Blind assembly fastener system

Abstract

Systems and methods for coupling a first panel to a second panel via a fastening system are disclosed. The fastening system includes a fastener and a boss structure. The fastener includes a head assembly coupled to a neck ring. The neck ring is configured to pass through the second panel and retain the second panel via an opening formed in the second panel. The boss structure defines a cavity configured to receive and secure the head assembly. The boss structure is positioned on the first panel and is configured to at least partially pass through the opening.

Description

[0001] Related Art

[0002] This application claims the benefit under 35 U.S.C. § 119(e) of U.S. Provisional Patent Application Serial No. 63 / 022,612, entitled “Blind Assembly, Close-Panel, Doghouse Interface Fastener System,” filed May 11, 2020, the contents of which are incorporated herein by reference. BACKGROUND

[0003] Automotive components require fastening technology that is simple to manufacture and assemble. Further, the fastening technology should first be reliable and efficient. Close-panel blind assembly is a condition in which fastening action is concentrated between panels (such as automotive panels or other components) that need to be fastened to one another while at the same time trying to keep these same panels positioned very closely to one another.

[0004] Typical fastening solutions that allow this type of close-positioned assembly include magnets, adhesive strips, and mechanical fasteners. For example, metal fasteners can be used to make a blind connection between panels. Conventionally, a simple metal fastener can be received within an opening (e.g., a window or aperture) formed in a primary panel and is configured to engage a blade structure extending from an underside surface of a secondary panel. A drawback of existing metal fasteners is that the abrasive nature of the metal fastener often wears away the paint or corrosion-resistant coating of the primary panel (e.g., a sheet metal frame of a vehicle), thereby increasing the degree of corrosion. In addition, metal fasteners have a tendency to emit a buzzing, squeaking, and rattling sound, a condition often referred to as “BSR.”

[0005] To mitigate BSR and prevent corrosion, plastic fasteners can be used as an alternative to metal fasteners. However, such plastic fasteners can increase the distance between the panels and sometimes require a suitably high insertion force. In some examples, fasteners are manufactured using a combination of metal and plastic components to mitigate abrasion and avoid BSR. However, such fasteners are often larger and can be more difficult to manufacture. Further, while fasteners come in many sizes and performance levels, many fastener types cannot utilize blade structure blind assembly for a parts-in-assembly (PIA) strategy.

[0006] Accordingly, it would be highly desirable to have a fastener assembly with improved assembly characteristics that provides reliable and secure fastening while allowing panels to be positioned very closely to one another. SUMMARY

[0007] The present disclosure relates generally to a fastening system for forming a blind- vision connection between panels, such as automotive panels, substantially as illustrated and described with respect to at least one of the accompanying drawings, and as more fully set forth in the claims. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS

[0008] The foregoing and other objects, features and advantages of the apparatus, systems, and methods described herein will be apparent from the following description of particular examples, as illustrated in the accompanying drawings; wherein like or similar reference numbers refer to like or similar structures. The drawings are not necessarily to scale, emphasis instead being placed upon illustrating the principles of the apparatus, systems, and methods described herein.

[0009] Figures la to Id Side views of exemplary fastening systems configured to form a blind- vision connection between panels are illustrated in accordance with aspects of the present disclosure.

[0010] Figure 2a Perspective assembly views of a convex-hub based through fastening system are illustrated in accordance with aspects of the present disclosure. Figure Id

[0011] Figure 2b and Figure 2c Partial assembly and fully assembled perspective views of a convex-hub based through fastening system of Figure 2a

[0012] Figures 3a to 3d Push-pin fasteners, pin-and-grommet (P&G) fasteners, box-prong fasteners, and specialized fasteners for use with the convex-hub based through fastening system are illustrated in accordance with aspects of the present disclosure.

[0013] Figure 4a and Figure 4b Exemplary convex-hub based through fastening systems configured with ribs are illustrated in accordance with aspects of the present disclosure.

[0014] Figure 5a and Figure 5b Exemplary convex-hub based through fastening systems configured with ribs and wings are illustrated in accordance with aspects of the present disclosure.

[0015] Figures 6a to 6d Exemplary convex-hub based through fastening systems configured in accordance with another aspect of the present disclosure are illustrated.

[0016] Figure 7 is a flowchart representing an example of a method of coupling a first panel to a second panel using a fastener of Figures 2a to 2c DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0017] ​​​References to singular items should be understood to include plural items, and vice versa, unless otherwise explicitly stated or clear from the context. Grammatical conjunctions are intended to express any and all disjunctive and conjunctive combinations of connected clauses, sentences, words, etc., unless otherwise stated or clear from the context. Unless otherwise indicated herein, descriptions of ranges of values ​​are not intended to be restrictive, but rather to individually refer to any and all values ​​falling within and / or including that range, and each individual value within such a range is included in the description as if it were described separately herein. In the following description, it should be understood that terms such as “first,” “second,” “top,” “bottom,” “side,” “front,” and “back” are descriptive words used for convenience and should not be construed as restrictive terms. For example, although in some examples the first side is located adjacent to or near the second side, the terms “first side” and “second side” do not imply any specific order in which these sides appear sequentially.

[0018] When used with numerical values, the terms “about,” “approximately,” “substantially,” etc., should be interpreted as indicating a deviation, as would be understood by one of ordinary skill in the art, that would allow the work to function satisfactorily for its intended purpose. Ranges of values ​​and / or numerical values ​​are provided herein only as examples and do not constitute a limitation on the scope of this disclosure. The use of any and all examples or exemplary language (“e.g.,” “such as,” etc.) provided herein is intended only to better illustrate the disclosed examples and does not constitute a limitation on the scope of this disclosure. The terms “such as” and “for example” introduce a list of one or more non-limiting examples, instances, or illustrations. No language in this specification should be construed as indicating that any unclaimed element is essential to the practice of the disclosed examples.

[0019] The term "and / or" refers to any one or more of the multiple items connected by "and / or" in the list. For example, "x and / or y" refers to any element in the three-element set {(x),(y),(x,y)}. In other words, "x and / or y" means "one or both of x and y". As another example, "x, y and / or z" refers to any element in the seven-element set {(x),(y),(z),(x,y),(x,z),(y,z),(x,y,z)}. In other words, "x, y and / or z" means "one or more of x, y and z".

[0020] A fastener can be used to form a blind vision connection between first and second panels, such as automotive panels. In one example, a fastener forms a blind vision connection between first and second panels, where the fastener includes a head assembly and a retention feature that extends outward from the fastener at an end opposite the head assembly. The fastener is configured to attach the first panel in close proximity to the second panel, the first panel having a boss structure, and the second panel having an opening formed therethrough. The opening is positioned around the boss structure, the head assembly is positioned within the boss structure to form the blind vision connection. In some examples, the boss structure defines a cavity configured to receive and secure the head assembly. The boss structure can be configured to at least partially pass through the opening. The fastener can be a W-style fastener, a push pin style fastener, and / or a pin and grommet (P&G) fastener. In some examples, the fastener includes one or more ribs configured to support the boss structure and control over-travel. The one or more ribs can be positioned at an interface between the boss structure and the first panel. In some examples, the fastener includes a wing coupled to the head assembly and shaped as a spring to absorb motion between the first and second panels. In some examples, the fastener further includes a seal configured to surround the boss structure between the first and second panels. The retention feature can be configured to engage the second panel via a snap. For example, the retention feature includes a return arm elastically connected to the end opposite the head assembly via a neck ring and configured to deflect when the neck ring passes through the opening. The snap can be configured to engage the second panel at a location adjacent to the boss structure.

[0021] In another example, a fastening system includes a first panel having a first surface and a second surface, a boss structure formed on the second surface, where the boss structure defines a cavity, a second panel defining an opening, and a fastener having a head assembly and a retention feature that extends outward from the fastener at an end opposite the head assembly, where the cavity is configured to receive the head assembly and the retention feature is configured to pass through the second panel via the opening and retain the second panel, and where the boss structure is configured to at least partially pass through the opening. The first surface can be an A-surface and the second surface can be a B-surface. In some examples, the fastener includes the retention feature configured to engage the second panel via a snap. In some examples, the fastener includes a wing shaped as a spring to absorb motion between the first and second panels.

[0022] In yet another example, a method of forming a blind vision connection between a first panel and a second panel via a doghouse structure and a fastener having a head assembly and a neck includes sliding the head assembly across a surface of the first panel into a cavity of the doghouse structure, passing at least a portion of the neck through an opening formed in the second panel, and passing at least a portion of the doghouse structure through the opening. In some examples, the neck is configured to engage the second panel via a retention feature. In some examples, the retention feature includes a return arm elastically connected to a neck ring, the return arm coupled to the neck and configured to deflect when the neck ring passes through the opening.

[0023] Figures la to Id Side views of example fastening systems 100a, 100b, 100c, 100d configured to form a blind vision connection between a first panel 102 and a second panel 104 are shown. The first panel 102 and the second panel 104 can be, for example, automotive panels. Depending on the application, the first panel 102 and the second panel 104 can be made of, for example, metal (or metal alloy), synthetic or semi-synthetic polymer (e.g., plastic, such as acrylonitrile butadiene styrene (ABS) and polyvinyl chloride (PVC), etc.), composite material (e.g., fiberglass), or a combination thereof. In one example, the first panel 102 is an automotive sub-panel and the second panel 104 is an automotive main panel. In the automotive industry, example first panels 102 include, but are not limited to, door trim panels, moldings, trim pieces, and other substrates (whether used as an interior or exterior surface).

[0024] The first panel 102 can define an A-surface 102a and a B-surface 102b (shown as a lower surface). The A-surface 102a (also referred to as an A-class surface) is generally a surface that is visible after assembly and, as such, is more aesthetically pleasing (e.g., textured, coated, or otherwise decorated) and generally free of attachment devices and / or related features. In contrast, the B-surface 102b (also referred to as a B-class surface) is generally a surface that is not visible after assembly and generally includes various attachment devices and / or related features.

[0025] The first panel 102 can include, define, or otherwise be associated with attachment devices and / or related features such as one or more tower portions 108, a doghouse structure 106, etc. Depending on the material type, the attachment devices and / or related features can be formed on the B-surface 102b during molding or coining of the first panel 102, or attached after manufacture (e.g., using an adhesive or mechanical fastener). After assembly, the second panel 104 is at least partially obscured by the first panel 102. The second panel 104 can be, for example, a structural component of a vehicle such as a door, a pillar (e.g., A-pillar, B-pillar, C-pillar, etc.), an instrument panel component (e.g., a cross-car beam member, a bracket, a frame, etc.), a seat frame, a center console, a fender, a sheet metal frame, etc.

[0026] Figure la A clip-based fastening system 100a configured to couple a first panel 102 to a second panel 104 is illustrated. As illustrated, the first panel 102 can include one or more tower portions 108 protruding from the B surface 102b. Each tower portion 108 (sometimes referred to as a tab or protrusion) can be shaped, for example, as a fin or flat tab. To form a blind vision connection between the first panel 102 and the second panel 104, a fastener 112 and the tower portion 108 are inserted into an opening 110 formed in or on a surface of the second panel 104. In some examples, the fastener 112 can be pre-attached to the tower portion 108 or the opening 110 to define a parts-in-assembly (PIA). The tower portion 108 of the first panel 102 is inserted into a channel formed by the fastener 112 to effectively lock the fastener 112 in place within the opening 110, thereby securing the first panel 102 and the second panel 104 to one another. The clip-based fastening system 100a has no rib set variables and allows for a relatively tight assembled distance (D1) between the first panel 102 and the second panel 104. The clip-based fastening system 100a provides a blind vision PIA solution that tightly positions the second panel 104 to the first panel 102 because the tower portion 108 can pass through the opening 110 in the second panel 104 to the B side. Both the length of the fastener 112 and the length of the tower portion 108 determine the protrusion distance (P1) on the B side.

[0027] Figure lb A bump-based fastening system 100b configured to couple a first panel 102 to a second panel 104 is illustrated. As illustrated, the first panel 102 can include one or more bump structures 106 protruding from the B surface 102b. The bump structure 106 allows the first panel 102 to be used with a variety of fasteners 112, such as W-style fasteners, push-on fasteners, and the like. For example, a variety of different fasteners 112 can be designed to have a common head assembly that is sized and shaped to engage with the bump structure 106, thereby enabling interchangeability of the fasteners 112.

[0028] The fastener 112 is coupled to the boss structure 106 and is configured to at least partially pass through the opening 110 and engage the second panel 104. As illustrated, the boss structure 106 increases the post-assembly distance (D2) between the first panel 102 and the second panel 104. Thus, the boss-based fastening system 100b can introduce a barrier to achieve flush panel, blind- vision PIA fastening, as the boss structure 106 occupies the space between the first panel 102 and the second panel 104. As illustrated, the protrusion distance (P2) from the B-side of the second panel 104 is dictated by the length of the fastener 112. Thus, a shorter fastener 112 can be employed to reduce the protrusion distance (P2).

[0029] Figure lc A boss-based second fastening system 100c configured to couple the first panel 102 to the second panel 104 is illustrated. As explained in connection with Figure lb the boss structure 106 can result in a greater post-assembly distance (D3). To reduce the post-assembly distance, the second panel 104 can be shaped to have a concave panel 114 to accommodate the boss structure 106. By using the concave panel 114 and the boss structure 106, the first panel 102 and the second panel 104 can be positioned much closer together to achieve a smaller post-assembly distance (D3). However, the concave panel 114 must be large enough to accommodate the boss structure 106. In some cases, a large concave panel 114 can negatively impact the overall assembly performance and / or appearance of the second panel 104. Further, the concave panel 114 increases the protrusion distance (P3) from the B-side of the second panel 104, thereby reducing the available space on the B-side of the second panel 104.

[0030] Figure Id A boss-based through fastening system 100d is illustrated that is configured to couple the first panel 102 to the second panel 104 while minimizing the post-assembly distance (D4) between the first panel 102 and the second panel 104 and the protrusion distance (P4) from the B-side of the second panel 104. The boss-based through fastening system 100d uses a smaller boss structure 106 that is configured to at least partially pass through the opening 110 in the second panel 104, thereby achieving a small post-assembly distance (D4) comparable to Figure lc the post-assembly distance (D3) of the boss-based fastening system 100b, but without the need for a concave panel 114.

[0031] Figures 2a to 2c An exemplary boss-based through fastening system 100d is illustrated. In particular, Figure 2a an exemplary boss-based through fastening system 100d is illustrated in a perspective assembly view, while Figure Id an exemplary boss-based through fastening system 100d is illustrated in a perspective assembly view, while Figure 2b and Figure 2cpartial assembly and fully assembled perspective views thereof are shown, respectively.

[0032] While blind connections will be primarily described, it should be understood that the present fastening system can be adapted for use with structures other than the first and second panels 102, 104 shown that do not require the blind connections described. Thus, the present fastening system is not limited to blind connections only. Further, while only a single boss structure 106 and a single opening 110 are shown in the example, it should be understood that a given first panel 102 can include multiple boss structures 106 and a second panel 104 can include multiple openings 110 depending on the number of fastener points to be used between the first and second panels 102, 104. In use, the head assembly 210 is slid into the boss structure 106 as shown by the first arrow 202 to form a PIA. Once in place, the fastener 112 can be inserted into the opening 110 of the second panel 104 as shown by the second arrow 204.

[0033] The fastener 112 generally includes a head assembly 210, a neck 212, a neck ring 214, and one or more retention features 216. The head assembly 210 is configured to engage the boss structure 106 of the first panel 102. The neck 212 coupling the head assembly 210 to the neck ring 214 is generally narrower than the head assembly 210 and the neck ring 214. The neck ring 214 is configured to enter and engage (or otherwise retain) the second panel 104 via, for example, the opening 110. As can be appreciated, a portion of the neck 212 can also pass through the opening 110. The neck ring 214 can be secured within the opening 110 via one or more retention features 216, which can be outwardly biased legs coupled to the neck ring 214. In some examples, the neck ring 214 can be omitted, in which case the retention features 216 can be directly coupled to the neck 212. The retention features 216 can include a return arm 216a that is resiliently connected to the neck ring 214 that deflects when an end of the fastener 112 is inserted into the opening 110 of the second panel 104. A catch structure 216b (e.g., a boss, lip, etc.) can be coupled to a distal end of the return arm 216a to engage the second panel 104 (e.g., at a perimeter of the opening 110). The retention features 216 are relatively rigid to outward forces, and thus, once the neck ring 214 (or neck 212) has passed through the opening 110, the retention features lock the neck ring (or neck) in place within the second panel 104. Additionally, the fastener 112 can be configured to engage one or more features of the second panel 104.

[0034] The fastener 112 can be manufactured in various sizes depending on the application. The fastener 112 shown can be described as a "W-type" fastener because when viewed from the side, it generally resembles a "W," as shown in Figures lb to IdThe W-shaped fastener provides an introduction feature for finding the opening 110. While the fastener 112 is generally described and shown as a W-shaped fastener, as will be discussed in connection with Figures 3a to 3d the fastener 112 can employ other types of fasteners for use with the convex-hat based through fastening system 100d.

[0035] The opening 110 can be generally rectangular and define a size and shape that is complementary to the size and shape of the fastener 112 such that the fastener 112 can be inserted and retained in the opening. However, other shaped openings 110 are contemplated. Thus, the opening 110 can be rectangular, rounded rectangular (e.g., stadium shape), circular Figures 6a to 6d ), oval, or any other suitable shape.

[0036] As shown, the second panel 104 is sized and shaped to define at the convex-hat structure 106. The convex-hat structure 106 serves as a receptacle for the head assembly 210 of the fastener 112. It is desirable to insert and retain the head assembly 210 of the fastener 112 in the cavity 218. As shown, the convex-hat structure 106 is comprised of a set of convex-hat sidewalls 220 that define the cavity 218 therebetween. The convex-hat sidewalls 220 can include one or more features shaped to enhance engagement with the head assembly 210, such as an interference feature 222. In some examples, the interference feature 222 can exhibit a soft click when the fastener 112 is secured in the cavity 218. The convex-hat structure 106 provides a clear path from one or more insertion openings to the cavity 218. In the example shown, the fastener 112 is able to slide from one of two insertion openings into the cavity 218 of the convex-hat structure 106. For example, the fastener 112 would be able to slide as shown by arrow 202 or in the opposite direction. It is contemplated that the convex-hat structure 106 can be molded during molding of the first panel 102; however, in some examples, they can be manufactured separately and joined to one another (e.g., using an adhesive, mechanical fasteners, etc.).

[0037] It is contemplated that the convex-hat structure 106 is modified in size and shape to suit various applications. For example, while two opposing convex-hat sidewalls 220 are shown, in some examples, the convex-hat structure 106 can further include a convex-hat end wall formed to bridge the gap between the set of convex-hat sidewalls 220, thereby walling off three of the four sides of the cavity 218. In this example, the fastener 112 would only be able to slide from a single insertion opening into the cavity 218 of the convex-hat structure 106, but movement would be restricted at the three sides.

[0038] As will become apparent, it is sometimes useful to assemble the first panel 102 and the second panel 104 by first inserting the fastener 112 into the boss structure 106 of the first panel 102 (as shown by the first arrow 202) to form a PIA and subsequently inserting the fastener 112 of the PIA into the opening 110 of the second panel 104 (as shown by the second arrow 204). In some examples, to assemble the boss-based through fastening system 100d, the head assembly 210 of the fastener 112 is slid laterally over the surface of the first panel 102 and into the cavity 218 until the fastener 112 stops (e.g., against a wall) or otherwise aligns between the boss sidewalls 220. In some examples, the fastener 112 is held in place by interference features 222, which can exhibit a soft click when the fastener 112 is secured in the cavity 218. The fastener 112, now a PIA component assembled with the first panel 102 Figure 2b , can be shipped to a customer (e.g., original equipment manufacturer (OEM)). The OEM can then assemble the PIA component with a second panel (e.g., a vehicle panel) via all of the fasteners 112 coupled to the second panel, as Figure 2c illustrated.

[0039] The boss structure 106 can either fixably position the head assembly 210 of the fastener 112 or, if desired, provide the fastener 112 with a certain linear freedom of movement (e.g., float) within the cavity 218. While smaller bosses can limit the positional float of the head assembly 210 within the cavity 218, positional freedom requirements can be achieved through the opening 110. Thus, the boss-based through fastening system 100d enables the boss structure 106 to directly interact with the opening 110 to allow the fastener 112 (such as a W-fastener) to be part of a reference or positioning solution.

[0040] The opening 110 can be sized to provide a desired amount of longitudinal movement 208a and / or lateral movement 208b. In some examples, the boss-based through fastening system 100d can be configured to accommodate bidirectional assembly tolerances or float (e.g., due to thermal growth) in the longitudinal direction (length) of the opening 110. The tolerance in the longitudinal direction can be, for example, about ±1 mm to ±5 mm or about ±3 mm. In other examples, a quad-directional version of the boss-based through fastening system 100d is contemplated, with tolerances in the lateral direction (width) as well as the longitudinal direction. The tolerance in the longitudinal direction can be, for example, about ±1 mm to ±3 mm or about ±1 mm. In some examples, the lateral direction tolerance is less than the longitudinal direction tolerance, resulting in an asymmetric tolerance or float solution (e.g., the longitudinal direction tolerance can be ±3 mm, while the lateral direction tolerance can be ±1 mm). For example, as Figure 2cAs most clearly shown, opening 110 can be elongated along its longitudinal axis to define a movement clearance 206 that allows longitudinal movement 208a. The amount of lateral tolerance is determined by the type of fastener 112 used. For example, the width of opening 110 cannot be wider than the width of retaining feature 216 when expanded, because snap-fit ​​structure 216b will need to engage a portion of opening 110. In some examples, the dimensions of opening 110 can be designed to provide minimal longitudinal movement 208a and / or lateral movement 208b, for example, with an assembly clearance of approximately ±0.25 mm.

[0041] Those skilled in the art will understand that the principle of the through-type fastening system 100d based on the convex cover can be used with various types of fasteners 112, provided that the head assembly 210 is configured to engage the convex cover structure 106.

[0042] The ends of the fastener 112 (e.g., neck 212 and / or collar 214) can be shaped into any desired type of fastener 112. Figures 3a to 3d The following fasteners are shown: push-to-open fastener 112a, pin and grommets (P&G) fastener 112b, box-fork fastener 112c, and special fastener 112d (e.g., available from...). Centerlok obtained TM Fasteners). Figure 3a The push-button fastener 112a shown (sometimes called tree, pine, Christmas tree, etc.) includes multiple barbs or teeth along its length. See reference. Figure 3b P&G fastener 112b is a reusable two-piece fastener with a low insertion value. P&G fastener 112b can be a single-position fastener or a multi-position fastener. Each of the aforementioned fasteners may include a head assembly 210 configured to engage the hood structure 106 and, instead of a W-type fastener, be used to secure components and panels very tightly to each other while still using the hood structure 106. In some examples, such as Figure 3c The illustrated through-hole fastening system 100d based on a hood may include a seal 302 positioned between the first panel 102 and the second panel 104. For example, the seal 302 may be used to mitigate leakage of dust, dirt, and / or moisture through the opening 110. The seal 302 may be implemented as a ring (e.g., annulus) and made of foam material, thermoplastic, rubber, etc. For example, as illustrated, the seal 302 may be configured to surround the hood structure 106 between the first panel 102 and the second panel 104. In some examples, the through-hole fastening system 100d based on a hood may include additional features such as ribs and wings.

[0043] Figure 4a and Figure 4bAn example convex based through fastening system 100d configured with a rib 402 is shown. When assembled, the rib 402 is positioned between the first panel 102 and the second panel 104 at the interface between the convex structure 106 and the first panel 102. The rib 402 acts as a buttress to reinforce the strength and support of the convex structure 106 (e.g., the convex sidewall 220), while also controlling over travel when desired or needed. Accordingly, in some examples, the fastener 112 includes one or more ribs 402 configured to support the convex structure 106 and control over travel.

[0044] Figure 5a And Figure 5b An example convex based through fastening system 100d configured with a rib 402 and a wing 502 is shown. The wing 502 (which can be flexible) helps control over travel and mitigate BSR. When assembled, the rib 402 and the wing 502 are positioned between the first panel 102 and the second panel 104. As shown, the wing 502 is coupled to the head assembly 210 (e.g., near the retention feature 216) and is biased to push against the second panel 104 when assembled, effectively acting as a spring between the first panel 102 and the second panel 104 to absorb motion between the first and second panels.

[0045] While the convex structure 106 is shown as generally rectangular, other shapes are also contemplated, including other quadrilaterals (e.g., squares) and rounded shapes (e.g., circles and ovals). For example, Figures 6a to 6d An example convex based through fastening system having a generally circular convex structure 602 and a fastener 112 (also shown as a W-style fastener) is shown. Like the convex based through fastening system of Figures 2a to 2c The convex structure 602 includes a set of convex sidewalls 220; however, the convex sidewalls 220 are shaped to define a generally circular outer perimeter.

[0046] Figure 7is a flowchart representing an exemplary method 700 of coupling a first panel 102 to a second panel 104 using a boss-based through fastening system having a boss structure 106 and a fastener 112. The fastener 112 has a head assembly 210 and a neck 212. At step 702, the head assembly 210 is slid across a surface of the first panel 102 into a cavity 218 of the boss structure 106. At step 704, at least a portion of the neck 212 and / or a neck ring 214 is passed through an opening 110 formed in the second panel 104. The neck 212 and / or the neck ring 214 is configured to engage the second panel 104 via a retention feature 216. In some examples, the retention feature 216 includes a return arm 216a that is elastically connected to the neck ring 214, the return arm being coupled to the neck ring 214 and configured to deflect when the neck ring 214 is passed through the opening 110. As mentioned above, in some examples, the retention feature 216 is coupled to the neck 212 and the neck ring 214 is omitted. At step 706, at least a portion of the boss structure 106 is passed through the opening 110.

[0047] While the present method and / or system has been described with reference to certain implementations, it will be understood by those skilled in the art that various changes can be made and equivalents can be substituted for elements without departing from the scope of the present method and / or system. In addition, many modifications can be made to adapt a particular situation or material to the teachings of the present disclosure without departing from its scope. For example, block diagrams and / or components of disclosed examples can be combined, divided, re arranged, and / or otherwise modified. Therefore, the present method and / or system are not limited to the particular implementations disclosed. Instead, the present method and / or system will include all implementations falling within the scope of the appended claims, both literally and under the doctrine of equivalents.

Claims

1. A fastener for forming a blind connection between a first panel and a second panel, the fastener comprising: Header component; as well as A retaining feature that extends outward from the fastener at an end opposite to the head assembly; The fastener is configured to attach the first panel and the second panel abutting each other, the first panel having a convex structure and the second panel having an opening formed therethrough. The opening is positioned around the convex cover structure, and the head assembly is positioned within the convex cover structure to form the blind connection. The retaining feature includes a return arm that is elastically connected via a neck ring to the end opposite the head assembly and is configured to deflect when the neck ring passes through the opening.

2. The fastener as claimed in claim 1, wherein, The convex structure defines a cavity configured to receive and secure the head assembly.

3. The fastener as claimed in claim 2, wherein, When assembled, the opening is positioned around the convex structure, and the head assembly is positioned within the convex structure to form the blind connection. The convex shield structure and the head assembly are configured to at least partially pass through the opening.

4. The fastener as claimed in claim 1, wherein, The fastener is a W-type fastener.

5. The fastener as claimed in claim 1, wherein, The fasteners are push-type fasteners and / or pin and grommet fasteners.

6. The fastener as claimed in claim 1, wherein, The fastener includes one or more ribs configured to support the convex structure and control overtravel.

7. The fastener as claimed in claim 6, wherein, The one or more ribs are located at the interface between the convex structure and the first panel.

8. The fastener as claimed in claim 1, wherein, The fastener includes a wing that is coupled to the head assembly and shaped as an elastic element to absorb movement between the first panel and the second panel.

9. The fastener of claim 1, further comprising a seal configured to surround the convex structure between the first panel and the second panel.

10. The fastener as claimed in claim 1, wherein, The retaining feature is configured to engage the second panel via a snap-fit.

11. The fastener as claimed in claim 10, wherein, The buckle is configured to engage the second panel at a location adjacent to the convex structure.

12. A fastening system, comprising: A first panel, the first panel having a first surface and a second surface; A convex cover structure formed on the second surface, wherein the convex cover structure defines a cavity; A second panel, the second panel defining the opening; and A fastener having a head assembly and a retaining feature extending outwardly from the fastener at an end opposite to the head assembly. The cavity is configured to receive the head assembly, and the retaining feature is configured to pass through the opening into the second panel and retain the second panel. The convex shield structure is configured to at least partially extend through the opening, and The retaining feature includes a return arm that is elastically connected via a neck ring to the end opposite the head assembly and is configured to deflect when the neck ring passes through the opening.

13. The fastening system of claim 12, wherein, The first surface is surface A, and the second surface is surface B.

14. The fastening system of claim 12, wherein, The fastener includes a retaining feature configured to engage with the second panel via a snap-fit.

15. The fastening system of claim 12, wherein, The fastener is a W-type fastener.

16. The fastening system of claim 12, wherein, The fastener includes a wing, which is shaped as an elastic element to absorb movement between the first panel and the second panel.

17. The fastening system of claim 12, wherein, The head assembly is configured to at least partially pass through the opening.

18. The fastening system of claim 12, wherein, The opening is sized to provide the required amount of longitudinal or lateral movement.

19. The fastening system of claim 12, wherein, The opening is sized to provide a minimum amount of longitudinal or lateral movement.

20. The fastening system of claim 19, wherein the minimum amount is ±0.25 mm.

21. The fastening system of claim 12, wherein the opening corresponds to the outer periphery of the convex cover structure.

22. A method for forming a blind connection between a first panel and a second panel via a convex shield structure and fasteners having a head assembly and a neck, the method comprising: The head assembly is slid across the surface of the first panel into the cavity of the convex structure; At least a portion of the neck passes through an opening formed in the second panel; as well as At least a portion of the convex shield structure passes through the opening. The neck is configured to engage the second panel via a retaining feature, wherein the retaining feature includes a return arm that is resiliently connected via a neck ring to an end opposite the head assembly and is configured to deflect when the neck ring passes through the opening.

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