Tolerance-compensating fastening device with extended tolerance compensation and simpler and faster fastening

Abstract

A tolerance compensating fastening device (1) for fastening a first vehicle component (200) to a second vehicle component (300) by means of a bolt (100), the fastening device being configured to compensate for tolerances within a tolerance compensation range, a fastening system comprising such a fastening device, and a method for fastening a first vehicle component to a second vehicle component by means of a bolt.

Description

[0001] This application is a divisional application of the invention patent application with an application date of August 23, 2018, an international application number of PCT / US2018 / 047624, a national application number of 201880055310X, and an invention name of “Tolerance compensation fastening device with extended tolerance compensation and simpler and faster fastening”. Technical Field

[0002] The invention relates to a tolerance-compensating fastening device for fastening a first vehicle component to a second vehicle component by means of a screw, a fastening system comprising the fastening device according to the invention, and a method for fastening a first vehicle component to a second vehicle component by means of a screw. Background Art

[0003] The object of the present invention is to improve the disadvantages of tolerance-compensating fastening devices. Summary of the Invention

[0004] This object is achieved by the individual aspects or overall combination of the technical contents described herein or shown in the accompanying drawings. This object is achieved in particular by a tolerance compensating fastening device for fastening a first vehicle component to a second vehicle component by means of a screw, the fastening device having a longitudinal opening for receiving the screw, the fastening device having a first compensating unit

[0005] - the first compensation unit is arranged to compensate for tolerances along the longitudinal direction (y) within a first tolerance compensation range,

[0006] - and the first compensating unit has for this purpose a first component, to which the movement of the bolt can preferably be transmitted by means of one or more friction elements or friction structures of the first or second component due to friction between the bolt and the first component,

[0007] -as well as

[0008] a) the first component is mounted on the second component of the fastening device, or

[0009] b) the fastening device is preassembled on the first vehicle component via the first component by mounting the first component on the first vehicle component, preferably with the result that the first axial end of the fastening device faces towards or is assigned to the first vehicle component,

[0010] For example, as a result of a displacement or, when a threaded mounting is present, preferably also as a result of a rotation, preferably as long as no end fixation has yet been achieved by means of the screw, the first component is movable in the longitudinal direction (y) within the first tolerance compensation range in the corresponding installed state due to this mounting and thus has a longitudinal degree of freedom,

[0011] The fastening device has a second compensation unit

[0012] - a second compensation unit is arranged to compensate for tolerances along one or more transverse directions (x, z),

[0013] - and the second compensation unit has for this purpose one or more connecting and / or guiding elements, by means of which,

[0014] In case a), the second component or the first component can be preassembled on the first vehicle component, with the result that the second component or the first component can be moved in the second tolerance compensation range in the one or more transverse directions (x, z), with the result that the first axial end of the fastening device faces the first vehicle component, or,

[0015] In case b), the second part of the fastening device is mounted on the first part or another part of the fastening device, with the result that the second part can be moved in the direction of the one or more transverse directions (x, z) within a second tolerance compensation range,

[0016] The second component thus has one or more lateral degrees of freedom.

[0017] As a result, tolerances of the vehicle component can be compensated not only in the longitudinal direction but also in one or more transverse directions. The maximum tolerance compensation range in the transverse direction is preferably the diameter of the shank section located in the opening in the fastened state of the fastening device.

[0018] In a further exemplary embodiment of the invention, the diameter of the fastening device decreases towards a second axial end of the fastening device, which second axial end is located opposite the first axial end and starts from a shank section which, in the fastened state of the fastening device, is located in the opening of the second vehicle component, the reduction in diameter from the shank section to the first axial end being greater than or equal to the second tolerance compensation range.

[0019] In another exemplary embodiment of the present invention, the one or more connecting and / or guiding elements have an elastic configuration at least in some areas, and the second component is arranged in the rest position substantially centered relative to the longitudinal axis. This results in a preferably centered rest position for the device. By elastically bending the connecting and / or guiding elements, they are left to compensate for tolerances in the transverse direction, as long as these are required.

[0020] In another exemplary embodiment of the invention, the one or more connecting and / or guiding elements are configured as flexible, hose-like hollow bodies with a circular or angled cross section. As a result, they can be produced in a space-saving and simple manner.

[0021] In another exemplary embodiment of the present invention, the one or more connecting and / or guiding elements can be compressed in the longitudinal direction. Thus, they can also be preassembled fixedly in the longitudinal direction in the pre-installation position on the device, whereby the assembly in the re-installation position is more stable and does not swing about the re-installation position. In particular, in the preferred case, when the device is installed, the one or more connecting and / or guiding elements are pre-tensioned in the longitudinal direction by the screw, as a result of which the connecting and / or guiding element(s) are pushed forward.

[0022] In a further exemplary embodiment of the invention, one or more connecting and / or guiding elements are formed at least partially, preferably completely, from a foam body. As a result, cost-effective production can be achieved.

[0023] In another exemplary embodiment of the invention, one or more connecting and / or guiding elements are formed at least partially, preferably completely, by a serpentine circumferential surface, which is preferably formed from a plastic material. As a result, an alternative cost-effective production is possible.

[0024] In another exemplary embodiment of the invention, the one or more connecting and / or guiding elements are configured at least partially as a helical spring, preferably with two or more spring stops.As a result, the structures can alternatively be produced in a space-saving and simple manner.

[0025] In another exemplary embodiment of the present invention, the one or more connecting and / or guiding elements are at least partially configured as latching retainers. Thus, a rapid preassembly of the fastening device is provided, which is already at least partially held together without bolts.

[0026] In a further exemplary embodiment of the invention, the first vehicle component and / or the second component has one or more corresponding retainers for retaining the one or more connecting and / or guiding elements in a positively locking manner, preferably at least with respect to the one or more transverse directions.

[0027] In another exemplary embodiment of the invention, the fastening device is configured to secure the longitudinal degree of freedom of the first component and / or one or more transverse degrees of freedom of the second component by means of a pressure force exerted on the first and / or second component by means of a screw in a friction-locking and / or positive-locking manner. As a result, the adjusted compensation is particularly well secured due to the tightening of the screw.

[0028] In another exemplary embodiment of the invention, the fastening device has one or more ribs or spikes that are configured to secure the longitudinal degree of freedom and / or one or more transverse degrees of freedom in a friction-locking and / or positive-locking manner. This results in an advantageous and easily producible fastening structure.

[0029] In another exemplary embodiment of the present invention, the first component is mounted in a rotationally movable manner by means of a first thread.

[0030] In case a), it is mounted on the second part of the fastening device, ie in the second thread of the second part, or

[0031] In case b), the mounting is on the first vehicle component, ie in the second thread of the vehicle component,

[0032] And the movement of the bolt that can be transmitted to the first component is the rotation of the bolt.

[0033] The first and second threads are preferably concentric with each other. They are also preferably concentric with the longitudinal opening. The direction of rotation of the first and second threads is preferably opposite to, and particularly preferably the same as, the direction of rotation of the intended bolt. The first and second threads are preferably left-hand threads, particularly preferably right-hand threads. In a particularly preferred embodiment, the threads are not mutually self-locking. As a result, due to the necessary drive of the first component, friction elements can be omitted, thereby enabling the transmission of the bolt movement, preferably precisely via the bolt head.

[0034] In another exemplary embodiment of the present invention, the first component is mounted such that it can be displaced along the longitudinal degree of freedom by means of a thrust joint,

[0035] In case a), the second part of the fastening device is displaced,

[0036] In case b), the displacement onto the first vehicle component,

[0037] And the movement of the bolt that can be transmitted to the first component is the displacement of the bolt.As a result, the friction element can be omitted due to the necessary drive of the first component, and the transmission of the bolt movement can therefore be achieved, preferably accurately achieved by the bolt head.

[0038] In a further exemplary embodiment of the invention, the fastening device has one or more expansion structures which are arranged to expand by pressure acting on the first and / or second component via the bolts, thereby blocking the longitudinal freedom of the thrust joint.

[0039] In another exemplary embodiment of the present invention, the fastening device comprises a nut element for fastening the fastening device to the opening of the second vehicle component. The nut element is arranged at a second axial end opposite the first axial end and is configured to expand radially by means of a bolt screwed into the fastening device. As a result, the second vehicle component can be mounted particularly quickly from only one side.

[0040] In another exemplary embodiment of the present invention, the fastening device has a nut element for fastening the fastening device to the second vehicle component. The nut element is arranged at a second axial end opposite the first axial end and is configured to be rotated by a bolt screwed into the fastening device from an introduction position into a locking position, the locking position being defined by a stop. As a result, the second vehicle component can be mounted particularly quickly from only one side.

[0041] In another exemplary embodiment of the invention, the nut element has an elongated cross section, as a result of which the nut element can be introduced into a correspondingly elongated opening of the second vehicle component and thus be arranged to laterally undercut the opening and thus lock it in the locked position, preferably rotated 90° relative to the introduction position. Thus, a greater undercut and thus a more secure fastening can be achieved, for example, than with a square cross section and a 45-degree difference between the introduction position and the locking position.

[0042] In another exemplary embodiment of the invention, the nut element is held in a cage having a preferably polygonal, particularly preferably rectangular, preferably square cross-section, and the nut element has a radial projection which, in the introduction position, ends radially within the cross-section or has the same radial dimensions as the cross-section and, in the locking position, projects radially beyond the cross-section. As a result, the nut part can be preassembled in the device even without a screw.

[0043] In a further exemplary embodiment of the invention, the cage or another component of the fastening device, preferably the second component, has one or more preferably helical guide bends, preferably as edges of one or more nuts or recesses introduced into the cage, for axial and / or rotational guidance of the nut element, preferably one or more radial projections.

[0044] As a result, the nut element is forced to rotate due to the force of the bolt, which reliably brings the nut element into the blocking position when the bolt is screwed in. Furthermore, when there is an axially biaxial, i.e., helical, guide structure of the radial projection (e.g., with grooves), disassembly is facilitated because the bolt can initially be loosened slightly, and then, due to the pressure exerted on the bolt, the nut element can be reliably moved back into the introduction position. To this end, the cage preferably has a stop that defines the introduction position.

[0045] The object is also achieved in particular by a tolerance compensating fastening device for fastening a first vehicle component to a second vehicle component by means of a screw, the fastening device having a longitudinal opening for receiving the screw, the fastening device having a first compensating unit

[0046] - the first compensation unit is arranged to compensate for tolerances along the longitudinal direction (y) within a first tolerance compensation range,

[0047] - and the first compensating unit has for this purpose a first component to which the movement of the bolt can be transmitted, preferably via one or more friction elements or friction structures of the first or second component, due to the friction between the one or more friction elements or friction structures and the bolt,

[0048] -as well as

[0049] a) the first component is mounted on the second component of the fastening device, or

[0050] b) the fastening device is preassembled on the first vehicle component via the first component by mounting the first component on the first vehicle component, preferably with the result that the first axial end of the fastening device faces towards or is assigned to the first vehicle component,

[0051] For example, as a result of a displacement or, in the case of a threaded mounting (preferably also as a result of a rotation), preferably as long as no end fixation has yet been achieved by means of the screw, the first component is movable in the longitudinal direction (y) in the corresponding mounted state due to the mounting within the first tolerance compensation range and thus has a longitudinal degree of freedom,

[0052] The fastening device comprises a nut element for fastening the fastening device to the opening of the second vehicle component. The nut element is arranged at a second axial end opposite the first axial end and is configured to be radially expanded by means of a bolt screwed into the fastening device or to be rotated from an introduction position to a locking position defined by a stop by means of the bolt screwed into the fastening device. As a result, the second vehicle component can be mounted particularly quickly from only one side.

[0053] The fastening means preferably also has individually or each of the features of the aforementioned fastening means.

[0054] The object is also achieved in particular by a tolerance compensating fastening device for fastening a first vehicle component to a second vehicle component by means of a screw, the fastening device having a longitudinal opening for receiving the screw, the fastening device having a first compensating unit

[0055] - the first compensation unit is arranged to compensate for tolerances along the longitudinal direction (y) within a first tolerance compensation range,

[0056] - and the first compensating unit has for this purpose a first component, preferably capable of transmitting the movement of the bolt to the first component of the first compensating unit by means of one or more friction elements or friction structures of the first or second component due to friction between the one or more friction elements or friction structures and the bolt

[0057] -as well as

[0058] a) the first component is mounted on the second component of the fastening device, or

[0059] b) the fastening device is preassembled on the first vehicle component via the first component by mounting the first component on the first vehicle component, preferably with the result that the first axial end of the fastening device faces towards or is assigned to the first vehicle component,

[0060] For example, as a result of a displacement or, when a threaded mounting is present (preferably also as a result of a rotation), preferably as long as no end fixation has yet been achieved by means of the screw, the first component is movable in the corresponding mounted state due to this mounting within the first tolerance compensation range in the longitudinal direction (y) and thus has a longitudinal degree of freedom,

[0061] The first component is mounted in a rotationally movable manner by means of a first thread,

[0062] In case a), it is mounted on the second part of the fastening device, ie in the second thread of the second part, or

[0063] In case b), the mounting is on the first vehicle component, ie in the second thread of the vehicle component,

[0064] The first thread and the second thread are configured such that they do not produce a self-locking effect and thus form a thrust joint or a push-to-turn joint along the longitudinal degree of freedom,

[0065] And the movement of the bolt that can be transmitted to the first component is the rotation of the bolt and / or the displacement of the bolt in the longitudinal direction. As a result, a simpler, faster and more precise compensation in the longitudinal direction can be achieved. The friction element can be omitted (and is also preferred) because the first component is axially movable, and the compensation for tolerances in the longitudinal direction is also due to the push of the bolt. Due to the tightening of the bolt, the rotational position of the first component relative to the second vehicle component is fixed. As a result, when the first vehicle component is still advantageously connected to the second vehicle component via a certain point, the set tolerance compensation is also fixed in the longitudinal direction due to the thread constraint (compared to a pure sliding joint in, for example, Figures 3a and 3b), with the result that rotation between the two other vehicle components about the axis defined by the bolt is no longer possible. The connection to the other point is preferably achieved by a second such tolerance-compensating fastening device.

[0066] The fastening means preferably also has individually or each of the features of the aforementioned fastening means.

[0067] When the bolt cannot be displaced in an axial rotation due to axial pressure on the threaded component (e.g. the bolt), the two suitable threads are preferably self-locking. When the bolt can be displaced in an axial rotation due to axial pressure on the threaded component (e.g. the bolt), the two suitable threads are preferably not self-locking.

[0068] The object is also achieved in particular by a tolerance-compensating fastening device for fastening a first vehicle component to a second vehicle component by means of a screw, the fastening device having a longitudinal opening for receiving the screw, the fastening device comprising a first component,

[0069] The fastening device is pre-mounted on the first vehicle component via the first component, and the first component is movable in the longitudinal direction within a first tolerance compensation range due to the mounting in the corresponding mounted state;

[0070] the first component being mounted rotationally movable in a second thread on the first vehicle component by means of a first thread, the first thread and the second thread being configured such that they do not produce a self-locking action and thus form a thrust joint along the longitudinal degree of freedom,

[0071] And the movement of the bolt that can be transmitted to the first component is the displacement of the bolt in this longitudinal direction.

[0072] In another exemplary embodiment of the tolerance compensating fastening device according to the present invention, the first component has a cylindrical shape, and the first thread is provided on an outer surface of the first component.

[0073] In another exemplary embodiment of the tolerance compensating fastening device according to the present invention, the tolerance compensating fastening device also includes an annular rib arranged at an axial end of the first component, and the bolt drives the first component to move in the longitudinal direction while rotating through the annular rib. Preferably, the annular rib has an opening, the size of the opening is set to allow the rod of the bolt to pass through and allow the rod of the bolt to move in the opening in a direction perpendicular to the longitudinal direction.

[0074] In another exemplary embodiment of the tolerance compensating fastening device according to the invention, the bolt comprises a bolt head for transmitting a displacement of the bolt in the longitudinal direction to the first component, the bolt head being able to enter the first component and being able to be blocked by the annular rib.

[0075] In another exemplary embodiment of the tolerance compensating fastening device according to the present invention, the tolerance compensating fastening device further comprises: a nut element for fastening the fastening device to the second vehicle component, the nut element having a first axial end facing the first vehicle component, the nut element being arranged at a second axial end located opposite to the first axial end, and an end of the bolt opposite to the bolt head being threadedly connected to the nut element.

[0076] This object is further specifically achieved by a fastening system comprising a fastening device according to the invention described above, a first vehicle component, a second vehicle component and a bolt.

[0077] The object is also achieved in particular by a tolerance-compensating fastening device for fastening a first vehicle component to a second vehicle component by means of a screw, the fastening device having a longitudinal opening for receiving the screw, the fastening device comprising a first component,

[0078] The fastening device is pre-mounted on the first vehicle component via the first component, and the first component is movable in a rotationally movable manner in the longitudinal direction within a first tolerance compensation range in a corresponding mounted state due to the mounting,

[0079] And the movement of the bolt that can be transmitted to the first component is the displacement of the bolt in this longitudinal direction.

[0080] This object is further specifically achieved by a fastening system comprising a fastening device according to the invention described above, a first vehicle component, a second vehicle component and a bolt, the second vehicle component having one or more first centering elements, and the first vehicle component having one or more second centering elements that can come into contact with the first centering elements, and when the first and second centering elements abut against each other, the correct mounting situation is preferably defined with reference to one or more transverse directions.

[0081] The first and second centering elements are preferably arranged to interlock with each other.

[0082] In another exemplary embodiment of the fastening system according to the invention, the fastening system is configured to cut into the fastening device or into the first or second vehicle component up to a predetermined dimension by means of pressure, the pressure being applied to the composite structure comprising the vehicle components and the fastener by means of the bolt head of the bolt, or to deform the fastening device or the first or second vehicle component to a predetermined dimension, as a result of which the longitudinal extent of the composite structure comprising the vehicle component and the fastening device is reduced by a predetermined dimension and one or more centering elements, preferably all centering elements, are moved away from each other again by a predetermined dimension at least in the longitudinal direction.

[0083] In another exemplary embodiment of the fastening system according to the invention, the first vehicle component is a door handle module, the second vehicle component is a vehicle door having an outer skin and a cut-away portion in the outer skin for a door handle of the door handle module, the one or more first centering elements being arranged at a distance of less than 1 cm from an edge of the cut-away portion.

[0084] As a result, an exact centering of the door handle in the door handle cut-out is achieved.The centering element is preferably a flap bent directly inwards on the edge of the cut-out in the direction of the door interior.

[0085] The object is also achieved in particular by a method for fastening a first vehicle component to a second vehicle component by means of a fastening device, preferably a fastening device according to the invention, the method comprising the following steps:

[0086] - preassembling the fastening device on the first vehicle component,

[0087] - bringing the first centering element of the second vehicle component into contact with the second centering element of the first vehicle component,

[0088] - Fastening the first vehicle component to the second vehicle component by means of a screw screwed into the fastening device, wherein tolerances are compensated in a first tolerance compensation range along the longitudinal direction (y) by means of a first compensation unit of the fastening device, and tolerances are compensated in a second tolerance compensation range along one or more transverse directions (x, z) by bringing the first and second centering elements into contact and by fastening the first vehicle component to the second vehicle component by means of the screw screwed into the fastening device.

[0089] In a further method according to the invention, the bolt is tightened at the end of the method and, in the process, is cut into the fastening device or into the first or second vehicle component to a predetermined dimension by means of pressure, the pressure being applied to the composite structure comprising the vehicle component and the fastening device by means of the bolt head of the bolt, or the fastening device or the first or second vehicle component is deformed to a predetermined dimension, as a result of which the longitudinal extent of the composite structure comprising the vehicle component and the fastening device is reduced by a predetermined dimension and, as a result, one or more centering elements, preferably all centering elements, are moved away from each other again by a predetermined dimension at least in the longitudinal direction. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0090] The present invention will now be further described by way of example with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which:

[0091] Figures 1a-1i show a first device according to the present invention, Figures 1c-1i show the various steps of the fastening process,

[0092] 2a-2b show a second device according to the present invention,

[0093] 3a-3b show a third device according to the invention, in each case in a position inserted into a second vehicle component but not yet fastened, in FIG. 2b and FIG. 3b ,

[0094] 4a-4e show various perspective and cross-sectional views (4e) of a fourth device according to the invention,

[0095] 5a to 5i show various perspective and cross-sectional views of a fifth device according to the invention (in 5h and 5i, 5h shows the pre-assembled position on the first vehicle component 200 and 5i shows the final position also fastened on the second vehicle component 300),

[0096] 6a - 6d show various perspective views of a sixth device according to the invention, FIG. 6c shows that the connecting and / or guiding element is supported on a first vehicle component, and FIG. 6d shows that the connecting and / or guiding element is supported on a second component,

[0097] 7a-7d show various perspective views of a seventh device according to the present invention,

[0098] 8a-8g show various state diagrams, perspective diagrams and cross-sectional diagrams of an eighth device according to the present invention,

[0099] 9a - 9e show schematic cross-sectional views of a fastening system and a fastening method according to the invention. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0100] All groups of figures (1-7) each show a tolerance compensating fastening device 1 for fastening a first vehicle component 200 to a second vehicle component 300 by means of a bolt 100, the fastening device 1 having a longitudinal opening 2 for receiving the bolt 100, the fastening device 1 having a first compensating unit 10, which is arranged to compensate for tolerances along the longitudinal direction y within a first tolerance compensation range.

[0101] The following is a more detailed description of Figures 1a-i. The first compensating unit 10 has a first component 11. Due to the friction between the friction element 12 and the bolt 100, the movement of the bolt 100 can be transmitted to the first component 11 of the first compensating unit 10 via the friction element 12 of the first component 11. The first component 11 is mounted on the second component 21 of the fastening device 1 and, due to this mounting, is movable in the longitudinal direction y within a first tolerance compensation range. Thus, it has a longitudinal degree of freedom. The fastening device 1 has a second compensating unit 20, which is configured to compensate for tolerances in the transverse directions x and z. To this end, the second compensating unit 20 has a plurality of connecting and / or guiding elements 22, by which the second component 21 can be preassembled on the first vehicle component 200 so that it can move in the transverse directions x and z within the second tolerance compensation range 200. As a result, the first axial end 3 of the fastening device 1 faces the first vehicle component 200, and the second component 21 thus has multiple transverse degrees of freedom.

[0102] The diameter of the fastening device 1 tapers radially from the shank section 24 toward the second axial end 4 of the fastening device 1, located opposite the first axial end 3. The shank section 24, when the fastening device 1 is in the tightened state, is located within the opening 301 of the second vehicle component 300. The taper of the diameter from the shank section 24 to the first axial end 3 is greater than or equal to a second tolerance compensation range. The connecting and / or guiding element 22 has a resilient configuration at least in some areas, and the second component 21 is arranged in a rest position substantially centered relative to the longitudinal axis of the opening 2. The connecting and / or guiding element 22 is configured at least partially as a latching retainer. The first and second vehicle components 200, 21 have a plurality of corresponding retainers 28, 208 for positively lockingly retaining the plurality of connecting and / or guiding elements 22 relative to one or more transverse directions x, z. The fastening device 1 is configured to frictionally and positively secure the longitudinal degrees of freedom of the first component 11 and the plurality of transverse degrees of freedom of the second component 21 by means of pressure exerted on the first and second components 11, 21 by the bolt 100. The fastening device 1 has an annular rib 14 configured to secure multiple lateral degrees of freedom in a positively locking manner. Frictional closure is achieved via threads 13 and 23, which are self-locking. The first component 11 is mounted via the first thread 13 for rotational movement on the second component 21 of the fastening device 1, namely, within the second thread 23 of the second component 21. The movement of the bolt 100 that can be transmitted to the first component 11 is rotation of the bolt 100. The bolt thread and threads 13 and 23 are relative here—right-hand thread for the bolt, left-hand thread for threads 13 and 23. The fastening device 1 has a nut element 30 for fastening the fastening device 1 to a second vehicle component 300. This nut element 30 is arranged at the second axial end 4, opposite the first axial end 3, and is configured to be rotated from an introduced position to a locked position defined by a stop by screwing the bolt 100 into the fastening device 1. The second part 21 of the fastening device 1 has a guide bend 26 for axial guidance of the nut element 30 .

[0103] This is a further example of a tolerance-compensating fastening device 1 , which features in particular a first compensating unit 10 for compensating tolerances along the longitudinal direction y within a first tolerance range, and a nut element 30 for fastening the fastening device 1 to an opening 301 of a second vehicle component 300 , the nut element 30 being arranged at a second axial end 4 situated opposite the first axial end 3 and being arranged to be rotated by screwing a bolt 100 into the fastening device 1 from an introduction position into a locking position, which is defined by a stop.

[0104] The states shown in Figure 1b-i are as follows:

[0105] 1b: Assembled together and installed on the first vehicle component 200 in the described state;

[0106] 1c: After introduction into the opening 301 of the second vehicle component 300;

[0107] 1d After the first rotation of the bolt 100 - the first component 11 has unscrewed itself from the second component 21;

[0108] 1e After further rotation of the bolt 100, it climbs up the nut element 30;

[0109] 1f Due to the rotation of the bolt 100 into the nut element 30, the nut element 30 is rotated by 45°.

[0110] From the introduction position to the locking position;

[0111] 1g As a result of further rotation of the bolt 100 , the bolt climbs up with the bolt head up to a stop on the first vehicle component 200 ;

[0112] 1h As a result of the further rotation of the bolt 100 , the nut element 30 is pulled axially in the direction of the second component 21 and bears against the rear side of the second vehicle component 300 ;

[0113] 1i As a result of further rotation of the bolt 100 , the rib 14 digs into the first vehicle component 200 and thus secures the transverse direction; the threads 13 and 23 are pressed against each other.

[0114] The following is a more detailed description of Figures 2a-b. The fastening device 1 is based on the fastening device 1 shown in the preceding figures. In contrast, the first component 11 can be preassembled on the first vehicle component 200 by means of a connecting and / or guiding element 22 so as to be movable in one or more transverse directions x and z within a second tolerance compensation range. The connecting and / or guiding element 22 rotates with the first component 11. The thread of the bolt 100 and the threads 13 and 23 are unidirectional, i.e., either entirely right-handed or entirely left-handed.

[0115] A more detailed description of Figures 3a-b follows. The first compensating unit 10 comprises a first component 11. Due to friction between one or more friction elements or friction structures 12 and a bolt 100, the movement of the bolt 100 can be transmitted to the first component 11 of the first compensating unit 10 via the friction elements 12 of the second component 21. The fastening device 1 is preassembled on the first vehicle component 200 via the first component by mounting the first component 11 on the first vehicle component 200. As a result, the first axial end 3 of the fastening device 1 is assigned to the first vehicle component 200. Due to this mounting, the first component 11, in the mounted state, can move in the longitudinal direction y within a first tolerance compensation range and thus has a longitudinal degree of freedom. The fastening device 1 has a second compensation unit 20, which is provided for compensating tolerances along the transverse directions x, z and, for this reason, has a plurality of guide elements 22, by means of which the second part 21 of the fastening device 1 is mounted on the first part 11 so as to be movable in one or more transverse directions x, z within a second tolerance compensation range, so that the second part 21 has a plurality of transverse degrees of freedom.

[0116] The diameter of the fastening device 1 tapers radially from a shank section 24 toward a second axial end 4 of the fastening device 1, located opposite the first axial end 3. The shank section 24, when the fastening device 1 is in the tightened state, is located within an opening 301 of the second vehicle component 300. The taper in diameter from the shank section 24 to the first axial end 3 is greater than or equal to a second tolerance compensation range. The fastening device 1 is configured to secure the longitudinal degrees of freedom of the first component 11 and multiple lateral degrees of freedom of the second component 21 in a frictionally and positively locked manner by means of pressure exerted on the first and second components 11, 21 by means of a bolt 100. The first component 11 is rotationally mounted in the second thread 203 of the first vehicle component 200 by means of a first thread 13 on the first vehicle component 200. The movement of the bolt 100 that can be transmitted to the first component 11 is a rotation of the bolt 100. The fastening device 1 has a plurality of expansion structures 15, which are designed to expand by means of pressure acting on the first and / or second component 11, 21 via the bolts 100, and thus block the longitudinal freedom of the thrust joint. The fastening device has a nut element 30 for fastening the fastening device 1 to an opening 301 of a second vehicle component 300. The nut element 30 is arranged at a second axial end 4, which is located opposite the first axial end 3, and is designed to expand radially by screwing the bolts 100 into the fastening device 1. In this case, the second component 21 and the nut element 30 are implemented in the same component.

[0117] This is a further example of a tolerance-compensating fastening device 1 , which features in particular a first compensation unit 10 for compensating tolerances in the longitudinal direction y within a first tolerance compensation range, and a nut element 30 for fastening the fastening device 1 to an opening 301 of a second vehicle component 300 , the nut element 30 being arranged at a second axial end 4 situated opposite the first axial end 3 and being configured to expand radially by screwing a bolt 100 into the fastening device 1 .

[0118] A more detailed description of Figures 4a-e follows. A first compensating unit 10 comprises a first component 11. Due to friction between a friction element 12 and a bolt 100, the movement of the bolt 100 can be transmitted to the first component 11 of the first compensating unit 10 via the friction element 12 of the first component 11. The first component 11 is mounted on a second component 21 of the fastening device 1. Due to this mounting, the first component 11 is movable in the longitudinal direction y within a first tolerance compensation range in the installed state and thus has a longitudinal degree of freedom. The fastening device 1 comprises a second compensating unit 20, which is designed to compensate for tolerances along transverse directions x, z. For this purpose, the second compensating unit 20 comprises a plurality of connecting and / or guiding elements 22, via which the second component 21 can be preassembled on the first vehicle component 200 and thus movable in a plurality of transverse directions x, z within a second tolerance compensation range. As a result, the first axial end 3 of the fastening device 1 is assigned to the first vehicle component 200, and the second component 21 thus has a plurality of transverse degrees of freedom.

[0119] The diameter of the fastening device 1 tapers radially from the shank section 24 toward the second axial end 4 of the fastening device 1, which is located opposite the first axial end 3. The shank section 24, when the fastening device 1 is in the fastened state, is located within an opening 301 of the second vehicle component 300. The taper in diameter from the shank section 24 to the first axial end 3 is greater than or equal to a second tolerance compensation range. The plurality of connecting and / or guiding elements 22 are elastically configured at least in some areas, and the second component 21 is arranged in a rest position substantially centered relative to the longitudinal axis. The connecting and / or guiding element 22 is configured as a flexible, hose-like hollow body with a circular cross-section, compressible in the longitudinal direction, and formed at least partially by a serpentine circumferential surface 27. The connecting and / or guiding element 22 is configured at least partially as a latching retainer. The first vehicle component 200 and the second component 21 have a plurality of corresponding retainers 208, 28 for positively locking the connecting and / or guiding element 22 relative to the transverse directions x and z. The fastening device 1 is configured to secure the longitudinal freedom of the first component 11 and the lateral freedom of the second component 21 in a frictionally and positively locking manner by means of pressure exerted on the first and / or second components 11, 21 via a bolt 100. The fastening device 1 includes ribs 14 configured to secure the lateral freedom in a positively locking manner. The first component 11 is mounted in a second thread 23 of the second component 21 so as to be rotationally movable by means of the first thread 13 on the second component 21 of the fastening device 1, and the movement of the bolt 100 that can be transmitted to the first component 11 is a rotation of the bolt 100. The fastening device 1 includes a nut element 30 for fastening the fastening device 1 to a second vehicle component 300. The nut element 30 is arranged at a second axial end 4, opposite the first axial end 3, and is configured to be rotated from an introduction position into a locked position defined by a stop by screwing the bolt 100 into the fastening device 1. The nut element 30 is held in a cage 25 having a cross section, the nut element 30 having radial projections 31 which, in the introduction position, radially end within the cross section of the cage 25 or have the same radial dimensions as this cross section and, in the locked position, radially project beyond this cross section. The cage has a plurality of helical guide bends 26 for axial and / or rotational guidance of the nut element 30 (preferably one or more radial projections 31).

[0120] This is a further example of a tolerance-compensating fastening device 1, which features in particular a first compensation unit 10 for compensating tolerances in the longitudinal direction y within a first tolerance compensation range, and a nut element 30 for fastening the fastening device 1 to an opening 301 of a second vehicle component 300, the nut element 30 being arranged at a second axial end 4 situated opposite the first axial end 3 and being arranged to be rotated by screwing a bolt 100 into the fastening device 1 from an introduction position into a locking position, which is defined by a stop.

[0121] A more detailed description of Figures 5a-i follows. A first compensating unit 10 includes a first component 11 to which the movement of the bolt 100 is preferably transmitted, and the first component 11 can be preassembled on the first vehicle component 200 by mounting the first component 11 thereon. As a result, the first axial end 3 of the fastening device 1 is assigned to the first vehicle component 200, and due to this mounting, the first component 11 is movable in the longitudinal direction y within a first tolerance compensation range in the installed state and thus has a longitudinal degree of freedom. The fastening device 1 includes a second compensating unit 20, which is designed to compensate for tolerances along the transverse directions x, z. For this purpose, the second compensating unit includes a connecting and / or guiding element 22, by means of which the second component 21 of the fastening device 1 is mounted on the first component 11 so as to be movable in the transverse directions x, z within a second tolerance compensation range, thus having one or more transverse degrees of freedom.

[0122] The diameter of the fastening device 1 tapers radially from the shank section 24 toward the second axial end 4 of the fastening device 1, which is located opposite the first axial end 3. The shank section 24, when the fastening device 1 is in the fastened state, is located in the opening 301 of the second vehicle component 300. The taper in diameter from the shank section 24 to the first axial end 3 is greater than or equal to a second tolerance compensation range. The connecting and / or guiding element 22 has an elastic design at least in some areas, and the second component 21 is arranged in a rest position substantially centered relative to the longitudinal axis of the opening 2. The connecting and / or guiding element 22 is configured as a flexible, hose-like hollow body with a circular cross-section, is compressible in the longitudinal direction (see the length correction ΔL in Figures 5h and 5i), and is formed from a foam body. The first vehicle component 200 and the second component 21 have corresponding retainers 208, 28 for positively locking the connecting and / or guiding element 22 relative to the transverse directions x and z. The fastening device 1 is designed to secure the lateral freedom of the second component 21 in an actively locking manner through pressure applied to the first and second components 11, 21 via the bolt 100. The fastening device 1 includes ribs 14, which are designed to secure the lateral freedom in an actively locking manner. The first component 11 is mounted rotationally on the first vehicle component 200 by means of a first thread 13, specifically in the second thread 203 of the vehicle component, and the movement of the bolt 100 that can be transmitted to the first component 11 is a rotation of the bolt 100. The first component 11 is mounted on the first vehicle component 200 by means of a thrust joint, resulting in displacement of the first component 11 in the longitudinal direction. The movement of the bolt 100 that can be transmitted to the first component 11 is displacement of the bolt 100 in the longitudinal direction. Because the threads 23 and 203 are not self-locking, the mounting of the first component 11 on the first vehicle component is a thrust-rotation joint. The fastening device 1 has a nut element 30 for fastening the fastening device 1 to a second vehicle component 300. The nut element 30 is arranged at a second axial end 4, which is located opposite the first axial end 3, and is configured to be rotated from an introduction position into a locking position defined by a stop by screwing a bolt 100 into the fastening device 1. The nut element 30 is held in a cage 25 having a cross section. The nut element 30 has radial projections 31, which in the introduction position radially terminate within the cross section or have the same radial dimensions as the cross section and in the locking position radially protrude beyond the cross section. The cage has a plurality of helical guide curves 26 for axial and / or rotational guidance of the nut element 30 (preferably one or more radial projections 31).

[0123] This is a further example of a tolerance-compensating fastening device 1, which features in particular a first compensation unit 10 for compensating tolerances in the longitudinal direction y within a first tolerance compensation range, and a nut element 30 for fastening the fastening device 1 to an opening 301 of a second vehicle component 300, the nut element 30 being arranged at a second axial end 4 situated opposite the first axial end 3 and being arranged to be rotated by screwing a bolt 100 into the fastening device 1 from an introduction position into a locking position, which is defined by a stop.

[0124] This is a further example of a tolerance compensating fastening device 1, which is characterized in particular by a first compensation unit 10, which is used to compensate for tolerances in the longitudinal direction y within a first tolerance compensation range, and is characterized in that a first component 11 is mounted in a second thread 203 of the vehicle component so as to be rotatably movable on the first vehicle component 200 by means of a first thread 13, the first and second threads 13, 23 being configured such that they do not cause any self-locking and thus form a thrust joint along the longitudinal degree of freedom, the movement of the bolt 100 that can be transmitted to the first component 11 being a rotation of the bolt 100 and / or a displacement of the bolt 100 in the longitudinal direction.

[0125] 6a-d is described in more detail below. The fastening device 1 is based on the fastening device 1 shown in the previous figures 5a-5i. In contrast, there are multiple connecting and / or guiding elements 22, and they are configured as double-leaf coil springs.

[0126] A more detailed description of Figures 7a-7d follows. Fastening device 1 is based on the fastening device 1 previously shown in Figures 6a-7d. In contrast, connecting and / or guiding elements 22", 22'" are present and are configured as latching retainers. Corresponding retainers 208", 208'" are configured as protrusions and serve as supports for the latching retainers, rather than being configured for positive locking, as there is freedom of movement equal to or greater than the tolerance range in the x, y, and z directions. Furthermore, nut element 30 is not retained in a cage.

[0127] A more detailed description of Figures 8a-g follows. The first compensating unit 10 comprises a first component 11. As a result of friction between a friction element 12 and a bolt 100, the movement of the bolt 100 can be transmitted to the first component 11 of the first compensating unit 10, preferably via the friction element 12 of the first component 11. The first component 11 is mounted on the second component 21 of the fastening device 1. Due to this mounting, the first component 11 is movable in the longitudinal direction y within a first tolerance compensation range in the mounted state, thus having a longitudinal degree of freedom. The fastening device 1 comprises a nut element 30 for fastening the fastening device 1 to an opening 301 in the second vehicle component 300. The nut element 30 is arranged at a second axial end 4, opposite the first axial end 3, and is configured to be rotated from an introduction position into a locking position, which is defined by a stop, by screwing the bolt 100 into the fastening device 1.

[0128] The first component 11 is mounted in a rotationally movable manner in the second thread 23 of the second component 21 by means of the first thread 13 on the second component 21 of the fastening device 1, and the movement of the screw 100 that can be transmitted to the first component 11 is a rotation of the screw 100. The nut element 30 has an elongated cross-section, as a result of which the nut element 30 can be introduced into a correspondingly elongated opening 301 of the second vehicle component 300 and is therefore arranged to laterally undercut the opening 301 in a locked position rotated 90° relative to the introduction position and thus lock the nut element 30. The second component 21 of the fastening device 1 has a guide bend 26 for axial and / or rotational guidance of the nut element 30.

[0129] 9a-e , the fastening system comprises a fastening device 1 according to the above description (here a fastening device similar to that shown in FIG5a-h ), a first vehicle component 200 having a first centering element 302, a second vehicle component 300 having a second centering element 202, and a bolt 100, wherein the second vehicle component 300 has a first centering element 302, and the first vehicle component 200 has a second centering element 202, which can be in contact with the first centering element 302 and defines the correct mounting situation or y and z directions when the first and second centering elements 302, 202 abut against each other. The fastening system is configured to cut into the fastening device 1 (via the annular rib 14, see variations in Figures 9c to 9d) or deform the fastening device 1 to a predetermined dimension by applying pressure to the composite structure comprising vehicle components 200, 300 via the bolt head of the bolt 100. This results in the composite structure comprising vehicle components 200, 300 and fastening device 1 being reduced in longitudinal extent by a predetermined dimension and the centering elements 202, 302 being moved away from each other again by a predetermined dimension, at least in the longitudinal direction. The first vehicle component 200 is a door handle module, and the second vehicle component 300 is a vehicle door having an outer skin and a cutout 303 therein for a door handle of the door handle module. The first centering element 302 is arranged at a distance of less than 1 cm from the edge of the cutout 303, thereby forming an edge region of the cutout 303.

[0130] The fastening of the first vehicle component 200 to the second vehicle component 300 by means of the fastening device 1 is carried out in the following steps:

[0131] The fastening device 1 is preassembled on the first vehicle component 200 (see FIG. 9 a ).

[0132] - bringing the first centering element 302 into contact with the second centering element 202 (see FIG. 9 a → FIG. 9 b → FIG. 9 c ),

[0133] The first vehicle component 200 is fastened to the second vehicle component 300 by screwing the screw 100 into the fastening device 1 ( FIGS. 9 b to 9 c ), wherein the tolerance Δy is compensated in the longitudinal direction y by the first compensation unit 10 of the fastening device 1 within a first tolerance compensation range.

[0134] As a result of contacting the first and second centering elements 302 , 202 and fastening the first vehicle component 200 to the second vehicle component 300 by screwing the bolt 100 into the fastening device 1 , the tolerance Δz is compensated in the transverse direction z within the second tolerance compensation range.

[0135] The bolt 100 is tightened at the end of the method and, in the process, cuts into the fastening device 1 up to a predetermined size by means of pressure, which is applied to the composite structure comprising the vehicle components 200, 300 and the fastening device 1 by means of the bolt head of the bolt 100, and the fastening device 1 is deformed to a predetermined size, as a result of which the longitudinal extent of the composite structure comprising the vehicle components 200, 300 and the fastening device 1 is reduced by a predetermined size and, as a result, the centering elements 302, 202 are moved away from each other again in the longitudinal direction y by a predetermined size.

[0136] Reference Signs List

[0137] 1 Fastening device

[0138] 2 longitudinal openings

[0139] 3 First axial end

[0140] 4 Second axial end

[0141] 10 First compensation unit

[0142] 11. First Part

[0143] 12 Friction element or friction structure

[0144] 13 First thread

[0145] 14 ribs or tips

[0146] 15. Expansion Structure

[0147] 20 Second compensation unit

[0148] 21 Second Part

[0149] 22 Connecting and / or guiding elements

[0150] 23 Second thread

[0151] 24 handle section

[0152] 25 cage

[0153] 26 Guide bend

[0154] 27 Serpentine circumference

[0155] 28 corresponding retainer

[0156] 30 Nut element

[0157] 31 radial protrusion

[0158] 100 bolts

[0159] 200 First vehicle component

[0160] 202 Second centering element

[0161] 203 Second thread

[0162] 208 corresponding bracket

[0163] 300 Second vehicle component

[0164] 301 Opening

[0165] 302 First centering element

[0166] 303 cut off part

[0167] x Transverse or radial direction

[0168] y Longitudinal or axial direction

[0169] z Transverse direction or radial direction

Claims

1. A tolerance compensating fastening device (1) for fastening a first vehicle component (200) to a second vehicle component (300) by means of a bolt (100), the fastening device (1) having a longitudinal opening (2) for receiving the bolt (100), characterized in that The fastening device (1) comprises: a first component (11), wherein the fastening device (1) is pre-mounted on the first vehicle component (200) via the first component (11), and the first component (11) is movable in the longitudinal direction (y) within a first tolerance compensation range in a corresponding mounted state due to the mounting; wherein the first component (11) is mounted in a rotationally movable manner in a second thread (203) on the first vehicle component (200) by means of a first thread (13), wherein the first thread and the second thread (203) are configured such that the first thread and the second thread do not produce a self-locking action and thus form a thrust joint along the longitudinal degree of freedom, The movement of the bolt (100) that can be transmitted to the first component (11) is a displacement of the bolt (100) in the longitudinal direction (y).

2. The tolerance compensating fastening device (1) according to claim 1, characterized in that: The first component (11) is cylindrical, and the first thread (13) is arranged on the outer surface of the first component (11).

3. The tolerance compensating fastening device (1) according to claim 2, characterized in that Also includes: an annular rib (14) provided at one axial end of the first component (11); The bolt (100) drives the first component (11) to move in the longitudinal direction (y) while rotating through the annular rib (14).

4. The tolerance compensating fastening device (1) according to claim 3, characterized in that: The annular rib (14) has an opening sized to allow the shank of the bolt (100) to pass therethrough and to allow the shank of the bolt (100) to move in the opening in a direction perpendicular to the longitudinal direction (y).

5. The tolerance compensating fastening device (1) according to claim 4, characterized in that: The bolt (100) includes a bolt head for transmitting the displacement of the bolt (100) in the longitudinal direction to the first component (11).

6. The tolerance compensating fastening device (1) according to claim 5, characterized in that: The bolt head can enter the first component (11) and can be blocked by the annular rib (14).

7. The tolerance compensating fastening device (1) according to claim 6, characterized in that Also includes: a nut element (30) for fastening the fastening device (1) to the second vehicle component (300); The nut element (30) has a first axial end (3) facing the first vehicle component (200), and the nut element (30) is arranged at a second axial end (4) located opposite to the first axial end (3).

8. The tolerance compensating fastening device (1) according to claim 7, characterized in that Also includes: An end of the bolt (100) opposite to the bolt head is threadedly connected to the nut element (30).

9. Fastening system comprising a fastening device (1) according to one of the preceding claims, a first vehicle component (200), a second vehicle component (300) and a bolt (100).

10. A tolerance compensating fastening device (1) for fastening a first vehicle component (200) to a second vehicle component (300) by means of a bolt (100), the fastening device (1) having a longitudinal opening (2) for receiving the bolt (100), characterized in that The fastening device (1) comprises: a first component (11), wherein the fastening device (1) is pre-mounted on the first vehicle component (200) via the first component (11), and the first component (11) is movable in a rotationally movable manner in a longitudinal direction (y) within a first tolerance compensation range in a corresponding mounted state due to the mounting; wherein the movement of the bolt (100) that can be transmitted to the first component (11) is a displacement of the bolt (100) in the longitudinal direction (y), Wherein, the fastening device (1) further includes an annular rib (14) provided at one axial end of the first component (11); The bolt (100) drives the first component (11) to move in the longitudinal direction (y) while rotating through the annular rib (14). wherein the annular rib (14) has an opening, the size of the opening being set to allow the rod of the bolt (100) to pass through and allow the rod of the bolt (100) to move in the opening in a direction perpendicular to the longitudinal direction (y), wherein the bolt (100) comprises a bolt head for transmitting the displacement of the bolt (100) in the longitudinal direction to the first component (11), and The bolt head can enter the first component (11), and the bolt head can be blocked by the annular rib (14).

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