WO2021090289A1

WO2021090289A1 - Cable processing machine

Info

Publication number: WO2021090289A1
Application number: PCT/IB2020/060520
Authority: WO
Inventors: Wolfgang Fischer; Carmelo Messina; Jörg Furrer
Original assignee: Schleuniger Ag
Priority date: 2019-11-08
Filing date: 2020-11-09
Publication date: 2021-05-14
Also published as: WO2021090288A1; WO2021090293A1; WO2021090291A1; WO2021090290A1

Abstract

The invention relates to a cable processing machine (90) comprising - a transfer section (51), preferably in the form of a guide, - cable processing stations (70) which are arranged along the transfer section (51), - at least one cable support (10) for supporting at least one cable (80), - at least one transfer unit (50) which can be moved along the transfer section (51) and comprises a transfer fixing device (30) for fixing at least one cable support (10) to the transfer unit (50), said transfer fixing device (30) having at least one transfer fixing element (31), and - at least one station fixing device (20) for fixing at least one cable support (10) relative to a cable processing station (70), wherein the station fixing device (20) has at least one station fixing element (21), and the transfer fixing element (31) comprises at least one magnet, preferably a permanent magnet, for temporarily exerting a magnetic holding force onto the cable support (10) and/or the station fixing element (21) comprises at least one magnet, preferably a permanent magnet, for temporarily exerting a magnetic holding force onto the cable support (10).

Description

Cable processing machine

The invention relates to a cable processing machine according to the preamble of claim 1 and a method for processing cables in a cable processing machine according to claim 28. EP1275601A1 discloses a method for the transfer of work pieces, wherein a first transfer device with the workpieces from workstation to workstation Moves the first group and a second transfer device moves the workpiece carrier with the workpieces from workstation to workstation of a second group. The first transfer device transfers the workpiece carriers to a transfer device and the transfer device feeds the workpiece carriers to the second transfer device. The transfer devices and the transfer device work mechanically independently of one another and without mechanical coupling between the first transfer device and the transfer device or between the transfer device and the second transfer device. The workpiece carrier is transported exclusively by means of a form fit between the first transfer device and the workpiece carrier, between the transfer device and the workpiece carrier and between the second transfer device and the workpiece carrier. The workpiece carriers are guided on rails and have a toothing in the direction of the transfer device. The main element of the transfer devices is a double toothed belt, which transfers the drive force to the workpiece carrier in a form-fitting manner. In order to move the workpiece carriers within the workstations transversely to the transport direction of the transfer device, the complete transfer device including rail, double toothed belt and drive is moved mechanically. For this reason, these elements are available once for each work station, which causes high costs and takes a long time. machines with a large number of workstations. Another disadvantage is the large moving mass in the transverse movement. This publication does not deal with the transport and processing of cables and also does not offer a satisfactory solution for the transfer of the workpieces.

In the prior art there is namely a need for cable processing machines in which the cable is continuously held by a cable carrier during a series of consecutive processing steps without a transfer to another cable carrier or a temporary complete transfer to a processing station is required . In such cases, however, the problem arises that the cables have to assume a defined position not only during transport, but also during processing, and at the same time have to be kept stable. The transition from the transport phase (from one cable processing station to the other) to the processing phase and the fixation both during the transport and the processing phase must be guaranteed in an exact and reproducible manner.

The object of the present invention is therefore to create a device which solves the aforementioned problems and ensures safe transport and high-quality cable processing. The transition from the transport phase (along the transfer path) to the processing phase (in the individual processing stations) should take place reliably and precisely with regard to the positioning of the cable carrier / workpiece carrier in the processing station. At the same time, the cycle times should be kept short. In particular, the handling of the cable or cable carrier between the transport and processing phase should be quick and uncomplicated. In a preferred embodiment, the possibility of a simple exchange of cable processing stations should also be created. In order to process or manufacture another type of cable, it is often expedient to exchange one or more cable processing station (s) - for example as module (s). The inaccuracies resulting therefrom in the positioning of the cable processing station relative to the transfer path are intended to be compensated for by preferred embodiments of the invention. This is to keep the effort of such a change and the requirements for precise positioning of the processing stations low.

The object is achieved by the features of the independent claim. Advantageous developments are set out in the dependent Pa tent claims and in the figures.

According to the invention, the cable processing machine comprises a transfer path, preferably in the form of a guide,

Cable processing stations, which are arranged along the transfer path, at least one cable carrier for carrying at least one cable, - at least one transfer unit which is movable along the transfer path and a transfer fixing device for fixing at least one cable carrier to the transfer unit, the transfer fixing device comprising at least one transfer fixing element - at least one station fixing device for fixing at least one cable carrier relative to a cable processing station, the station fixing device having at least one station fixing element, wherein the transfer fixing element comprises at least one magnet, preferably a permanent magnet, for temporarily exerting a magnetic holding force on the cable carrier and / or the station fixing element comprises at least one magnet, preferably a permanent magnet, for temporarily exerting a magnetic holding force on the cable carrier.

This ensures reliable spatial positioning of the cable carrier during transport or during cable processing. The magnetic holding force (acting on the cable carrier) can be changed, i.e. switched on and off, by moving a (permanent) magnet and / or by switching an (electromagnet) magnet. In a transfer position in which the transfer unit is located at a cable processing station, the cable carrier is "transferred" by the transfer unit to the cable processing station or is fixed relative to the cable processing station. The transfer takes place in that the transfer fixing device releases the cable carrier and the station fixing device fixes the cable carrier and thus temporarily, ie at least during the time span of a cable processing step, "takes over". The return of the cable carrier to the transfer unit (after a cable processing step has been carried out) takes place in that the station fixing device releases the cable carrier and the transfer fixing device fixes the cable carrier. The transfer unit with the cable carrier fixed can then be moved to the next cable processing station. Thus, the cable carrier is preferably fixed during the entire process - sometimes on the transfer unit and sometimes relative to a cable processing station.

In the fixing state of the station fixing element, the cable carrier is or is detached from the transfer unit, which also applies to the modular pre-commissioning of the cable processing stations is advantageous. In other words, the cable carrier can be attached / fixed to the cable processing station, which can be done independently of the transfer unit. At the same time, over-determination is avoided. An advantageous consequential effect is a high repeat accuracy due to a short tolerance chain that no longer runs over rollers and rails. Furthermore, there is no need for highly precise positioning of the cable processing stations relative to one another and to the transfer unit, since rails no longer have to be aligned with one another and the fixing devices still function reliably even with average incorrect positioning.

A fixing state of a fixing element is understood to mean a state (e.g. a position or a switching state) in which the cable carrier is fixed by the fixing element (relative to a transfer unit or relative to a cable processing station) or which is suitable for passing through a cable carrier to fix the fixing element. A releasing state of a fixing element is understood to mean a state (e.g. a position or a switching state) in which the cable carrier is released from the fixing element, in particular partially or completely detached, or which is suitable for releasing a cable carrier.

The fixing state can e.g. be defined by a certain position of the fixing element (movable fixing element designed as a permanent magnet) or by a switching state of the fixing element (e.g. an electromagnet) e.g. to generate a magnetic holding force.

The cable is carried by the cable carrier. The cable carrier, in turn, is fixed to the transfer unit during the transport phase (transport along the transfer line). The transfer fixation element is in place in the state in which the cable carrier is fixed; the transfer unit is in the "fixed" state.

The transfer unit can be designed, for example, in the form of a carriage, a slide or a platform and / or comprise a receptacle for the cable carrier. The cable carrier is a holder for one or more cables and for this purpose can have fastening points (e.g. clamps) for the cable (s).

The cable carrier can be formed at least partially from magnetic or magnetizable material in order to be attracted by the magnet of a fixing element.

In the transport phase, the transfer unit is moved along the transfer line, whereby the cable carrier and cable are moved from one processing station to the next. During the processing phase, the cable carrier can be decoupled from the transfer unit in that the transfer fixing element is brought into the state that releases the cable carrier. The transfer unit then assumes the “open” state. Here and below, the term “open” is understood in particular to also mean “released”. At the same time, the cable carrier is coupled to the cable processing station in that the station fixing element is brought into a state that fixes the cable carrier The station fixing device then assumes the "fixed" state.

The at least one station fixing device can each be arranged at the cable processing stations. However, it would also be possible to arrange the station fixing device outside the cable processing station, for example on the frame of the cable processing machine. The station fixing device is used to fix a cable carrier relative to a cable processing station. As already mentioned, the station fixing device can be arranged in a cable processing station or outside thereof, for example in or on a part of the cable processing machine that is not moved by the transfer unit.

The transfer fixing element and / or the station fixing element can be designed in such a way that, in their fixing position, they exert a magnetic clamping force on the cable carrier. Of course, a frictional and / or form-fitting fixation would also be possible as an alternative or in addition.

The advantages of the invention can be seen in particular in the fact that the process reliability can be increased while the precision of the processes is increased at the same time. For example, a better error tolerance with regard to positional inaccuracies when changing the cable processing stations can also be achieved.

The cable processing stations can be designed to carry out various most cable processing steps. In particular, the cable processing stations can be a cutting station, an isolating station, a station for removing inner insulation or a filler, a station for assembling the cable ends, a crimping station, a plug assembly station, a labeling, marking and / or labeling station and / or include a cable test station.

A preferred embodiment is characterized in that the transfer fixing element comprising a magnet can be transferred between a state fixing (the cable carrier) and a state releasing (the cable carrier) and / or that the station fixing element comprising a magnet is positioned between a (the cable carrier) carrier) fixing state and one (the cable carrier) release the state can be transferred. The transfer does not necessarily require a movement of the fixing element, for example when using electromagnets. A preferred embodiment is characterized in that a magnet of the transfer fixing element can be moved between a position exerting a magnetic holding force and a releasing position and / or that a magnet of the station fixing element can be moved between a position exerting a (high) magnetic holding force and a position releasing position is movable. This can be done in particular with at least one permanent magnet that is moved relative to at least one pole shoe (or a pair of pole shoes), or with at least two permanent magnets that are moved relative to one another. In this way, the field lines can be directed through an area of the cable carrier and thus generate a high magnetic holding force (fixing state) or be largely short-circuited within the fixing element in order to generate hardly any magnetic holding force (released state). A preferred embodiment is characterized in that the transfer fixing device comprises at least one pole shoe, preferably a pair of pole shoes, a transfer fixing element designed as a permanent magnet being movable relative to the at least one pole shoe, preferably linearly or by rotation, preferably the transfer fixing element is movable in a (first) area between two, preferably short-circuited, pole pieces and in a (second) area in which two further pole pieces are preferably provided, which point in the direction of the cable carrier and thus the magnetic flux in them Direction lei- th can be used to generate a high magnetic holding force. This relative movement changes the magnetic holding force acting on the cable carrier in a simple and reliably reproducible manner. The same can also be provided for the station fixing device, as described below.

A preferred embodiment is characterized in that the station fixing device comprises at least one pole shoe, preferably a pair of pole shoes, with a station fixing element designed as a permanent magnet being movable relative to the at least one pole shoe, preferably linearly or by rotation, preferably the Station fixing element is movable in a (first) area between two, preferably short-circuited, pole pieces and in a second area, in which preferably two further pole pieces are provided, which point in the direction of the cable carrier and can thus direct the magnetic flux in this direction to generate a high magnetic holding force.

A preferred embodiment is characterized in that the transfer fixing device has at least one transfer fixing element, each of which comprises a permanent magnet, the permanent magnet being adjustable, preferably rotatable, relative to the pole pieces, preferably by at least 90 °, and / or that the station fixing device is at least a station fixing element, each comprising a permanent magnet, the permanent magnet being adjustable, preferably rotatable, preferably by at least 90 °, relative to the pole pieces. In this way, the two states “fixed with high magnetic holding force” and “released with low holding force” can be achieved with just one pair of pole pieces. A preferred embodiment is characterized in that the transfer fixing device has at least two transfer fixing elements, each comprising a permanent magnet, the permanent magnets being adjustable, preferably rotatable, preferably fixed with one and the other 180 ° rotatable relative to one another, and / or that the station fixing device has at least two station fixing elements, each of which comprises a permanent magnet, the permanent magnets being adjustable relative to one another, preferably rotatable, preferably fixed with one and rotatable by 180 ° with the other. With this magnet arrangement, the field lines are short-circuited even more directly through the pole shoes than if only a single permanent magnet and 90 ° rotation are used, which reduces the unwanted residual holding force in the "released" state to almost zero. A preferred embodiment is characterized in that the magnet (s) of the fixing element (s) has (s) cylindrical shape and / or is / are rotatably mounted about an axis of rotation, preferably the magnet (s) (e) is / are radially polarized in relation to his / her axis of rotation. A preferred embodiment is characterized in that the transfer fixation device and / or the station fixation device has a magnetic field shaping element for shaping, in particular shielding, the magnetic field emanating from a magnet of a fixation element, the magnetic field shaping element preferably being movable into a position that shields the magnetic field is. In this variant, the magnet could remain stationary while the magnetic field shaping element is movably supported.

A preferred embodiment is characterized in that one of the fixing elements made up of the transfer fixing element and the station fixing element Relement comprises at least one permanent magnet movable between a fixing position and a releasing position for generating a magnetic holding force and / or the other of the fixing elements for generating a mechanical holding force between a fixing position and a releasing position can be moved.

A preferred embodiment is characterized in that the transfer fixing device and / or the station fixing device has at least one positioning contour, in particular a centering surface, for positioning the cable carrier on the fixing device, the positioning contour preferably being in the form of a projection and / or a recess and / or is designed with a conical shape, in particular to match an opposite positioning contour, preferably at least one centering surface, of the cable carrier. As a result, in addition to a strong holding force, an exact relative positioning of the cable carrier relative to the transfer unit on the one hand and to a cable processing station on the other hand can be achieved.

A preferred embodiment is characterized in that in a transfer position in which the transfer unit is located at a cable processing station, the transfer fixing element and the station fixing element are arranged opposite one another and a section of the cable carrier is arranged between the transfer fixing element and the station fixing element. In this way, the transfer can take place quickly and reliably without the cable carrier being able to get into an undefined position or orientation during the transfer process.

A preferred embodiment is characterized in that the cable carrier for interaction with the transfer fixing element and / or the station fixing element comprises at least one adhesive element, preferably made of ferritic steel. The adhesive element is designed to be magnetized by the magnet of the fixing element, whereby a strong magnetic holding force can develop. A preferred embodiment is characterized in that in a transfer position in which the transfer unit is located at a cable processing station, the adhesive element is arranged between the transfer fixing element and the station fixing element. Here, too, the cable carrier can be transferred quickly and reliably.

A preferred embodiment is characterized in that the transfer fixing element can be moved between an extended and a retracted position and / or that the station fixing element can be moved between an extended and a retracted position. In this way, the magnetic holding force in the released state can be reduced even further by moving the fixing element away from the cable carrier. In addition, a gap is created between the positioning contours and the cable carrier in order to enable its movement relative to the fixing devices.

A preferred embodiment is characterized in that in a transfer position in which the transfer unit is located at a cable processing station, the distance between the transfer fixing element and the station fixing element in the extended position of the transfer fixing element and / or the station fixing element is smaller than in retracted position of the Transferfixierelemen tes and / or the station fixing element, preferably in the extended position a fixing element and / or another element of the fixing device, preferably with a positioning contour or Centering surface touches the cable carrier, preferably on a matching centering surface of the cable carrier, and is spaced apart from the cable carrier in the retracted position. The ratio between the holding force acting on the cable carrier in the fixing state and the remaining holding force acting in the releasing state is even greater as a result of this measure.

A preferred embodiment is characterized in that the cable processing machine has at least one sensor for detecting the position of the fixing element (s) and / or the position of an actuating device, preferably in its retracted and / or extended position. In this way, the current state can be reliably detected and, if necessary, further actions can be started as a function of it.

A preferred embodiment is characterized in that the cable carrier is detached from the transfer unit in the releasing state of the transfer fixing element, with preferably no forces and moments acting between the cable carrier and the transfer unit. This decouples the cable carrier from the Transferfi xieinrichtung or from the transfer unit, which makes it possible to position and fix the cable carrier exactly relative to the cable processing station - by transferring the station fixing element into the fixing state.

A preferred embodiment is characterized in that the cable carrier is detached from the cable processing station in the releasing state of the station fixing element, with preferably no forces and moments acting between the cable carrier and the cable processing station. As a result, the cable carrier is decoupled from the station fixing device or from the cable processing station, which enables the cable carrier to be Guide the transfer fixing element into the fixing state - to be fixed on the transfer unit (for further movement along the transfer path).

A preferred embodiment is characterized in that the transfer unit can be moved along the transfer path by at least one transfer drive, preferably independently of the state of the at least one transfer fixing element of the transfer fixing device of the transfer unit. In this way, the transfer unit can be moved from one cable processing station to another, either with a fixed cable carrier or without a cable carrier.

A preferred embodiment is characterized in that the transfer unit can be moved alternately by the transfer drive in a first direction along the transfer path and in a second direction, opposite to the first direction, along the transfer path. This enables an operating mode in which the transfer unit can be moved forwards and backwards, as a result of which cable carriers can be transported one after the other by the same transfer unit from one cable processing station to the next without the need for circulating operation. A preferred embodiment is characterized in that a control of the cable processing machine that is connected to the transfer drive is set up to control the transfer unit alternately in the first direction and the second direction via the transfer drive, with the transfer unit preferably according to an operating mode of the cable processing machine stored in the control is moved back and forth between two adjacent cable processing stations. This enables the operation to oscillate. The transfer unit - loaded with a cable carrier - is moved in one direction in order to To transport ner cable processing station, and is empty, ie without a cable carrier, moved back in the other direction in order to take up a cable carrier again.

A preferred embodiment is characterized in that the transfer path is formed circumferentially so that the at least one transfer unit is movable in a circulating manner, said preferential ^¬, the wire-processing machine, preferably along the transfer path, at least one elevator, through which the one at least one transfer unit on other level can be brought, includes and / or wherein the transfer path preferably has non-linear, in particular curved areas. This revolving variant comprises a closed transport or transfer route without the transfer units having to change their direction of movement. In other words: a transfer unit accompanies a cable carrier through all cable processing stations and also through the return system. This makes the above-mentioned advantageous designs possible for the return system and the lifts contained therein, for example with the transfer path as an oval-shaped rail and the transfer drive as a long stator linear motor. A preferred embodiment is characterized in that the wire-processing machine at least the comprises an actuating device with a mechanical transfer element for moving at least one Transferfixierelements and / or the at least ei ^¬ NEN Stationsfixierelements in the releasing and / or fixing position, wherein preferably the actuating means is formed, to convert a linear movement into a rotary movement of a fixing element. For example, two permanent magnets can be moved relative to one another in a simple manner, so that their field lines strengthen in one position and weaken in another position.

A preferred embodiment is characterized in that the transfer fixing device of a transfer unit positioned at a cable processing station and a station fixing device belonging to the cable processing station are arranged vertically one above the other, with a transfer fixing element of the transfer fixing device and a station fixing element of the station fixing device preferably being arranged vertically one above the other. By this measure, not only a space-saving design can be realized, but - due to the relative spatial arrangement - a common actuation of two or more fixing elements can also be implemented, for example with a vertically acting actuating device or transmission element. A preferred embodiment is characterized in that the at least one transfer fixing element can be moved between a fixing position, which corresponds to the fixing state of the transfer fixing element, and a releasing position, which corresponds to the released (open) state of the transfer fixing element, and / or that the at least one station fixing element can be moved between a fixing position, which corresponds to the fixing state of the station fixing element, and a releasing position, which corresponds to the released (open) state of the station fixing element. A preferred embodiment is characterized in that the cable processing machine has at least one actuating device with a mechanical transmission element for moving the at least one transfer fixing element and / or the at least one NEN station fixing element in the releasing and / or fixing position.

A preferred embodiment is characterized in that - in at least one relative position of the at least one transfer unit to the at least one cable processing station, preferably in a transfer position in which the transfer unit is located at a cable processing station - at least two of the fixing elements are shared by the transfer element are operable.

By jointly actuating the fixing elements, a reduction in the cycle times can also be achieved. The decoupling of the cable carrier (from the transfer unit) and its coupling to the station fixing device or fixation relative to the cable processing station takes place synchronously or only minimally offset in time due to the common mechanical transmission element. Overall, this embodiment also saves energy, cabling, actuators (valves, motors, etc.), since only one actuation device with a drive is required for actuating at least two fixing elements. The drive of the actuating device can also be arranged in a stationary or fixed position. As a result, there is no need for an energy supply to the transfer unit (no drag chain). This waiver also means that the transfer units can be designed to be circumferential and do not have to be restricted to oscillating movements. In this way, the transfer process can also be designed independently of the processing stations. This reduces the need for control at the processing stations themselves. Overall, these advantages and simplifications lead to an increase in reliability with a simultaneous reduction in the control effort. Due to the common transmission element, the transfer fixing element and the station fixing element can be operated jointly and thus at the same time.

In another embodiment, at least two transfer fixing elements and / or at least two station fixing elements can be actuated jointly by the transmission element.

A preferred embodiment is characterized in that the at least one transfer fixing element is acted upon by a passive force element, preferably a spring or a magnet, in the direction of the fixing position and / or that the at least one station fixing element is acted upon by a passive force element, preferably a spring or a magnet, in the direction of the fixing position is acted upon. As a result of this measure, the actuation device together with the mechanical transmission element can be designed in such a way that it only brings about the transfer of the respective fixing device into one of its positions, preferably into the releasing position. The passive force element is used to transfer to the other position. Overall, the configuration of the actuating device can be simplified and made more cost-effective as a result.

A preferred embodiment is characterized in that the at least one transfer fixing element is movably mounted in a, preferably linear, guide and / or that the at least one station fixing element is movably mounted in a, preferably linear, guide, with the guide (s) preferably is / are formed by (a) drill bushing (s). The guides in which the fixing elements are movably mounted increase the precision of the positioning of the cable carriers. A preferred embodiment is characterized in that at least one transfer fixing element and at least one station fixing element can be actuated jointly by the transmission element. As already mentioned above, the release (or decoupling) from the transfer unit on the one hand and the fixing (or coupling) to the station fixing device or processing station on the other hand can take place simultaneously, that is to say synchronously.

A preferred embodiment is characterized in that the transfer fixing elements of different transfer units and / or station fixing elements of different cable processing stations can be actuated jointly by the transfer element. In this way, the entire process can be clocked, including several cable carriers or transfer units moving simultaneously, and partial processes can be precisely coordinated with one another. It is possible here, for example, that several or all of the transfer fixing elements are actuated by a common transmission element. Likewise (or in addition) several or all station fixing elements can be actuated by a common transmission element.

A preferred embodiment is characterized in that the at least one transfer fixing element comprises an electromagnet that can be switched between a fixing and a releasing state and / or that the at least one station fixing element comprises an electromagnet that can be switched between a fixing and a releasing state. In one embodiment, the (“empty space”) station fixing devices can be attached to the front plate of the transfer drive. The cable processing stations can be attached to the base frame of the cable processing machine. A preferred embodiment is characterized in that the cable processing machine has at least one first sensor, preferably a light barrier sensor and / or a limit switch (which, for example, could be arranged in the drive cylinder (s) of the actuating device) for detecting the position at least a transfer fixing element, wherein the first sensor is preferably arranged on the transfer unit, and / or that the cable processing machine has at least one second sensor, preferably a light barrier sensor and / or a limit switch (which is, for example, in the drive cylinder (s) of the Actuating device could be arranged), has at least one station fixing element for detecting the position, the second sensor preferably being arranged on the cable processing station or cable processing machine. In this way, the control device of the cable processing machine receives feedback about a properly performed fixation or a proper release and, depending on the sensor data, can detect a possible malfunction of the fixation devices (e.g. a jamming fixation element) and thus prevent damage to the cable processing machine. By using only one light barrier for all fixing devices on the same side, this monitoring function can be implemented in a compact, simple and cost-effective manner. A simultaneous implementation of light barrier and limit switch could also be provided (ie limit switches can be provided in addition to the light barrier, with two limit switches for the two end positions being provided in one drive cylinder, for example). Among other things, the time interval between the signal from the light barrier and the signal from the limit switch can be used to monitor or further control the machine. A preferred embodiment is characterized in that the actuating device is arranged in a fixed position relative to the transfer path and / or relative to a cable processing station and does not move with the transfer units. The transfer units can therefore be designed free of actuators or drives and also do not require a permanent energy supply (in the form of cables or hoses, usually guided in drag chains).

A preferred embodiment is characterized in that the transmission element extends longitudinally along the transfer path and / or that the transmission element is designed in the form of a bar, the end faces of the bar preferably being inclined, and / or that the driver surfaces face the Station fixing elements are preferably their own parts that are firmly connected to the bar. A preferred embodiment is characterized in that at least one transfer unit has at least two releasable transfer fixing devices for fixing at least two cable carriers to the transfer unit. This means that several cable carriers can be transported with the same transfer unit. By providing (exactly) two fixing elements per fixing device (both on the transfer side and on the station side), the cable carrier is fixed reliably and precisely, with only one static over-determination. This overdetermination is preferably compensated for in that the fixing elements are spring-loaded individually and independently of one another.

A preferred embodiment is characterized in that the at least one transfer unit can be moved back and forth in an oscillating manner along the transfer path by means of a transfer drive. preferably this mobility is given independently of the position of the transfer fixing element (s), and is given in a preferred manner both with fixed cable carriers and without cable carriers. This embodiment saves the need to return the transfer units over the entire transfer path, since the transfer units can be moved back to one of the previous positions (cable processing station) when the transfer fixing device is open.

The goal is also achieved with a method for processing cables in a cable processing machine according to the invention, whereby at least one cable is transported to a cable processing station by means of a cable carrier by a transfer unit, to which the cable carrier is fixed by means of the transfer fixing device, along the transfer path is moved, and that at the cable processing station the transfer fixing element of the transfer fixing device is transferred into a state releasing the cable carrier and / or the station fixing element of the station fixing device is transferred into a state fixing the cable carrier, preferably a processing operation of the cable in the processing station is only started when the station fixing element of the station fixing device is in a state fixing the cable carrier, the transfer fixing element and the station fixing element preferably being carried by a transmission element an actuating device are operated jointly.

A preferred embodiment is characterized in that after a movement of the transfer unit (s), preferably with a fi xed cable carrier, in a first direction along the transfer path, the transfer unit (s), preferably without a cable carrier, in a second direction opposite to the first Direction along the transfer path is / are moved, preferably during the movement of the cable carrier in the second direction in the processing station, a processing operation on the cable (s) previously transported to the processing station takes place. In this way, an oscillating operation of the transfer units can be implemented, ie they transport the cable carrier including the cable in one (first) direction, return empty (second direction) and pick up another cable carrier in order to move it in the first direction transport.

A preferred embodiment is characterized in that, in one operating mode of the cable processing machine, the transfer unit is moved back and forth between two adjacent cable processing stations.

A preferred embodiment is characterized in that at the cable processing station the transfer of the transfer fixing element of the transfer fixing device into a state freeing the cable carrier and the transfer of the station fixing element of the station fixing device into a state fixing the cable carrier take place simultaneously and / or that at the cable processing station the Transferring the transfer fixing element of the transfer fixing device into a state that fixes the cable carrier and the transfer of the station fixing element of the station fixing device into a state releasing the cable carrier takes place at the same time.

Of course, the transfer fixing element can also be transferred or moved into the respective state before or after the station fixing element. Several transfer fixing elements can also be transferred or moved at the same time. Likewise, several station fixing elements can be transferred or moved at the same time. Further advantages, features and details of the invention emerge from the following description, in which exemplary embodiments of the invention are described with reference to the drawings. Like the technical content of the claims and figures, the list of reference symbols is part of the disclosure. The figures are described coherently and comprehensively. The same reference symbols denote the same components, reference symbols with different indices indicate functionally identical or similar components.

It shows:

Fig. La a first embodiment of a Kabelverarbeitungmaschi ne with

Processing stations and the station fixing devices contained therein, a transfer unit with transfer line, transfer drive and several transfer fixing devices, a return system with return conveyor belt and two lifts, as well as several cable carriers circulating in this machine,

Fig. Lb another embodiment of a Kabelverarbeitungma machine similar to Fig. La, with the cable carriers executed twice, a cable additional element application station with station arm drive, the other fixing elements for the lifts on both sides executed twice, additional station fixing devices in the area the lifts, the return conveyor belt divided into two parts, as well as sensor pairs for monitoring the station fixation elements and the transfer fixation elements,

Fig. Lc a further embodiment of a cable processing machine similar to Fig. La, but with rotating transfer units,

Fig. Id shows a further embodiment of a cable processing machine with a circumferential guide rail and circumferential transfer units, Figs. 2a to 2d the central functional elements from Fig. La in a preferred sequence for their movement, consisting of (2a) the transfer step, (2b) the first Gripping, (2c) the return movement of the transfer, and (2d) the second gripping. 3a to b show a 3D view of an embodiment of a transfer fixing device,

4a to b show a 3D view of an alternative embodiment of a transfer fixing device,

5a to b and 6a to b each show a sectional view of FIGS. 3 and 4, with arrows to visualize the magnetic flux, the transfer fixing device being shown in the "fixed" state in all 4 figures (3-6) in partial figure "a" , and in part "b" in the "open" or "released" state,

7a to c show a 3D view of a complete assembly consisting of transfer fixing device, station fixing device, Cable carrier and actuator; with partial section through the center of the conical centering surfaces,

7a with the transfer fixing device in the "open" or "released" state and the cable carrier fixed in the station fixing device

7b with the station fixing device in the "open" or "released" state and the cable carrier fixed in the transfer fixing device

7c with the station fixing device in the "open" state and the cable carrier fixed in the transfer fixing device, and the actuating device shown completely and in the middle position.

The figures show a cable processing machine 90 (FIGS. 1, 2) or parts thereof (FIGS. 3-7). As can be seen from the figures, the cable processing machine 90 comprises

- a transfer path 51, preferably in the form of a guide (Figs. 1 and 2),

Cable processing stations 70 which are arranged along the transfer path 51 (FIGS. 1 and 2), at least one cable carrier 10 for carrying at least one cable

80 (Fig. 7a-7c, Fig. 1, 2),

- at least one transfer unit 50, which is movable along the transfer path 51 and at least 30 includes a Transferfixiereinrichtung for fixing at least one cable carrier 10 to the transfer unit 50, wherein the at least one Transferfixiereinrichtung 30 Trans ^¬ ferfixierelement having 31st

The cable processing machine 90 also includes at least one Sta ^¬ tionsfixiereinrichtung 20 for fixing a cable support 10, wherein the station fixing device 20 has at least one station fixing element 21.

The transfer fixing element 31 comprises at least one magnet, preferably a permanent magnet, for temporarily exerting a magnetic holding force on the cable carrier 10 (FIG. 7b) and / or the station fixing element 21 comprises at least one magnet, preferably a permanent magnet, for temporarily exerting a magnetic holding force the cable carrier 10 (Fig. 7a). The cable carrier 10 can be connected to the transfer unit 50 in the fixing state of the transfer fixation element 31, preferably rigidly (FIG. 7b) and / or in the fixing state of the station fixing element 21 relative to the cable processing station 70 (FIG. 7a), preferably be rigidly connected to the cable processing station 70 and / or a component of the cable processing machine 90 that supports the cable processing station 70.

Further preferred embodiments of the invention are explained in detail below. However, these do not restrict the invention or the developments contained in the subclaims in any way, but merely show possibilities for realizing or refining certain aspects of the invention.

Fig. La shows a first embodiment of a cable processing machine 90 with cable processing stations 70 and station fixing devices 20 contained therein, a transfer unit 50 with transfer section 51, transfer drive 52 and several transfer fixing devices 30, a return system 60 with return conveyor belt 61 and two lifts 62, 63, as well as several cable carriers 10 rotating in this machine. The movement of the cable carrier 10 (rotating) is Shown here with dashed arrows, the movement of the oscillating elements with double arrows (transfer unit 50 with attached transfer fixing devices 30; fixing devices 6210, 6310 in the lifts). The broad arrows with a thin knit gauge show the movement of the cables 80 and additional cable elements 81.

The cable carriers 10 are alternately fixed in the station fixing devices 20 and the transfer fixing devices 30, with the respective opposing fixing devices in the "open" state. While they are being fixed in the transfer fixing devices 30, they move together with the transfer unit 50 by a fixed distance ( Station spacing) to the left, the transfer unit 50 being guided over the transfer section 51 and driving the transfer drive 52. The transfer section 51 is designed here as a rail or a pair of rails for recirculating ball bearings, which are attached to the moving main part of the transfer unit 50 The transfer drive 52 is designed here as an electric toothed belt linear drive with servo motor. Alternatively, a pneumatic cylinder, a linear motor, a magnetic drive, etc. could be used. While the cable carriers 10 are fixed in the station fixing devices 20, processing takes place which contains in it a cable

80. At the same time, the transfer unit 50 with the now empty transfer fixing devices 30 attached to it moves back into the starting position. The complete sequence of the transfer movement is described in more detail in FIG. In the upper part of FIG. 1 a, the typical processing of a cable 80 in a cable processing machine 90 is shown in simplified form. In the cable insertion station 71, the cable is rolled out from a roll or a storage container (not shown), cut and inserted into the two cable clamps 11 of the cable carrier 10. After that the cable 80 is processed in several further stations. Shown here is an additional cable element application station 72, in which an additional cable element 81 is applied to the cable 80, for example a crimp contact. In the cable removal station 83, the processed cables 80 are removed by opening the cable clamps 11 of the cable carrier 10 and typically transporting the cables to a tub or a conveyor belt (not visible) for further processing.

In order to bring the cable carrier back to the starting point, the return system 60 is provided. This consists of the return conveyor belt 61 and two lifts 62, 63. As soon as a cable carrier 10 has reached the end of the transfer path 51, it is fixed in the further fixing device 6210 of the left lift 62. After the transfer fixing device 30 has been opened, it is transported to the return conveyor belt 61 and released there again. This transport is driven and guided by the main lift drive 6252, typically designed as a toothed belt linear axis with servo drive and integrated guide, which preferably runs vertically. In addition, the lift 62 also contains a further drive with a guide, the lift horizontal drive 6260 (not shown, visible in FIG. 1c) for moving the further fixing device 6210 also in the horizontal direction. As a result, the cable carrier 10 can be pulled horizontally out of the transfer fixing device 30 and the main transport movement (vertical) can already start before the transfer element 50 has moved back to the right. As a result, the movements of the transfer drive 52 and the main lift drives 6252, 6352 are decoupled from one another, which enables an improved cycle time. This lift horizontal drive 6260 is typically designed as a pneumatic guide cylinder (FIG. 1c), fastened between the slide of the lift main drive 6252 and the lift gripper 6210, and usually has a drag chain for the energy supply.

In the return conveyor belt 61, each cable carrier 10 is transported to the right until it is stopped by the end stop 6110 or other cable carriers 10 already jammed there. Since the trans port only frictionally with the dead weight of the cable carrier 10 he follows, the passage of the tape under the stopped Kabelträ like 10 is no problem and hardly creates abrasion or damage.

The right lift 63 is constructed identically to the left lift 62, with a further fixing device 6310, a main lift drive 6352 and a horizontal drive 6360 (not shown). For the transport of the cable carriers 10 from the return conveyor belt 61 to the first transfer fixing device 30 (right) of the transfer unit 50, the cable carriers 10 are fixed in the further fixing device 6310 and brought up using the two drives 6352, 6360.

Fig. Lb shows a further embodiment of a cable processing machine 90 similar to Fig. La, with the cable carriers 10 executed twice, with an additional cable element application station 72 with station arm drive 7220, with the further fixing elements 6210.11, 6210.12., 6210.21, 6210.22, 6310.11, 6310.12., 6310.21, 6310.22 for the lifts 62, 63 executed twice on both sides, with additional station fixing devices 20 also in the area of the lifts 62, 63 (as in Fig. 1c), with the two-part return conveyor belt 61a, 61b, as well as with pairs of sensors 53, 93 for monitoring the station fixation elements 21 and the transfer fixation elements 31. In order to move the two ends of a cable 80 separately from one another without opening the cable clamps 11, each cable 80 is distributed over two separate cable carriers 10 here. Therefore, all Ka belträger 10 and all fixing devices 20, 30, 6210, 6310 are duplicated and only half the size compared to Fig. La. In the additional cable element application station 72, the cable end to be worked is moved transversely to the transfer path 51 together with the cable carrier 10 and the station fixing device 20 by the station arm drive 7220. Because all the moving elements are only half as large, more space is made available for other elements in this cable processing station.

To enable a faster machine cycle time, the other fixing devices 6210.11, 6210.12., 6210.21, 6210.22,

6310.11, 6310.12., 6310.21, 6310.22 for the lifts executed twice on both sides (or here even four times due to the double

Number of all cable carriers 10 and fixing devices). For the sake of clarity, only the elements in the right elevator 63 are numbered in detail, in the left elevator it is identical. The main lift drive 6352d is designed as a toothed belt double pendulum axis with servo drive and guide, i.e. with only one motor and one toothed belt, two carriages, which are attached to the two opposite sides of the toothed belt, move in opposite directions. The horizontal lift drives 6260, 6360 (not shown here, only in Fig. 1c) and the other fixing devices 6210.11, 6210.12, 6210.21, 6210.22, 6310.11, are attached to the two carriages.

6310.12, 6310.21, 6310.22. Thus, the cable carriers 10 can alternately be fixed inside or outside and transported upwards. In order to switch between the inner and outer position during the transfer movement, the transfer unit 50 is divided here into a total of partial segments 50a, 50b, 50c. The middle subsegment 50b is here the largest and is moved directly by the transfer drive 52 (as in Fig. la). The sub-segment 50c on the right edge contains only one transfer fixing device pair 30 and is moved by the right transfer drive extension 5050b. This is attached to the middle sub-segment 50b and thus enables the relative movement between the two sub-segments 50b and 50c. It is designed as a pneumatic cylinder, with the energy supply via a drag chain. The structure on the left is identical to that on the right, with the left sub-segment 50a driven by the left transfer drive extension 5050a.

In addition (and unlike in FIG. 1 a), further station fixing devices 20 are arranged in FIG. 1 b in the area of the lifts. These can be controlled independently of the transfer fixing devices 30, for example via a further actuating device 23 (FIG. 1c). The cable carriers 10 can be temporarily fixed there if the transfer unit 50 is not yet there (right) or has already moved away again (left). This makes the start of the lift movement independent of the transfer movement, which enables the machine cycle time to be further improved. In order to facilitate the division / dismantling of the cable processing machine 90 for transport purposes, the return conveyor belt 61a, 61b is divided into two parts. The transfer units 50abc can also be divided into several subsegments in order to enable a simpler division for transport purposes in the case of very long machines. On the left and right edges of the machine, the sensor pairs 53, 93 are arranged, each consisting of a transmitter 53a, 93a and a receiver 53b, 93b, typically designed as a light barrier. These pairs of sensors monitor the station fixing elements 21 and the transfer fixing elements 31. If one of them jams, this is registered by the sensors.

Fig. Lc shows a further embodiment of a cable processing machine 90 similar to Fig. La. Here, not only the cable carriers 10.11, 10.12, 10.22, etc. run around, but a large number of transfer units 50.1 to 50.6, each with two transfer fixing devices 30.11, 30.12, 30.22, etc., on which the cable carriers 10.11, 10.12, 10.22, etc. are releasably attached.

For station processing, the cable carriers are detached from the transfer units 50.1 to 50.6 - similar to the structure with oscillating transfer units (50, Fig. La), with the independent transverse movement of a cable carrier 10.11, 10.12, 10.22, etc. . relative to another is possible via a station arm drive 7220. Since a return movement (Fig. 2c) is no longer necessary with rotating transfer units 50.1 to 50.6, the contact surface in the accompanying actuator 3341 can be made simpler, i.e. the embodiment shown in Fig. 2 with rollers is not necessary here. In this embodiment, station fixing elements 20 are only necessary where machining actually takes place; and no longer in empty spaces. This is a further simplification.

The return system 60 is also different in this embodiment, because here not only the cable carriers 10.11, 10.12, 10.22, etc. are returned, but complete transfer units 50.1 to 50.6 with rollers - each matching the guide rails. An additional guide rail 6150 is therefore provided in the area of the return conveyor belt 61. There are also guide rails 6250, 6350 in the two lifts 62u, 63u.

So that the transfer units 50.1 to 50.6 do not unintentionally move out of these short guide rails 6250, 6350 during the vertical travel in the lifts 62u, 63u, they are prevented from doing so by clamping elements 6253, 6353 attached to them. These clamping elements are passively clamped with a passive force element (similar to 22, 32, not shown) and can be opened by an external actuating device (not shown, similar to the actuating device 40 for the station fixing devices 20 and transfer fixing devices) to the transfer units 50.1 to 50.6 to be coupled to the transfer drive 52d.

In order to convey the carriages from the guide rail 6150 of the return conveyor belt 61 to the guide rail 6350 of the lift 63u, the return conveyor belt drive can be used directly. To this end, the end stop 66101 is designed in a movable / detachable form and is only opened / released when the lift 63u is ready, with the short guide rail 6350 down again. The transfer drive 52d is also somewhat more complex here in order to enable the circulating operation of the transfer units 50.1 to 50.6: The toothed belt is designed as a double toothed belt (= teeth on both sides), with the outer teeth form-fitting in a rack on the transfer units 50.1 intervene until 50.6. In contrast, oscillating transfer units (50, Fig. La) are firmly connected to the toothed belt of the transfer drive 52 (wel cher can be a single toothed belt in this case - or the spindle nut in a spindle axis or a pneumatic cylinder or a Linear motor). FIG. 1d shows a further embodiment of a cable processing machine 90 similar to FIG.

Here, too, the transfer units 50.1 to 50.6 circulate in the machine. In contrast to the embodiment in FIG. 1c, however, lifts 62u, 63u are dispensed with here. Instead, the guide rail 51o of the transfer system is oval-shaped and the transfer units 50.1 to 50.6 are equipped with curved rollers.

The transfer drive 52o is also designed to be rotatable, i.e. with the ability to allow cornering. An exemplary implementation would be a long-stator linear motor with curve segments.

Combinations with double toothed belts, frictional belts and / or half-open spindles are also conceivable as a cost-effective alternative to the expensive long-stator linear motors. Various sensors and detachable stops in the transition areas would be advantageous for this purpose (not shown here).

Fig. 2 shows the central functional elements from Fig. La in a preferred sequence for their movement, consisting of the transfer step (a), the first grip around (b), the return movement of the transfer unit 50 (c), and the second grip ( d). The main movements are always represented by non-dashed arrows. In the case of the station fixing devices 20 and the transfer fixing devices 30, the hatched representation means the state “fixed”, and the representation without hatching means the state “open”. 2a shows the transfer unit 50 in the right position. The cable carriers 10 are fixed in the transfer fixing devices 30, the station fixing devices 20 are open. With the help of the transfer drive 52, the transfer unit 50 with the transfer ﬁ ns attached to it is now xiereinrichtungen 30 and the cable carriers 10 fixed therein moved to the left - by a distance which corresponds to the distance between the cable processing stations 70. This movement, hereinafter referred to as the "transfer step", is represented by the thick arrow.

FIG. 2b shows the transfer unit 50 now in the left position after the transfer step has been completed. The cable carriers 10 are still fixed in the transfer units 30. Now all station fixing devices 20 are transferred to the "fixed" state, and then or at the same time all transfer fixing devices 30 are transferred to the "open" state. At the same time or a little later, the further fixing device 6210 in the left lift 62 is also transferred to the “fixed” state.

In Fig. 2c all cable carriers 10 are now fixed in the Stationsfixiereinrichtun gene 20, or the cable carrier 10.1 on the far left in the lift 62. All transfer fixing devices 30 are open. The transfer unit 50 moves empty back to the right, again driven by the transfer drive 52. This movement is called the "return movement". At the same time, the cables 80 are processed, rolled out and / or removed in the cable processing stations 71, 72, 73. In the left elevator 62 the cable carrier 10.1 is transported downwards, and in the right lift 63 a new cable carrier 10.5 is fetched from the return conveyor belt.

In Fig. 2d, the transfer unit 50 has arrived in the right position. The cable processing stations 71, 72, 73 are finished with their respective processing steps for the cables 80. The cable carrier 10.1 on the left is transported away in the direction of the return conveyor belt and the

Cable carrier 10.5. is ready on the right for the transfer to the first transfer fixing device 30 on the far right in the transfer unit 50. For this purpose, all transfer fixing devices 30 are transferred to the "fixed" state, and then or at the same time all station fixing devices directions 20 and the further fixing device 6310 in the right lift 63 in the "open" state.

Thereafter, all cable carriers 10 are fixed again in the transfer fixing devices 30 (Fig. 2a) and a new cycle begins. 3a and 3b each show a 3D view of a transfer fixation device 30, in partial figure “a” in the “fixed” state and in partial figure “b” in the “released / open” state. The main part of the transfer fixing device 30 is always hidden in the main image in order to allow a better view of the individual elements, and is shown transparently in the small partial image. The sectional plane for FIG. 5 is also shown.

The permanent magnet of the transfer fixing element 31 is quaderför mig and is located in the magnet holder 34. A linear movement (vertical) of the magnet holder 34 moves the permanent magnet between the main pole shoe pair 32ab and the further pole shoe pair 33ab. The further pair of pole shoes 33ab are connected to one another via the rear wall 33c, the main pair of pole shoes is not connected and preferably has an enlarged contact surface in the direction of the cable carrier 10. For centering the cable carrier 10 relative to the transfer fixing device 30, the positioning contours designed as centering surfaces 35ab, which are preferably conical and match the centering surfaces 13ab on the side of the cable carrier (10), are used.

The magnetic flux and thus the mode of operation are shown in FIG. 5: In the "fixed" state (arrows in FIG. 5a), the magnetic flux flows from the permanent magnet of the transfer fixing element 31 through the right main pole piece 32b into the opposite surface of the cable carrier 14 and through the left main pole piece 32a back into the magnet net - which creates a high force of attraction between Transferfixiereinrich device 30 and cable carrier 10.

In the "open" state (arrows in FIG. 5b), the magnetic flux flows from the permanent magnet of the transfer fixing element 31 through the further right pole piece 33b into the rear wall 33c and through the further left pole piece 33a back into the magnet the transfer fixing device 30 is closed and hardly anything flows through the opposing surface 14 of the cable carrier 10. Therefore, in this released state, there is no or hardly any attraction between the transfer fixing device 30 and the cable carrier 10.

Fig. 4 shows a 3D view of an alternative transfer fixing device 30, in partial figure “a” in the “fixed” state and in partial figure “b” in the “open” state. Here, too, the main part of the transfer fixing device 30 is always masked out in the main image, in order to enable a better view of the individual elements, and is shown transparently in the small partial image. The sectional plane for FIG. 6 is also drawn in. For better visualization, all the main elements are shown in a three-quarter section. In contrast to the variant from FIGS. 3 and 5, the transfer fixing element 31 here comprises two permanent magnets 31za, 31zb. These are cylindrical and polarized radially (instead of axially, as is usual with cylinder magnets). Instead of two pairs of pole shoes, there is only one pole shoe pair 32za, 32zb, which is designed to match the cylindrical permanent magnets 31za, 31zb, with cylindrical inner surfaces. To switch between the two states, the rear permanent magnet 31za is rotated by 180 ° ge. Flierzu it is connected to the gear 3134, here with Zylin derstifte (alternatively, an adhesive connection would also be conceivable). Around To prevent undesired rotation of the front permanent magnet, it is connected to the main part of the transfer fixing device 30 or secured against rotation, also with cylindrical pins. To convert the typically linear movement of an actuating device 40 into the necessary rotary movement, the rack 34z is used , which has the same Geomet rie in the lower part as the magnet holder 34 of the main variant. Both variants are compatible with each other.

The magnetic flux and thus the mode of operation can again be seen in the sectional view, here in FIG. 6: In the "fixed" state (arrows in FIG. 6a), the magnetic flux in both permanent magnets 31za, 31zb goes in the same direction, here to the right flows through the right pole piece 3zb into the opposite surface of the cable carrier 14 and through the left pole piece 32za back into the two permanent magnets 31za, 31zb - which creates a high force of attraction between the transfer fixing device 30 and the cable carrier 10.

In the "open" state (arrows in FIG. 6b), the magnetic flux in both permanent magnets 31za, 31zb goes in the opposite direction, back / up to the left, front / down to the right. The magnetic flux flows from the front / lower permanent magnet 31zb through the right one Pole shoe 32zb into the rear / upper permanent magnet 32za and via the left pole shoe 32za back into the front / lower permanent magnet 31zb.Almost the entire magnetic flux thus remains within the transfer fixing device 30 and hardly anything flows through the opposing surface or adhesive surface 14 of the Cable carrier 10. Therefore, in this state, there is no or hardly any attraction between the transfer fixing device 30 and the cable carrier 10.

Fig. 7 shows a 3D view of a complete assembly consisting of transfer fixing device 30, station fixing device 20, cable carrier 10 and actuator 40; with the main part of the loading actuating device hidden and shown in section with the other Hauptele elements 10, 20, 30, with the cutting plane defi ned by the main axes of the conical centering surfaces 35a, 13a, 12a, 2112a.

In FIG. 7a, the cable carrier 10 is fixed by the station fixing device 20, whereas the transfer fixing device 30 is in the "open" state, ie the transfer fixing element 31 is in the releasing state and imparts little or no magnetic holding force the other way around: the cable carrier 10 is fixed by the transfer fixing device 30, whereas the station fixing device 20 is in the "open" state, ie the station fixing element 21 is in the releasing state and imparts little or no magnetic holding force. 7c shows the same position as in FIG. 7b, but with the actuating device 40 in a central position in which the driver element 4134 is spaced apart from both contact surfaces 3441ab of the magnet holder 34 (or the rack 34z).

To switch the transfer fixing element 30 to the "open" state (FIG. 7a), the magnet holder 34 (or the toothed rack 34z) is moved upwards. For this purpose, the transmission element 41 is moved upwards with the aid of the drive 43 to which the driver element 4134 is attached - here designed as a cylinder pin. The force on the magnet holder 34 (or the toothed rack 34z) is transmitted via the upper contact surface 3441a. The vertical movement of the transmission element 41 also generates a transverse movement of the station fixing element 21, which at the same time transfers the station fixing device to the "fixed" state and removes the cable carrier 10 from the transfer fixing element 30, so that there is a small gap there arises and as a result the centering surfaces 35a, 13a no longer touch. In this embodiment, the transfer fixing element 31 and the station fixing element 21 are thus actuated jointly by the actuating device 40 or the transmission element 41. The wedge-shaped contact surfaces 4121, 4140 on the transmission element 41, the rollers 2141 on the station fixing element 21 and the other rollers 4041 on the back are used to implement this power transmission with as little friction as possible and in the correct transmission ratio. In addition, the station fixing element 21 is linearly guided in the main part of the station fixing device, via the guide 2120a and another identical guide (outside the cutting plane, therefore not visible). As a result of the transverse movement of the station fixing element 21, the two conically designed contact surfaces 12a, 2112a touch one another on the station side, press the cable carrier 10 to the right and thus reliably fix it in the station fixing device 20.

The change to the other state (FIG. 7b) takes place in a similar manner: the downward movement of the transmission element 41 moves the station fixing element 21 to the left. The force required for this is generated by a compression spring which is arranged parallel to the guide 2120 (not in the cutting plane, therefore not visible). As a result, the contact between the contact surfaces 12a, 2112a is released and the station fixing device 20 is transferred to the "open" state. At the same time, the cable carrier 10 is pushed through the rear contact surface of the station fixing element 21 in the direction of the transfer fixing device 30. In parallel with this, the Transfer fixing device 30 is transferred to the “fixed” state by moving the magnet holder 34 (or the toothed rack 34z) downward by transmitting force between the driver element 4134 and the lower contact surface 3441b. For the movement of the transfer unit 50 (FIG. 2) a relative movement between the transfer fixing device 30 and the actuating device 40 is necessary, namely perpendicular to the plane of observation in FIG Driver element 4134 is spaced from both contact surfaces 3441ab. This "middle position" is shown in FIG. 7c. For this purpose, the drive 43, designed as a pneumatic cylinder, is transferred to the "pressureless" state, for example with the aid of a 5/3-way valve. The spring or the passive force element 4344 presses the stop piece 44 against the stop surface 4044 in the main part of the actuating device 40. Alternatively, an electric drive (in particular with any number of intermediate positions) can of course also be used for the drive 43. The compensation element 42 is also still visible in FIG. 7c, which compensates for small manufacturing tolerances between the direction of the drive 43 and the direction of travel of the transmission element 41, and thus enables low-friction operation with a long service life; and the two sensors / limit switches 45ab, which detect the end positions of the drive 43 designed as a pneumatic cylinder. The compressed air for this pneumatic cylinder is generated via a valve 911 or a valve cluster, connected with hoses 914. The valve and the limit switches 45ab are connected to the control 91 (visible in FIG. 1) via control cables 913, as are all of them other drives and sensors. The invention is not restricted to the described embodiments and the aspects highlighted therein. Rather, a variety of modifications are possible, please include within the scope of the concept of the invention, which are within the scope of professional action. It is also possible, by combining the means and features mentioned, to Realize tere design variants without leaving the scope of the invention.

List of reference symbols

10 cable carriers

10.11, 10.12, 10.21, etc. Cable carrier (fixed to transfer devices 30.11, 30.12, 30.21, etc.)

1020, 1030 clamping surface (planar)

1092, 1093 section (for recess)

11 Attachment point (cable clamp)

12abc, 13abc positioning contour (centering surface)

14 Adhesive element or surface (opposite surface)

20 Station fixing device

21 Station fixing element

2112ab positioning contour (centering surface)

2120 guide (e.g. drill bushing)

30 Transfer Fixing Device

30.11, 30.12, 30.21, etc. Transfer fixing devices (arranged on rotating transfer units 50.1, 50.2, 50.3, etc.)

31 Transfer fixation element (permanent magnet, cuboid)

31za / zb permanent magnet (cylindrical)

3134 gear

32ab (main) pole piece (pair of pole pieces)

32za / e.g. pole piece (pair of pole pieces)

33ab (further) pole piece (pair of pole pieces)

33c rear panel

34 magnetic holder

34z rack

3441 from contact area 35ab positioning contour (centering surface)

40 actuating device

4044 stop surface

4041, 2141 rollers

41 transmission element

4134 driver element

4121, 4140 contact area

42 Compensation element

43 Drive

4344 Passive power element

44 stop piece

45ab sensor (pair of limit switches)

50 transfer unit

50abc sub-segments of the transfer unit

50.1, 50.2, 50.3, etc. circulating transfer units

5050ab transfer drive extension

51 transfer route

51o transfer path (oval-shaped)

52 transfer drive

52o transfer drive (oval shaped)

52d transfer drive (double toothed belt)

53 from sensor (pair) (e.g. light barrier)

60 feedback system

61 (down) return conveyor belt

6110 end stop 61101 end stop (detachable)

6150 guide rail (in the return conveyor belt)

62, 63 lifts

62u, 63u lifts (for rotating transfer units) 6210, 6310 (further) fixing device (in the lift)

6210.11, 6210.12., 6210.21, 6210.22, 6310.11, 6310.12., 6310.21, 6310.22 (further) fixing device (in the double lift of a cable processing system with 2 cable carriers per cable)

6250, 6350 rail section (lift)

6252, 6352 lift main drive

6252d double pendulum drive

6253, 6353 Clamping element 6260, 6360 Lift horizontal drive

70 Cable processing station

71 Cable insertion station

72 Cable additional element application station (crimp station)

7220 station arm drive

73 Cable removal station

80 cables

81 additional cable element (crimp contact)

90 cable processing machine

91 Control

911 valve

913 (control) cables

914 (pneumatic) hose

93ab (second) sensor (pair) (e.g. light barrier)

Claims

1. Cable processing machine (90) comprising

- A transfer path (51), preferably in the form of a guide, - Cable processing stations (70), which are arranged along the transfer path (51),

- At least one cable carrier (10) for carrying at least one cable (80),

- At least one transfer unit (50) which can be moved along the transfer path (51) and a transfer fixing device

(30) for fixing at least one cable carrier (10) to the transfer unit (50), the transfer fixing device (30) having at least one transfer fixing element (31),

- At least one station fixing device (20) for fixing at least one cable carrier (10) relative to a cable processing station (70), the station fixing device (20) having at least one station fixing element (21), the transfer fixing element (31) at least one magnet, preferably a permanent magnet, for the temporary exertion of a magnetic flux force on the cable carrier

(10) and / or the station fixing element (21) comprises at least one magnet, preferably a permanent magnet, for temporarily exerting a magnetic flux force on the cable carrier (10).

2. Cable processing machine according to claim 1, characterized in that the transfer fixing element (31) comprising a magnet can be transferred between a fixing state and a releasing state and / or that the station fixing element (21) comprising a magnet is between a can be transferred to a fixing state and a releasing state.

3. Cable processing machine according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that a magnet of the transfer fixing element (31) exerts a magnetic holding force between one

Position and a releasing position and / or that a magnet of the station fixing element (31) is movable between a position exerting a magnetic holding force and a releasing position. 4. Cable processing machine according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the transfer fixing device (30) comprises at least one pole piece (32a, 32b, 33a, 33b, 32za, 32zb), preferably a pair of pole pieces, with one designed as a permanent magnet Transfer fixing element (31) is movable relative to the at least one pole piece (32ab, 32zab), preferably linearly or by rotation, with the transfer fixing element (31) in an area between two, preferably short-circuited, pole pieces (33ab) is movable. 5. Cable processing machine according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the station fixing device (20) comprises at least one pole piece, preferably a pair of pole shoes, wherein a station fixing element (21) designed as a permanent magnet relative to the at least one pole piece, is preferably linear or by rotation, movable, preferably the station fixing element (21) in a Be rich between two pole pieces, preferably short-circuited with one another, is movable. 6. Cable processing machine according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the transfer fixing device (30) has at least one transfer fixing element (31) which comprises a permanent magnet, the permanent magnet of the transfer fixing element (31) being adjustable, preferably rotatable, relative to the pole pieces , by preferably at least 90 °, and / or that the station fixing device (20) has at least one station fixing element (21) which comprises a permanent magnet, the permanent magnet of the station fixing element (21) being adjustable relative to pole pieces, preferably rotatable , by preferably at least 90 °.

7. Cable processing machine according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the transfer fixing device (30) has at least two transfer fixing elements (31) which each include a permanent magnet (31za, 31zb), the permanent magnets (31za, 31zb) are adjustable, preferably rotatable, relative to one another and / or that the station fixing device (20) has at least two station fixing elements (21), each comprising a permanent magnet, the permanent magnets being adjustable, preferably rotatable, relative to one another.

8. Cable processing machine according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the / the magnet (s) of the / the fixing element (s) (21, 31) has a cylindrical shape (s) and / or around an axis of rotation - preferably around at least

90 ° - is / are rotatably mounted, wherein the magnet (s) is / are preferably radially polarized with respect to his / her axis of rotation. 9. Cable processing machine according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the transfer fixing device (30) and / or the station fixing device (20) has a magnetic field shaping element for shaping, in particular shielding, the magnetic field generated by a magnet

Fixing element (21, 31) goes out, wherein preferably the Mag netfeldformungselement can be moved into a position shielding the magnetic field.

10. Cable processing machine according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that one (31) of the fixie elements from transfer fixing element (31) and Stationsfixierele element (21) at least one permanent magnet movable between a fixing position and a releasing position for generating a magnetic one Includes folding force and / or the other (21) of the fixing elements can be moved between a fixing position and a releasing position for generating a mechanical folding force.

11. Cable processing machine according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the transfer fixing device (30) and / or the station fixing device (20) have at least one positioning contour, in particular a centering surface (35ab, 2112ab), for positioning the cable carrier (10) on the fixing device (20, 30), wherein the positioning contour is preferably designed in the form of a projection and / or a recess and / or with a conical shape, in particular matching an opposite positioning contour, preferably at least one centering surface (12ab, 13ab), the cable carrier (10). 12. Cable processing machine according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that in a transfer position in which the transfer unit (50) is at a cable processing station (70), the transfer fixing element (31) and the station fixing element (21) are opposite each other are arranged and a section of the cable carrier (10) is arranged between the transfer fixing element (31) and the station fixing element (21).

13. Cable processing machine according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the cable carrier (10) for interacting with the transfer fixing element (31) and / or station fixing element (21) comprises at least one adhesive element (14), preferably made of ferritic steel.

14. Cable processing machine according to claim 13, characterized in that in a transfer position in which the transfer unit (50) is located at a cable processing station (70), the adhesive element (14) is arranged between the transfer fixing element (31) and the station fixing element (21) is.

15. Cable processing machine according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the transfer fixing element (31) is movable between an extended and a retracted position and / or that the station fixing element (21) is movable between an extended and a retracted position.

16. Cable processing machine according to claim 15, characterized in that in a transfer position in which the transfer unit (50) is at a cable processing station (70) finds that the distance between the transfer fixing element (31) and the station fixing element (21) in the extended position of the transfer fixing element (31) and / or station fixing element (21) is smaller than in the retracted position of the transfer fixing element (31) and / or station fixing element (21) ), preferably in the extended position a fixing element (21, 31) and / or another element of the fixing device (20, 30), preferably with a centering surface (35ab, 2112ab), the cable carrier (10), preferably on a matching centering surface - surface (12ab, 13ab) of the cable carrier (10), touched and in the retracted position is spaced from the cable carrier.

17. Cable processing machine according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the cable processing machine (90) has at least one sensor (45ab) for detecting the position of the fixing element (s) (21, 31) and / or the position of an actuating device (40), preferably in its retracted and / or extended position.

18. Cable processing machine according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the cable carrier (10) in the fixing position of the transfer fixing element (31), preferably rigidly, is connected to the transfer unit (50) and / or the cable carrier (10) fixed in the fixing position of the station fixing element (21) relative to the cable processing station (70), preferably rigidly connected to the cable processing station (70) and / or a component of the cable processing machine (90) carrying the cable processing station (70). 19. Cable processing machine according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the transfer unit

(50) can be moved along the transfer path (51) by at least one transfer drive (52), preferably independently of the state of the at least one transfer fixing element (31) of the transfer fixing device (30) of the transfer unit (50).

20. Cable processing machine according to claim 19, characterized in that the transfer unit (50) by the transfer drive (52) alternately in a first direction along the transfer path (51) and a second, opposite to the first direction opposite direction along the transfer path (51) is movable.

21. Cable processing machine according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that a communication-connected control of the cable processing machine (90) with the transfer drive (52) is set up, the transfer unit (50) alternately in the first via the transfer drive (52) Direction and the second direction to control, preferably, according to an operating mode of the cable processing machine (90) stored in the controller, the transfer unit (50) is moved back and forth between two adjacent cable processing stations (70).

22. Cable processing machine according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the transfer path

(51) is designed circumferentially so that the at least one transfer unit (50) can be moved in a circumferential manner, with preferably at least one lift (62, 63) in front of the transfer section (51) by means of which the transfer unit (50) can be brought to another level.

23. Cable processing machine according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the cable processing machine (90) has at least one actuating device (40) with a mechanical transmission element (41) for moving the at least one transfer fixing element (31) and / or the at least one Station fixing element (21) in the free end and / or fixing position, the actuating device (40) preferably being designed to convert a linear movement into a rotary movement of a fixing element (21, 31).

24. Cable processing machine according to claim 23, characterized in that - in at least one relative position of the at least one transfer unit (50) to the at least one

Cable processing station (70), preferably in a transfer position in which the transfer unit (50) is located at a cable processing station (70) - at least two of the fixing elements (21, 31) can be operated jointly by the transmission element (41).

25. Cable processing machine according to claim 24, characterized in that at least one transfer fixing element (31) and at least one station fixing element (21) can be actuated jointly by the transmission element (41). 26. Cable processing machine according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the actuating device (40) relative to the transfer path (51) and / or relative to a cable processing station (70) is arranged in a fixed position and does not move with the transfer units (50).

27. Cable processing machine according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the cable processing machine (90) has an actuatable decoupling device

(23), in the actuated state of which the Stationsfi xierelement (21) and / or the transfer fixing element (31) is / are in the releasing position regardless of the position of the mechanical transmission element (41) of the actuating device (40).

28. A method for processing cables (80) in a cable processing machine (90), characterized in that the cable processing machine (90) is designed according to one of the preceding claims and that at least one cable (80 ) is transported to a cable processing station (70) by moving a transfer unit (50) to which the cable carrier (10) is fixed by means of the transfer fixing device (30) along the transfer path (51), and that at the cable processing station (70 ) the transfer fixing element (31) of the transfer fixing device (30) in one of the

Cable carrier (10) is brought into a releasing state and / or the station fixing element (21) of the station fixing device (20) is brought into a state that fixes the cable carrier (10), a processing operation of the cable (80) in the processing station (70) preferably only being started will when that

The station fixing element (21) of the station fixing device (20) is in a state fixing the cable carrier (10), the transfer fixing element (31) and the station fixing preferably being xierelement (21) are operated jointly by a transmission element (41) of an actuating device (40).

29. The method according to claim 28, characterized in that after a movement of the transfer unit (s) (50), preferably with a fixed cable carrier (10), in a first direction along the

Transfer path (51) the transfer unit (s) (50), preferably without cable support (10), is / are moved in a second direction opposite to the first direction along the transfer path (51), preferably during the movement of the cable support (10 ) in the second direction in the processing station (70) a processing operation takes place on the cable (s) (80) previously transported to the processing station (70).

30. The method according to claim 28 or 29, characterized in that in one operating mode of the cable processing machine (90), the transfer unit (50) is moved back and forth between two adjacent cable processing stations (70).

31. The method according to any one of claims 28 to 30, characterized in that at the cable processing station (70) the transfer of the transfer fixing element (31) of the transfer fixing device (30) into a cable carrier (10) releasing state and the transfer of the station fixing element (21) of the station fixing device (20) in a state fixing the cable carrier (10) takes place at the same time and / or that at the cable processing station (70) the transfer fixing element (31) of the transfer fixing device (30) is transferred into a cable carrier (10) fixing state and the transfer of the station fixing element (21) of the station fixing device (20) in one NEN the cable carrier (10) releasing state at the same time he follows.