire connector storages comprises an opening on a bottom part of said wire connector bin and wherein said lifting arm enters said wire connector bin via said opening.

18. The wire preparation system according to any one of claims 1-17, wherein said lifting bar is configured to move upwards and downwards within said wire connector storage.

19. The wire preparation system according to any one of claims 1-18, wherein each of said one or more wire connector storages comprises a support / pushing sleeve positioned above said opening from which said lifting bar enters said wire connector bin.

20. The wire preparation system according to any one of claims 1-19, wherein said support / pushing sleeve is configured for ensuring that said single wire connector is at a correct orientation.

21. The wire preparation system according to any one of claims 1-20, wherein said support / pushing sleeve is configured for pushing said wire connector within a hollow passage in said lifting bar.

22. The wire preparation system according to any one of claims 1-21, wherein said wire connectors storage module comprises an air compressed module configured for assisting in pushing said wire connector within said hollow passage in said lifting bar.

23. The wire preparation system according to any one of claims 1-22, wherein said wire connectors storage module comprises an air compressed module configured for mixing said bulk of individual wire connectors within said wire connector bin.

24. The wire preparation system according to any one of claims 1-23, wherein said wire connectors storage module comprises a local vibratory element configured for mixing said bulk of individual wire connectors within said wire connector bin.

25. The wire preparation system according to any one of claims 1-24, wherein said local vibratory element vibrates said lifting bar and / or said wire connector bin.

26. The wire preparation system according to any one of claims 1-25, wherein said lifting bar comprises a geometry configured for receiving a single wire connector.

27. The wire preparation system according to any one of claims 1-26, wherein said lifting bar comprises a geometry configured for receiving a single wire connector at a certain directionality.

28. The wire preparation system according to any one of claims 1-27, wherein said lifting bar comprises a hollow passage sized and shaped to receive a single wire connector.

29. The wire preparation system according to any one of claims 1-28, further comprising a housing.

30. The wire preparation system according to any one of claims 1-29, further comprising at least one opening on said housing, said opening configured to allow insertion of at least one wire into said wire preparation system, said wire in need to be prepared.

31. The wire preparation system according to any one of claims 1-30, further comprising one or more electronic modules comprising one or more controllers, configured for actuating modules in said wire preparation system.

32. The wire preparation system according to any one of claims 1-31, further comprising a unit interface.

33. The wire preparation system according to any one of claims 1-32, further comprising a communication interface unit configured for interfacing between said wire preparation system and other automated machines.

34. The wire preparation system according to any one of claims 1-33, further comprising a wire cutting element configured for cutting a wire to a required length.

35. The wire preparation system according to any one of claims 1-34, further comprising one or more wire reels.

36. The wire preparation system according to any one of claims 1-35, further comprising a wire connector sliding tube configured for allowing passage of at least one wire connector from a wire connectors storage module to at least one different module within said wire preparation system.

37. The wire preparation system according to any one of claims 1-36, wherein said wire connector sliding tube is sized and shaped to allow a passage of a single wire connector.

38. The wire preparation system according to any one of claims 1-37, wherein said crimping module is configured for receiving a single wire connector.

39. The wire preparation system according to any one of claims 1-38, wherein said crimping module is configured for crimping said single wire connector onto a wire.

40. The wire preparation system according to any one of claims 1-39, wherein said stripping module is configured to strip at least a part of an insulation cover of a wire.

41. The wire preparation system according to any one of claims 1-40, wherein said stripping module is configured to partially strip an insulation cover of a wire.

42. The wire preparation system according to any one of claims 1-41, wherein said stripping module comprises a holder configured to hold a wire while said wire is being prepared.

43. The wire preparation system according to any one of claims 1-42, wherein said stripping module comprises at least one blade configured to cut an insulation cover of a wire.

44. The wire preparation system according to any one of claims 1-43, further comprising one or more sensors configured for the monitoring one or more wire preparation processes and / or modules in said wire preparation system.

45. The wire preparation system according to any one of claims 1 -44, wherein said one or more sensors are configured to detect that a wire has been inserted in said wire preparation system.

46. The wire preparation system according to any one of claims 1-45, wherein said one or more sensors are configured to detect that a single wire connector has been picked up by said lifting bar.

47. The wire preparation system according to any one of claims 1-46, wherein said one or more sensors are configured to detect that a single wire connector has been positioned in said crimping module.

48. The wire preparation system according to any one of claims 1-47, wherein said one or more sensors are configured to assess the success of the crimping action.

49. The wire preparation system according to any one of claims 1-48, wherein said one or more sensors are configured to assess the success of the stripping action.

Images