Metal retaining clip

Abstract

A retaining clip (100) configured to fixedly connect a first component with a second component. The retaining clip (100) includes a first skeleton (104) connected with an opposing second skeleton (104) by a central beam (102). An interior (105) of the clip (100) is defined between the first and second skeletons (104). Each of the first and second skeletons (104) includes a lateral foot (106) that is folded inward at an upper bend (108) forming a ledge (110) disposed in the interior (105). The ledges (110) of respective sides of the clip (100) are integrally connected by a bridging member (112), and the ledges (110) further include distal ends (114) that extend below a bottom edge (116) of the bridging member (112). The clip (100) further includes a flexible wing (120) for securing the clip (100) within an interior of a panel opening. Some embodiments of the retaining clip include a protrusion (118) extending inward from the bridging member (112).

Description

[0001] Cross-reference to related applications

[0002] This application relates to U.S. Patent Application No. 17 / 150,665, filed January 15, 2021, and is a continuation to U.S. Design Patent Application No. 29 / 721,330, filed January 20, 2020, entitled “Fastening Clip,” and claims priority to U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 62 / 962,497, filed January 17, 2020, entitled “Metal Retention Clip,” all of which are incorporated herein by reference in their entirety. Technical Field

[0003] The embodiments disclosed herein generally relate to fasteners, and more specifically to retaining clips configured to connect or join multiple components to each other. Background Technology

[0004] Multiple different components are secured together using retaining clips. For example, sheet metal, thin plates, and frames can be secured together using fastener assemblies that include convex fasteners that securely engage with concave fasteners. As another example, retaining clips can be used to secure two or more components together. In the automotive industry, clips can be used to securely connect self-supporting components to vehicle panels.

[0005] Clips can be used to secure a first component (such as a rib) to a second component (such as a plate). For example, the clip can define an interior for receiving and holding the rib, and a fastening member can be pushed into a slot in the plate.

[0006] U.S. Patent No. 6,796,006, entitled "Rib Clip," discloses a rib clip. U.S. Patent No. 7,640,634, entitled "Ergonomic Fastener," discloses a clamping fastener. U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2015 / 0026933, entitled "Clips," discloses a clip having a main clamp body configured to insert into mounting holes in a plate and mount to a clamping base. U.S. Patent No. 6,796,006, entitled "Rib Clip," discloses a retaining clip comprising a U-shaped body having a pair of legs that are flexibly connected at their bottom ends and spaced apart to receive a blade fastener between them. U.S. Patent No. 9,080,588, entitled "Quick Fastening Clip," discloses a clip having a body including flexible legs and flexible wings. The flexible legs provide means for engagement with retaining studs upon folding, and the flexible wings extend outward from the clip body to retain the clip within an opening in a plate.

[0007] The aforementioned prior art fasteners highlight the general principles of currently known fasteners, which include fastening members, i.e., clamps, configured to receive and engage with a first component, such as a rib. These prior art fasteners are further configured to be introduced through a slot in a second component, such as a plate, and include means for engaging with the second component.

[0008] Some known clips, such as the one disclosed in U.S. Patent No. 10,704,577, include outwardly extending flanges that lie on the outer surface of the sheet when the clip is inserted through an opening in the sheet. However, such clips are not suitable for use with sheets having irregular outer surfaces or varying thickness dimensions in the joint area. In these cases, the flanges cannot be flush with the outer surface of the sheet.

[0009] The use of plastic retaining clips has also increased, with many new assemblies, including those in automobiles, adopting the cheaper form of metal clips in plastic. However, known disadvantages of plastic clips also exist. When used on ribs, plastic fasteners require recesses or holes to be molded or stamped into the plastic rib where the clip will be mounted, adding to the manufacturing process. Furthermore, the hole receives the protrusions of the clip's spring-like legs to hold the clip on the plastic rib, further increasing manufacturing complexity. Summary of the Invention

[0010] A retaining clip is needed that securely and effectively connects to one or more components. Furthermore, a clip that can resist pull-out without adversely affecting the components is needed, as well as a clip that is easy to manufacture and assemble.

[0011] Regarding these and other considerations, certain embodiments of this disclosure provide a retaining clip configured to securely connect a first component, such as a rib, to a second component, such as a plate. The retaining clip may include an overall U-shaped body comprising opposing first and second skeletons extending from a central flange. The opposing first and second skeletons include: lateral feet including means for retaining the inserted first component during folding; and a flexible outer flange for retaining the clip within an opening in the second component.

[0012] In some embodiments, the retaining clip is configured to be fixedly coupled to a first component to form a sub-assembly, and the sub-assembly is configured to be securely coupled to a second component to form an assembly.

[0013] In some embodiments, the retaining clip includes a generally U-shaped body comprising a first frame and an opposing second frame connected at a central beam. The clip includes an interior defined between the opposing first and second frames. The first and second frames include lateral feet that fold inward at upper bends to form flanges disposed within the interior, and these flanges generally face the central beam. The flanges of the first frame are integrally connected by a first bridging member, and the flanges of the second frame are integrally connected by a second bridging member. In some embodiments, each of the first and second bridging members includes a bottom edge, and the distal end of the flange extends below the bottom edge of the bridging member. In some embodiments, the bridging members may further include protrusions extending inwardly from the bottom edges of these bridging members.

[0014] In some embodiments, the generally U-shaped retaining clip includes flanges integrally connected by bridging members, wherein these bridging members include protrusions extending inward toward a central longitudinal plane of the clip. In some embodiments, the protrusions may be centrally located between the flanges. In some embodiments, the protrusions include a serrated structure comprising a sloping surface that regularly extends back and forth toward the central longitudinal plane of the clip. In some embodiments, the protrusions on a first frame of the clip are structurally mirror images of the protrusions on an opposing second frame.

[0015] In some embodiments, the clamp includes an overall U-shaped body comprising opposing first and second frames connected by a central beam. Both the first and second frames include flexible wings extending outward and upward from the central beam. When the clamp is pushed through an opening in the plate, a portion of the flexible wings is configured to firmly abut against an inner surface of the plate. In some embodiments, the wings include contact tabs extending inward from an upper shoulder of the clamp. The contact tabs include contact surfaces configured to firmly abut against a surface inside an opening or hole in the second component.

[0016] Some embodiments of this disclosure provide an assembly including a first component, a second component defining an opening, a retaining clip securely coupled to the first component to form a sub-assembly, and an assembly wherein the sub-assembly is securely coupled to the second component. In some embodiments, the second component may have a variable thickness in the region of the opening.

[0017] In some embodiments, the retaining clip includes a first frame connected to an opposing second frame via a central flange. In some embodiments, the opposing first and second frames include: folded lateral feet having means for retaining the first component; and flexible external wings configured to engage with the second component. Attached Figure Description

[0018] Figure 1 The illustration shows a top left isometric view of a retaining clip according to an embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0019] Figure 2 The diagram shows Figure 1 Isometric view of the front right side of the retaining clip from below;

[0020] Figure 3 yes Figure 1 Front elevation view of the retaining clip;

[0021] Figure 4 yes Figure 1 Top view of the retaining clip;

[0022] Figure 5 The diagram shows Figure 1 A bottom view of the retaining clip;

[0023] Figure 6 The figure shows an exploded perspective view of a retaining clip assembly, which includes... Figure 1 The retaining clip is shown separate from the first and second components, wherein the second component defines a plate having a non-constant thickness;

[0024] Figure 7 The illustration shows the assembly configuration. Figure 6 A partial cross-sectional view of the front of the retaining clip assembly; and

[0025] Figure 8 The illustration shows a partial front cross-sectional view of another retaining clip assembly, which includes... Figure 1 The retaining clip is shown as being coupled to a first component and a second component, wherein the second component defines a plate having a constant thickness.

[0026] Before explaining the embodiments of this disclosure in detail, it should be understood that the application of this disclosure is not limited to the details of the construction and arrangement of the components set forth in the following description or shown in the accompanying drawings. This disclosure can have other embodiments and can be practiced or implemented in a variety of different ways. Moreover, it should be understood that the wording and terminology used herein are for descriptive purposes and should not be considered limiting. The use of "comprising" and "including" and variations thereof means to cover the items listed thereafter and their equivalents, as well as additional items and their equivalents. Detailed Implementation

[0027] Embodiments of this disclosure provide a retaining clip configured to securely bind a first component and a second component together to define a retaining clip assembly. The retaining clip may be formed of metal. One of the first or second components may include a sheet or rib structure that may be formed of a thermoplastic material. The other of the first or second component may include a rectangular opening and may be formed of a thermoplastic material. Such a component allows for relatively low insertion forces to be ergonomically designed and effectively resists undesirable pull-out. In alternative embodiments, one or both of the first and second components may be formed of a metallic material or a combination of known materials.

[0028] The retaining clip can be formed from a uniform metal strip (such as steel) through a trimming, bending, and shaping process. It has been found that the retaining clip disclosed herein maintains a connection with the component during pull-out, can be used for multiple installations and pull-outs, and maintains structural integrity during uneven loading and angled pull-outs. In alternative embodiments, the retaining clip can be formed from other materials, such as thermoplastics, composite materials, or combinations of materials. However, it has been observed that a better secure connection is formed when the clip is formed from a material that is harder than the materials constituting the first and second components.

[0029] To secure the retaining clip to the component, it can first be secured to the rib member, i.e., the first component, to form a sub-assembly. In practice, this process can be performed by the original equipment manufacturer's supplier. This process can be repeated multiple times for each component to prepare multiple fastening points. Next, the sub-assembly, including the retaining clip and rib member, is positioned relative to another component, i.e., the second component, which may include at least one opening, such as one or more rectangular openings. The sub-assembly is then pushed axially toward the second component such that the opening engages with the clip and rib structure.

[0030] Now for reference Figure 1 and Figure 2 The illustration shows an isometric front view of a retaining clip 100 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. The retaining clip 100 generally includes a U-shaped body comprising opposing skeletons 104 connected together by a central beam or body 102. The central body 102 is generally rectangular and connects to the opposing skeletons 104 at its curved lower shoulder. An opening 105 of the interior 105 of the retaining clip 100 is defined between the opposing skeletons 104, and the retaining clip 100 is configured to receive a first component 200 within the interior 105 to form a sub-assembly with the first component 200. Unless otherwise stated herein, the retaining clip 100 is a one-piece component, and all elements of the retaining clip 100 are integrally connected to each other.

[0031] Still referencing Figure 1 and Figure 2 Lateral feet 106 extend upward from the curved lower shoulder of the opposing frame 104. Each foot 106 is integrally connected to an upper bend 108, which bends inward toward the central longitudinal plane 150 of the retaining clip 100 via a fold (see...). Figure 3 The bend 108 is integrally connected to the inner flanges 110, which are slightly inclined relative to the lateral foot 106 and extend in the interior 105 along the direction of the central body 102. The inner flanges 110 of the corresponding skeleton 104 are integrally joined by bridging members 112. In some embodiments, the inner flanges 110 are also substantially parallel to each other.

[0032] Still referencing Figure 1 and Figure 2 The distal end 114 of the inner flange 110 extends beyond the bridging member 112 along the direction of the central body 102. The inner flange 110, bridging member 112, and distal end 114 together form support surfaces configured to abut against the outer surface of the first component 200 after assembly (see [link to relevant documentation]). Figure 7 and Figure 8It is worth noting that the components described herein are constructed in a manner that facilitates the introduction of the first component 200 into the retaining clip 100 while minimizing the mutual contact area that causes the two to engage.

[0033] For details, please refer to the following: Figure 2 Each bridging member in the bridging members 112 includes a bottom edge 116, and one or more protrusions 118 extend from the bottom edge 116 toward the interior 105 of the retaining clip 100. The protrusions 118 are illustrated as extending downwardly and inwardly curved from the bottom edge 116 toward the central longitudinal plane 150 of the retaining clip 100, as shown below. Figure 3 and Figure 4 As shown most clearly in the image. The opposing protrusion 118 is configured to engage or clamp onto the first component 200 and provides the main means for maintaining the connection between the first component 200 and the retaining clip 100.

[0034] In the illustrated embodiment, the opposing protrusions 118 include mirrored serrated structures (i.e., "zigzag" structures). That is, the opposing protrusions 118 are structurally mirrored and include sloping surfaces that extend regularly back and forth along the general direction of the central longitudinal plane 150. The opposing mirrored protrusions 118 are configured to maintain contact with the first component 200 to prevent clicking and to maintain a fixed axially aligned connection with the first component 200. The serrated structure of the protrusions 118 in... Figure 4 The most clearly shown is the protrusion 118 described herein, which exhibits better retention and improved resistance to deformation compared to prior art barbed fasteners.

[0035] Functionally, the upper bend 108 of the retaining clip 100 causes the inner flange 110 to behave like a torsion spring. Accordingly, the magnitude of the compressive force applied to the first component 200 by the mirrored protrusion 118 is determined in part by the distance between the protrusion 118 and the upper bend 108. This configuration allows clip manufacturers to produce clips whose distance between the upper bend 108 and the protrusion 118 is optimized (in terms of their retaining strength) to suit the specific needs of a given application.

[0036] like Figure 3 As shown, the protrusion 118 is spaced apart from the upper curved portion by a first vertical distance D1, and the protrusion 118 is spaced apart from the central body 102 by a second vertical distance D2, which is smaller than the first distance D1. However, it should be understood that alternative embodiments of the retaining clip 100 of the present invention may include alternative configurations in which the distances between the protrusion 118, the central body 102, and the upper curved portion 108 are different from the distances shown in the figure.

[0037] refer to Figure 1-4The retaining clip 100 of this disclosure also includes means for securely engaging with the second component 202. Specifically, the retaining clip 100 includes flexible outer flanges or wings 120 disposed between lateral feet 106, flaring outward from the lower shoulders of opposing frames 104 and extending upward from the central body 102. The flexible wings 120 include upper shoulders 122, which include inwardly curved portions toward a central longitudinal plane 150. The shoulders 122 are integrally connected to contact tabs 124, which include outer surfaces 125 for contacting a portion of a panel opening 210 in the interior 216 of the panel (see [link to relevant documentation]). Figure 7 and Figure 8 ).

[0038] Now for reference Figure 6-8 The retaining clip 100 is configured to initially engage with the first component 200 to form the subassembly 300. Figure 6 The illustration shows a front perspective view of a retaining clip 100 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure, which is separate from a first component 200 and a second component 202. The first component 200 may be a rib member including a flat body 204 terminating at a lower end 212. The retaining clip 100 has the capability to allow the lower end 212 of the first component 200 to rest against the central body 102 of the clip without requiring additional features (on the first component 200) that serve as retaining aids or positioning elements, such as openings or other features.

[0039] The assembly process includes an initial pre-assembly to securely connect the retaining clip 100 to the first component 200. Pre-assembly involves sliding the first component 200 into the interior 105 of the clip 100, such that the first component 200 is vertically aligned with the central longitudinal plane 150 of the clip 100, and the lower end or distal end 212 of the first component 200 generally faces the central body 102. An inner flange 110 of the clip 100 ensures that the first component 200 is guided into gradual insertion, the distal end 212 of which opens the inner flange 110 to facilitate insertion until the distal end 212 reaches the protrusion 118. Continued sliding of the first component 200 past the protrusion 118 further opens the inner flange 110 until the distal end 212 of the first component 200 abuts against the upper surface of the central body 102. When the first component 200 is fully inserted, the protrusion 118 engages with the outer surface of the flat body 204 of the first component 200.

[0040] During insertion of the first component 200, the outward expansion of the inner flange 110 is caused by a push provided by the end 212, thus making the protrusion 118 less likely to poke, cut, or otherwise damage the first component 200. Opposite mirror protrusions 118 are configured to remain in contact with the first component 200 to prevent clicking and to maintain a fixed axially aligned connection with the first component 200. As shown, the protrusions 118 are mirror images of each other and located on opposite sides of the central longitudinal plane 150. The protrusions 118 are configured to provide desired interference with the first component 200, limit clicking, and maintain ergonomic installation effort.

[0041] refer to Figure 1-4 The clip 100 further includes means for securing it within the opening 210 of the second component 202. In the illustrated embodiment, the retaining clip 100 includes flexible wings 120 that curve upward and outward from the central body 102. The flexible wings 120 do not extend beyond the height of the upper curve 108. The flexible wings 120 include contact tabs 124 that face inward from the upper shoulder 122. Opposing protrusions 118 can engage with the surfaces of the first component 200 (on opposite sides) without abutting each other, and the contact tabs 124 are positioned such that they do not interfere with the first component during assembly with the retaining clip 100.

[0042] Figure 6 A perspective view of a retaining clip 100, separate from a first component 200 and a second component 202, is illustrated according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. The retaining clip 100 is securely connected to the first component 200 and the second component 202 to form an assembly 400. As described above, the retaining clip 100 includes a first frame 104 connected to an opposing second frame 104 via a central body 102. The first component 200 may be a rib member having a flat body 204, and the second component 202 may include a plate having a rectangular opening 210 formed therethrough. Figure 6 and Figure 7 The second component 202 shown includes plates with two different thicknesses (T1 and T2) in the region of the opening 210. Figure 8 In the middle, the second component 202 includes a plate with a uniform thickness.

[0043] like Figure 6As shown, the first component 200 is vertically oriented, while the second component 202 is horizontally oriented. Optionally, the orientation of the first component 202 and the second component 202 may differ from that shown. The retaining clip 100 is configured to orthogonally and securely connect the first component 200 and the second component 202. To secure the first component 202 and the second component 202 together, the first component 200 is pushed onto the retaining clip 100 in the direction of arrow A. Optionally, the retaining clip 100 may be pushed toward the first component 200 in the opposite direction to arrow A.

[0044] The retaining clip 100 according to this disclosure does not include attachment features configured to abut against any outer surface 214 of the second component 202. Instead, attachment between the retaining clip 100 and the second component 202 occurs via a flexible wing 120 that springs outward from the clip 100 as the clip passes through the opening 210. The flexible wing 120 includes a contact tab 124 that bends inward from an outer shoulder 122 to abut against an inner surface 216 of the second component 202 immediately adjacent to the opening 210. Accordingly, the retaining clip 100 of the present invention is suitable for use with any variation of the second component 202, provided that they include an generally flat inner surface 216 in the region of the opening 210.

[0045] Figure 7 The illustration shows a front view of the retaining clip 100, which is secured to the first component 200 to form the sub-assembly 300. Further, the sub-assembly 300 is then inserted through the opening 210 of the second component 202 to complete the entire assembly 400. Figure 7 In the illustrated embodiment, the second component 202 may include an irregular outer surface and comprise two plate thicknesses T1, T2 in the region of the hole 210. As described above, the retaining clip 100 of this disclosure is suitable for connecting the first component 200 to a plate that does not have a uniform thickness. However, the clip of this disclosure still has the ability to connect to conventional plates of a single thickness, and Figure 8 The illustration shows a retaining clamp assembly 400 comprising a plate having a single uniform thickness.

[0046] To secure the retaining clip 100 (or sub-assembly 300) to the second component 202, align the central body 102 of the clip 100 with the opening 210 of the second component 202. Then push the clip 100 (or sub-assembly 300) into the opening 210 in the direction of arrow B. Alternatively, the second component 202 can be pushed toward the sub-assembly 300 in the opposite direction. As the retaining clip 100 is pushed through the opening 210 of the second component 202, the flexible wing 120 (such as...) Figure 1-5(As shown) it is pressed inward toward the central longitudinal plane 150. After the retaining clip 100 is fully inserted through the opening 210, the flexible wings 120 spring outward, so that they extend laterally beyond the outer peripheral edge of the opening 210, thereby securing the retaining clip 100 within the opening 210.

[0047] The flexible wing 120 includes contact tabs 124, the surfaces 125 or portions of which are configured to abut against and engage by pressure with the inner surface 216 or edge of the second component 202 that is touched when the clamp passes through the opening 210. The contact tabs 124 are angled such that an attempt to pull out the retaining clamp 100 applies pressure to the tabs 124, which causes the flexible wings 120 to open laterally away from each other, thereby forming a fixed interference fit between the subassembly 300 and the second component 202.

[0048] Each wing 120 may be oriented at an angle less than 45 degrees relative to the central longitudinal plane 150 of the retaining clip 100. In at least one embodiment, the wing 120 may be oriented at an angle between 20 and 30 degrees relative to the central longitudinal plane 150. In this way, the wing 120 is oriented at a relatively small angle relative to the central longitudinal plane 150, which allows for ergonomically effective insertion while providing a secure holding force. Optionally, this angle may be less than twenty degrees or greater than thirty degrees.

[0049] The structure of the opposing protrusion 118 ensures that it does not obstruct the first component when the retaining clip 100 is engaged with the first component 200. Furthermore, the distal end 114 has increased axial alignment tolerances, allowing the first component 200 to be guided for a fixed engagement with the retaining clip 100 without requiring a specific and particular insertion angle between the retaining clip 100 and the first component 200. This makes the installation process relatively quick and easy.

[0050] Compared to various known clamping fasteners, retaining clip 100 offers better retention and maintainability. Retaining clip 100 is capable of positioning the end of the first component 200 during assembly with the first component 200 without requiring additional positioning or fixing structures on the first component 200. Retaining clip 100 provides a fastening system capable of securing to plates with varying thicknesses or irregular external surfaces. Retaining clip 100 can withstand multiple installations and removals without excessive deformation of either the clip or the assembly. Retaining clip 100 exhibits superior performance compared to various known clamping fasteners. Retaining clip 100 limits deformation of the rectangular opening 210 of the second component 202 during installation and removal. Furthermore, compared to some known clamping fasteners that are easily detached from the structure, retaining clip 100 maintains structural integrity during angled loading and removal.

[0051] While various spatial and directional terms such as top, bottom, lower, middle, side, horizontal, vertical, and front may be used to describe embodiments of this disclosure, it should be understood that such terms are used only with respect to the orientations shown in the accompanying drawings. These orientations may be inverted, rotated, or otherwise altered, such that upper is lower, or vice versa, horizontal becomes vertical, etc.

[0052] Variations and modifications to the foregoing are within the scope of this disclosure. It should be understood that the embodiments disclosed and defined herein extend to all alternative combinations of two or more individual features mentioned in or apparent from the text and / or drawings. All these different combinations constitute a variety of different alternative aspects of this disclosure. The claims should be interpreted as encompassing alternative embodiments within the scope permitted by the prior art.

[0053] Within the scope of use of the appended claims, the terms “including” and “in which” are used as plain English equivalents to the corresponding terms “comprising” and “wherein”. Furthermore, within the scope of use of the following claims, the terms “first,” “second,” and “third,” etc., are used merely as notations and are not intended to impose numerical requirements on their objects. Moreover, the limitations of the following claims are not written in a functionally definitive form, nor are they intended to be interpreted based on 35 U.S.SC §112(f), unless and until such a claim limitation explicitly uses the phrase “means for…” followed by a functional description without further structural details.

[0054] Various features of this disclosure are set forth in the following claims.

Claims

1. A retaining clip configured to securely connect a first component and a second component, the retaining clip comprising: A first frame, connected to an opposing second frame at a central beam, wherein the interior of the retaining clip is defined between the opposing first and second frames, each of the first and second frames comprising: An external lateral foot, wherein the external lateral foot folds inward at the upper bend to form an internal flange, the internal flange being disposed within the interior and generally facing the central beam, wherein the internal flange is integrally connected by a bridging member, and wherein the lower distal end of the internal flange extends below the bottom edge of the bridging member; and A flexible wing extending upward and outward from the central beam, wherein a portion of the flexible wing is configured to firmly abut against the surface of the second component; and Each of the first and second skeletons further includes a protrusion extending downward from the bottom edge of the bridging member; and Each protrusion includes a serrated structure having a sloping surface extending along the central longitudinal plane of the retaining clip.

2. The retaining clip as claimed in claim 1, wherein, The retaining clip is configured to be securely coupled to the first component to form a sub-assembly, and wherein the sub-assembly is configured to be securely coupled to the second component to form an assembly.

3. The retaining clip as claimed in claim 1, wherein, The protrusion is configured to firmly abut against the first component to secure the first component within the interior.

4. The retaining clip as claimed in claim 1, wherein, The protrusion is spaced apart from the upper curved portion by a first vertical distance, and the protrusion is spaced apart from the central beam by a second vertical distance, the second vertical distance being less than the first vertical distance.

5. The retaining clip as claimed in claim 1, wherein, The flexible wing further includes an upper shoulder and a contact tab, the contact tab extending inward from the upper shoulder along the direction of the central longitudinal plane.

6. A retaining clip configured to securely connect a first component to a second component, the retaining clip comprising: A first frame, connected to an opposing second frame at a central beam, wherein the interior of the retaining clip is defined between the opposing first and second frames, each of the first and second frames comprising: An external lateral foot, wherein the external lateral foot folds inward at the upper bend to form an internal flange, the internal flange being disposed within the interior and extending along the general direction of the central beam, wherein the internal flange is integrally connected by a bridging member, and wherein a protrusion extends downward from the bottom edge of the bridging member; and A flexible wing extending upward and outward from the central beam, wherein a portion of the flexible wing is configured to firmly abut against the surface of the second component; and The protrusion includes a serrated structure having a sloping surface extending inward along the central longitudinal plane of the retaining clip.

7. The retaining clip as claimed in claim 6, wherein, The retaining clip is configured to be securely coupled to the first component to form a sub-assembly, and wherein the sub-assembly is configured to be securely coupled to the second component to form an assembly.

8. The retaining clip as claimed in claim 6, wherein, The flexible wings of the first and second frames respectively further include contact tabs extending inward from the upper shoulder, wherein a portion of the contact tabs is configured to firmly abut against the surface, and wherein the surface is touched through a hole in the second component.

9. The retaining clip as claimed in claim 6, wherein, The inner flange on each of the first and second skeletons further includes a distal end extending below the bottom edge of the bridging member.

10. The retaining clip as claimed in claim 6, wherein, The protrusions of the first skeleton are mirror images of the protrusions of the second skeleton.

11. The retaining clip as claimed in claim 6, wherein, The protrusion is spaced apart from the upper curved portion by a first vertical distance, and the protrusion is spaced apart from the central beam by a second vertical distance, the second vertical distance being less than the first vertical distance.

12. A retaining clip configured to securely connect a first component to a second component, the retaining clip having an overall U-shaped body, the body comprising: A first frame, connected to an opposing second frame at a central beam, wherein the interior of the retaining clip is defined between the opposing first and second frames, each of the first and second frames comprising: An external lateral foot, wherein the external lateral foot folds inward at the upper bend to form an internal flange, the internal flange being disposed within the interior and extending along the general direction of the central beam, wherein a protrusion extends inward and downward from a bridging member integrally connected to the internal flange; and The protrusion includes a serrated structure having a sloping surface extending along the central longitudinal plane of the retaining clip.

13. The retaining clip as claimed in claim 12, wherein, The inner flange includes a distal end, and wherein the bridging member is spaced apart from each of the distal end and the upper bend of the retaining clip.

14. The retaining clip as claimed in claim 13, wherein, The retaining clip is configured to be securely coupled to the first component to form a sub-assembly, and wherein the sub-assembly is configured to be securely coupled to the second component to form an assembly.

15. The retaining clip as claimed in claim 12, wherein, The protrusions extending from the bridging member of the first frame are completely disposed between the inner flanges of the first frame, and wherein the protrusions of the bridging member of the second frame are completely disposed between the inner flanges of the second frame.

16. The retaining clip as claimed in claim 12, wherein, The first frame and the second frame further include flexible wings extending upward and outward from the central beam. The flexible wings include an upper shoulder and a contact tab, the contact tab extending inward from the upper shoulder along the direction of the central longitudinal plane.

Images