Single-reel winding device and a method for replacing a full reel in a single-reel winding device

A single-reel winding device, the device comprising:

• a distributor wheel for distributing an optical fiber to a first reel for winding the optical fiber;
• a winder, configured and arranged movably on guide tracks, for revolving the first reel around a center axis of the first reel and for moving the first reel along the center axis between different positions in order to wind the optical fiber onto the first reel, and for moving the first reel to an exchange area when the first reel is full;
• an attachment device for attaching the optical fiber to the first reel when the first reel is in the exchange area;
• a cutter for cutting the optical fiber when the first reel is full;
• a gripper for gripping on to the optical fiber, when provided by the distributor wheel, and for keeping that optical fiber stationary when attaching and cutting of the optical fiber, and when the first, full reel is being removed from the exchange area and a second, empty reel is being provided to the exchange area in order to continue winding of the optical fiber, wherein:
• the winder is configured and arranged to move the first reel away from the distributor wheel when the first reel is full, for the gripper to grip the optical fiber at a position between the distributor wheel and a flange of the first reel which is closest to the distributor wheel;
• and
• after removal of the first reel, to move the second empty reel to a position where the optical fiber runs over a flange of the second reel, which flange is located closest to the distributor wheel, for the attachment device to attach the optical fiber to the flange.