The present invention relates to a strapping apparatus for strapping an object.

This type of device is particularly implemented in detection devices for controlling helicopter against underwater threats in which an antenna for detecting underwater threats is suspended from an aerial platform such as an aircraft, which allows the immersing the antenna. The antenna comprises transmitters and receivers themselves and possibly electronic equipment associated with the transmitters and receivers. It may also include environmental sensors. In addition, on board of the air platform, the sensing device comprises the equipment required for the generation of acoustic signals and processing acoustic data received.

An example sensing device is shown in Figure 1. It comprises a winch 100 to be installed in an aerial platform. The airborne control device comprises an antenna 101 suspended at the end of an electro-hauling rope 102 of the winch 100, optionally with a funnel 103 (or "funnel" in English terminology) as is the case in figure 1 . The winch 100 is designed to make the deployment and retrieval of the antenna 101. In Figure 1 the winch 100 is fixed on a floor 200 of an aerial platform. The electro-hauling rope 102 can convey signals as well as electrical energy for acoustic remission and / or operation of the receivers. When pulling the cable 102 with the winch 100, the antenna 101 is down, through the funnel 103 possible in the water. Winding the cable 102 allows the antenna 101 back into the aerial platform within the possible funnel 103 as shown in Figure 1.

The antenna 101 has a shape of substantially cylindrical elongate dome. It comprises an elongated body 1 12 having an outer circumference substantially circular section in a plane perpendicular to the longitudinal axis z of the antenna 101. The elongated body 1 12 is surrounded by a protective January 13 structure (or "bumper" in English terminology) having an outer circumference substantially circular section in a plane perpendicular to the longitudinal axis z of the antenna 101. The outer circumference of the protection assembly 1 13 and the outer circumference of the elongated body 1 12 are substantially concentric. It extends along a longitudinal axis z. When the antenna 101 is suspended by its own weight to the cable 102, the latter s'

Maintain the antenna 101 in position in the aerial platform only by the cable 102 does not provide a sufficient level of safety when the aerial platform is in transit in particular over populated areas. The cable 102 can break, it can be accidentally cut by the pyrotechnic shears security, the winch brake

100 can accidentally let go and release the cable. The loss of the antenna

101 means a significant financial loss, but most of its large mass could fall at sea or ground causing serious material or human damage.

The antenna position 101 with respect to the winch 100 to be locked when it is in position on board of the air platform. The sensing device then advantageously comprises a strapping device 104. This strapping device 104 locks the position of the antenna 101 with respect to the winch 100 so as to prevent accidental fall of the antenna and its consequences.

A strap of the prior art device 104 is shown in Figure 2. It comprises a hoop 105 comprising a clamping band 106 and pads January 14 intended to be interposed between the protection assembly 1 13 and a circular portion of the clamping band 106. It also comprises a drive device 1 15 enabling moving of the longitudinal ends 1 10 and 1 1 1 of the clamping band 106 relative to each other to reduce the size of the loop so to be able to grip an object, for example the protection assembly 1 13 of the antenna 101 at a said clamping step, or increase the size of the loop so as to loosen or release an initially contained by the object 105 strapping, during a so-called release stage.

Keep the antenna position requires making a significant tightening of the strapping 105 around the protective structure 1 13. However, the applicant has observed deformations of the protective structure that could cause irreversible damage to the protective structure and also release the antenna strap and cause it to fall.

An object of the present invention is to limit the above-mentioned drawback.

To this end, the invention relates to a banding device for encircling an object having a section having a perimeter of regular shape, said apparatus comprising a strap comprising a clamping strip forming a loop intended to surround the object, the strip clamp comprising a central portion having a shape substantially following a shape of the perimeter of the section of the object and two web strands comprising the respective ends of the clamping band and having a shape deviating from the shape of the perimeter of the section of the object, the strap comprising at least one shoe mounted on said central at least one web strand so as to be intended to be interposed between the object and the tape strand.

Advantageously, a free space is created between a regular shape defined by the central portion and the band of strands, the central pad occupying a portion of the free volume.

Advantageously, the shoe is mounted floating along the band blade to be slidable in a longitudinal direction of the tape strand.

Advantageously, the center pad is slidably mounted along the strip strand form of cooperation between the center pad and the tape strand.

Advantageously, the central pad comprises an interface portion adapted to be interposed between the belt strand and the object, the interface portion becomes thicker along the band blade to the other strand.

Advantageously, the center pad has an interface portion adapted to be interposed between the belt strand and the object to be clamped, comprising an outer face facing the strip strand, following the outer face substantially in the shape of band-stranded in the longitudinal direction of the tape strand.

Advantageously, the shape of the central pad is defined such that the center pad comes to deflect the tape strand when an object having the regular cross-sectional shape and a predetermined diameter is clamped by the strap so that a clamping force is exerted on the object by the band strand.

Advantageously, the shape of the central pad is defined such that when the object is clamped by the strap, a substantially uniform clamping force is exerted on the pad substantially around the entire circumference of the object. More generally, the center pad is configured such that when the object is clamped by the strap, a substantially uniform clamping force is exerted on the pad substantially around the entire circumference of the object

Advantageously, the central portion substantially describes an arc. Advantageously, the central pad comprises an interface portion adapted to be interposed between the clamping band and the object to be clamped, the interface portion having a face intended to face the object and substantially describing a circular arc .

Advantageously, the rim comprises a plurality of conventional pads mounted on the central portion so as to be intended to extend between the clamping band and the object.

Advantageously, each conventional pad adjacent to the central pad comprises an interface portion adapted to be interposed between the central portion and the object to be clamped, the central pad comprising an interface portion adapted to be interposed between the belt strand and subject to grip, the interface portion of the central pad having at each end adjacent to a conventional skate, a thickness substantially equal to a thickness of one end of the interface portion of the adjacent shoe, beside central pad.

Advantageously, the thickness of an interface portion of the central pad, intended to be interposed between the belt strand and the object in a radial direction of a circle defined by the central portion is greater than the distance separating this circle and the tape strand according to this radial direction in the absence of object.

Advantageously, a maximum clearance provided between the center pad and each conventional pad adjacent the center pad, in operational use, is greater than the maximum clearance between two adjacent conventional skates.

Advantageously, the center pad is removably mounted on the clamping band by only form of cooperation between the center pad and the clamping band.

Advantageously, the device comprises a limit stop for preventing a size of the loop do not fall below a predetermined minimum size or does not exceed a predetermined maximum size in operative, the stroke limiter being neutralizable, skating central and the clamping strip being configured so that the center pad can be separated from the strip strand, and more generally of the strip, only when the size of the loop is less than the minimum size or respectively when the size of the loop is greater than the maximum size.

Advantageously, the strapping device comprises a frame and a clamp / release for expanding the size of the loop and / or reduce the size of the loop and being configured to move the ends of the clamping band substantially symmetrical about a plane of symmetry related to the frame, the central pad being mounted on the frame so as to occupy a fixed position relative to the frame in a direction substantially perpendicular to the plane of symmetry.

Advantageously, the pad is radially movable relative to the frame.

Advantageously, the strapping device comprises a clamping / releasing device for pulling or pushing on the web strands of the ends to move relative to each other.

Advantageously, the center pad is supported on two web strands so as to be intended to be interposed between the two belt strands and the object to be clamped.

Advantageously, the clamping band comprises two web strands intersecting so that the clamping band to define a closed loop for encircling the object.

Advantageously, the center pad is supported on two on either of ribbons and sides of the crossing region and remote from the crossover region.

The invention also relates to a detection device comprising a banding device, an antenna is subjected to surround and a winch comprising a cable, the antenna being suspended from the cable and the strapping device being suspended from the winch.

The invention will be better understood studying a few embodiments described by way of non-limiting example, and illustrated by the accompanying drawings wherein:

- Figure 1, already described, schematically represents a detection device,

- Figure 2, already described, schematically shows in section on a transverse plane, a strapping device of the prior art encircling a detecting device antenna,

- Figure 3 schematically shows the strap according to the invention, in section on a transverse plane T shown in Figure 4, elements of the driving device are shown in perspective,

- Figure 4 shows a diagrammatic perspective view of the strapping device according to the invention, all elements of the clamp / release appearing in Figure 3 are not shown, - Figure 5 shows diagrammatically in perspective the strapping device according to the invention with its frame,

- Figures 6 and 7 schematically represent two more precise the crossover region views.

On the one figure to another the same elements are designated by the same numerals.

A strapping device 4 intended to be integrated in an airborne control device as described above. The invention also relates to the airborne control device or detection device as shown in Figure 1 with the strapping device 4 according to the invention. The airborne control device according to the invention differs from that of Figure 1 by the strapping device 4. The strapping device 4 can more generally be used to enclose any type of object, preferably of circular section.

As shown in Figure 3, the strapping device 4 comprises a strapping 5 adapted to encircle an object, for example the antenna 101, allowing to clamp or release the object. Strapping 5 comprises a clamping strip 6 forming a loop intended to surround the antenna 101 whose outer perimeter PE is shown in dotted lines. This MOU perimeter has a circular section in the plane T.

The loop extends substantially in a transverse plane T shown in Figure 4. This map is the mean plane of the clamping band 6. The strapping device 5 is advantageously suspended from the winch 102 so that the transverse plane is T for extend substantially perpendicular to the longitudinal axis z of the antenna 101 which is a vertical axis (the vertical direction being defined relative to a terrestrial reference).

The strapping device 4 also comprises a clamp / release 15. The clamping band 6 extends between two longitudinal ends 10 to 1 1 Visible in Figure 4. The clamp / release 15 to move the longitudinal ends in 10 and 1 1 of the clamping band 6 relatively with respect to each other to reduce the size of the loop so as to be able to grip an object, for example the antenna 101, at a step referred to as clamping, or increase the size of the loop so as to loosen or release a contained object initially by the clamping band 6 in a so-called release stage. The change in size of the loop is a variation of the length of the perimeter, that is to say the diameter of the loop. Shortening the perimeter of the loop which occurs during clamping, generates a pressure on the object to be clamped and creates a clamping connection between the clamping band and the object. To maintain the clamping of the object, the clamping / unclamping device keeps tensile loads on the ends 10 and January 1.

The clamping band 6 comprises a central portion 9 and two strip-strands 7 and 8 each having one end 10 or 1 1 of the clamping strip 6. The strip of strands 7 and 8 are connected to each other the central portion 9 extending longitudinally between the two strands. The central part 9 has a shape intended to substantially follow a shape of the perimeter section LS of the object to be clamped. In other words, the central portion 9 extends substantially parallel to the perimeter. The shape of the central portion 9 which follows that of the perimeter shape of the section of the central portion 9 in the transverse plane T and in particular the inner face of section of the central portion 9 which is intended to face the object. The shape of the central portion 9 follows the form of PE part of the perimeter of the section 101 to grip the object. The central part 9 has a regular shape. Both of ribbons 7 and 8 each have a shape that deviates from the regular shape of the perimeter of the object, that is to say the shape followed by the central portion 9. In other words, the section of each blade 7, 8 in the plane T, has a shape which deviates from the shape of the section of the central portion 9 in the plane T. in other words, the shape of the section of the inner face of each strand for face the object moves away from the cross-sectional shape of the inner face of the central portion 9 in the plane T. the loop has an irregular shape in the plane T. a free space is then created during clamping of an object, between the tight object by the strapping band 5 and the strands 7, 8, which may lead to deformation of the object capable of releasing the object. In other words, a free space is created between the regular shape defined by the central portion 9 and the band of strands 7 and 8.

To overcome this drawback, the strap according to the invention comprises at least one flange 16 said central pad mounted on at least one strip run 7 and / or 8 so as to be intended to be interposed between the object and the band clamping and more particularly between the object and the tape strand. In the example of the figures, the skate 1 6 is mounted on both strands. It allows to fill a portion of the free volume left in the band of strands 7, 8, and the object and thus to limit the deformation of the object. In other words, the central flange 16, fills a portion of the free volume left in the regular form followed by the central portion 9 and the band of strands 7 and 8. The central flange 16 ensures retention of the object to be clamped which will limit its deformation during tightening.

Advantageously, the shape of the central part 9 substantially follows the shape of the perimeter of the object most of the perimeter of the object 101 so as to surround most of the object or almost all of the object .

In the embodiment of the figures, the band of strands 7 and 8 are cross in a crossover region 17 so that the clamping band 6 define a closed loop intended to surround completely the object to be clamped. Tape strands 7, 8 form an X in the plane T. The use of a strip forming a closed loop by crossing two band strands 7 and 8 allows to vary significantly the size of the loop and, to grip and release of objects having different diameters. This configuration facilitates the production and assembly of the clamp / release 15 because the two free ends 10 to 1 1 does not lie on the same straight line as the intersection zone 17. The X comprises two ends connected to one to each other by the central portion 9 and

two ends which are the ends in 10 and 1 1. The distance between the two ends 10 to 1 1 according to the axis x increases when tightening and decreases when loosening and the diameter of the circle defined by the central portion 9 decreases and increases respectively. When the size of the loop varies, the angle formed between the belt strands varies. Alternatively, the loop is open.

When PE perimeter is circular, the central portion 9 substantially describes an arc in the plane T as shown in Figure 3. The number of ribbons 7, 8 form an X in the plane T. Thus, the space 36 surrounded completely by the closed loop formed by clamp band 6 has, in the transverse plane T, a section substantially shaped like a water drop having a circular portion and a tip portion defined by the web strands 7, 8. the central skate 1 6 fills a part of the pointed part. If the loop is open and the central portion substantially describes an arc, the space surrounded by this, in the transverse plane T, a shape of a drop of water having a truncated circular portion and a truncated pointed part formed by strands 7, 8.

In the embodiment of the figures, the two strands 7 and 8 extend longitudinally substantially along the respective lines. In other words, the two band strands 7 and 8 have substantially straight sections in the transverse plane T. These lines are inclined with respect to one another so as to form X. The strands 7, 8 do not follow necessarily a straight shape, they could follow a curve whose radius of curvature increases from the central portion towards their free ends 9, 10 and 1 1 respectively or to the intersection zone 17. in general, the number of ribbons 7, 8 show in the plane T, a radius of curvature greater than that of the central portion 9 at the ends of the respective strands.

The invention applies to any object having a section whose perimeter has a regular shape. The perimeter advantageously has a line-shaped convex closed curve, which can be a circle or different from a circle and may or may not have a center of symmetry. Alternatively the regular form is a regular polygon such as a hexagon. The shape of the central portion 9 in the plane T can then be substantially a convex curved line and tape strands 7 and 8

move away from this curved line. strip the strands have in the plane T, a radius of curvature greater than that of the central part 9 in the end of tape strands 7 and 8. The strip of strands 7 and 8 are cross X or towards the one another, forming for example a truncated V, to reduce the opening of the open loop formed by the core 9 away from the shape of the central portion 9. the loop formed by the clamping band 6 surrounds such a closed convex curved line, the central portion 9 defines a part of the curved line and the number of ribbons 7 and 8 define a protuberance, for example X or truncated V on the closed convex curved line.

The strip 6 comprises for example a metal sheet or strip material or plastic or composite material. The size of the loop varies during tightening by varying the bending of the strip. The strip 6 preferably has an at rest such that the shape of the central part 9 substantially follows the shape of the perimeter of the object to be clamped. The strands 7 and 8 each have at rest a shape that moves away from, e.g., a substantially rectilinear at rest. The strip may be formed by an assembly of parts or be integral.

The device is intended to grip an object in conditions of operational functioning. In operational use, the size of the loop between a minimum size and a maximum size. The mean radius of curvature of the central portion 9 between these two limits is preferably the average radius of curvature of the object to be clamped. The distance between the ends 10 to 1 1 is then between a minimum distance and a maximum distance.

In the embodiment of the figures, the rim 5 comprises a single central skate 1 6 mounted on the two web strands 7 and 8 so as to be interposed between the two web strands 7 and 8 and the object to be clamped. When the strands 7, 8 intersect, the center pad 16 is intended to be interposed between the intersection zone 17 and the object to be clamped. Alternatively, the strap 5 comprises one or more central pads, each bearing on one of the strands 7 or 8. It comprises for example two central pads, including a first pad bears on a strip run 7 and a second pad bearing on the tape blade 8. the features disclosed in the present patent application with respect to the central pad supported on two web strands s'

The central flange 16 has an interface portion 1 6a visible in Figure 3 located within the space 36 defined by the loop. The interface portion 16a is intended to be interposed between the object 101 and the strands 7 and 8. The portion 1 6a extends from the run 7 to run 8 inside the space 36. In Alternatively, the portion 1 6a extends along a single strand 7 or 8.

Advantageously, the interface portion 16a thickens along each strip run 7 and / or 8 on which it is supported, away from the central part 9, that is to say, in s 'away from the end of the strand connected to the central portion toward the other strand. In the case where the strands cross each other, the interface portion becomes thicker along each belt strand on which it rests, to crossover region 17. This shape allows to fill up the free volume which limits yet its deformation.

The interface portion 16a has an outer face 6 1 intended to face the band of strands 7 and 8 and an inner face 6d 1 intended to be facing an object to be clamped.

Advantageously, the interface portion 1 6a of the pad 1 6 mounted on the two web strands 7 and 8 shows, in the transverse plane T, a greater thickness in its central portion than at both ends 16b and 1 6c. The thickness of the interface portion 1 6a is a distance, in the transverse plane T between the inner face 1 6d and the outer surface 6 1 in a radial direction, that is to say, a radial axis of the loop. This also applies to conventional skates that will be defined later. Alternatively, the interface portion 1 6 of the central flange 16 has a fixed thickness between its two ends 16b, 6c 1.

In the embodiment of the figures, the section of the inner face 1 6d in the transverse plane T is advantageously substantially a circle of diameter portion D (diameter of the object to be clamped). This ensures good conformation of the central pad to the shape of the circular object 101. In general, the section of the inner face 6d 1 preferably follows the shape of the perimeter of the object to be clamped next to the pad 1 6. The section of the outer face 16 in the plane T then has a variable radius of curvature in the transverse plane T to a thick pad along the or strand (s) of tape.

Advantageously, the outer face 1 6 follows substantially the shape of or strand (s) of the tape (s) is (s) it rests in the plane T, that is to say in the longitudinal direction or (or more) strand (s) of tape. The bearing zone then extends along the tape blade.

On the particular embodiment of the figures, the outer face one sixth form, in the plane T, a V pointing towards the crossover region 17.

The external face 1 6 form, for example, in the transverse plane T, a curve comprising two parts of equal length, that is to say of the same angular opening and having a second curvature radius larger than the first radius of curvature. These parts are connected by a central area of ​​the interface portion having a third radius of curvature smaller than the second radius of curvature. Alternatively, the radius of curvature of the inner surface is variable in the transverse plane T and that of the outer face is fixed. In another embodiment, the radii of curvature of the two faces, in the transverse plane T, vary. Advantageously, as is the case in the figures, the section of the interface of Part 1 of 6 in the plane T has a plane of symmetry.

Advantageously, the central flange 16 is configured and specifically, its interface portion 1 6a is configured so that a clamping force is exerted on a circular section of predetermined diameter D object by band strands 7, 8, via the central flange 16, when this object is clamped by the clamping band 6. in other words, we define the shape of the central support 1 6, in view of its thickness so as to obtain this deflection. This shape is preferably defined such that the shoe comes to deflect, that is to say bending or varying the curvature of the band of strands 7, 8 so as to obtain the clamping force (having a radial component). The strands 7 and 8 will flex both sides of the crossing area 17, they no longer have a right section. This further limits the deformation of the object to the tape strands standardizing pressure or clamping force exerted on the object 101. This clamping force has at least a radial component. It is exercised through the interface portion 1 6a. Thus the thickness of the interface portion 16a in a radial direction of a circle defined by the central portion 9 of the web is advantageously greater than the distance between the circle and a tape strands according to this radial direction in the no object. The variation in thickness of the interface portion 16a along the tape strands depends on the rigidity of the clamping band and of the maximum clamping force that is to be applied on the object. subject to the tape strands standardizing pressure or clamping force exerted on the object 101. This clamping force has at least a radial component. It is exercised through the interface portion 1 6a. Thus the thickness of the interface portion 16a in a radial direction of a circle defined by the central portion 9 of the web is advantageously greater than the distance between the circle and a tape strands according to this radial direction in the no object. The variation in thickness of the interface portion 16a along the tape strands depends on the rigidity of the clamping band and of the maximum clamping force that is to be applied on the object. subject to the tape strands standardizing pressure or clamping force exerted on the object 101. This clamping force has at least a radial component. It is exercised through the interface portion 1 6a. Thus the thickness of the interface portion 16a in a radial direction of a circle defined by the central portion 9 of the web is advantageously greater than the distance between the circle and a tape strands according to this radial direction in the no object. The variation in thickness of the interface portion 16a along the tape strands depends on the rigidity of the clamping band and of the maximum clamping force that is to be applied on the object. This clamping force has at least a radial component. It is exercised through the interface portion 1 6a. Thus the thickness of the interface portion 16a in a radial direction of a circle defined by the central portion 9 of the web is advantageously greater than the distance between the circle and a tape strands according to this radial direction in the no object. The variation in thickness of the interface portion 16a along the tape strands depends on the rigidity of the clamping band and of the maximum clamping force that is to be applied on the object. This clamping force has at least a radial component. It is exercised through the interface portion 1 6a. Thus the thickness of the interface portion 16a in a radial direction of a circle defined by the central portion 9 of the web is advantageously greater than the distance between the circle and a tape strands according to this radial direction in the no object. The variation in thickness of the interface portion 16a along the tape strands depends on the rigidity of the clamping band and of the maximum clamping force that is to be applied on the object. a circle bounded by the central portion 9 of the web is advantageously greater than the distance between the circle and a tape strands according to this radial direction in the absence of object. The variation in thickness of the interface portion 16a along the tape strands depends on the rigidity of the clamping band and of the maximum clamping force that is to be applied on the object. a circle bounded by the central portion 9 of the web is advantageously greater than the distance between the circle and a tape strands according to this radial direction in the absence of object. The variation in thickness of the interface portion 16a along the tape strands depends on the rigidity of the clamping band and of the maximum clamping force that is to be applied on the object.

However, if the shape of the pad 1 6 is poorly defined, the pad 1 6 can be caused to take all efforts and the deformation of the object can take place in the opposite direction to the pad 1 6. Preferably, the shape of central skate 1 6 (or central pads when there are several) and defined so that a substantially homogeneous stress is exerted on a circular section of predetermined diameter D object substantially the entire circumference of the object when the object is clamped by the clamping band 6. in other words, this constraint is radial and substantially the same modulus around the object. This minimizes the deformation of the object by standardizing the pressure or the clamping force exerted on the object 101.

More generally, the center pad 16 is configured, specifically the interface portion is configured so that the central pad 6 comes to deflect (s) run (s) of the tape (s) is (s) it bears when an object whose cross section has the substantially regular shape followed by the central portion 9 and a predetermined diameter is clamped by the clamping band, so that (s) light (s) a clamping force on the object, via the pad 1 6. this configuration includes the shape and thickness of the pad or its interface portion, that is to say its shape considering its thickness.

Advantageously, the central support 1 6 is supported on the clamping band 6 on either side of the crossover region 17 and is spaced from the crossing area 17. In other words, the central skate 1 6 is pressing the clamping band 6 at both ends 6b 1, 6c 1 of the interface portion 1 6a. The first end 1 6b is in contact with the first blade 7 and the second end 6c 1 is in contact with the second strand 8. The central pad 1 6 is located remote from the clamping strip 6 facing the crossover region 17. the thickness of the interface portion 1 6a of the center pad 1 6 is defined so as to satisfy this characteristic. This characteristic is advantageously verified operational functioning. In functional operation the angle formed between the two band strands 7 and 8 outside the loop is greater than or equal to a predetermined minimum value. This minimum value depends on a size

Minimum operational loop operation (that is to say a maximum distance between the two ends in the case of the figures), the diameter D of the object and the stiffness of the clamping band. The angle between the two strands of the strapping diminishes for two reasons: First, the clamping device away from the free ends of strands of the clamping band from each other, then the assembly formed by the tape and strapping the object clamped by the band seeks to move laterally towards the clamping device which is fixed (gripped object does not stay in the center frame). This configuration facilitates the realization of the skate. Indeed, it is not necessary to standardize the clamping force,

Advantageously, the interface portion 1 6a is supported on the strand 7 of about one third of the length of the skate 1 6 and resting on the belt 8 of about one third of the length of the pad 1 6. The center pad 1 6 is remote from the clamping band about one-third of its length.

In the embodiment of the figures, of the pads, called conventional pads 14 are distributed along the central zone 9 and are arranged so as to be intended to be interposed between the clamp band 6 and the object 101 to be clamped so that the clamping force applied by the clamping band 6 on the object to be clamped at the pads 14 is applied through the pads 14. to this end, conventional shoes 14 extend at least partially in the within the volume 36 delimited by the loop formed by clamp band 6.

Conventional shoes 14, as the central skate 1 6 are advantageously made of plastics material. Alternatively may be made of rubber or metal.

Each conventional pad 14 has an interface portion 14a located inside the space 36 defined by the loop and designed to be interposed between the conventional shoe 14 and the clamp band 6 so that the clamping band exerts, at the block 14, a pressure force on the object via the interface portion 14a. The shape of the skate 1 6 is defined with respect to these pads. In this case, the force exerted substantially around the entire circumference of the object is substantially uniform if the force exerted by web via each of the pads 14: 1 6 is substantially radial.

The interface portion is delimited by an inner face 14d for facing to the object 101 and an outer face 14c facing the clamping band 6. The inner face 14d advantageously substantially follows the shape of the perimeter of the object to grip, at the respective pads in the plane T. the pads 14 will then conform to the object to be clamped during clamping. Advantageously, the pads 14 have a constant thickness along the longitudinal direction of the clamping band 6. In other words, 14d and 14c have surfaces parallel sections in the plane T. In the case of a circular section item, the faces internal 14d and 14c preferably form circles portions in the plane T. the inner face 14d advantageously has a radius of curvature equal to that of the

Advantageously, conventional skates have an identical section in the transverse plane T. This promotes the homogeneity of the clamping force, especially when the section of the object to be clamped is circular. Alternatively, conventional skates are not all identical.

Advantageously, the interface portion 1 6a of the center pad 1 6 has at each end one 6c, 6d adjacent to one a conventional pad 14, a thickness substantially equal to a thickness of the interface portion 14a of conventional skate adjacent the central pad 1 6 at the end 16c or 1 6d considered. This avoids that the central support 1 comes 6 does take the load of the object to be clamped and come offload its neighbors recreating this time in two places (on either side of the central pad) the failure that one seeks to correct. In other words, this feature promotes the homogeneity of the radial force applied to the object to be clamped along its circumference in particular when the latter has a circular section.

In contrast, the section of the central flange 16 in the transverse plane is different from that of conventional pads 14. The shape of this section is defined as specified previously. Alternatively the section of the central flange 16 in the transverse plane is identical to that of the central pads.

Alternatively, the strap is free of conventional pads 14. The central part 9 comes into contact with the object 101 during tightening.

Advantageously, the center pad 16 is mounted floating along the tape strands 7 and 8 so as to be slidable along longitudinal directions of the strands of strips 7 and 8 during the clamping and unclamping operations. The interface portion 1 6a slides along the web strands 7 and 8. This will promote the homogeneity of the clamping by allowing the center pad 1 6 remains always centered on the intersection of two strands 7 and 8 of strapping during tightening. The center pad 16 naturally finds its best place in connection with the clamping band 6 during tightening. This is also favored by the V-shape of the outer face 16e of the center pad 16. Alternatively, the pad is fixed relative to at least one web strand in the longitudinal direction of the tape strand.

Advantageously, as is the case in the example of Figures 3-7, the central support 1 6 is mounted on the tape strands 7 and 8 by means of a binding allowing the central skate 1 6 slidable relative to the band corresponding strand 7 or 8. the central skate 1 6 is slidably mounted along the first strand 7 in the longitudinal direction of the strand 7. the central flange 16 is also mounted to slide along the second strand in the longitudinal direction of the strand 8. the central web skate 1 6 is preferably mounted on each of the band strands with a bond which is substantially a sliding connection so that the sliding of the central pad with respect to each strand 7 and 8 is a translational movement.

A non-limiting exemplary embodiment is shown in greater detail in Figures 6 and 7 according to two angles. In this example, the connections between the central support 1 6 and the tape strands 7 and 8 are realized by form of cooperation between the central support 1 6 and these strands 7 and 8. This configuration has the advantage of being simple and good market and require fewer parts which reduces the risk of corrosion. In this example, the links are rail links.

towards each other. The back 23 and the two bars 24, 25 bent towards each other define a channel 26 within which passes the rectangular plate 22. The two bars 24, 25 and the plate 22 are dimensioned so that the two bars 24, 25 are opposite to the plate 22 so as to retain within the channel 26 and such that a sliding connection is formed between the center pad 16 and the second web strand 8. Alternatively, it is for example possible to fix each of the band or strands to the central pad guides cooperating with the shoe or, respectively, each of the strands to produce the sliding connection.

The central flange 16 can be fixed in the longitudinal direction of each belt strand on which it is fixed. The device comprises for example at least two pads arranged on either side of the crossover region 17 and each being mounted on one of the strands 7 and 8 and are fixed to the respective tape strands according to their respective longitudinal directions. The runners will then approach each other during tightening and away from each other when loosening.

Alternatively, the device comprises one or more central pads, each mounted on a single strip of blade and being slidably mounted along the tape blade in its longitudinal direction.

The clamp / release 15 is configured to move the clamping band 6 relative to frame 19 shown in FIG 4, when tightening and loosening. Advantageously, the device 15 is configured to move the two ends 10 to 1 1 of the strip 6 together with an x-axis at the same speed and in opposite directions relative to the frame 19. The tensile forces exerted on the two ends 10 and January 1 are opposite. The displacements of the two ends are symmetrical about a plane of symmetry P connected to the frame 19, for example, perpendicular to the transverse plane T. This configuration ensures a good distribution of forces exerted on an object to be clamped having a circular section in the transverse plane. Otherwise,

Alternatively, the free ends 10, with 1 1 may also undergo movements symmetrical to each other relative to a plane P, but in straight inclined relative to the plane P. This configuration is less simple to realize that former. Alternatively, one end of which is moved by the clamp / release. This configuration is less reliable, the subject may seem tight enough but the forces exerted on the object subsequently homogenize tightening could lead to an accidental release of the object.

The clamp / release 15 includes, for example, as shown in Figure 3, a system of the screw-nut type comprising a threaded rod 18 and two nuts 120 and 121 into helical links with the threaded rod and locked in rotation relative to frame about the axis x. The nuts 120 and 121 respectively are integral with the respective ends 10 to 1 1 by translation along the x axis. The nut 120 is engaged with a thread 122 and the nut 121 is engaged with a thread 123. These threads 122, 123 are for example made in opposite directions with the same pitch. This device 15 may comprise a motor 50 for rotating the rod 18, possibly via a gear, about its axis relative to a frame 19 and / or a knob 52 allowing an operator to rotate the rod with respect to the frame optionally via a gear. Alternatively, the clamping device may comprise a pinion and rack system, or at least one hydraulic cylinder, pneumatic or electric for moving the ends 10 and 1 1 with respect to each other. Generally, the clamping / unclamping device 15 exerts tensile forces directly on the ends 10 to 1 1 so as to pull or push them to move relative to each other. When the clamp / release 15 pulls on the ends in 10 and 1 1, it provides for tensioning the clamping band, from one end to another. the clamping device may comprise a pinion and rack system, or at least one hydraulic cylinder, pneumatic or electric for moving the ends 10 and 1 1 with respect to each other. Generally, the clamping / unclamping device 15 exerts tensile forces directly on the ends 10 to 1 1 so as to pull or push them to move relative to each other. When the clamp / release 15 pulls on the ends in 10 and 1 1, it provides for tensioning the clamping band, from one end to another. the clamping device may comprise a pinion and rack system, or at least one hydraulic cylinder, pneumatic or electric for moving the ends 10 and 1 1 with respect to each other. Generally, the clamping / unclamping device 15 exerts tensile forces directly on the ends 10 to 1 1 so as to pull or push them to move relative to each other. When the clamp / release 15 pulls on the ends in 10 and 1 1, it provides for tensioning the clamping band, from one end to another. the clamping / unclamping device 15 exerts tensile forces directly on the ends 10 to 1 1 so as to pull or push them to move relative to each other. When the clamp / release 15 pulls on the ends 10 and 1 1, it provides for tensioning the clamping band, from one end to another. the clamping / unclamping device 15 exerts tensile forces directly on the ends 10 to 1 1 so as to pull or push them to move relative to each other. When the clamp / release 15 pulls on the ends in 10 and 1 1, it provides for tensioning the clamping band, from one end to another.

Advantageously, the central support 1 6 is mounted on the frame 19 so as to occupy a fixed position in a direction substantially perpendicular to the plane of symmetry P. This allows the pad to remain focused on the intersection zone 17 when moving symmetrical both ends 10 and January 1. For this purpose, as shown in Figure 5, the frame 19 comprises, for example, a pin 61 inserted in a notch 62 formed in the central skate 1 6 so as to prevent movement of the central flange 16 relative to the frame 19 according to the tangential direction. Furthermore, the central skate 1 6 is movable relative to the frame 19 along an axis of the plane P including in the transverse plane T. This axis is a radial axis of the loop. Thus, when tightening or loosening, the angles formed by the strip of strands with respect to the plane of symmetry vary, the crossover region 17 of tape strands moves in the plane of symmetry, that is to say along a radial axis and move with them the central pad which rests on the web strands. For example, when tightening, the crossover region 17 and the center pad 16 approach radially from the center of the loop which allows the device to ensure the clamping of an object that is not centered on the center of the loop. This device ensures the clamping of objects of different diameters with a wide tolerance on the diameters of the objects. the crossover region 17 and the center pad 16 approach radially from the center of the loop which allows to ensure the clamping device for an object that is not centered on the center of the loop. This device ensures the clamping of objects of different diameters with a wide tolerance on the diameters of the objects. the crossover region 17 and the center pad 16 approach radially from the center of the loop which allows to ensure the clamping device for an object that is not centered on the center of the loop. This device ensures the clamping of objects of different diameters with a wide tolerance on the diameters of the objects.

Advantageously, the pad is fixed relative to the frame along an axis of the plane P perpendicular to the transverse plane T.

Advantageously, conventional shoes 14 are mounted on the clamping band 6 by means of fixtures 40, for example rivets or screws, with a set of attachment so that at the time of tightening of an object, they naturally find their best position relative to the strip 6. for example, the mounting means allow a displacement of the conventional pad 14 relative to the clamping band 6 in a radial direction to the portion of a circle formed by the clamping band 6 at the conventional pad but not in the longitudinal direction of the clamping band 6 at the mounting means considered. This longitudinal direction is substantially a tangential direction to the clamping band 6 or circle, in the transverse plane T in the fastening means in question. Thus the distance between two adjacent conventional shoes 14 is fixed during the clamping operation. Alternatively, at least one conventional pad 14 is slidably mounted with respect to the clamping strip 6 in the longitudinal direction of the clamping band 6 at the attachment means in question.

The game, called maximum clearance between the central support 1 6 and each conventional block 14 adjacent the center 16, when the loop has the maximum size that is to say, its maximum diameter is defined such that there is a game, called minimum operational clearance between the central support 1 6 and each conventional pad adjacent the central skate 1 6 when the loop size is the minimum size. In other words, the maximum clearance is greater than the variation in distance between the shoe and each of the adjacent conventional skates central flange 16 when the loop moves from its maximum size to the minimum size. The maximum clearance may be fixed when the central pad is fixed relative to the band stranded on which it is mounted.

Advantageously, the maximum clearance, which is fixed here, between two adjacent conventional shoes 14 is less than the maximum clearance between the center pad 6 and each one conventional pad adjacent to center pad 1 6. Indeed, the variation in distance between the center pad 16 and his or her neighbor (s) during tightening is greater than that between two adjacent conventional skates. For example, the clearance between two adjacent conventional skates is two times lower than the maximum clearance between the center pad and conventional skates.

Advantageously, the central pad 6 is removably mounted on the clamping strip 6. This facilitates the maintenance of the central pad 6. Advantageously, the central support 1 6 is removably mounted on the clamping band 6 only by cooperation shape between the shoe and the clamp band 6. This helps reduce the assembly steps and the risk of corrosion by limiting the number of parts used. For this purpose, in Figures 6 and 7, the clamping band 6 includes a tapered portion 70 disposed between the plate 22 and one of the adjacent pads in conventional center pad. The thinned part 70 is dimensioned so as to escape from the channel 26 formed by the C-shaped profile 23, 24, 25 of the central support 1 6 when the C-shaped profile faces the tapered portion.

Advantageously, the central support 1 6 and the clamping band 6 are arranged to prevent the central support 1 6 can be separated from the strands 7 and 8 operational functioning. This helps avoid accidental disassembly of the central skate 1 6 for a tightening or loosening operation. For example, the central skate 1 6 is not removable when the size of the loop is less than the minimum size. In the example of the figures, the minimum clearance between the center pad 16 and the conventional pad 14 adjacent to the central flange 16 and separated from plate 22 by the tapered portion 70, when the loop has the minimum size is then greater than the distance between the conventional shoe 14 and the plate 22. The minimum clearance between the central support 1 6 and conventional shoes 14 adjacent to the central skate 1 6 is then, for example greater than the minimum clearance between two adjacent conventional skates. Alternatively, the central flange 16 is removable only when the size of the loop is greater than its maximum size. The blocking of the shoe 16 in a direction perpendicular to the plane P also participates in this function.

The strapping device 4 may have a stroke limiter to reduce the loop size below the minimum size and / or increase the size of the loop beyond the maximum size. This limiter includes, for example, as shown in Figure 3, the abutments 31, 32 arranged in order to cooperate with one another so as to prevent rotation of the threaded rod 18 with respect to frame 19 about its axis when the size reached minimum size, that is to say, in this example, when the distance between the two ends 10 to 1 1 reaches a predetermined maximum distance and / or when the size of the loop reaches the maximum size. The stops 31 and 32 are arranged on the wheels of a gear 33 and 34 in engagement with each other. The motor 50 causes the rod 18 to rotate about its axis via the gear 30, via a gear 51. The limiter function may alternatively be achieved by controlling the motor.

Advantageously, the stroke limiter can be neutralized. In this way, one can proceed, maintenance, reduction of the size of the loop below the minimum size (or the increase in size of the loop beyond the maximum size) so as to separate the skate tape strands. In the example of the figures, one can reduce the size of the loop so that the clearance between the central support 1 6 and the conventional pad 14 adjacent to the central skate 1 6 can drop below the distance between the center pad 14 and the adjacent 22. the C plate is faced to the tapered portion 70 so that the clamping band 6 can escape from the channel defined by the C can thus remove the pad. At least one of the stops is removable by example.

Advantageously, the pads 14 and 16 each comprise a shoulder or back respectively 130 and 140, visible in Figures 4, 5 and 7, projecting (in the transverse plane), on the interface portion 14a or 16a in the direction of inside the loop, that is to say in a radial direction. Each shoulder 130 and 140 is located on the same side of the interface portions 14a and 6a, respectively, 1 in a direction perpendicular to the transverse plane T. Each shoulder 130 and 140 is for example in the interface portion 14a and 16a respectively corresponding , that is to say lower than the interface portion, in a vertical direction z when the strapping device 4 is suspended from the winch 100. in this way, during tightening, the shoulder 130 or 140, is housed in the protection assembly 1 13 exert a vertical upward force so as to prevent a movement of the protective assembly 1 13 to the bottom, when the protection assembly 1 13 is clamped by the clamping band 106 via the pads. This prevents the antenna 101 fall if the clamping force applied to the protective structure is not important enough. The realization of the shoulders on the pads is easier and less affects the operation of the strapping only when conducted on the clamping band. prevent the antenna 101 fall if the clamping force applied to the protective structure is not important enough. The realization of the shoulders on the pads is easier and less affects the operation of the strapping only when conducted on the clamping band. prevent the antenna 101 fall if the clamping force applied to the protective structure is not important enough. The realization of the shoulders on the pads is easier and less affects the operation of the strapping only when conducted on the clamping band.

The frame 19 preferably defines a substantially circular section groove 19a in the plane T and having a C-shaped profile in a radial plane perpendicular to plane T. The housing 19 receives the clamp band 6 and serves as a guide during the tightening operations and loosening. Advantageously, the groove 19a is so dimensioned that

the shoulders 130, 140 are supported on the frame 19 so that the latter exerts on the skids 14: 1 6, a force in a direction perpendicular to the transverse plane T in operational use. The retaining the antenna 101 upward is favored.

The invention also relates to an assembly comprising the strapping device and the object to be clamped

CLAIMS

1. Strapping device (4) for encircling an object (101) having a section having a perimeter of regular shape, said device comprising a rim (5) comprising a clamping strip (6) forming a loop intended to surround the object, clamping strip (6) comprising a central portion (9) having a shape substantially following a shape of the perimeter of the section of the object and two web strands (7, 8) comprising the respective ends (10: 1 1) of the clamping band and having a shape deviating from the shape of the perimeter of the section of the object, the strap comprising at least one shoe said exchange (1 6) mounted on at least one web wire (7; 8) so as to be intended to be interposed between the object (101) and the web strand (7; 8).

2. Strapping device according to the preceding claim, wherein a free space is created between a regular shape defined by the central portion (9) and the web strands (7,8), the central shoe (1 6) occupying a portion the free volume.

3. Strapping device (4) according to any moon of the preceding claims, wherein the central foot (16) is mounted floating along the band blade (7; 8) so as to be slidable in a longitudinal direction of the web strand (7; 8).

4. Strapping device according to the preceding claim, wherein the central shoe (1 6) is mounted to slide along the band blade (7; 8) in form of cooperation between the central flange (16) and the web strand ( 7; 8).

5. A strapping according to any preceding claim, wherein the central shoe (1 6) includes an interface portion (1 6a) to be interposed between the belt strand (7; 8) and object (101), the interface portion (16a) thickening along the band blade to the other strand.

6. A strapping according to any preceding claim, wherein the center pad has an interface portion adapted to be interposed between the belt strand (7, 8) and the object (101), comprising a outer face facing the web strand (7.8), the outer surface substantially following the shape of the strip strand, in the longitudinal direction of the tape strand.

7. A strapping according to any preceding claim, wherein the center pad is configured such that the central shoe (1 6) come to deflect the web strand (7.8) when an object (101) having the regular cross-sectional shape and a predetermined diameter is clamped by the strap (5) so that a clamping force is exerted on the object (101) by the tape strip (7; 8).

8. Strapping device according to the preceding claim, wherein the shape of the central shoe (1 6) is defined such that when the object is gripped by the strap (5), a substantially uniform clamping force is exerted on the pad substantially the entire circumference of the object.

9. A strapping machine according to claim 6, wherein the thickness of an interface portion of the central pad, intended to be interposed between the belt strand and the object in a radial direction of a circle defined by the central portion is greater than the distance between the circle and the tape strand according to this radial direction in the absence of object.

10. A strapping machine according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the central portion (9) substantially describes an arc.

January 1. Strapping device (4) according to the preceding claim, wherein the central shoe (1 6) includes an interface portion (1 6a) to be interposed between the clamping strip (6) and the object to be clamped (101 ), the interface portion (1 6a) having an inner face (1 6d) for facing to the object and substantially describing a circular arc.

12. Strapping device (4) according to any preceding claim, comprising a plurality of pads mounted on the conventional

middle section (9) so as to be intended to extend between the clamping strip (6) and the object (101).

13. Device for strapping the preceding claim, wherein each conventional pad adjacent to the central pad comprises an interface portion (14a) intended to be interposed between the central part (9) and the object to be clamped (101), the pad central (1 6) including an interface portion (1 6a) to be interposed between the belt strand (7; 8) and the object to be clamped, the interface portion (1 6a) of the central shoe (1 6) having at each end adjacent to a conventional skate, a thickness substantially equal to a thickness of one end of the interface portion of the adjacent pad next to the central pad.

14. Strapping device (4) according to any preceding claim, wherein a maximum clearance provided between the central shoe (1 6) and each conventional pad adjacent the center pad, in operational use, is greater than the maximum clearance between conventional two adjacent pads (14).

15. Strapping device (4) according to any preceding claim, wherein the central shoe (1 6) is removably mounted on the clamping strip (6) only by shape cooperation between the central flange (16 ) and the clamping strip (6).

16. Strapping device (4) to one of the preceding claims, comprising a stroke limiter for preventing a size of the loop do not fall below a predetermined minimum size or does not exceed a predetermined maximum size operative, the stroke limiter being neutralizable, central flange (16) and the clamping strip being configured so that the center pad (1 6) can be separated from the strip strand only when the size of the loop is less than the minimum or, respectively, when the loop size is larger than the maximum size.

17. Strapping device (4) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the strapping device comprises a frame (19) and

a clamp / release (15) for expanding the size of the loop and / or reduce the size of the loop and being configured to move the ends (10: 1 1) of the clamping band substantially symmetrically relative to a plane of symmetry (P) connected to the frame (19), the center pad (16) being mounted on the frame (19) so as to occupy a fixed position relative to the frame (19) in a direction substantially perpendicular the plane of symmetry (P) and so as to be radially movable relative to the frame (19).

18. Strapping device (4) according to any preceding claim, wherein the central shoe (1 6) is supported on both of ribbons so as to be intended to be interposed between the two belt strands and the subject to grip (101).

19. Strapping device (4) according to the preceding claim, comprising a strap (5) comprising a clamping band (6) comprising two web strands (7, 8) crossing each other so that the clamping band defines a closed loop intended to surround the object (101).

20. A strapping machine according to the preceding claim, wherein the strapping device comprising a clamping / unclamping device for pulling or pushing on the web strands of the ends to move relative to each other .

21. Strapping device (4) according to any one of claims 18 to 20, wherein the central shoe (1 6) is supported on the two web strands (7; 8) on either side of the zone junction (17) and is remote from the crossover region (17).

22. Detection device comprising a strapping device (4) according to any preceding claim, wherein the object is an antenna (101), the detection device comprising a winch comprising an antenna cable being suspended the cable (102) and the strapping means (4) being suspended from the winch.