METHOD AND DEVICE FOR REMOVING A SHIELDING OF A CABLE

Abstract

The invention relates to a method for removing an exposed shielding of a cable, according to which a cutting tool is advanced into a cutting position on an outer surface of the shielding. It is provided that a gaseous medium is injected into the cable in order to apply a radially outwardly acting force to the shielding, in such a manner that the shielding is incised by a cuter of the cutting tool.

Claims

1. A method for removing an exposed shielding from a cable comprising the steps of: providing a cutting tool that has a cutter; advancing the cutting tool into a cutting position adjacent an outer surface of the exposed shielding; providing a gaseous medium. and injecting the gaseous medium into a free end of the cable to apply a radially outwardly acting force upon the exposed shielding so that the exposed shielding is incised by the cutter of the cutting tool.

2. The method as claimed in claim 1 and wherein the gaseous medium is injected into an interspace radially inside the exposed shielding; and the injected gaseous medium acts directly upon an inner surface of the exposed shielding.

3. The method as claimed in claim 2 and further comprising the step: providing a gas guide and applying the gas guide to a free end of the cable where the shielding is exposed, in a manner wherein the gas guide radially surrounds an axially extending portion of the exposed shielding of the cable and an annular gap is between an inner surface of the gas guide and an outer surface of the shielding.

4. The method as claimed in claim 3 and further comprising the step of: providing an opening phase wherein the exposed shielding is moved radially outwards within the gas guide in such a manner that at least one annular portion of the exposed shielding bears against an inner surface of the gas guide when the gaseous medium is injected into the interspace.

5. The method as claimed in claim 4 and further comprising the step of: providing a cutting phase that occurs after the opening phase, and wherein, in the cutting phase, for the purpose of incising the exposed shielding by means of the cutter of the cutting tool the gaseous medium flows in the direction of the cutting tool and is injected with gauge pressure into the gas guide.

6. The method as claimed in claim 5 and further comprising the step of: providing a pressure surge that is introduced into the gas guide in the cutting phase in order to generate the gauge pressure.

7. The method as claimed in claim 1 and further comprising the step of: providing a gas guide through which the gaseous medium is injected into the cable at the free end of the cable, at which the shielding is exposed, and the gas guide and the free end of the cable are positioned relative to one another in such a manner that an outlet opening defined by the gas guide is positioned in front of an end face of the free end of the cable.

8. The method as claimed in claim 7 and wherein the outlet opening of the gas guide is positioned adjacent the free end of the cable so that the gaseous medium flowing out of the outlet opening is generally coaxially aligned with the end face of the free end of the cable.

9. The method as claimed in claim 7 and further comprising: a second nozzle defined in the gas guide proximate to the outlet opening defined in the gas guide through which the gaseous medium flows.

10. The method as claimed in claim 9 and wherein the second nozzle is arranged radially outward of the outlet opening, and the second nozzle is positioned relative to the outlet opening defined in the gas guide so that the gaseous medium flowing out of the second nozzle flows in the direction of a central axis of the cable.

11. The method as claimed in claim 3 and wherein the gas guide is a multi-part design, and the multi-parts of the gas guide are positioned, in coordination with the cutting tool, to inject the gaseous medium into the free end of the cable.

12. The method as claimed in claim 3 and further comprising the step of: controllably moving the gas guide and the cutting tool relative to one another while the gaseous medium is being injected into the free end of the cable.

13. A device for removing an exposed shielding at an end of a cable comprising: a cutting tool having a cutter that can be advanced to an outer surface of the exposed shielding; and a gas guide; and a blower, and wherein the blower operatively communicates with the gas guide to provide a pressurized gaseous medium thereto, and the gas guide is positioned and oriented relative to a free end of the cable to inject the pressurized a gaseous medium beneath the exposed shielding so that the exposed shielding is subjected to a radially outwardly acting force, in such a manner that the cutter of the cutting tool incises the outwardly pressed exposed shielding.

14. The device as claimed in claim 13 and wherein the gas guide is applied to the free end of the cable at which the shielding is exposed, in such a manner that the gas guide radially surrounds a portion of the exposed shielding extending in the axial direction of the cable, and wherein the gas guide is configured so that an annular gap is between an inner surface of the gas guide and an outer surface of the exposed shielding.

15. The device as claimed in claim 13 and wherein the gas guide and the free end of the cable are positioned and oriented, relative to each other, in such a manner that an outlet opening defined in the gas guide is positioned in front of an end face of the free end of the cable and is coaxially aligned therewith.

16. The device as claimed in claim 13 and wherein the injection of the pressurized gaseous media into the free end of the cable, and below the shielding, causes the exposed shielding to move radially outwardly to engage the cutter of the cutting device to cause the incising of the exposed shielding.

17. The method as claimed in claim 9 and wherein the second nozzle is arranged radially outward of the outlet opening.

18. The method as claimed in claim 9 and wherein the second nozzle is positioned relative to the outlet opening defined in the gas guide so that the gaseous medium flowing out of the second nozzle flows in the direction of a central axis of the cable.

19. The method as claimed in claim 9 and wherein and the second nozzle is rotated about a central axis of the outlet opening to generate a vortex.

20. The device as claimed in claim 13 and wherein the cutter of he cutting device is heated.

Description

BRIEF DESCRIPTIONS OF THE DRAWINGS

[0162] The figures show preferred exemplary embodiments, in which individual features of the present invention are represented in combination with each other. However, the invention is not limited to the combination represented.

[0163] In the figures, elements that are functionally equivalent are denoted by the same references.

[0164] There are shown, in schematic form:

[0165] FIG. 1 is an orthographic side view of a general representation of a partially stripped cable.

[0166] FIG. 2 is an orthographic cross-section view of the cable represented in FIG. 1.

[0167] FIG. 3 is a side view of the cable represented in FIG. 1, with a braided shield having been folded over, and a cutting tool having been advanced to an outer surface of a shielding of the cable.

[0168] FIG. 4 is an orthographic cross-section view of the cable represented in FIG. 3.

[0169] FIG. 5 is a side view representation of the cable of FIG. 3, with a gas guide applied to the free end of the cable.

[0170] FIG. 6 is an orthographic, partial cross-section, side view representation of an opening phase of the method, in which a gaseous medium is injected into the gas guide which surrounds the cable of FIG. 1.

[0171] FIG. 7 is an orthographic, partial cross-section, side view representation, similar to FIG. 6, showing the shielding opened due to the inflowing gaseous medium and bearing against the inner surface of the gas guide.

[0172] FIG. 8 is an enlarged general detail representation of a portion of FIG. 7, showing a front end of the shielding of the cable, bearing in a recess, against an inner surface of the gas guide.

[0173] FIG. 9 is an orthographic, partial cross-section, side view representation of a cutting phase of the method according to the invention, in which the shielding is inflated by a gauge pressure to such an extent that the shielding presses against cutters of the cutting tool.

[0174] FIG. 10 is a side view representation of the severed shielding after the cutting phase.

[0175] FIG. 11 is an orthographic, partial cross-section, side view representation of a second contemplated embodiment of the invention showing the gas guide positioned in front of an end face of the free end of the cable.

[0176] FIG. 12 is an orthographic, partial cross-section, side view representation similar to FIG. 11 showing the shielding inflated by the injected gaseous medium.

[0177] FIG. 13 is an orthographic, cross-section, side view of a portion of the gas guide, and showing the gas guide having additional nozzles.

[0178] FIG. 14 is a perspective end view representation of the gas guide of FIG. 13 having additional nozzles that are rotatable to create a vortex.

[0179] FIG. 15 is a simplified general representation of a multipart gas guide.

DETAILED WRITTEN DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERED EMBODIMENTS

[0180] This disclosure of the invention is submitted in furtherance of the Constitutional purposes of the U.S. Patent laws “to promote the progress of science and useful arts (Article 1, Section 8).

[0181] Referring now to the drawings, FIGS. 1 to 10 show a first particularly preferred exemplary embodiment for executing the method according to the invention for removing an exposed shielding 1 of a cable 2. The method according to the invention is not limited to the method represented in the exemplary embodiment. Rather, the individual method steps may also be combined with other method steps, or method steps may be omitted.

[0182] In particular, the description relating to FIGS. 1 to 4 also applies to a second preferred embodiment according to FIGS. 11 to 15, without this being explicitly mentioned. Moreover, all features and variants described in relation to one exemplary embodiment can, in principle, also be used for the respective other exemplary embodiment, unless this is technically precluded.

[0183] Represented in the exemplary embodiment is a cable 2 having two conductors 3. (FIG. 1).

[0184] The exemplary embodiment is to be understood in such a manner that the cable 2 may also have only one conductor 3, at least one conductor 3, at least two conductors 3 or a plurality of conductors 3. In particular, the method may also be used in the case of a so-called star quad.

[0185] In the exemplary embodiment, the two conductors 3 represented are realized as stranded conductors 3 The method according to the invention is suitable, in particular, for removing the shielding 1 from two conductors 3 that are realized as a signal-line pair, in particular as a differential signal-line pair. Most particularly, the method according to the invention, as represented in the exemplary embodiment, is suitable for removing the shielding 1 from two conductors 3 that are realized as a stranded differential signal-line pair.

[0186] The description of the exemplary embodiment is to be understood as a disclosure for the method according to the invention, as well as for the device according to the invention.

[0187] The shielding 1 of the cable 2 may in principle have any desired structure. In the exemplary embodiment, it is provided that the shielding 1 is realized as a metallic shielding, in particular a metallic foil, or a metalized foil. In the exemplary embodiment, reference is made below to the fact that the shielding 1 is realized as a metalized foil 1, but the exemplary embodiment is not limited to this.

[0188] Represented in FIGS. 1 and 2, to explain the method according to the invention, is a cable 2 that has been partially stripped at one end.

[0189] A cable assembly, by which a cable 2 can be brought into the state represented in FIGS. 1 and 2, is known in principle from the prior art. In the exemplary embodiment, it may preferably first be provided that a cable sheath 4 of the cable 2 is incised at a designated location and the incised cable sheath piece that faces towards the cable end is partially or completely stripped (as represented in the exemplary embodiment). The cable sheath piece 4 pulled off the cable 2 is not represented in the figures.

[0190] In the exemplary embodiment it may preferably be provided, in a manner not represented in greater detail, that a support sleeve is crimped onto an outer conductor 5, which is located beneath the cable sheath 4 and which in the exemplary embodiment is a braided shield 5. The application of a support sleeve may also be dispensed with, if necessary, but this is not relevant for the method according to the present invention, for which reason this is not discussed in greater detail.

[0191] In order to achieve the state of the cable 2 represented in FIGS. 1 and 2, it may preferably also be provided that the free portion of the cable 2 projecting beyond the cable sheath 4 is trimmed to the intended length (zero cut).

[0192] For further processing, as represented in FIG. 3, it may be provided that the braided shield 5 is turned inside out, or folded over, such that it is folded over the cable sheath 4, or preferably over a support sleeve (not represented).

[0193] Although turning the braided shield 5 inside out has been found to be advantageous, this is not directly relevant for executing the method according to the invention.

[0194] The method according to the invention relates to the removal of a shielding 1. In the exemplary embodiment, the removal of the metalized foil 1 located under the braided shield 5 is described.

[0195] In the course of cable processing, after the shielding 1 has been incised and removed, as described in greater detail below, provision may be made to remove any insulation 6 present at the ends of the conductors 3. Here, too, a partial or full removal may be provided if necessary. The conductors 3 with the respective insulation 6 are also referred to as “cores” in the prior art.

[0196] Following the removal of the insulation 6 from the conductors 3, inner conductor contact elements (not represented) may be fastened, preferably crimped, onto the stripped conductors 3 in a known manner.

[0197] For the purpose of executing the method according to the invention for removing the metalized foil 1, it is provided that a cutting tool 7 is advanced to a cutting position on an outer surface of the metalized foil shielding 1. In the exemplary embodiment, the cutting tool 7 in this case has two cutters 8, which together enclose the metalized foil shielding 1, or the conductors 3 (including their insulation 6).

[0198] The number of cutters 8 is not of primary relevance for execution of the method according to the invention. Both one, and more than one, cutter 8 may be provided. However, it has proved particularly expedient if the cutting tool 7 has two cutters 8 arranged opposite each other. Some of the cutters 8 may also be shaping tools.

[0199] As can be seen from viewing FIG. 3 and FIG. 4 together, in the exemplary embodiment the cutting tool 7, or the cutters 8, has/have formations 9 to receive the conductors 3 (including their insulation 6) in the cutting position. Insofar as the cutting tool 7 is designed to remove the metallic foil 1 from two conductors 3, the formations 9 in the cutters 8 are configured in such a manner that, in the cutting position, the formations 9 have a generally spectacle-shaped configuration, into which the conductors 3 are inserted.

[0200] In the context of the exemplary embodiment, it is preferably provided that, in order to insert the conductors 3 into the formations 9 of the cutting tool 7 in the cutting position, the axial position of the cutting tool 7 and/or the axial position of the cable 2 is adjusted. In this way, it can be achieved that the cables 2 are positioned in such a manner in the cutting position that the formations 9 and the position of the conductors 3 match each other.

[0201] In addition, or alternatively, it may also be provided that the cutting tool 7 and/or the cable 2 are/is rotated in such a manner that the position of the conductors 3 and the formations 9 of the cutting tool 7 match.

[0202] It is advantageous if, as represented in FIGS. 3 and 4, the cutting tool 7 and the cable 2 are positioned relative to each other in such a manner that, in the cutting position, a straight line running orthogonally through the central axis of the two conductors 3 extends orthogonally in relation to the advance movement of the cutting tool 7. The advance, and retract, movement of the cutting tool 7, or of its cutters 8, is represented by the double arrows in FIGS. 3 and 4.

[0203] Preferably, the tyro conductors 3 are located in an identical horizontal plane.

[0204] Represented in FIGS. 3 and 4, as described above, is the advancing, or positioning, of the cutting tool 7.

[0205] It is to be noted that, in the context of the method according to the invention, it is not absolutely necessary for the cutting tool 7 to be advanced to the outer surface of the metalized film 1 before the method steps described below are executed. However, it has been found to be appropriate to advance the cutting tool 7 at least before the cutting phase described below, preferably also before the opening phase, described below, of the method according to the invention.

[0206] Furthermore, with regard to the second exemplary embodiment (FIGS. 11 to 15), it has also been found advantageous if the cutting tool 7 is advanced before the gaseous medium is injected into the cable 2, or under the shielding 1.

[0207] According to the invention, it is provided that a gaseous medium is injected into the cable 2 in order to apply a radially outwardly acting force to the metalized foil 1 in such a manner that the metalized foil 1 is incised by at least one of the cutters 8 of the cutting tool 7. Preferably, for this purpose the cutting tool 7 is advanced with the cutters 8 in such a manner that the cutters 8 prevent, or at least reduce, a further flow of the gaseous medium in the axial direction along the cable 2.

[0208] In the exemplary embodiment, it is provided that the gaseous medium injected into the cable 2 is air. Furthermore, in the exemplary embodiment it is provided (not represented) that a blower is used for injecting the gaseous medium, or air.

[0209] In the exemplary embodiment, the gaseous medium is hereinafter referred to as air, but the exemplary embodiment is not limited to this.

[0210] In the context of the method according to the invention it is preferably provided, as represented in the exemplary embodiment, that the air is injected into an interspace 10 radially inside, or beneath, the metalized foil 1 in such a manner that the air acts directly upon an inner surface of the metalized foil. This has the effect of opening the metalized foil 1, which is preferably a wound metalized strip.

[0211] In order to achieve this, in the first exemplary embodiment according to FIGS. 5 to 10 it is preferably provided that a gas guide 12 is applied to a free end of the cable 2, at which the metalized foil 1 is exposed, in such a manner that the gas guide 12 radially surrounds the free end of the cable 2 and an axially extending portion of the exposed metalized foil 1, a preferably annular gap 11 remaining between an inner surface of the gas guide 12 and the outer surface of the metalized foil 1. In the exemplary embodiment it is provided that the gap 11 is annular. The annular gap 11 is represented in general in FIG. 6.

[0212] In the exemplary embodiment it is further provided that the gas guide 12 is realized as a tube or hose. In the following, the gas guide is referred to as a tube 12, but the exemplary embodiment is not to be understood as limited to this. This also applies to the second exemplary embodiment.

[0213] The method step of turning the tube 12 inside out over the conductors 3 and the metalized foil 1 is represented in general in FIGS. 5 and 6.

[0214] As represented in FIGS. 5 and 6, the tube 12 is preferably positioned in such a manner that a front end of the tube 12 pushed onto the cable 2 ends adjacent to the cutting tool 7. It is preferably provided in this case that there is a distance between the front end of the tube 12 and the cutting tool 7, such that the metalized foil 1 can inflate accordingly, as will be described in greater detail below.

[0215] In the exemplary embodiment it is provided, as represented in FIGS. 6 and 7, that in an opening phase the metalized foil 1 is moved radially outwardly within the tube 12 in such a manner that at least an annular portion of the metalized film 1 bears against an inner surface of the tube 12.

[0216] In the exemplary embodiment, this is achieved in that air is injected into the tube 12 in such a manner that the air flows past the free end of the cable 2, through the annular gap 11 (see FIG. 6) between the inner surface of the tube 12 and the outer surface of the metalized foil 1, in the direction of the cutting tool 8.

[0217] As can be seen in FIG. 6, air flows in the region II in the tube 12 towards the conductors 3, or the metalized foil 1. The constriction in the region I causes an increase in the flow velocity and, according to the Bernoulli principle, a drop in pressure. The reduced pressure in the region I causes the metalized foil 1 to open. The opened metalized foil 1 then bears against the inner surface of the tube 12, and closes the annular gap 11 as long as the pressure is maintained. It is thus a “self-sealing” system. This is represented in FIGS. 7 and 8. As can be further seen in FIGS. 7 and 8, the interspace 10 occupies the annular gap 11 when the metalized film 1 has been opened.

[0218] In the context of the method according to the invention, it may be provided that the tube 12 has a constant, or substantially constant, internal diameter. The contour of the inner surface of the tube 12 represented in FIGS. 6 to 9, in which it is provided that the inner surface of the tube 12 has a recess 13 against which the metalized film 1 can bear, facilitates closure of the annular gap 11 by the metalized film 1. In the exemplary embodiment, it is provided in this case that the inner surface of the tube 12 is provided with the recess 13 in such a manner and the tube 12 is positioned with respect to the cable 2 in such a manner that, owing to the Bernoulli principle, a front end of the metalized film 1 that faces away from the cutting tool 7 rests in the recess 13 when the blower injects the air in an opening phase.

[0219] In a manner not represented in greater detail, it may alternatively or additionally be provided in the exemplary embodiment that openings are present in the tube 12, through which air is sucked outwards in order to suck the metalized foil 1 onto the inner surface of the tube 12.

[0220] After the opening phase, the metalized foil 1 bears against the inner surface of the tube 12, as represented in FIG. 7. An enlarged detail of this is represented in FIG. 8.

[0221] According to the invention it is preferably provided that, after the opening phase, in a cutting phase, in order to incise the metalized foil 1 by means of the cutters 8 of the cutting tool 7, air is injected with gauge pressure into the tube 12 in the direction of the cutting tool 7. Preferably, a pressure surge is introduced into the tube 12 in the cutting phase in order to generate the gauge pressure. The gauge pressure, or pressure surge, increases the pressure within the metalized foil 1 to such an extent that the cutters 8 produce a defined tear edge and the foil 1 is removed. This is represented in general in FIG. 10.

[0222] It is advantageous if, as represented in FIG. 9, the gas guide 12 is moved away from the cutting tool 7 in the cutting phase while the air is being injected with gauge pressure into the gas guide 12. This is represented by the arrow X in FIG. 9. Preferably, the gas guide 12 is moved away from the cutting tool 7 to such an extent that the metalized foil 1 is no longer radially surrounded by the gas guide 12. However, complete withdrawal is not necessary to improve the cutting process; it has already been found to be advantageous if the gas guide 12 is moved in the direction of the arrow X to such an extent that the distance between the cutting tool 7 and the front end of the gas guide 12 is increased, such that the metalized foil 1 has more space to be inflated radially.

[0223] Insofar as the gas guide 12 is withdrawn from the metalized foil 1 in the direction of the arrow X, the gas guide 12, unlike the representation in FIG. 10, no longer encompasses the metalized foil 1.

[0224] It is to be noted that, in principle, it is also possible within the context of the method according to the invention, for the first exemplary embodiment, to dispense with the opening phase, or a transition between the opening phase and the cutting phase may be fluid. Preferably, it is provided that the gauge pressure, or the compressed air surge, is at least 5 bar, preferably at least 7 bar, more preferably at least 10 bar, in particular 7 to 12 bar, and more preferably 10 to 12 bar. For the second exemplary embodiment, it may furthermore be sufficient if injection is effected only once, preferably also by a pressure surge. However, an opening phase with a first pressure and a cutting phase with a second, increased pressure may also be provided analogously in the case of the second exemplary embodiment.

[0225] In the first exemplary embodiment, it is provided that the gauge pressure in the cutting phase is higher than the pressure in the opening phase. Preferably, the gauge pressure is at least 1 bar, preferably at least 2 bar, higher than the pressure in the opening phase.

[0226] In the context of the method according to the invention for the first exemplary embodiment, it is preferably provided that the foil shielding 1 is first inflated with a low gauge pressure, and then a pressure surge is effected, which results in the foil shielding 1 splitting open.

[0227] It may also be provided, in the method according to the invent on for the first exemplary embodiment, that a pressure of 2 to 7 bar, preferably 3 to 6 bar, is used for inflation in the opening phase, and then a gauge pressure of at least 7 bar is subsequently applied in the cutting phase.

[0228] The term “gauge pressure” it is to be understood to mean that the pressure is higher than the ambient pressure, or the normal pressure (1 bar).

[0229] It has been shown, in the context of the method according to the invention, that it is not absolutely necessary for the cutters 8 to completely cut through the metalized foil shielding 1in the cutting phase. It may already be sufficient if a tear edge is produced. Complete tearing-off of the metalized foil 1 may then be effected by other measures. In particular, it may already be sufficient for the cutters 8 to be moved away from the cable 2. It has been shown that the rnetalized foil 1 adheres to the cutters 8 in such a manner that the movement of the cutters 8 is sufficient to completely tear off the metalized foil 1. This applies to the first exemplary embodiment, and analogously also to the second exemplary embodiment.

[0230] It has been found to be particularly suitable if, before the cutting phase, the cutters 8 of the cutting tool 7 are advanced to the outer surface of the metalized foil 1 in such a manner that the cutters 8 bear against the metalized foil 1. Preferably, the cable 2 in this case is rotated in such a manner that the position of the formations 9 matches the position of the conductors 3. This applies to the first exemplary embodiment, and analogously also to the second exemplary embodiment.

[0231] The above description relates to the removal of the metalized foil 1, i.e. the shielding 1 of the conductors 3. In principle, however, it is also possible to use the method according to the invention to incise, or remove, the braided shield 5, or the outer conductor shielding in general. This applies to the first exemplary embodiment, and analogously also to the second exemplary embodiment.

[0232] As mentioned above, all features described for the first exemplary embodiment also apply to the second exemplary embodiment, unless this is obviously excluded. In particular, all general explanations, also in particular with regard to FIGS. 1 to 4, but also, for example, in respect of the positioning and design of the cutting tool 7, apply to the second exemplary embodiment. Moreover, in principle, a two-stage or multi-stage injection, in particular with differing pressures, may also be provided in the second exemplary embodiment, i.e., analogously, an opening phase and a cutting phase. For the second exemplary embodiment, however, it is preferable if only one pressure surge, or a single injection, with gauge pressure is effected.

[0233] As can be seen from FIGS. 11 and 12, in the second exemplary embodiment the gas guide 12 is positioned in front of the free end of the cable 2 in such a manner that an outlet opening 14 of the gas guide 12 is positioned in front of an end face 15 of the free end of the cable 2.

[0234] In the exemplary embodiment, it is provided in this case that the outlet opening 14 is positioned adjacently, preferably closely adjacently, in front of the free end of the cable 2 in such a manner that the gaseous medium, in particular air, flowing out of the outlet opening 14 is aligned with the end face 15 of the free end of the cable 2.

[0235] It is advantageous if the distance between the end face 15 and the outlet opening 14 is as small as possible, or minimal.

[0236] In the exemplary embodiment, it is represented that the diameter, or cross-sectional area, of the outlet opening 14 is the same as the diameter, or cross-sectional area, of the end face 15, which in the exemplary embodiment is constituted by the end faces of the conductors 3 and the insulation 6, as well as the end face of the shielding 1.

[0237] Alternatively, it may also be provided that the diameter, or cross-sectional area, of the outlet opening 14 is larger or smaller than the diameter, or cross-sectional area, of the end face 15 of the free end of the cable 2.

[0238] As can be further seen in the exemplary embodiment according to FIGS. 11 and 12, the gas guide 12 is preferably arranged in such a manner that a central axis of the free end of the cable 2 and a central axis of the outlet opening 14, or a central axis of the duct 17 of the gas guide 12 directly adjoining it and supplying the outlet opening 14 with the gaseous medium, are substantially coaxial with each other.

[0239] It may be provided in the exemplary embodiment that, while the gaseous medium is being injected into the cable 2, the gas guide 12 and the cutting tool 7 are moved towards and/or away from each other, optionally also oscillating. It has been shown that a slight axial movement of the gas guide 12 and/or of the cutting tool 7 and/or of the cable 2 can improve the desired removal of the exposed shielding 1. Such a movement may also be suitable for the first exemplary embodiment.

[0240] In the case of the second exemplary embodiment, incision of the shielding 1, or splitting-open of the shielding 1, is effected in a manner similar to that described with respect to the first exemplary embodiment and shown in FIG. 10, but clearly without the gas guide 12 surrounding the shielding 1 for this purpose.

[0241] Represented in FIGS. 13 and 14 is a particularly advantageous design of the gas guide 12, which is suitable in particular for the second exemplary embodiment. It is provided according to FIGS. 13 and 14 that the gas guide 12 comprises a second nozzle 16, or at least one additional nozzle 16, preferably a plurality of additional nozzles 16. In the exemplary embodiment, preferably four or more additional nozzles 16 are provided.

[0242] As can be seen in FIGS. 13 and 14, the additional nozzles 16 are preferably arranged radially outward of the outlet opening 14. The additional nozzles 16 are spacedly arrayed about and are preferably arranged in such a manner that the gaseous medium flowing out of the additional nozzle 16 flows in the direction of a central axis of the cable 2, or that the additional nozzles 16 are directed inwards.

[0243] The additional nozzles 16 are preferably punctiform. The additional nozzles 16 are preferably positioned radially outward of the outlet opening 14. It may also be provided in this case that the additional nozzles 16 are positioned radially outward of the cross-sectional area, or diameter, of the end face 15 of the free end of the cable 2. This, in particular, if the additional nozzles 16 are oriented inwards, or in the direction of the central axis of the cable 2, or the gaseous medium flows out accordingly.

[0244] It is advantageous, but not represented in the exemplary embodiment, if the at least one additional nozzle 16 is moved, preferably rotated about a central axis of the outlet opening 14, in order to generate a vortex. An oscillation may also be provided.

[0245] It may be provided that the additional nozzles 16 are arranged on a nozzle ring which accordingly oscillates or rotates about the outlet opening 14. It has been shown that the creation of a vortex of air enables the removal of the shielding 1 to be further improved.

[0246] Represented in FIG. 15 is a further advantageous embodiment in which it is provided that the gas guide 12 is of a multipart design, in the exemplary embodiment a two-part design. The parts 12a, 12b of the gas guide 12 in this case may be positioned accordingly, i.e. assembled, in order to inject the air flow/gaseous media into the cable 2. In the exemplary embodiment, it is provided that a duct 17 of the gas guide 12 is realized substantially in one of the parts 12b of the gas guide 12. It is also possible, however, that both parts 12a, 12b of the gas guide 12 together realize the duct 17. In the exemplary embodiment, it is further represented that the duct 17 has a bend, of 90° in the exemplary embodiment. In the exemplary embodiment according to FIG. 15, after the outlet opening 14 the duct 17 is initially coaxial with the central axis of the free end of the cable 2. The duct 17 then bends at a right angle and runs substantially parallel to direction of advance of the parts 12a, 12b of the gas guide 12. Pipes or hoses or lines that supply the duct 17 with the gaseous medium, in particular air, can thus be connected particularly advantageously.

[0247] As can be seen in general from FIG. 15, a part 12a is mechanically connected in a rigid, or fixed, manner to a first part of the cutting tool 7 that comprises a cutter 8, while a part 12b is mechanically connected in a rigid, or fixed, manner to a second part of the cutting tool 7 that likewise comprises a cutter 8. This has the advantage that the cutting tool 7 is advanced together with the parts 12a, 12b, and the position between the cutting tool 7 and the parts 12a, 12b is rigid, or fixed, such that positioning errors in the cutting position are largely precluded.

[0248] It is preferably provided that the positioning of the cutting tool 7 in the cutting position and the positioning of the gas guide 12 in front of the end face 15 of the free end of the cable 2 are effected simultaneously.

[0249] A multipart, in particular two-part construction of the gas guide 12 may also be analogously suitable for the first exemplary embodiment, in which case, preferably, the multipart gas guide 12, in particular the two-part gas guide 12, realizes a part of the duct 17 in each case.

[0250] A method for removing an exposed shielding (1) of a cable (2), according to which a cutting tool (7) is advanced into a cutting position on an outer surface of the shielding (1), characterized in that a gaseous medium is injected into the cable (2) in order to apply a radially outwardly acting force to the shielding (1), in such a manner that the shielding (1) is incised by a cutter (8) of the cutting tool (7).

[0251] A method characterized in that the gaseous medium is injected into an interspace (10) radially inside the shielding (1), in such a manner that the gaseous medium acts directly upon an inner surface of the shielding (1).

[0252] A method characterized in that a gas guide (12) is applied to a free end of the cable (2) at which the shielding (1) is exposed, in such a manner that the gas guide (12) radially surrounds an axially extending portion of the exposed shielding (1) of the cable (2), with a preferably annular gap (11) remaining between an inner surface of the gas guide (12) and the outer surface of the shielding (1).

[0253] A method characterized in that characterized in that the shielding (1), in an opening phase, is moved radially outwards within the gas guide (12) in such a manner that at least one annular portion of the shielding (1) bears against an inner surface of the gas guide (12).

[0254] A method characterized in that characterized in that after the opening phase, in a cutting phase for the purpose of incising the shielding (1) by means of the cutter (8) of the cutting tool (7), a gas flowing in the direction of the cutting tool (7) is injected with gauge pressure into the gas guide (12).

[0255] A method characterized in that characterized in that a pressure surge is introduced into the gas guide (12) in the cutting phase in order to generate the gauge pressure.

[0256] A method characterized in that a gas guide (12) through which the gaseous medium is injected into the cable (2), and a free end of the cable (2), at which the shielding (1) is exposed, are positioned relative to each other in such a manner that an outlet opening (14) of the gas guide (12) is positioned in front of an end face (15) of the free end of the cable (2).

[0257] A method characterized in that characterized in that the outlet opening (14) is positioned adjacently, preferably closely adjacently, in front of the free end of the cable (2), in such a manner that the gaseous medium flowing out of the outlet opening (14) is aligned with the end face (15) of the free end of the cable (2).

[0258] A method characterized in that characterized in that the gas guide (12) has at least one additional, or second, nozzle (16), preferably a plurality of additional nozzles (16).

[0259] A method characterized in that characterized in that the at least one additional nozzle (16) is arranged radially outside the outlet opening (14), and/or the at least one additional nozzle (16) is arranged in such a manner that the gaseous medium flowing out of the additional nozzle (16) flows in the direction of a central axis of the cable (2), and/or the at least one additional nozzle (16) is moved, preferably rotated about a central axis of the outlet opening (14), in order to generate a vortex.

[0260] A method characterized in that characterized in that the gas guide (12) is of a multipart, preferably two-part design, and the parts (12a, 12b) of the gas guide (12) are positioned, preferably in coordination with the cutting tool (7), to inject the gaseous medium into the cable (2).

[0261] A method characterized in that characterized in that the gas guide (12) and the cutting tool (7) are moved towards each other and/or away from each other while the gaseous medium is being injected into the cable (2).

[0262] A device for removing an exposed shielding at an end of a cable (2), having a cutting tool (7) that, for the purpose of severing the shielding (1), can be advanced to an outer surface of the shielding (1), characterized in that a gas guide (12) and a blower are provided to inject a gaseous medium beneath the shielding (1) in such a manner that the shielding (1) is subjected to a radially outwardly acting force, in such a manner that a cutter (8) of the cutting tool (7) incises the outwardly pressed shielding (1).

[0263] A device characterized in that the gas guide (12) is applied to the end of the cable (2) at which the shielding (1) is exposed, in such a manner that the gas guide (12) radially surrounds a portion of the exposed shielding (1) extending in the axial direction of the cable (2), wherein the gas guide (12) is configured in such, a manner that an annular gap (11) remains between the inner surface of the gas guide (12) and the outer surface of the shielding (1).

[0264] A device characterized in that the gas guide (12) and the end of the cable (2) are positioned relative to each other in such a manner that an cutlet opening (14) of the gas guide (12) is positioned in front of an end face (15) of the end of the cable (2).

[0265] A method for removing an exposed shielding from a cable comprising the steps of: providing a cutting tool that has a cutter; advancing the cutting tool into a cutting position adjacent an outer surface of the exposed shielding; providing a gaseous medium, and injecting the gaseous medium into a free end of the cable to apply a radially outwardly acting force upon the exposed shielding so that the exposed shielding is incised by the cutter of the cutting tool.

[0266] A method wherein the gaseous medium is injected into an interspace radially inside the exposed shielding; and the injected gaseous medium acts directly upon an inner surface of the exposed shielding.

[0267] A method and further comprising the step of providing a gas guide and applying the gas guide to a free end of the cable where the shielding is exposed, in a manner wherein the gas guide radially surrounds an axially extending portion of the exposed shielding of the cable and an annular gap is between an inner surface of the gas guide and an outer surface of the shielding.

[0268] A method and further comprising the step of: providing an opening phase wherein the exposed shielding is moved radially outwards within the gas guide in such a manner that at least one annular portion of the exposed shielding bears against an inner surface of the gas guide when the gaseous medium is injected into the interspace.

[0269] A method and further comprising the step of: providing a cutting phase that occurs after the opening phase, and wherein, in the cutting phase, for the purpose of incising the exposed shielding by means of the cutter of the cutting tool the gaseous medium flows in the direction of the cutting tool and is injected with gauge pressure into the gas guide.

[0270] A method and further comprising the step of: providing a pressure surge that is introduced into the gas guide in the cutting phase in order to generate the gauge pressure.

[0271] A method and further comprising the step of: providing a gas guide through which the gaseous medium is injected into the cable at the free end of the cable, at which the shielding is exposed, and the gas guide and the free end of the cable are positioned relative to one another in such a manner that an outlet opening defined by the gas guide is positioned in front of an end face of the free end of the cable.

[0272] A method wherein the outlet opening of the gas guide is positioned adjacent the free end of the cable so that the gaseous medium flowing out of the outlet opening is generally coaxially aligned with the end face of the free end of the cable.

[0273] A method and further comprising: a second nozzle defined in the gas guide proximate to the outlet opening defined in the gas guide through which the gaseous medium flows.

[0274] A method wherein the second nozzle is arranged radially outside the outlet opening, and the second nozzle is positioned relative to the outlet opening defined in the gas guide so that the gaseous medium flowing out of the second nozzle flows in the direction of a central axis of the cable.

[0275] A method wherein the gas guide is a multi-part design, and the multi-parts of the gas guide are positioned, and oriented, in coordination with the cutting tool, to inject the gaseous medium into the free end of the cable.

[0276] A method and further comprising the step of: controllably moving the gas guide and the cutting tool relative to one another while the gaseous medium is being injected into the free end of the cable.

[0277] A device for removing an exposed shielding at an end of a cable comprising: a cutting tool having a cutter that can be advanced to an outer surface of the exposed shielding: and a gas guide: and a blower, and wherein the blower operatively communicates with the gas guide to provide a pressurized gaseous medium thereto, and the gas guide is positioned and oriented relative to a free end of the cable to inject the pressurized gaseous medium beneath the exposed shielding so that the exposed shielding is subjected to a radially outwardly acting force, in such a manner that the cutter of the cutting tool incises the outwardly pressed exposed shielding.

[0278] A device wherein the gas guide is applied to the free end of the cable at which the shielding is exposed, in such a manner that the gas guide radially surrounds a portion of the exposed shielding extending in the axial direction of the cable, and wherein the gas guide is configured so that an annular gap is between an inner surface of the gas guide and an outer surface of the exposed shielding.

[0279] A device wherein the gas guide and the free end of the cable are positioned and oriented relative to each other in such a manner that an outlet opening defined in the gas guide is positioned in front of an end face of the free end of the cable and is coaxially aligned therewith.

[0280] A device wherein the injection of the pressurized gaseous media into the free end of the cable and below the shielding causes the exposed shielding to move radially outwardly to engage in the cutter of the cutting device to cause the incising of the exposed shielding.

[0281] A method wherein the second nozzle is arranged radially outside the outlet opening, and the second nozzle is positioned relative to the outlet opening defined in the gas guide so that the gaseous medium flowing out of the second nozzle flows in the direction of a central axis of the cable and the second nozzle is rotated about a central axis of the outlet opening to generate a vortex.

[0282] In compliance with the statute, the present invention has been described in language more or less specific as to the structural and methodical features. It is to be understood, however, that the invention is not limited to the specific features shown and described since the means herein disclosed comprise preferred forms of putting the invention into effect. The invention is therefore claimed, in any of its forms or modifications, within the proper scope of the appended claims appropriately interpreted in accordance with the doctrine of equivalents.