Multi-component bushing adhesive retainer

Abstract

The invention relates to a multi-part bushing adhesive holder (1) which can be fixed by adhesive in a component opening (3) and which, due to an axial separation, is configured to comprise at least two parts and thus is open in radial direction, so that a functional insert (40) can be installed into the adhesive holder (1) only before the adhesive holder (1) is adhered in the component opening (3), and the functional insert (40) is inseparably held in the adhesive holder (1) after the adhesive holder (1) is adhered in the component opening (3).

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to a multi-part bushing type adhesive or glue retainer, which can be fixed to a component opening by adhesive bonding. Before being bonded to the component opening, the adhesive retainer may be equipped with a functional insert, thus the combination of the adhesive retainer and the suitable functional insert can be adapted to different technical situations. Furthermore, this invention discloses a component with a component opening in which the aforementioned adhesive retainer with functional insert is installed. Additionally, this invention discloses a method for installing the adhesive retainer in a component opening and a method for manufacturing the adhesive retainer according to the above structure. Background Technology

[0002] In the prior art, providing fixation in components made of materials with low mechanical strength, also known as lightweight panels, is a common problem. According to one material alternative, lightweight panels are made of honeycomb materials, commonly referred to as honeycomb panels. According to another structural alternative, these lightweight panels are sandwich panels or foam panels.

[0003] Due to the nature of the building materials, lightweight panels do not provide sufficient strength to directly attach, for example, threaded bolts. Therefore, openings are typically provided in these lightweight panels for bonding component inserts. Such component inserts, for example, are threaded inserts made of metal, bonded to the component opening, preferably in a blind hole. US 4,729,705 describes this structure. To secure the threaded insert in the blind hole of the lightweight panel, the blind hole is partially filled with adhesive. By inserting the threaded insert into the blind hole, the adhesive is displaced into the gap between the inner wall of the blind hole and the outer region or outer surface of the threaded insert. A disadvantage of this displacement principle is that not all surfaces of the threaded insert and the blind hole that should be wetted or sprayed with adhesive to achieve reliable fixation of the threaded insert in the blind hole are wetted or sprayed with adhesive. Another disadvantage is that the displaced adhesive is squeezed out of the blind hole, thus impairing the appearance of the threaded insert inserted into the blind hole.

[0004] DE 102011 009 334A1 describes an assembly system with two fittings, which can also be installed in lightweight panels. This assembly system is used in the furniture industry, providing suitable application possibilities for such lightweight panels. The fittings are equipped with adhesive on their outer regions, which can be activated by heat. For this purpose, the corresponding fitting is inserted into a blind hole or other suitable opening and rotated there at high speed. Heat is generated due to friction between the inner wall of the opening and the outer surface of the fitting with adhesive, thereby activating the adhesive on the outer surface of the fitting.

[0005] However, a reliable connection between the fitting and the inner wall of the component opening can only be achieved when the inner diameter of the component opening precisely matches the outer diameter of the fitting; otherwise, no heat will be generated to activate the adhesive on the outside of the fitting. Another drawback is that if the gap between the fitting and the inner wall of the component opening is too large, the amount of adhesive used to secure the fitting in the component opening will be insufficient. In this case, friction will activate the adhesive, but the available amount of adhesive will be insufficient to fill the gap between the fitting and the component opening.

[0006] Furthermore, this document only describes the fitting connection between two fittings to be connected together. This connection is limited to press-fit connections and / or form-fit connections, similar to locking insert connections. Similar to the threaded inserts described above, this results in a lack of flexibility in the connection possibilities for these fittings, as each connection is constrained by the internal structure of the corresponding fitting used for the connection.

[0007] US 4,812,193 also describes a threaded insert for bonding, for example, to a honeycomb panel. The threaded insert is placed in a component opening so that adhesive is subsequently injected into the gap between the threaded insert and the inner wall of the component opening. The adhesive overflows from the threaded insert and fills the gap between the threaded insert and the inner wall of the component opening to reliably secure the threaded insert in the component opening. To guide the adhesive for wetting / spraying the outer wall of the threaded insert, a plurality of disc-shaped radial ribs are provided. These radial ribs extend circumferentially and are evenly spaced from each other, forming flow recesses into which adhesive can flow. Axially adjacent radial ribs flatten in defined portions to form an overflow area of ​​adhesive between adjacent recesses.

[0008] Another drawback of this adhesive bonding method for threaded inserts is that the surface of the threaded insert is thoroughly wetted or sprayed with adhesive to achieve reliable bonding with the component, and this spraying is adversely hindered by unidentifiable cavitation.

[0009] In view of the above-mentioned prior art, the object of the present invention is to provide an alternative structure for an adhesive retainer that can be fixed in an opening of a component by adhesive bonding and can establish a reliable connection with a functional component, such as a threaded bolt or similar component. Summary of the Invention

[0010] This invention discloses a multi-part bushing type adhesive or glue retainer that can be fixed in a component opening by adhesive bonding. Due to axial separation, particularly in the longitudinal direction of the adhesive retainer, it is configured to include at least two parts and thus is radially open, such that a functional insert can be installed into the adhesive retainer only before the adhesive retainer is bonded into the component opening; and after the adhesive retainer is bonded into the component opening, the functional insert is irremovably retained in the adhesive retainer.

[0011] The adhesive retainer of the present invention is intended for assembling components made of materials with low mechanical load-bearing capacity, such as lightweight panels, honeycomb panels, or foam / sandwich panels with load-bearing connection potential. For this purpose, the adhesive retainer is bonded to an opening provided in the component, preferably a blind hole. After the adhesive retainer is bonded and fixed in the component, it forms a universal base for a functional element or fixing element that is inserted into the adhesive retainer before bonding and is irremovably retained in the adhesive retainer after bonding. Thus, on the one hand, the adhesive retainer provides reliable and mechanically load-bearing fixation for functional inserts (e.g., fixing elements or connecting parts). On the other hand, depending on the requirements of the component bonding to be established, the adhesive retainer can be combined with the functional inserts before bonding. This means that functional inserts can be selected that are arranged in the adhesive retainer in the same manner before bonding and can be irremovably retained in the component opening after bonding. For this purpose, the adhesive retainer is configured as a housing structure. This housing can be opened without damage to receive the functional inserts and can be closed again after the functional inserts are inserted. Therefore, the combination of the adhesive retainer of the present invention with various functional plugs, fixing or connecting plugs provides a construction kit, so that the combination of the adhesive retainer and its functional plugs can be adapted to the corresponding connection of the components.

[0012] According to a preferred embodiment of the present invention, the adhesive retainer includes a hollow cylindrical housing having a circumferential side region, a closed axial end face, and an open axial end face, wherein a circumferentially surrounding fastening collar is provided on the end face adjacent to the opening.

[0013] Preferably, the adhesive retainer is made of a can-shaped or hollow cylindrical housing for mounting the functional insert. Preferably, one side of the can-shaped housing is closed to ensure reliable retention of the functional insert and to provide an adhesive surface for the adhesive retainer in the component opening. A functional opening is provided on the side opposite the closed axial end face to allow use of the functional insert, which is inseparably held within the housing, or to make it accessible to the housing. This functional opening is achieved through an open axial end face, which is positioned opposite the closed axial end face, for bonding and securing the adhesive retainer in the component opening.

[0014] On one hand, although one axial end face of the housing is preferably constructed in a closed manner, a circumferentially surrounding fastening collar surrounds a functional opening on the open end face of the housing. Preferably, the fastening collar is disposed on the axial end face of the opening of the housing, extending radially relative to the side region of the housing, and preferably flush with the end face of the opening of the housing. In this way, a preferred possibility is provided that the fastening collar abuts against the surface of the component, while the rest of the housing extends into the opening of the component. This provides a preferred possibility that the adhesive retainer can be bonded not only to the closed axial end face of the receiving hole in the opening of the component. This provides a preferred possibility that the adhesive retainer cannot be fixed in the component solely by being bonded to the closed axial end face of the housing, because the lower side of the fastening collar adjacent to the surface of the component preferably also constitutes a bonding surface, thereby achieving a solid-to-solid connection between the lower side of the fastening collar and the adjacent surface of the component, and reliable retention of the adhesive retainer in the opening of the component, under the action of the adhesive.

[0015] According to another preferred embodiment of the invention, the containment is longitudinally divided into at least two parts by at least one axial cut, the at least two parts being movable relative to each other, particularly being separable when opened, wherein the parts are completely or partially separable from each other.

[0016] According to the preferred structure of the containment according to the invention, this is not a single canister. Instead, the canister-like containment is constructed in a separated manner along its longitudinal direction. This separation into at least two parts, preferably two halves, ensures that the containment opens to receive the functional plug-in and then closes so that the functional plug-in is inseparably held within the containment.

[0017] Therefore, the housing preferably provides a shell structure that can be functionally opened and closed. This preferred multi-part shell structure provides, through its outer surface, preferably the circumferential side surface of the housing, a fixing surface and / or fixing structure for adhesively securing the housing to the component opening. The interior of the multi-part shell structure is designed to reliably retain the functional insert after the shell structure is closed again. To this end, the shell structure preferably has a design on its inner side that ensures a shape fit with the functional insert to be received and retained after the housing is closed again.

[0018] According to different preferred embodiments of the multi-part housing, the at least one axial cut divides the housing into two or more relatively movable parts. According to one preferred embodiment, these relatively movable parts are formed entirely independently of each other. According to another preferred embodiment, the at least two parts are connected to each other at selected connection points, such that multiple parts of the housing can be opened to allow functional inserts to be installed into the housing, and the housing can subsequently be closed again.

[0019] According to a preferred embodiment of the invention, the containment body consists of two half-shells that can be separated from each other and reconnected.

[0020] According to a preferred embodiment of the invention, the connecting surfaces of the plurality of parts are arranged along the axial cut, the connecting surfaces are arranged opposite to each other, and include positioning and / or connecting aids for the two parts. The connecting surfaces of the plurality of parts of the housing include, for example, a pin located on one half of the housing, which is inserted into a corresponding recess in the other half of the housing. It is also preferred that the form-fit connection be combined with a locking connection.

[0021] According to another alternative, multiple parts of the housing are connected on at least one side by a sheet-like hinge. Such a sheet-like hinge enables mobility, allowing the housing to unfold or open around the sheet-like hinge, so that functional plug-ins can be inserted into the housing.

[0022] According to another preferred embodiment of the invention, adjacent parts of the housing are movably connected by the aforementioned sheet hinges and / or snap-fit ​​connections and / or plug-in connections.

[0023] According to another preferred embodiment of the invention, the side region of the adhesive retainer includes an outer side that causes or guides flow and a functional inner side, the outer side being adapted to guide the flow of adhesive, and the functional insert being held in a closed containment in a form-fitting manner by the functional inner side.

[0024] The functional inner surface of the housing is preferably designed to form a form-fit connection with the functional plug-in to be received and held. For this purpose, a tongue and slot connection is used, wherein the functional inner surface includes a circumferential recess as a groove into which a collar extending radially from the functional plug-in is inserted. Similarly, a collar is preferably also provided on the functional inner surface of the housing, which is inserted into a corresponding groove of the functional plug-in.

[0025] If such a collar extends perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the housing, the functional insert is axially fixed within the housing by means of a tongue and groove connection. This connection also allows the functional insert to be arranged perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the housing in a fixed or floating / moving manner. The floating / moving arrangement provides the possibility of providing certain tolerance compensation when using the functional insert. For example, this is relevant when the functional insert is configured as a wire thread insert or coupling, where the threaded bolts must be screwed into the wire thread insert in a mating manner, or the connecting bolts must be inserted into the coupling.

[0026] Also preferably, protruding ribs in different arrangements are provided on the outer side of the guide. These ribs form the boundary of a surface or channel provided in a recessed manner, in which the adhesive flowing around the housing is contained and guided. Furthermore, it is preferable that such ribs are provided with recesses, thereby ensuring that adhesive overflows at the ribs.

[0027] According to another preferred embodiment of the invention, the functional inner surface of the housing includes a circumferential retaining groove that is adapted in width and depth to the circumferential collar of the functional plug-in to securely or flexibly / floatably retain the functional plug-in in the housing cavity (see above).

[0028] According to another preferred embodiment of the present invention, the fastening collar of the adhesive retainer includes a plurality of irradiation portions, and the thickness of the fastening collar in the longitudinal direction of the adhesive retainer is reduced in the irradiation portions, so that the fastening collar can transmit light in the irradiation portions.

[0029] According to a preferred embodiment of the invention, the adhesive retainer is fixed between the component surface and the adjacent lower side of the fastening collar by an adhesive. To activate and / or cure this adhesive, it must be irradiated with light of a specific wavelength. However, for aesthetic reasons, the fastening collar preferably covers the adhesive on the component surface, so the light cannot reach and irradiate the adhesive below the fastening collar. Therefore, an irradiation portion is preferably provided. Due to the thickness of the irradiation portion, they are semi-transparent, allowing the required light intensity to penetrate the irradiation portion, irradiate the adhesive, and activate and / or cure it.

[0030] According to another preferred embodiment of the adhesive retainer of the present invention, a baffle is provided on the closed axial end face of the housing, the baffle being received in the retaining groove of the functional plug-in, thereby preventing relative rotation between the functional plug-in and the housing.

[0031] According to another preferred embodiment of the adhesive retainer, the functional insert is a bushing closed at one end and has a circumferential collar and an internal thread or flat inner wall, a spring clip for quick locking, a ball head with a circumferential collar, or a protruding threaded pin or ball head bolt.

[0032] According to another preferred embodiment of the adhesive retainer of the present invention, the hollow cylindrical receiving body has an internal thread on its circumferential inner wall, and a wire threaded insert as the functional plug is provided in the internal thread.

[0033] In the same manner, a hollow cylindrical functional insert with internal threads is preferably also installed within the housing, with a wire threaded insert disposed inside the functional insert. In contrast to the above alternative, the functional insert with internal threads and a wire threaded insert provides a floating / moving support within the housing to compensate for possible tolerances when a threaded bolt is screwed into the internal thread with the wire threaded insert.

[0034] Regarding the preferred alternative of the invention described above, the adhesive retainer and / or functional insert is made of a thermoplastic material with a long-term service temperature of at least 130°C. This preferred material selection ensures the preferred use of the invention in aerospace technology.

[0035] In addition to the material choices mentioned above, common plastic materials are preferably used in household goods, the automotive industry, or other sectors. Accordingly, polyamides and similar plastic materials are used.

[0036] In addition, the present invention also discloses a component having a component opening, wherein the component opening is preferably a blind hole, and the adhesive retainer of any of the above preferred embodiments is bonded in the blind hole.

[0037] The present invention also discloses a method for installing the adhesive retainer in a component according to any of the preferred embodiments described above. The installation method includes the following steps: providing a component with a blind hole, wherein the adhesive retainer can be received in the blind hole; installing a functional plug-in in the adhesive retainer such that the functional plug-in is inseparably held in the adhesive retainer; and bonding the adhesive retainer to the blind hole.

[0038] In a preferred embodiment of the installation method, the method further includes the steps of: injecting a first dose of adhesive into the bottom of the blind hole; inserting the adhesive retainer with the functional plug into the blind hole containing the first dose of adhesive; and curing the adhesive.

[0039] Furthermore, it is preferable to inject a second dose of adhesive between the axial collar and the component on the circumferential side of the adhesive retainer, and preferably cure there.

[0040] Different preferred embodiments of the installation method provide the possibility of bonding and securing the adhesive retainer in the component opening in different ways. According to one alternative, the component opening is partially filled with adhesive, and due to the insertion of the adhesive retainer, the adhesive is displaced into the gap between the inner wall of the component opening and the outer side of the adhesive retainer, and there the adhesive cures to secure the adhesive retainer in the component opening.

[0041] According to a preferred embodiment of the invention, the adhesive retainer can be fixed to the bottom of the component opening by injecting adhesive once. When the adhesive retainer is inserted into the component opening, the closed axial end face of the adhesive retainer contacts the adhesive. In this way, the adhesive is displaced into the gap between the inner wall of the component opening and the outer side of the adhesive retainer. Preferably, the amount of adhesive is chosen to be small enough that only the closed axial end face, the opposing surfaces of the component opening, and the outer wall of the adhesive retainer are wetted or adhered to by the adhesive, with the adhesive displaced at most by half the axial length of the adhesive retainer. In this way, excessive adhesive overflow from the component opening during insertion of the adhesive retainer is avoided, thus preventing damage to the aesthetics of the component.

[0042] According to another preferred embodiment, the adhesive retainer is secured in the component opening by injecting adhesive at least twice. For this purpose, a first dose of adhesive is injected into the bottom of the blind hole, thereby establishing an adhesive bond between the closed axial end face of the adhesive retainer and the bottom of the blind hole. A second dose of adhesive is preferably applied below the fastening collar. In this manner, a second adhesive bond is formed between the underside of the fastening collar and the opposite component surface.

[0043] According to another preferred embodiment of the installation method of the present invention, the adhesive retainer is fixed by two different adhesives, which follow different curing principles.

[0044] Preferably, the adhesive is applied to the bottom of the blind hole, and this adhesive cures over time without any specific activation. Furthermore, it is preferable to apply the adhesive, which is first activated by light so that it cures over a subsequent period. For this purpose, for example, it is conceivable to apply the adhesive into the blind hole and then activate it by light, only after which the adhesive retainer is inserted into the blind hole with the adhesive. According to another preferred alternative to the installation method, the applied adhesive cures in the blind hole by heat radiation.

[0045] Optionally, a photo-activated and / or photo-curable adhesive is preferably provided below the fastening collar. Due to the preferred irradiation portion in the fastening collar described above, the adhesive between the underside of the fastening collar and the component surface can be activated by light. Similarly, it is preferable to provide a heat-curable adhesive or a time-curing adhesive between the underside of the fastening collar and the component surface. When using a heat-curable adhesive, the adhesive placement must be sufficiently heated to support curing.

[0046] Furthermore, the present invention includes a method for manufacturing the adhesive retainer according to the preferred embodiment described above. The manufacturing method includes the following steps: providing a first injection mold configured to be complementary in form to the adhesive retainer; injection molding the adhesive retainer in the first injection mold and injection molding the functional plug-in in a second injection mold; and demolding the adhesive retainer.

[0047] According to another preferred embodiment of the manufacturing method, additional steps are provided: providing a second injection mold configured to be formally complementary to the functional plug-in; injection molding the functional plug-in in the second injection mold; and demolding the functional plug-in. Furthermore, prefabricated functional plug-ins are preferably also provided.

[0048] Preferably, the adhesive retainer and / or functional plug-in are made of a thermoplastic material with a long-term service temperature of at least 130°C. Attached Figure Description

[0049] The preferred embodiments of the present invention will now be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which:

[0050] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of a component with an opening for inserting an adhesive retainer according to a preferred embodiment.

[0051] Figure 2 It is a schematic diagram of a component having a component opening in which an adhesive retainer with a functional plug, according to a preferred embodiment, is fixed.

[0052] Figure 3 This is a side view of a preferred embodiment of the adhesive retainer.

[0053] Figure 4 yes Figure 3 The exploded view of the adhesive retainer shown shows a functional plug-in of a preferred embodiment installed therein.

[0054] Figures 5a-5d These are different preferred embodiments of the functional plug-in.

[0055] Figure 6 This is another preferred embodiment of the adhesive retainer.

[0056] Figure 7 This is another preferred embodiment of the adhesive retainer, wherein the threaded bolt serves as a functional insert.

[0057] Figure 8 This is another preferred embodiment of the adhesive retainer, wherein the ball head bolt serves as a functional insert.

[0058] Figure 9This is an exploded view of another preferred embodiment of the adhesive retainer, which has an internal thread and a wire thread insert to be installed in the internal thread.

[0059] Figure 10 This is a cross-sectional view of the adhesive retainer bonded to the opening of the component.

[0060] Figure 11 This is a flowchart of a preferred embodiment of the installation method of the present invention. Detailed Implementation

[0061] Figure 1 A schematic diagram of component B with component opening 3 is shown, prior to the bonding of a multi-component bushing-type adhesive retainer to component opening 3. This adhesive retainer 1, which will be described in more detail below, is preferably suitable, for example, for component B with lower mechanical stability compared to metal or wood, such as lightweight panels, sandwich panels, honeycomb panels, foam boards, and combinations thereof. However, it is also preferable that the adhesive retainer 1 can be fixed to component B of any material.

[0062] The adhesive retainer 1 is made of plastic, preferably as an injection-molded part. Alternatively, the adhesive retainer 1 is preferably manufactured using known additive manufacturing methods. This would provide the possibility of manufacturing the adhesive retainer 1 from metal, for example, via laser sintering technology.

[0063] According to a preferred embodiment of the invention, the adhesive retainer 1 and the preferred functional insert 40 retained in the adhesive retainer 1 are made of a thermoplastic material, particularly a high-performance plastic material, with a long-term service temperature of at least 130°C. High-performance plastic materials are preferably used in the aerospace industry.

[0064] The term "high-performance plastic materials" or "high-performance thermoplastics" is an application-related engineering classification based on thermoplastic materials, distinguishing between general-purpose plastic materials, engineering plastic materials, and high-performance plastic materials. As the name suggests, high-performance plastic materials meet higher requirements than general-purpose and engineering plastic materials. Specifically, high-performance plastic materials exhibit better mechanical properties, higher chemical resistance, and / or heat resistance. Therefore, high-performance plastic materials differ significantly from engineering plastic materials, which cover a wide range of functions.

[0065] All high-performance plastic materials contain aromatic structures. Because the carbon-hydrogen bonds in aromatic polymers are significantly more stable than those in aliphatic polymers, they are less prone to generating free radicals during thermal decomposition or fires due to their antioxidant properties. Furthermore, aromatic polymers have greater chain stiffness than aliphatic polymers, which lowers the glass transition temperature; or, in the case of crystalline polymers, increases the microcrystalline melting point and reduces solubility. Therefore, aromatic structures combine two of the most important characteristics for high-temperature resistance. Thus, thermal stability is a core feature of high-performance plastic materials.

[0066] Based on the characteristics of general-purpose plastic materials, improvements in mechanical and thermal properties can be achieved by adding reinforcing materials (such as glass and carbon fiber), supplementing stabilizers, and increasing the degree of polymerization. However, a long-term service temperature of at least 130°C can only be achieved when aliphatic units are replaced by aromatic units. In this document, the term "long-term service temperature" refers to the highest temperature at which the corresponding plastic material loses no more than 50% of its initial characteristics in hot air after 20,000 hours of storage. DIN IEC 216 and DIN EN 60216 are also referenced in this regard.

[0067] Higher long-term service temperatures can be achieved by completely eliminating aliphatic elements and tightly linking aromatic compounds through functional groups such as ether, sulfone, or imide groups, thereby achieving long-term service temperatures of at least 200°C to at least 260°C. In a preferred embodiment, the thermoplastic material thus has a long-term service temperature of at least 150°C, preferably at least 170°C, and particularly preferably at least 190°C. Alternatively or additionally, the thermoplastic material is selected from the group of amorphous plastic materials. Here, the term "amorphous" generally refers to the state of a solid material whose components, i.e., atoms, ions, or molecules, are not periodically arranged over larger portions, i.e., so-called long-range order. Amorphous thermoplastic materials are initially transparent. Furthermore, compared to semi-crystalline thermoplastic high-performance plastic materials, components of amorphous thermoplastic materials are rigid. However, a disadvantage compared to semi-crystalline plastic materials is lower chemical resistance.

[0068] The adhesive retainer 1 is fixed in a solid-to-solid manner by adhesive in the component opening 3. Due to the structure of the adhesive retainer 1, which will be described in detail later, a functional insert 40 needs to be installed in the adhesive retainer 1 before it is bonded to the component opening 3. After the adhesive retainer 1 with the functional insert 40 is bonded to the component opening 3, the functional insert 40 cannot be removed from the adhesive retainer 1 or replaced with another functional insert 40. Therefore, Figure 2 A schematic diagram of an adhesive retainer 1 with a functional plug 40 is shown, which is fixed in the component opening 3 of component B.

[0069] The adhesive retainer 1 is configured as a multi-part and bushing type. The term "bushing type" means that the functional insert 40 can be installed and held in the adhesive retainer 1.

[0070] according to Figure 3 and Figure 4 A preferred embodiment of the adhesive retainer 1 will be described in more detail below. The adhesive retainer 1 has a can-shaped housing 10. The housing 10 is configured as a partially hollow cylindrical structure to accommodate and permanently retain the functional plug 40.

[0071] The housing 10 extends along the longitudinal axis L for mounting the functional plug-in 40, and has a circumferential side region 12, a closed axial end face 14, and an open axial end face 16.

[0072] Preferably, the end face 16 of the opening is surrounded by a circumferentially encircling fastening collar 18. According to the preferred embodiment shown, the fastening collar 18 is configured to be circumferentially closed. It is also preferred that the fastening collar 18 is provided with an axial notch (not shown).

[0073] The fastening collar 18 has a plurality of evenly distributed recesses 19, preferably along the side of it facing away from the component. Within the recesses 19, the thickness of the fastening collar 18 in the direction of the longitudinal axis L is reduced to such that the bottom of the recesses 19 is light-transmittable. Therefore, the recesses 19 serve as illumination windows to activate and / or cure the adhesive located on the side of the fastening collar 18 facing the component.

[0074] Also preferably, the fastening collar 18 has no recess 19.

[0075] Preferably, the fastening collar 18 has an axially projecting, circumferentially surrounding stiffener 17 on the side facing the component. The stiffener 17 defines a channel on the side of the fastening collar 18 facing the component, in which adhesive can be accommodated. Preferably, the stiffener 17 prevents the adhesive from shifting radially outward beyond the radial extension of the fastening collar 18.

[0076] The side region 12 has a plurality of radially outwardly projecting ribs 13, which extend parallel to and perpendicular to the longitudinal axis L. The ribs 13 define a flow path for the adhesive through which the adhesive retainer 1 is secured in the component opening 3. Preferably, the ribs 13 are open at multiple locations to create adhesive overflow positions between adjacent flow paths. Furthermore, the ribs 13 preferably also serve as vents in the adhesive area. This means that when the adhesive retainer 1 is bonded to the blind hole 3, cavitation in the adhesive area is avoided as much as possible.

[0077] based on Figure 3 and Figure 4 It can be recognized that the housing 10 has a bushing-like or canister-like shape. According to a preferred embodiment of the invention, the housing 10 is configured to include at least two parts due to at least one axial cutout 20. According to one embodiment, the housing 20 is composed of exactly two parts 22, 24, particularly two halves 22, 24 or two half-shells.

[0078] Each of the two halves 22 and 24 of the housing 20 has a connecting surface 26 formed by an axial cutout 20. When the housing 10 is closed or fixed in the component opening 3, preferably a blind hole, these connecting surfaces 26 are opposite to each other and abut against each other. The surface normals of the connecting surfaces 26 are preferably perpendicular to the longitudinal axis L.

[0079] To reliably install the two halves 22, 24 in a mutually facing and aligned manner, the connecting surface 26 preferably has positioning aids and / or connecting aids 28. According to one embodiment, the positioning aids and / or connecting aids 28 are pins that engage in the fitting opening. Similarly, a snap-fit ​​or locking connection is preferably provided in this location.

[0080] Preferably, the two halves 22 and 24 are designed to have the same structure, which makes the manufacturing process and subsequent assembly more efficient.

[0081] According to another preferred embodiment, the two halves 22, 24 are movably connected to each other by a sheet-like hinge. Figure 4 Conversely, "movably" means Figure 3 The housing 10 can be opened to insert the functional plug 40. According to various preferred embodiments of the invention, a sheet hinge (not shown) is disposed radially outside the fastening collar 18 or at the bottom of the housing 10. The corresponding positioning of the sheet hinge ensures that the housing 10 is open for receiving / inserting the functional plug 40 and subsequently closes the housing 10. Preferably, the sheet hinge is implemented in the structure of the baffle 15 described below.

[0082] Preferably, the housing 10 is further divided into two or more parts 22, 24 by an axial cut 20 so that the functional plug-in 40 can be inserted.

[0083] The housing 10 has a functional inner surface 30, which is configured to face the circumferential side region 12. This functional inner surface 30 is used for securing and retaining functional components within the housing 10. According to a first preferred embodiment (see...), Figure 4 The functional inner surface 30 includes at least one circumferential fixing groove or recess 32, in which a radial collar 42 adapted to the functional insert 40 can be received. Preferably, the groove 32 is configured to be circumferential. Also preferably, the groove 32 is interrupted at least at one location by a baffle (not shown) protruding from the functional inner surface 30. The baffle is inserted into the recess (not shown) into which the radial collar 42 is adapted to provide anti-rotation protection for the functional insert 40 in the housing 10 in such a way.

[0084] The circumferential fixing groove 32 and the radial collar 42 inserted therein are preferably dimensionally adapted to each other. According to a preferred embodiment, the radial collar 42 is configured to precisely fit the groove 32, thereby firmly retaining the radial collar 42 and the functional insert 40 within the groove 32. Due to this connection, radial or axial displacement of the functional insert 40 within the housing 10 is impossible.

[0085] According to another preferred embodiment, the groove 32 and the radial collar 42 are configured such that the functional insert 40 is held in a fixed axial position within the housing 10. However, simultaneously, both the radial collar 42 and the functional insert 40 can also move radially within the groove 32. In this way, a floating / moving support for the functional insert 40 is achieved within the housing 10.

[0086] It should be understood that the radial collar can also be provided on the functional inner surface 30. In this case, a suitable groove for receiving the radial collar is formed on the outer side of the functional insert 40.

[0087] Preferably, a baffle 15 is provided on the inner side of the closed side 14. The baffle 15 extends axially from the inner side of the closed side 14 and is preferably arranged eccentrically relative to the side 14. Also preferably, the baffle 15 extends radially, for example as... Figure 4 As shown. For this purpose, the baffle 15 is inserted into the corresponding recess 44 of the functional plug-in 40 to prevent relative rotation between the housing 10 and the functional plug-in 40. If the functional plug-in 40 is held in the housing 10 in a floating / moving manner, the baffle 15 is fitted into the recess 44 with a clearance fit. Therefore, the recess 44 is set to be wider than the baffle, such as... Figure 11 As shown. With the functional plug-in 40 securely installed in the housing 10, preferably there is no gap between the baffle 15 and the recess 44.

[0088] Figure 5 illustrates a preferred embodiment of the functional plug-in 40, which can be installed and held in the housing 10 in a floating / moving manner. Figure 5a The functional plug-in 40 has an internal thread, which is preferably equipped with a thread-reinforced wire thread insert.

[0089] Figure 5b The "Function Plug 40" is a spring clip used for quick locking or locking of the connection.

[0090] Figure 5c The functional insert 40' has a flat inner wall for screwing in self-tapping screws.

[0091] Figure 5d The functional plug-in 40”' is a ball seat, that is, a coupling bracket, preferably for removably securing the ball head bolt therein.

[0092] Figures 6 to 8 A preferred embodiment of the invention is shown, wherein the functional plug-in 40 is securely held within the housing 10, i.e., without any floating / moving supports. For this purpose, Figure 6 The functional insert 40 preferably has an internal thread, which may or may not have a thread-reinforced wire thread insert. Figure 7 In addition to its preferred and invisible fixing structure (composed of a radial collar 42 and a recess 44 in the housing 10), the functional plug 40 also includes a threaded bolt 46 extending beyond the housing 10. As an alternative to the threaded bolt 46, Figure 8 The preferred embodiment shows a connecting bolt 48, preferably a ball head bolt.

[0093] Another preferred embodiment of the invention is, for example Figure 9 As shown, threads are provided on the functional inner surface 30 of the housing 10. Preferably, a wire thread insert is also provided in the threads as a functional insert 40". In this case, the multi-part structure of the housing 10 proves advantageous because it allows the wire thread insert to be pre-positioned in the threads when the housing 10 is open (see...). Figure 9 And it is securely installed in the thread through the closure of the housing 10.

[0094] In the cross-sectional diagram, Figure 10 An adhesive retainer 1 with a functional plug 40 is shown being fixed in the component opening 3 by adhesive bonding.

[0095] Before reaching this state, in step S1 of the installation method, a component B with a component opening 3, preferably a blind hole, is provided.

[0096] Before or after the installation process, the housing 10 is opened, and the functional insert 40, according to a desired structure, is installed within the housing 10. The housing 10 is then closed again to hold the functional insert 40 inseparably therein (step S2). The opening and closing of the housing 10 is performed via the preferred sheet hinge described above. Alternatively, the housing 10 is preferably disassembled into two halves or other separate parts and reassembled after the functional insert is positioned.

[0097] According to the first installation variant, a first dose of adhesive Kl is applied to the bottom of the blind hole 3 (step S3).

[0098] Subsequently, in step S5, the adhesive retainer 1 with the functional plug 40 is inserted into the blind hole 3. Since the adhesive retainer 1 is immersed in a first dose of adhesive Kl, the first dose of adhesive Kl shifts into the gap between the inner wall of the blind hole 3 and the side region 12 of the adhesive retainer 1. If the amount of the first dose of adhesive Kl is sufficiently large, the first dose of adhesive Kl is distributed below the fastening collar 18. Then, in step S6, the first dose of adhesive Kl cures.

[0099] The curing of the first dose of adhesive Kl is preferably carried out by heating or by the elapsed time of a known curing period. Furthermore, it is preferable to use an adhesive that can be activated and / or cured by light. In this case, light is preferably irradiated onto the first dose of adhesive Kl below the fastening ring 18 through the irradiation window 19 or directly through the fastening ring 18, thereby activating and / or curing it.

[0100] According to another preferred installation method, a first dose of adhesive Kl is applied to the bottom of the blind hole 3 (step S3). Preferably, the first dose of adhesive Kl is limited in volume so that it only adheres to or wets the gap between the inner wall of the blind hole 3 and the side region 12. Therefore, the first dose of adhesive Kl will not reach the component surface below the fastening collar 18.

[0101] In a further preferred step S4, a second dose of adhesive K2 is applied to the area near the opening of the blind hole 3, which will be covered by the retaining collar 18.

[0102] Subsequently, the adhesive retainer 1 is inserted into the blind hole 3 (step S5), and the first dose of adhesive K1 and the second dose of adhesive K2 are cured (step S6).

[0103] According to a preferred embodiment of the installation method, the first dose of adhesive K1 and the second dose of adhesive K2 are of different adhesive types. This means that the second dose of adhesive K2 includes an adhesive that can be activated and / or cured by light. Therefore, after the adhesive retainer 1 is inserted into the blind hole 3, light of a specific wavelength is irradiated onto the second dose of adhesive K2 below the fastening collar 18 through the irradiation window 19 of the fastening collar 18. Thus, the second dose of adhesive K2 is activated or activated and cured. This provides a preferred possibility of pre-fixing the adhesive retainer 1 in the blind hole 3 by the fastening collar 18 and the light-activated second dose of adhesive K2.

[0104] Preferably, the first dose of adhesive Kl comprises a thermosetting adhesive. Therefore, the heat required for curing is transferred to the blind hole 3 with the pre-fixed adhesive retainer 1 to cure the first dose of adhesive Kl.

[0105] Preferably, an adhesive that cures regardless of time is used as the first dose of adhesive K1. During the curing of the first dose of adhesive K1, the pre-fixation by means of the second dose of adhesive K2 ensures the reliable positioning and necessary retention of the adhesive retainer 1 with the functional plug 40 in the component opening 3.

[0106] according to Figure 10 In the preferred embodiment of the invention shown, the adhesive retainer 1 is bonded to the blind hole 3 of the sandwich panel B. In sandwich panels B with known structures, for example, a honeycomb panel or honeycomb core is arranged between an upper cover layer and a lower cover layer. The cover layer is more stable than the honeycomb panel and is bonded to the honeycomb panel to achieve a stable panel structure with better mechanical load-bearing capacity.

[0107] In sandwich panel B, the adhesive retainer 1 is preferably bonded to both cover layers. In this way, an additional structural connection is established between the cover layers. Therefore, the adhesive retainer 1 is held to the most stable part of the sandwich panel B structure, resulting in the necessary stability. Furthermore, mechanical forces can be dissipated across the two cover layers through the adhesive retainer 1, thereby stabilizing the sandwich panel.

[0108] Instead of a sandwich panel, component B is made of plastic, wood, metal, or a material similar to a solid material or multilayer structure, and the adhesive retainer 1 is preferably bonded to the blind hole 3 of component B in the same manner. As described above, the bonding is performed using one or two types of adhesive and / or one or two dosages of adhesive.

[0109] To manufacture the adhesive retainer according to a preferred embodiment of the invention, known manufacturing methods are employed, such as injection molding or additive manufacturing methods like 3D printing or laser sintering. For example, the manufacturing steps are summarized based on a preferred injection molding method. First, a first injection mold is provided that is complementary to the shape of the adhesive retainer 1, particularly the shape of the housing 10, and preferably a second injection mold is provided that is complementary to the shape of the functional insert 40. Subsequently, the housing 10 is injection molded, and preferably the functional insert 40 is injection molded. According to one embodiment of the manufacturing method, the housing 10 and the functional insert 40 are made of a high-performance plastic material (see above). However, other plastic materials with suitable properties are also preferably used. After injection molding, the housing and, preferably, the functional insert are demolded.

[0110] 1 Adhesive retainer

[0111] 3-part opening

[0112] 10 canister-shaped containment containers

[0113] 12 side areas

[0114] 13. Side ribs

[0115] 14 Closed axial end face

[0116] 15 baffles

[0117] 16-opening axial end face

[0118] 17 circumferentially encircling stiffeners

[0119] 18 Fastening Rings

[0120] 19 Recess or irradiation window of fastening collar 18

[0121] 20 axial cuts

[0122] 22, 24, and the two halves of containment object 10

[0123] 26 connecting surfaces

[0124] Positioning and / or connecting accessories for halves 28, 22, and 24

[0125] 30 Functional medial surfaces

[0126] 32 Circumferential fixing grooves

[0127] 40 Function Plugins

[0128] 42 Radial collar

[0129] 44 Baffle 15 corresponding recess

[0130] 46 Threaded Bolt

[0131] 48 Ball head bolt

[0132] 50 Wire Thread Insert

[0133] Component B

[0134] L-axis of the adhesive retainer

Claims

1. A multi-part bushing type adhesive retainer (1), said adhesive retainer (1) being fixed in a component opening (3) by adhesive bonding, and configured to include at least two parts due to axial separation and thus being open in the radial direction, such that... The functional insert (40) may be installed into the adhesive retainer (1) only before the adhesive retainer (1) is bonded into the component opening (3); and After the adhesive retainer (1) is bonded into the component opening (3), the functional plug-in (40) is inseparably retained in the adhesive retainer (1), characterized in that, The adhesive retainer (1) includes a hollow cylindrical housing (10) having a circumferential side area (12), a closed axial end face (14), and an open axial end face (16). The open axial end face (16) has a functional opening opposite to the closed axial end face (14). A circumferentially surrounding fastening collar (18) is provided on the functional opening adjacent to the open axial end face (16). The fastening collar (18) extends radially outward relative to the side area (12) of the housing (10), such that in use, the fastening collar (18) abuts axially against the surface of the component, while the rest of the housing (10) extends into the component opening (3). The adhesive retainer (1) further includes a baffle (15) disposed within the housing (10) and located at the closed axial end face (14). The baffle (15) can be received in the groove (44) of the functional plug (40) to prevent relative rotation between the functional plug (40) and the housing (10).

2. The adhesive retainer (1) as described in claim 1, characterized in that, The containment (10) is longitudinally divided into two parts (22, 24) by at least one axial cut (20), the two parts (22, 24) being movable relative to each other, wherein the two parts are completely or partially separable from each other.

3. The adhesive retainer (1) as described in claim 2, characterized in that, The connecting surfaces (26) of the two parts (22, 24) are provided along the axial cut, the connecting surfaces (26) are arranged opposite to each other, and include positioning and / or connecting aids (28) for the two parts (22, 24).

4. The adhesive retainer (1) as described in claim 2 or 3, characterized in that, The two parts (22, 24) are arranged adjacent to each other and are movably connected by sheet hinges and / or snap-fit ​​connections and / or plug-in connections.

5. The adhesive retainer (1) as described in claim 1, characterized in that, The side region (12) includes a guiding outer side for guiding adhesive flow and a functional inner side (30), through which the functional plug (40) is held in the closed housing (10) in a form-fitting manner.

6. The adhesive retainer (1) as claimed in claim 1, characterized in that, The fastening collar (18) includes several irradiation portions (19). The thickness of the fastening collar (18) in the longitudinal direction of the adhesive retainer (1) is reduced at the irradiation portions (19), so that the fastening collar (18) can transmit light in the irradiation portions (19).

7. The adhesive retainer (1) as described in claim 5, characterized in that, The functional inner surface (30) includes a circumferential fixing groove (32) which is adapted in width and depth to the circumferential collar (42) of the functional plug (40) to hold the functional plug (40) securely or flexibly / floatably in the receiving cavity.

8. The adhesive retainer (1) as described in claim 1, 2, 3, 5, 6 or 7, characterized in that, The functional plug-in (40) is: a) A bushing closed at one end and having a circumferential collar and internal threads or a flat inner wall; b) Spring clip for quick locking; c) A ball head with a circumferential collar; or d) Protruding threaded pins or ball head bolts.

9. The adhesive retainer (1) as claimed in claim 1, characterized in that, The hollow cylindrical housing (10) has an internal thread on its circumferential inner wall, and a wire threaded insert as the functional plug is provided in the internal thread.

10. The adhesive retainer (1) as described in claim 1, 2, 3, 5, 6, 7 or 9, characterized in that, The adhesive retainer (1) and / or functional plug (40) are made of thermoplastic material with a long-term service temperature of at least 130°C.

11. A component with a component opening, wherein the adhesive retainer (1) according to any one of claims 1-10 is adhered to the blind hole of the component.

12. A method for installing an adhesive retainer (1) according to any one of claims 1-10 in a component, comprising the steps of: a) Provide a component with a blind hole, in which the adhesive retainer can be received; b) Install the functional plug-in in the adhesive retainer such that the functional plug-in is held in the adhesive retainer in a way that makes it inseparable; c) Bonding the adhesive retainer to the blind hole, including: d) Inject the first dose of adhesive into the bottom of the blind hole; e) Insert the adhesive retainer (1) with the functional plug into the blind hole containing the first dose of adhesive; and f) Curing the adhesive.

13. The installation method as described in claim 12, characterized in that, It also includes the following steps: g) Inject a second dose of adhesive between the axial collar on the circumferential side of the adhesive retainer and the component.

14. The installation method as described in claim 12 or 13, characterized in that, The adhesive retainer (1) is fixed by two different adhesives, which follow different curing principles.

15. A method for manufacturing an adhesive retainer (1) according to any one of claims 1-10, comprising the following steps: a) Provide a first injection mold configured to be complementary in form to the adhesive retainer; b) Injection molding the adhesive retainer in the first injection mold and injection molding the functional plug-in in the second injection mold; and c) Demold the adhesive retainer.

16. The manufacturing method as described in claim 15, characterized in that, It also includes the following steps: d) Provide a second injection mold configured to be complementary in form to the functional plug-in; e) Injection molding the functional plug-in into the second injection mold; and f) Demold the functional plug-in.

17. The manufacturing method as described in claim 15, characterized in that, It also includes the following steps: g) Provide pre-built functional plugins.

18. The manufacturing method as described in claim 15 or 16, characterized in that, The adhesive retainer and / or functional plug-in are made of thermoplastic material with a long-term service temperature of at least 130°C.

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