Connecting element, first component, connecting structure, manufacturing method and connecting method

Abstract

A substantially T-shaped connecting element (1) suitable for connecting a first component (40) to a second component (60) with lateral tolerance compensation, the two components being arranged at a certain distance relative to each other, the connecting element comprising: a hollow shaft (10) having: a through hole (12); a collar (18) extending laterally, preferably radially outwardly at a first axial end (14) of the hollow shaft (10); and an internal thread (24) in the hollow shaft (10) for engaging with a connecting screw (50); a plurality of flexible webs extending laterally, preferably radially outwardly from the hollow shaft (10), the flexible webs being flexible in the laterally, preferably radially, direction; and a tolerance gap (38) for receiving an intermediate support (44) of the first component (40) formed between a bottom surface (22) of the collar (18) facing the flexible webs and a side surface of the flexible web facing the collar (18).

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The invention relates to a substantially T-shaped connecting element suitable for connecting a first component to a second component with lateral tolerance compensation, the first and second components being arranged at a certain distance relative to each other; a first component having a through hole in which the connecting element is arranged; a connecting structure comprising the first component, the second component and a connecting screw; a method for manufacturing the connecting element and a connecting method using the connecting element. Background Art

[0002] Connecting elements for producing a connection between a first component and a second component, which are arranged at a distance from each other, are known from the state of the art, in particular in the automotive industry.

[0003] For example, DE 19538378 A1 describes a device for connecting spacer components. This device is used to connect spacer components, each having a mounting opening, using a connecting screw and an associated counter-bearing. A rotationally secure guide element for the connecting screw is associated with the first component, while the counter-bearing is created by profiling the cylindrical surface of the mounting opening on the second component. The profiling is formed by the screwing action and follows the thread line. The guide has a fixed position relative to the first component and has an internal thread.

[0004] DE 102016118138 B4 describes a tolerance compensating element for compensating the distance between a vehicle dashboard support and a body component (e.g., an A-pillar or an end wall), wherein the dashboard support can be connected to the body component via a fastening screw. The tolerance compensating element comprises a frame structure having a first fastening portion and a second fastening portion, wherein the first fastening portion and the second fastening portion are arranged opposite each other and connected by a transverse web. The first fastening portion and the second fastening portion are spaced apart from each other, and a first opening is formed in the first fastening portion. The second fastening portion is configured to fasten the tolerance compensating element to the dashboard support. In addition, a threaded nut is provided, which is assigned to the first fastening portion and is used to receive the fastening screw.

[0005] DE 102018102291 A1 also describes a device for compensating for tolerances between two parts (particularly vehicle parts), the two parts being connected via a connecting screw with a holding device arranged on the first part and a compensating device that is contactable with the second part and movable relative to the holding device. The compensating device has an internally toothed structure for mating with the thread of the connecting screw.

[0006] A disadvantage of the elements discussed above is that they focus on the interconnection of two components, at most in conjunction with axial tolerance compensation. However, these documents do not discuss lateral or radial tolerance compensation.

[0007] US 2017 / 0370394 A1 describes a method and apparatus for retaining a fastener receiver. The apparatus includes a retainer for retaining a nut assembly near an object. The retainer includes a first plate defining a first opening. The first plate is configured to couple with the object. When the retainer is coupled with the object, the first opening is configured to receive a portion of the nut assembly. The retainer includes a second plate defining a second opening and includes a first deflectable piece adjacent to the second opening. The second plate is configured to couple with the first plate opposite the object. The deflectable piece of the second plate is configured to cover a portion of the first opening of the first plate. When the retainer is coupled with the object, the first deflectable piece is configured to deflect to receive and retain a portion of the nut assembly in the first opening.

[0008] DE 102019206750 A1 further describes a device for compensating tolerances between a first component and a second component. The device has an elastic centering device which is provided, in particular formed, for centering the device in a nominal position of the first component.

[0009] Finally, DE 102019211757 A1 describes a radial compensating element for compensating for tolerances between a first component and a second component, the second component being connected to the first component via a connecting bolt. The compensating element comprises a body having a receiving channel in which a connecting bolt can be received, wherein the receiving channel is configured to accommodate the connecting bolt. Furthermore, the compensating element includes a plurality of elastic elements configured to radially compensate for tolerances between the connecting bolt and the first component. The receiving channel presses the connecting bolt, when inserted into the receiving channel, into a nominal position.

[0010] Disadvantages of these solutions are the number of parts and the correspondingly high manufacturing costs, as well as the effort required to create the connection.

[0011] The object of the present invention is therefore to provide a simplified connecting element suitable for connecting a first component and a second component arranged at a distance from one another with lateral tolerance compensation. Furthermore, it is an object of the present invention to provide a corresponding first component, a connecting structure, a method for producing the connecting element, and a connecting method using the connecting element. Summary of the Invention

[0012] The roughly T-shaped connecting element of the present invention is suitable for connecting a first component and a second component (which are arranged at a certain distance from each other) with transverse, preferably radial, tolerance compensation, and comprises: a hollow shaft having: a through hole; a collar extending transversely, preferably radially outwardly at a first axial end of the hollow shaft; and an internal thread in the hollow shaft for engaging with a connecting screw, the internal thread preferably being adjacent to the first axial end of the hollow shaft; a plurality of flexible webs extending transversely, preferably radially outwardly from the hollow shaft, and being flexible in the transverse, preferably radial direction; and a tolerance gap for receiving an intermediate support member of the first component formed between a bottom surface of the collar facing the flexible web and a side surface of the flexible web facing the collar.

[0013] The structure of the generally T-shaped connecting element of the present invention will be described below with reference to its use for ease of understanding. The generally T-shaped connecting element is formed by a hollow, preferably cylindrical, shaft combined with a collar. In this regard, it is assumed that the first and second components are arranged at a certain distance from each other, as is well known in the automotive industry, for example, when mounting lights on vehicle frames or trim on door frames.

[0014] The starting point is a first component, which preferably has a through hole without threads. An intermediate support member extending laterally or radially inward is located in the through hole of the first component, preferably formed adjacent to the top surface of the first component and having a first height (i.e., extending in the axial direction of the hollow shaft). In this regard, the term "lateral" primarily refers to structures having a non-circular cross-section, while the term "radial" primarily refers to structures having a circular or annular cross-section.

[0015] Turning now to the intermediate support and assuming an annular or circular cross section, the intermediate support thus provides a portion of reduced diameter compared to the diameter of the remainder of the through hole of the first component. The intermediate support may extend circumferentially around, or may have a breakout or be interrupted.

[0016] The connecting element of the present invention is inserted into the through-hole of the first component from the top surface of the first component. When inserting the connecting element into the through-hole of the first component, the second axial end of the hollow shaft, i.e., the end opposite the collar, is inserted first. During insertion of the connecting element into the through-hole of the first component, the flexible webs are compressed laterally or radially inward by the intermediate support. Once they pass through the intermediate support, they bend radially outward.

[0017] The first consequence is that the flexible web allows the connecting element to be clamped in the through-hole of the first component. Furthermore, the intermediate support of the first component is arranged in a tolerance gap between the bottom surface of the collar facing the flexible web and the side surface of the flexible web facing the collar. This tolerance gap is adapted to the thickness of the intermediate support, so that in this position, the roughly T-shaped connecting element is axially movable. Preferably, the axial movable range is selected to correspond to one pitch of the internal thread in the hollow shaft. This allows compensation for any deviation of the internal thread of the second component from that of the hollow shaft.

[0018] A second consequence is that, and since the flexible wings have been bent radially outwards, they preferably abut the inner wall of the through hole of the first component.The flexible web thus provides a centering function for the connecting element of the invention in the through hole of the first component.

[0019] The connecting screw is now inserted into the through-hole of the first component from the bottom side of the first component, which is opposite to the top side of the first component. The connecting screw is therefore inserted or screwed into the first component and the connecting element in a direction opposite to the direction in which the connecting element is inserted into the through-hole of the first component. The connecting screw is then screwed into the internal thread provided by the hollow shaft of the connecting element. In this regard, it should be noted that a rotational protection is preferably formed between the collar and the first component (in particular, as will be explained in detail later), by the shape of the collar. Furthermore, depending on the desired application, in the case of a hollow shaft made of plastic material, transport safety can be provided by a sealing coating on the connecting screw or by a specific shape of the last thread turn of the internal thread in the hollow shaft.

[0020] At the same time, before or after the connecting screw is screwed into the first component, the second component having the opening is arranged in alignment with the first component, preferably with a certain distance between the first component and the second component. The first component and the second component are arranged so that the top surface of the collar (opposite to the bottom surface of the collar) and the top surface of the first component face the second component.

[0021] In the first example, for ease of understanding, it is assumed that the central longitudinal axis defined by the central position of the hollow shaft of the connecting element in the through hole of the first component extends centrally through the opening of the second component. Therefore, no radial tolerance compensation is required.

[0022] When the connecting screw is now further screwed into the internal thread in the hollow shaft, it engages with the internal thread arranged at or near the second component opening.In this example, as mentioned above, the connecting element is located at the center of the through hole of the first component.

[0023] The axial displaceability of the connecting element due to the tolerance play exists in all the above-mentioned states.

[0024] This situation changes once the head of the connecting screw comes into contact with the bottom surface of the first component. If the connecting screw is screwed in further in this state, the relative movement between the connecting element and the connecting screw is maintained by the connecting element moving in the direction of the connecting screw head. This can occur until the bottom surface of the collar comes into contact with the intermediate support, preventing further screwing in.

[0025] The two components are thus fastened to one another at a certain distance by means of the connecting element according to the invention.

[0026] In a second example, it is assumed that the central longitudinal axis of the hollow shaft of the connecting element is defined by the central position of the through-hole of the first component, and that the central longitudinal axis of the through-hole of the first component does not extend centrally through the opening of the second component. Therefore, it is necessary to compensate for radial tolerances. In this case, the connecting element is moved laterally or radially in the through-hole of the first component so that the central longitudinal axis of the hollow shaft is aligned with the central longitudinal axis of the opening of the second component. The lateral or radial mobility of the connecting element in the through-hole of the first component is limited by the internal dimensions or diameter of the intermediate support relative to the external dimensions or diameter of the connecting element in the tolerance gap portion and / or, in the case of lateral compression of the flexible web, by the internal dimensions or diameter of the through-hole of the first component relative to the external dimensions or diameter of the connecting element in the area of ​​the flexible web.

[0027] A first advantage of the connecting element of the present invention is that it can be easily clamped to a first component, is self-centering, and allows for compensation of lateral and radial tolerances. Another advantage is that, compared to the prior art, the connecting element of the present invention can be used to establish a connection between two components (which are arranged at a distance from each other) using a device with fewer parts. These advantages further enhance the connection element's manufacturing effort, resulting in space savings and reduced weight, which also offers economic advantages.

[0028] According to a preferred embodiment, the collar of the connecting element has a shape that provides a rotational protection. In particular, the collar has a non-circular shape and / or at least one protrusion extending laterally, preferably radially outward, to provide a rotational protection. As mentioned above, when the connecting screw is screwed into the connecting element, the connecting elements must be prevented from rotating together. This can be achieved by the shape of the collar. This shape interacts, for example, with a groove formed in the top surface of the first component, where the shape of the groove complements that of the collar. In particular, the collar can have a square or polygonal shape.

[0029] In another preferred embodiment of the connecting element, the side of the flexible web facing the collar is arranged in a plane that is parallel to the plane defined by the bottom surface of the collar, and / or the side of the flexible web facing away from the collar is preferably chamfered in the axial and / or radial direction of the hollow shaft. A first alternative solution provides that the tolerance gap is defined by two parallel planes. In combination with an intermediate support of the first component, a uniform abutment and good interaction between the connecting element and the first component can be achieved. With this second alternative solution, the forces required to insert the connecting element are reduced compared to a flexible web without chamfers, making the insertion of the connecting element into the through-hole of the first component much easier. Furthermore, the chamfers reduce the risk of scratches during insertion of the connecting element into the first component.

[0030] Advantageously, the flexible web is formed by a spring arm extending laterally, preferably radially, outward, with a first end secured to the connecting element and a second end free. A spring arm is a particularly preferred embodiment of a flexible web, although many other designs are possible that provide lateral or radial flexibility. However, the use of a spring arm with one end secured to the connecting element and the other end free has proven particularly advantageous. Starting from the secured end, the spring arm can extend radially outward in a clockwise or counterclockwise direction. In each case, the free end is at its greatest distance from the hollow shaft of the connecting element. In this regard, preferably, all spring arms extend in the same direction, i.e., clockwise or counterclockwise.

[0031] In a first preferred embodiment, the connecting element is a two-part element, the first part of which comprises a shaft with a collar, and the second part of which comprises a hollow element on which transverse, preferably radially outwardly extending, flexible webs are provided. In this alternative embodiment, it is particularly preferred that the first and second parts are connected to each other in a rotationally fixed manner, in particular by at least one of pressing, gluing, and shrinking, or are produced by a two-component plastic injection molding process. In these embodiments, the first part can be made of metal, thereby establishing a metal-to-metal connection between the internal thread in the hollow shaft and the connecting screw. Alternatively, the connecting element can be manufactured from two different plastics, allowing the first part to be designed according to the desired or required stability, while the second part can be designed according to the desired or required flexibility to compensate for lateral tolerances. In a preferred embodiment, the internal thread in the hollow shaft is reinforced by a wire thread insert. This is particularly useful when the first part is made of plastic or aluminum.

[0032] In a second preferred alternative, the connecting element is a single-part component, preferably made of plastic. Because it consists of only one part, this alternative further reduces the number of parts. This results in a further reduction in weight. Depending on the application, it may also be preferable to reinforce the internal thread in the hollow shaft with a wire thread insert.

[0033] The first component of the present invention has a through-hole, in which the connecting element of the present invention is disposed. The intermediate support member of the first component extends transversely, preferably radially, inwardly within the through-hole of the first component, and the intermediate support member is disposed within the tolerance gap of the connecting element. This allows axial movement of the generally T-shaped connecting element to be limited by the collar and the flexible web. In particular, the shape of the collar provides a rotational restraint between the collar and the first component, and the flexible web is disposed within the through-hole of the first component, thereby achieving transverse, preferably radial, tolerance compensation. This first component can achieve the technical effects and advantages described above in combination with the connecting element of the present invention. Therefore, to avoid repetition, reference is made to the above description.

[0034] In a preferred embodiment of the first component, the first component further comprises a recess adjacent to the intermediate support, the collar being at least partially disposed in this recess, and the recess preferably having a complementary shape such that a rotational protection is formed by the recess and the collar. As described above, for each embodiment of the connecting element, the shape of the collar preferably interacts with a recess formed on the top surface of the first component, wherein the recess has a shape complementary to that of the collar. In particular, the collar may be square or polygonal in shape. In this manner, at least a complete rotation of the connecting element within the through-hole of the first component, i.e., a 360° rotation, is prevented. Preferably, the recess formed on the top surface of the first component is shaped such that, when the flexible web abuts the intermediate support with the side facing the collar, the top surface of the collar is flush with the top surface of the adjacent recess of the first component.

[0035] Furthermore, the diameter of the through hole of the first component is preferably smaller than the outer diameter of the flexible web of the connecting element. This dimensioning particularly ensures the centering function of the connecting element in the through hole of the first component, because the flexible web can abut against the inner wall of the through hole of the first component.

[0036] The connection structure of the present invention includes a first component of the present invention, a second component, and a connecting screw. The connecting screw passes through the first component and engages with the internal threads of the hollow shaft of the connecting element and the internal threads of the second component. The head of the connecting screw is supported by the first component. For details of the connection structure of the present invention, please refer to the description of the connecting element of the present invention, the use of which has been described in conjunction with the corresponding connection of the two components. Therefore, the above description and discussion regarding the technical effects and advantages also apply.

[0037] According to a preferred embodiment of the connection structure, the first component and the second component are arranged at a certain distance from each other. This particularly preferred embodiment relates to applications such as in the automotive industry, where it is often necessary to fasten two components to each other at a certain distance. Examples of this include mounting lights on a vehicle body or frame or mounting decorative items on a door frame.

[0038] In another preferred embodiment, the internal thread in the hollow shaft and the internal thread arranged at or near the second component have identical size and thread direction.Through this embodiment, a screw with a single external thread can be used for setting up a connection between the two components.

[0039] A manufacturing method for a connecting element according to the present invention comprises the following steps: providing a first part, preferably made of metal, comprising a hollow shaft having a collar and an internal thread; providing a second part, preferably made of plastic, comprising a hollow element having a plurality of transversely, preferably radially, extending flexible webs; and fastening the second part to the first part by at least one of pressing, gluing, shrinking, or injection molding the second part onto the first part, or injection molding the connecting element as a single-piece element using an injection mold having complementary shape features. The connecting element according to the present invention can be manufactured using the manufacturing method according to the present invention. Therefore, to avoid repetition, reference is made to the above discussion of the connecting element according to the present invention regarding the technical effects and advantages.

[0040] A connection method according to the present invention for connecting a first component to a second component by means of a connection element according to the present invention comprises the following steps: providing a first component according to the present invention with the connection element inserted therein, or providing a first component having a through hole and inserting the connection element according to the present invention into the through hole of the first component, thereby producing the first component according to the present invention; arranging a second component having an opening aligned with the first component, preferably at a distance therefrom, such that the top surface of the collar, opposite the bottom surface, faces the second component; inserting a connection screw into the first component and screwing the connection screw into the first thread provided by the connection element and subsequently into the internal thread at or near the second component until the screw head abuts against the first component and further screwing is prevented by the collar abutting against the intermediate support, wherein centering and / or lateral, preferably radial, tolerance compensation are provided by the flexible web of the connection element. By means of the connection method according to the present invention, a connection structure according to the present invention is established. Therefore, with regard to the technical effects and advantages, we refer to the above discussion of the connection element according to the present invention and the connection structure according to the present invention. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0041] The present invention will be described in detail below with reference to the accompanying drawings. In the accompanying drawings, the same reference numerals represent the same elements and / or components.

[0042] Figure 1 is a perspective view of a first embodiment of a connecting element of the present invention,

[0043] Figure 2 is a perspective exploded view of a second embodiment of a connecting element of the present invention,

[0044] Figure 3 Based on Figure 2A top view of the second embodiment,

[0045] Figure 4 Based on Figure 2 A side view of a second embodiment,

[0046] Figure 5 Based on Figure 2 A bottom view of the second embodiment,

[0047] Figure 6 along the central longitudinal axis through the Figure 2 A cross-sectional view of a second embodiment of the present invention,

[0048] Figure 7 is a perspective view of an embodiment of a connecting element of the present invention before being inserted into the first component,

[0049] Figure 8 A perspective view of an embodiment of a connecting element of the present invention inserted into a first component,

[0050] Figure 9 along the central longitudinal axis through the Figure 8 a sectional view of the first part with the inserted connecting element,

[0051] Figure 10 A perspective view of the first component with the connecting screw and the inserted connecting element before the connecting screw is screwed in,

[0052] Figure 11 is a perspective view of the first component with the inserted connecting element and the screwed-in connecting screw,

[0053] Figure 12 along the central longitudinal axis through the Figure 11 a sectional view of the first part with the inserted connecting element and the screwed-in connecting screw,

[0054] Figure 13 is a perspective view of a first component with an inserted connecting element and a screwed-in connecting screw, and a second component,

[0055] Figure 14 along the central longitudinal axis through Figure 13 a sectional view of a first part with an inserted connecting element and a screwed-in connecting screw and a second part,

[0056] Figure 15 is a perspective view of the first and second components with the inserted connecting element, wherein the connecting screw is in its final position,

[0057] Figure 16 A side view of a first component and a second component with an inserted connecting element, wherein the connecting screw is in its Figure 15 The final position of

[0058] Figure 17 is a section through the first and second components along the central longitudinal axis with the inserted connecting element, wherein the connecting screw is in its Figure 15 The final position of

[0059] Figure 18 is a perspective view of a first component with an inserted connecting element, which is laterally offset,

[0060] Figure 19 There is a basis for insertion Figure 18 a top view of a first part of a laterally offset connecting element,

[0061] Figure 20 There is a basis for insertion Figure 18 a bottom view of the first part of the laterally offset connecting element,

[0062] Figure 21 is a section through the first component along the central longitudinal axis with an inserted connecting element, which is arranged according to Figure 18 Lateral offset,

[0063] Figure 22 is a section through the first component along the central longitudinal axis with an inserted connecting element, which is arranged according to Figure 18 Laterally offset and fastened to the second component by connecting screws,

[0064] Figure 23 is a schematic flow chart of an embodiment of a manufacturing method of the present invention for a connecting element, and

[0065] Figure 24 FIG. 1 is a flow chart of an embodiment of a connection method of the present invention. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0066] Hereinafter, different embodiments of the connecting element 1 of the present invention will be discussed with reference to the accompanying drawings. However, before explaining the use of the connecting element 1, the structure of the substantially T-shaped connecting element 1 will be explained.

[0067] to this end, Figure 1 A perspective view of a first embodiment of a connecting element 1 according to the invention is shown, wherein the connecting element 1 is a one-part element, which is preferably made of a plastic material. Figures 2 to 6 A second embodiment of a connecting element 1 is shown, in which the connecting element 1 is a two-part element.

[0068] In each case, the connecting element 1 comprises a cylindrical hollow shaft 10 having a through-bore 12 and a first axial end 14 and a second axial end 16. At the first axial end 14, there is a collar 18 extending laterally outward, or in this case, radially outward, due to the cylindrical shape of the hollow shaft. The collar 18 has a top surface 20 and a bottom surface 22 opposite the top surface 20. Furthermore, an internal thread 24 for engagement with a connecting screw 50 is provided in the hollow shaft 10.

[0069] In this example, collar 18 is square in shape. However, many other shapes are possible, as long as they provide a rotational safety feature in combination with first component 40, ensuring that the connection screw 50 can be screwed into the internal thread 24 of hollow shaft 10 without causing a co-rotation of connecting element 1. In other words, the connection element 1 must be able to rotate less than 360° within first component 40. Therefore, in addition to a square shape, any non-circular shape that provides rotational safety and / or has at least one laterally outwardly extending protrusion is preferred for collar 18.

[0070] Furthermore, there are a plurality of flexible webs on the connecting element 1, which in this example are formed by three radially outwardly extending spring arms 32. Figure 1 In the embodiment according to Figures 2 to 6 In another embodiment, a single-piece hollow element 30 is provided on which radially outwardly extending spring arms 32 are provided. Since the hollow shaft 10 is a cylindrical hollow shaft 10, the hollow element 30 is also a cylindrical hollow element 30. Therefore, in this second embodiment, the connecting element 1 includes a first part 3 and a second part 5, wherein the first part 3 includes the hollow shaft 10, which includes the collar 18, and the second part 5 includes the hollow element 30, on which the radially outwardly extending spring arms 32 are provided.

[0071] In this regard, Figure 6 In general, the hollow element 30 preferably has an axial length that corresponds to the length of the hollow shaft 10 from the bottom surface of the collar 18 to the second axial end 16. Thus, the hollow element 30 extends from the bottom surface 22 of the collar 18 to the second axial end 16 of the hollow shaft 10 and is arranged flush with the second axial end 16.

[0072] During use, it is important that the hollow element 30 is mounted on the hollow shaft 10 in a rotationally fixed manner. To achieve this, the hollow element 30 can be fastened to the hollow shaft 10 by press-fitting, gluing, shrinking, or the two parts 3 and 5 can be produced by two-component plastic injection molding. The latter option allows the first part 3 to be adapted to the desired stability and the second part 5 to the desired flexibility. Other methods allow the first part 3 to be made of metal, thereby achieving a metal-to-metal connection between the connecting element 1 and the connecting screw 50.

[0073] The spring arm 32 is flexible in the radial direction. To this end, the first end of the spring arm 32 is fastened to the connecting element 1, while the second end is free. Therefore, the free end is preferably at the greatest distance from the hollow shaft 10 of the connecting element 1. The side of the spring arm 32 facing the collar 18 is designated by reference numeral 34, while the side of the spring arm 32 facing away from the collar 18 is designated by reference numeral 36.

[0074] The side 34 of the spring arm 32 facing the collar 18 is arranged in a plane that is parallel to the plane defined by the bottom surface 22 of the collar 18. Due to this arrangement, a tolerance gap 38 for receiving the intermediate support 44 of the first component is formed between the bottom surface 22 of the collar 18 facing the spring arm 32 and the side 34 of the spring arm 32 facing the collar 18. As will be explained later, in particular, due to the two parallel planes, a uniform abutment can be achieved at the intermediate support 44 of the first component 40.

[0075] In this example, the spring arms 32 extend radially outward in a counterclockwise direction from the fastened first end. The spring arms 32 can also be arranged in a clockwise direction. Preferably, all spring arms 32, that is, all three spring arms 32 here, are arranged in the same direction, that is, clockwise or counterclockwise.

[0076] Furthermore, the side 36 of the flexible spring arm 32 facing away from the collar 18 is chamfered. This chamfer preferably exists in both the axial and radial directions of the hollow shaft 10. In particular, this design makes it easier to insert the connecting element 1 into the first component 40 because the force required for insertion is reduced. In addition, the chamfers also reduce the risk of scratching the first component 40. In particular, these chamfers can be Figure 4 Seen in.

[0077] In order to increase the understanding of the function of the connecting element 1, reference will be made to Figures 7 to 17 The use of the connecting element 1 is explained.

[0078] exist Figure 71 and a first component 40 are provided. The first component 40 has an unthreaded through-hole 42, in which an intermediate support member 44 is located, extending radially inward and circumferentially therein. Furthermore, the first component 40 has a groove 46 formed on the top surface of the first component 40 adjacent to the intermediate support member 44. The groove 46 has a shape and depth adapted to the shape of the collar 18, such that the top surface 20 of the collar 18 is flush with or recessed in the top surface of the first component 40, thereby preventing the spring arms 32 from abutting against the intermediate support member 44 toward the side surface 34 of the collar 18.

[0079] Figure 8 and Figure 9 The figure shows a first component 40 with a connecting element 1 inserted therein. When the connecting element 1 is inserted from the top surface into the through-hole 42 of the first component 40, the spring arms 32 must first pass through the intermediate support 44. As a result, the spring arms 32 bend radially inward during insertion and then bend radially outward once they pass through the intermediate support 44. As a result, the connecting element 1 can be clamped in the through-hole 42 of the first component 40.

[0080] Since the dimensions of the collar 18 do not allow it to pass through the intermediate support 44, the intermediate support 44 of the first component 40 is received in the tolerance gap 38 formed between the bottom surface 22 of the collar 18 and the side surface 34 of the spring arm 32 facing the collar 18. In this state, the resulting axial mobility of the connecting element 1 preferably corresponds to the height of one thread pitch of the internal thread 24 in the hollow shaft 10 of the connecting element 1. In this way, any thread deviation of the internal thread 62 of the second component 60 can be compensated, if necessary.

[0081] Furthermore, the diameters or dimensions of the through-hole 42 of the first component 40 and the spring arms 32 are selected such that the spring arms 32 abut against the inner wall of the through-hole 42 of the first component 40. With this design, the spring arms 32 perform a centering function for the connecting element 1 in the through-hole 42 of the first component 40. Therefore, in this state, the central longitudinal axes of the hollow shaft 10 of the connecting element 1 and the through-hole 42 of the first component 40 are identical.

[0082] In the next step, if Figures 10 to 12 As shown, a connecting screw 50 is inserted into the first component 40 and the connecting element 1 is fastened in the first component. The connecting screw 50 has a head 52 and a washer 54 adjacent to the head 52. In addition, the connecting screw 50 also has a single thread.

[0083] The connecting screw 50 is inserted into the first component 40 from the bottom, i.e., from the direction opposite to the direction in which the connecting element 1 is inserted into the through-hole 42 of the first component 40. Thus, in a first step, the connecting screw 50 is screwed into the internal thread 24 in the hollow shaft 10 of the connecting element 1. Depending on the field of application, in the case of hollow shaft 10 made of plastic material, transport safety can be provided by a sealing coating on the connecting screw 50 or by a specific shape of the last thread turn of the internal thread 24 in the hollow shaft 10.

[0084] It can be seen from these examples that axial displaceability of the connecting element 1 exists in each case.

[0085] Now, and as Figure 13 and Figure 14 As shown, a second component 60 is provided. The second component 60 has an opening, and an internal thread 62 is provided adjacent to the second component 60 for engaging with the connecting screw 50. Therefore, it is preferred that the internal thread 24 in the hollow shaft 10 and the internal thread 62 adjacent to the second component 60 have the same size and thread direction.

[0086] In the example shown, the internal thread 62 of the second component 60 is aligned with the first component 40 so that the central longitudinal axis of the hollow shaft 10 of the connecting element 1 extends centrally through the opening of the second component 60 and thus through the internal thread 62 of the second component 60. Therefore, no lateral or radial tolerance compensation is required. However, the function of radial or lateral tolerance compensation will be explained later with reference to Figures 18 to 22 Provide explanation.

[0087] Now, the connecting screw 50 is further screwed into the internal thread 24 in the hollow shaft 10 so that it engages with the internal thread 62 of the second component 60. The connecting screw 50 is rotated until the washer 54 or the head 52 abuts against the first component 40 or is supported by the first component 40. This state is Figures 15 to 17 Also here, the connecting element 1 has moved relative to the first component 40 and the bottom surface 22 of the collar 18 abuts against the intermediate support 44, thereby preventing further screwing in.

[0088] Next reference Figures 18 to 22 In these examples, the central longitudinal axis of the hollow shaft 10 of the connecting element 1 is offset relative to the central longitudinal axis of the through hole 42 of the first component 40 so that the central longitudinal axis of the hollow shaft 10 is aligned with the central longitudinal axis of the opening of the second component 60 (see Figure 22 This radial tolerance compensation is usually performed after the connecting screw 50 has been screwed into the internal thread 24 of the hollow shaft 10 and after the connecting screw 50 has engaged with the internal thread 62 of the second component 60 .

[0089] For the sake of completeness, it should be pointed out that the lateral or radial mobility of the connecting element 1 in the through-hole 42 of the first component 40 is limited by the internal dimensions or diameter of the intermediate support 44 relative to the external dimensions or diameter of the connecting element 1 in the portion of the tolerance gap 38 and / or, in the case of a transverse compression of the spring arm 32, by the internal dimensions or diameter of the through-hole 42 of the first component 40 relative to the external dimensions or diameter of the connecting element 1 in the region of the spring arm 32.

[0090] refer to Figure 23 A schematic flow chart of one embodiment of the method for manufacturing a connecting element 1 according to the present invention is described. In a first step a1, a first part 3, preferably made of metal, is provided, comprising a hollow shaft 10 with a collar 18 and an internal thread 24. Subsequently, a second step b1 is performed simultaneously with or before the first step a1, in which a second part 5, preferably made of plastic, is provided. The second part 5 comprises a hollow element 30 having a plurality of transverse, preferably radially outwardly extending flexible webs (in this case, spring arms 32). Subsequently, in a step c1, the second part 5 is fastened to the first part 3 by at least one of pressing, gluing, shrinking, or injection molding the second part 5 onto the first part 3. The connecting element 1 is manufactured by these method steps.

[0091] In an alternative solution, in particular to further reduce the manufacturing effort, the connection element 1 can be injection molded in a separate alternative first step a2. Here, the connection element 1 is provided as a single-piece element by an injection mold having complementary shape features.

[0092] Finally, reference Figure 24 This schematic flow chart illustrates an embodiment of a connection method using a connecting element 1. Initially, in step i1, a first component 40 is provided with the connecting element 1 inserted therein. Alternatively, in an alternative first step i2, a first component 40 having a through-hole 42 is provided, and the connecting element 1 is inserted into the through-hole 42 of the first component 40. In either case, at the end of the first step, the first component 40 with the connecting element 1 inserted therein is present.

[0093] Next, in step ii, the second component 60 with the opening is aligned with the first component 40 (preferably at a distance from the first component 20 ) so that the top surface 20 of the collar 18 opposite the bottom surface 22 faces the second component 40 .

[0094] Now, in step iii, the connecting screw 50 is inserted into the first component 40 and screwed into the internal thread 24 provided by the hollow shaft 10 of the connecting element 1 and then into the internal thread 62 at or near the second component 60 until the screw head 52 abuts or is supported by the first component 40 and further screwing is blocked by the collar 18 abutting against the intermediate support 44.

[0095] If the opening of the second component 60 does not coincide with the central longitudinal axis of the hollow shaft 10, the hollow shaft 10 is moved into the through-hole 42 of the first component 40 so that the longitudinal axis of the hollow shaft 10 is aligned with the internal thread 62 of the second component 60. This lateral or radial tolerance compensation is achieved in step iv by the flexible web, i.e., the spring arm 32. Otherwise, the spring arm 32 achieves the centering of the connecting element 1 in the through-hole 42 of the first component 40 in step iv.

[0096] Reference Signs List

[0097] 1 Connecting elements

[0098] 3 Part 1

[0099] 5 Part 2

[0100] 10 Hollow shaft

[0101] 12 Through hole of hollow shaft 10

[0102] 14 First axial end

[0103] 16 Second axial end

[0104] 18 Collar

[0105] 20 Collar top surface

[0106] 22 Collar bottom

[0107] 24 Internal thread in hollow shaft 10

[0108] 30 Hollow Components

[0109] 32 Spring Arm

[0110] 34 Spring arms facing the side of the collar

[0111] 36 Spring arm facing away from the side of the collar

[0112] 38 Tolerance gap

[0113] 40 First Part

[0114] 42 through hole of the first component 40

[0115] 44 Intermediate support

[0116] 46 grooves

[0117] 50 connecting screws

[0118] 52 Head

[0119] 54 Washer

[0120] 60 Second Part

[0121] 62 Internal thread of the second component 60

Claims

1. A substantially T-shaped connecting element (1) suitable for connecting a first component (40) to a second component (60) with lateral tolerance compensation, the first component and the second component being arranged at a certain distance relative to each other, wherein the first component (40) has a through hole (42), an intermediate support (44) extending transversely inwardly in the through hole (42) of the first component (40), so that the intermediate support (44) provides a portion with a reduced diameter compared to the diameter of the remaining portion of the through hole (42) of the first component, the connecting element (1) comprising: a) a hollow shaft (10) having: a through hole (12); a collar (18) extending laterally outward at a first axial end (14) of the hollow shaft (10); and an internal thread (24) in the hollow shaft (10) for engagement with a connecting screw (50), b) a plurality of flexible webs extending laterally outward from the hollow shaft (10), wherein the flexible webs are flexible in the transverse direction, and c) forming a tolerance gap (38) for receiving the intermediate support (44) of the first component (40) between the bottom surface (22) of the collar (18) facing the flexible web and the side surface of the flexible web facing the collar (18), so that d) The flexible web allows the connection element (1) to be clamped in the through hole (42) of the first component (40) and provides a centering function for the connection element (1) in the through hole (42) of the first component (40).

2. The connecting element (1) according to claim 1, wherein the collar (18) has a shape that provides rotation protection.

3. The connecting element (1) according to claim 1 or 2, wherein a) the side of the flexible web facing the collar (18) is arranged in a plane parallel to the plane defined by the bottom surface (22) of the collar (18), and / or b) The side of the flexible web facing away from the collar (18) has a chamfer.

4. Connecting element (1) according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the flexible web is formed by a spring arm (32) extending laterally outwards, a first end of which is fastened to the connecting element (1) and a second end of which is free.

5. A connecting element (1) according to claim 1, wherein the connecting element (1) is a two-part element, the first part (3) of which comprises the hollow shaft (10) with the shaft collar (18), and the second part (5) of which comprises a hollow element (30) on which the flexible web extending laterally outward is arranged.

6. Connecting element (1) according to claim 5, wherein the first part (3) and the second part (5) are connected to each other in a rotationally fixed manner.

7. Connecting element (1) according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the connecting element (1) is a one-part element.

8. A first component (40) having a through hole (42), wherein the connecting element (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 7 is arranged in the through hole of the first component, wherein a) an intermediate support member (44) of the first component (40) extends transversely inwardly within the through hole (42) of the first component (40) such that the intermediate support member (44) provides a portion having a reduced diameter compared to the diameter of the remainder of the through hole (42) of the first component, and b) arranging the intermediate support (44) in the tolerance gap (38) of the connecting element (1) such that the axial movement of the substantially T-shaped connecting element (1) is limited by the collar (18) and the flexible web, wherein The flexible web allows the connection element (1) to be clamped in the through hole (42) of the first component (40), c) forming a rotational protection between the collar (18) and the first component (40), and d) arranging the flexible web in the through hole (42) of the first component (40) so as to achieve lateral tolerance compensation.

9. The first component (40) according to claim 8, further comprising a groove (46) adjacent to the intermediate support (44), the collar (18) being at least partially arranged in the groove (46).

10. The first component (40) according to claim 8 or 9, wherein the diameter of the through hole (42) of the first component (40) is smaller than the outer diameter of the flexible web of the connecting element (1).

11. A connection structure comprising a first component (40) according to any one of claims 8 to 10, a second component (60) and a connection screw (50), wherein a) the connecting screw (50) extending through the first part (40) engages with the internal thread (24) in the hollow shaft (10) of the connecting element (1) and the internal thread (62) of the second part (60), and b) The head (52) of the connecting screw (50) is supported by the first component (40).

12. The connection structure according to claim 11, wherein the first component (40) and the second component (60) are arranged at a distance from each other.

13. The connection structure according to one of claims 11 or 12, wherein the internal thread (24) in the hollow shaft (10) and the internal thread (62) of the second component (60) have the same size and thread direction.

14. A method for manufacturing a connecting element (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 7, comprising the following steps: a1. providing a first part (3) comprising the hollow shaft (10) having the collar (18) and the internal thread (24), b1. Providing a second portion (5) comprising a hollow element (30) having a plurality of laterally outwardly extending flexible webs, and c1. fastening the second part (5) to the first part (3) by at least one of pressing, gluing, shrinking or injection molding the second part (5) on the first part (3), or a2. The connecting element (1) is injection molded into a single-piece element by means of an injection mold having complementary shape features.

15. A method for connecting a first component (40) to a second component (60) by means of a connecting element (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 7, comprising the following steps: i1) providing a first component (40) according to claim 8 into which the connecting element (1) is inserted, or i2) providing a first component (40) having a through hole (42) and inserting the connecting element (1) into the through hole (42) of the first component (40), thereby producing a first component (40) according to claim 8, ii) arranging a second component (60) having an opening aligned with the first component (40) so that the top surface (20) of the collar (18) opposite to the bottom surface (22) faces the second component (60), iii) inserting a connecting screw (50) into the first component (40) and screwing the connecting screw (50) into the internal thread (24) provided by the hollow shaft (10) of the connecting element (1) and subsequently into the internal thread (62) of the second component (60) until the screw head (52) abuts the first component (40) and further screwing is prevented by the collar (18) abutting against the intermediate support (44), wherein iv) Centering and / or lateral tolerance compensation by means of the flexible web of the connecting element (1).

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