Cable holder and method

Abstract

The invention relates to a cable holder and a method. The cable holder may include a base and a holding member. The base may include a platform, a fastener, a securing protrusion, and a securing protrusion opening disposed in the securing protrusion. A fastener may extend from the platform and may be engaged with a second object. A securing projection may extend from the platform and may be disposed through a portion of the flat cable. The retaining member may include a wall and a retaining member opening. A securing protrusion may be connected to the wall to secure the flat cable between the platform and the retaining member. When in the assembled configuration, the securing protrusion opening and the retaining member opening may be at least partially aligned with each other and define a common channel to receive the connector to connect the first object to the base and the retaining member.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present disclosure generally relates to cable retainers for connecting one or more objects together, such as cable retainers that may be used in conjunction with and / or incorporated into a vehicle. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0002] Although the claims are not limited to specific illustrations, an understanding of various aspects may be gained through a discussion of various examples. The drawings are not necessarily to scale, and certain features may be exaggerated or hidden to better illustrate and explain the innovative aspects of the examples. In addition, the exemplary illustrations described herein are not exhaustive or otherwise limiting, and the embodiments are not limited to the precise forms and configurations shown in the drawings or disclosed in the following detailed description. The exemplary illustrations are described in detail with reference to the drawings as follows:

[0003] Figure 1 and Figure 2 is an exploded perspective view generally illustrating an embodiment of a cable retainer in accordance with the teachings of the present disclosure.

[0004] Figure 3 is a perspective view generally illustrating an embodiment of a cable retainer in accordance with the teachings of the present disclosure.

[0005] Figure 4 is a cross-sectional view generally illustrating an embodiment of a cable retainer in accordance with the teachings of the present disclosure.

[0006] Figure 5 and Figure 6 is a perspective view generally illustrating an embodiment of a cable retainer connected to a flat flexible cable, a first object, and a second object in accordance with the teachings of the present disclosure.

[0007] Figure 7 and Figure 8 is a cross-sectional view generally illustrating an embodiment of a cable retainer connected to a flat cable, a first object, and a second object in accordance with the teachings of the present disclosure.

[0008] 9A to 9E is a perspective view generally illustrating an embodiment of a method of connecting a flat flexible cable, a first object, and a second object with a cable retainer according to the teachings of the present disclosure.

[0009] Detailed Description

[0010] Reference will now be made in detail to embodiments, examples of which are illustrated in the accompanying drawings. In the detailed description that follows, many specific details are set forth in order to provide a thorough understanding of the various embodiments described. However, it will be apparent to one of ordinary skill in the art that the various embodiments described may be practiced without these specific details. In other instances, well-known methods, processes, components, circuits, and networks are not described in detail to avoid unnecessarily obscuring aspects of the embodiments.

[0011] refer to Figure 1-Figure 4 , depicts a cable retainer 10 for connecting multiple objects to each other. Figure 5-9E As generally illustrated, the cable retainer 10 can be used to connect a flat cable 20 (e.g., a flat flexible cable), a first object 30 (e.g., an electrical wire and / or a round wire harness), and / or a second object 40 (e.g., a bracket, a mount, a panel, a surface, an external object, and / or another element or component of a vehicle) to each other. For example, but not limited to, the cable retainer 10 can be used to connect and / or mount the flat cable 20 and / or the first object 30 to the second object 40.

[0012] The cable retainer 10 includes a base 100 and a retaining member 200. The base 100 and the retaining member 200 are formed separately from each other (e.g., as independent components). For example, the base 100 and the retaining member 200 are both single, integral, one-piece components formed separately from each other. In other embodiments, the base 100 and the retaining member 200 are connected to each other (e.g., via a flexible belt, a tether and / or an extension) and / or formed together as a single one-piece component. The cable retainer 10, the base 100, and the retaining member 200 are made of one or more plastic materials. However, in other embodiments, the cable retainer 10, the base 100, the retaining member 200 and / or one or more portions thereof are made of other suitable materials (e.g., metals and / or metal alloys).

[0013] The base 100 and the retaining member 200 can be connected to each other, for example, to connect and / or lock the cable retainer 10 to the flat cable 20. When the retaining member 200 is connected to the base 100 (for example, when the fixing protrusion 150 is connected to one or more walls 212A-212D and / or when the retaining member 200 is disposed on the base 100, the fixing protrusion 150 is disposed in the receiving portion 220 and engages with the internal connecting structure 250), the cable retainer 10 is in an assembled configuration (refer to, for example, Figure 3-Figure 8 and Figure 9C-9EWhen the retaining member 200 is not disposed on and / or connected to the base 100 (e.g., when the securing protrusion 150 is not connected to one or more walls 212A-212D and / or when the securing protrusion 150 is not disposed in the receiving portion 220 of the retaining member 200), the cable retainer 10 is in a non-assembled configuration (e.g., referring to Figure 1 , Figure 2 , Fig.9A and Fig. 9B ). The cable retainer 10 may be connected to the flat cable 20, the first object 30, and / or the second object 40 when in the assembled configuration and when in the non-assembled configuration.

[0014] like Figure 1-Figure 4 As generally illustrated, the base 100 includes a platform 110, a flange 120, a fastener 130, and a fixing protrusion 150. The base 100 can be connected to the retaining member 200, the flat cable 20, and the first object 30 via the fixing protrusion 150. The base 100 can also be connected to the second object 40 via the fastener 130. The base 100 and portions thereof (e.g., the platform 110, the flange 120, the fastener 130, and the fixing protrusion 150) are formed as a single, integral, one-piece component separate from the retaining member 200.

[0015] like Figure 1-Figure 4 As generally shown, the flange 120 has a hollow conical configuration. The platform 110 is disposed at a first narrower end 120A of the flange 120 and extends generally in the Z direction (e.g., the first direction) from the first narrower end 120A. In other embodiments, the platform 110 does not extend from the flange 120 and / or is defined by a portion of the flange 120. The platform 110 has a support surface 112 that faces away from the flange 120 (e.g., generally in the Z direction) and supports at least a portion of the flat cable 20 when the flat cable 20 is connected to the cable holder 10. The fixing protrusion 150 is partially disposed on the platform 110 (e.g., on the support surface 112) and partially disposed on the flange 120, and extends generally in the Z direction (e.g., the first direction) from the flange 120. The fastener 130 is disposed on the opposite side of the platform 110 and / or the flange 120 relative to the fixing protrusion 150, and extends from the platform 110 and / or the flange 120 in a direction opposite to the fixing protrusion 150 (e.g., substantially in the Z direction). The fastener 130 is at least partially surrounded by the flange 120 (e.g., the flange 120 extends around the fastener 130), and extends from the second wider end 120B of the flange 120. In other embodiments, the fixing protrusion 150 and the fastener 130 extend in the same direction, extend obliquely relative to each other, or extend perpendicularly relative to each other.

[0016] like Figure 1-Figure 4As generally illustrated, the fastener 130 is configured to engage the second object 40 (e.g., the groove 42 thereof) to connect the base 100 and / or the cable holder 10 to the second object 40. The fastener 130 includes one or more engagement protrusions 132 that engage the second object 40 to connect the cable holder 10 and / or the base 100 to the second object 40. The engagement protrusions 132 have a generally hollow conical shape and are angled, inclined, and / or bent outwardly toward the platform 110 (e.g., the engagement protrusions 132 each have a wider end that opens toward the platform 110). The engagement protrusions 132 are spaced apart from each other along the length of the fastener 130 (e.g., generally in the Z direction). In other embodiments, the engagement protrusions 132 contact each other and / or are configured in a stepped and / or serrated manner.

[0017] like Figure 1-Figure 4 As generally shown, the fixing protrusion 150 is configured as a generally planar body, but may have other suitable configurations in other embodiments. The fixing protrusion 150 includes a notch 152, at least one protrusion 154A, 154B, at least one shoulder 156A, 156B, and a fixing protrusion opening 160. The fixing protrusion 150 can be configured to pass through a portion of the flat cable 20 (e.g., the groove 22), and in at least some embodiments, the fixing protrusion 150 connects the base 100 and the flat cable 20 together.

[0018] like Figure 1-Figure 4 As generally illustrated, the notch 152 is disposed at a free end 150C of the fixing protrusion 150 (e.g., the end of the fixing protrusion 150 relative to the platform 110 and / or the flange 120). The notch 152 extends into the fixing protrusion 150 generally in the Z direction (e.g., generally toward the platform 110) and extends longitudinally generally in the Y direction. The notch 152 is configured in a complementary manner to the positioning body 240 of the retaining member 200. The notch 152 receives the positioning body 240 in the assembled configuration to constrain and / or limit relative movement (e.g., movement in the X direction and / or rotational / tilting movement in the XZ plane) between the base 100 and the retaining member 200, such as movement of the fixing protrusion 150 within the receiving portion 220 and / or relative to one or more walls 212A-212D.

[0019] like Figure 1 , Figure 2 and Figure 4As generally illustrated, the fixing protrusion 150 includes at least one first protrusion 154A and at least one second protrusion 154B that engage the retaining member 200 (e.g., the internal connection structure 250) to connect the base 100 and the retaining member 200 to each other and / or prevent the fixing protrusion 150 from being removed from the receiving portion 220 of the retaining member 200. The first protrusion 154A and the second protrusion 154B are disposed on opposite sides of the fixing protrusion 150 and protrude from the fixing protrusion 150 away from the fixing protrusion opening 160 (e.g., generally in the X direction and / or the third direction). When in the assembled configuration, one or more of the first protrusions 154A engage (e.g., contact and / or abut) an internal connection structure 250 (e.g., a first latch nose 252A) of the retaining member 200, and one or more of the second protrusions 154B engage (e.g., contact and / or abut) an internal connection structure 250 (e.g., a second latch nose 252B) of the retaining member 200. When in contact with the internal connection structure 250, the protrusions 154A, 154B can bend in at least one direction (e.g., generally in the Z direction) so as not to substantially restrict the insertion of the securing protrusion 150 into the receiving portion 220, but when engaged with the internal connection structure 250, the protrusions 154A, 154B are sufficiently rigid to constrain and / or prevent the securing protrusion 150 from being removed from the receiving portion 220 in the opposite direction (e.g., in the reverse Z direction). In some embodiments, the fixing protrusion 150 includes only a single set of protrusions 154A, 154B (eg, only the first protrusion 154A or only the second protrusion 154B).

[0020] like Figure 1 , Figure 2 and Figure 4 As generally illustrated, the protrusions 154A, 154B have a substantially polygonal (e.g., rectangular) shape and are angled, inclined, and / or curved outwardly toward the platform 110. The first protrusions 154A are spaced apart from each other along the first side 150A of the fixing protrusion 150. The second protrusions 154B are spaced apart from each other along the second side 150B of the fixing protrusion 150. In other embodiments, the protrusions 154A, 154B contact each other and / or are configured in a stepped and / or serrated manner (e.g., configured as saw teeth).

[0021] like Figure 1-Figure 4As generally illustrated, the fixing protrusion 150 includes a first shoulder 156A and a second shoulder 156B. The shoulders 156A, 156B are each at least partially disposed on and / or above the platform 110 and the flange 120 (e.g., between the protrusions 154A, 154B and the platform 110). The first shoulder 156A and the second shoulder 156B are disposed on opposite sides of the fixing protrusion 150 and protrude away from each other (e.g., generally in the X direction). The first shoulder 156A is disposed to be spaced apart from the first protrusion 154A on the first side 150A of the fixing protrusion 150 (e.g., generally in the Z direction), such that a first space 158A is defined between the first protrusion 154A and the first shoulder 156A. The second shoulder 156B is disposed spaced apart (e.g., generally in the Z direction) from the second protrusion 154B on the second side 150B of the fixing protrusion 150, such that a second space 158B is defined between the second protrusion 154B and the second shoulder 156B. When in the assembled configuration, the shoulders 156A, 156B may be at least partially disposed in the receiving portion 220 of the retaining member 200 (e.g., between the inclined surfaces 254A, 254B of the latch noses 252A, 252B), which may limit and / or constrain relative movement between the base 100 and the retaining member 200 to, for example, reduce and / or prevent noise generation (e.g., rattling).

[0022] like Figure 1-Figure 4 As generally illustrated, the fixing protrusion 150 includes and / or defines a fixing protrusion opening 160 that receives at least a portion of the connector 50 (e.g., a lanyard). The base 100 engages the connector 50 via the fixing protrusion opening 160 to, for example, connect the cable holder 10, the base 100, the retaining member 200, the flat cable 20, and / or the second object 40 to the first object 30. The fixing protrusion opening 160 is disposed in the fixing protrusion 150, at least partially between the first protrusion 154A and the second protrusion 154B (e.g., with respect to the X direction). The fixing protrusion opening 160 extends completely through the fixing protrusion 150 in the Y direction (e.g., in the second direction). The fixing protrusion opening 160 is generally rectangular and is generally larger than the retaining member openings 230A, 230B of the retaining member 200, but has other shapes and sizes in other embodiments.

[0023] like Figure 1-Figure 4As generally illustrated, the retaining member 200 is constructed in the manner of a cap and / or cover that is connected to the fixing protrusion 150 of the base 100. The retaining member 200 includes at least one wall 212A-212D, a receiving portion 220, at least one retaining member opening 230A, 230B, a positioning body 240, at least one slot 242A, 242B, and an internal connecting structure 250. The retaining member 200 and portions thereof (e.g., the walls 212A-212D, the positioning body 240, and the internal connecting structure 250) are formed as a single, unitary, one-piece component separate from the base 100.

[0024] like Figure 1-Figure 4 As generally shown, the retaining member 200 includes one or more walls 212A-212D, and the fixing projection 150 can be connected to the one or more walls 212A-212D. In at least some examples, one or more of the walls 212A-212D can be configured as an extension, a projection, a protrusion, a flange or other suitable body or structure. In the example shown, the walls 212A-212D define a receiving portion 220 for receiving the fixing projection 150 to connect the retaining member 200 to the base 100. The receiving portion 220 has a central longitudinal axis 222 extending generally in the Z direction. The receiving portion 220 has a first end 220A and a second end 220B arranged opposite to each other in the Z direction. The fixing projection 150 can be inserted into the receiving portion 220 via the first end 220A of the receiving portion 220, and the first end 220A is open. The second end 220B of the receiving portion 220 is at least partially closed by the positioning body 240. The receiving portion 220 and / or its open first end 220A has a shape that generally corresponds to the fixing protrusion 150, and in some examples, may be slightly larger than the fixing protrusion 150 in one or more dimensions (e.g., in the X direction). In the illustrative example, the receiving portion 220 is defined by four generally flat walls 212A-212D of the retaining member 200 and has a generally rectangular cross-section. In other embodiments, the receiving portion 220 is defined by a single (e.g., cylindrical) wall or another suitable number of walls that define the desired shape.

[0025] like Figure 1-Figure 4As generally illustrated, the retaining member 200 includes and / or defines at least one retaining member opening (e.g., a first retaining member opening 230A and a second retaining member opening 230B) that receives a portion (e.g., a lanyard) of the connector 50. The retaining member 200 engages the connector 50 via the retaining member openings 230A, 230B to, for example, connect the cable holder 10, the base 100, the retaining member 200, the flat cable 20, and / or the second object 40 to the first object 30. The retaining member openings 230A, 230B are disposed on opposite sides of the axis 222 of the retaining member 200 and / or the receiving portion 220. The retaining member openings 230A, 230B are disposed in and defined by opposing walls 212A, 212B of the retaining member 200. The retaining member openings 230A, 230B extend substantially completely in the Y-direction through the respective walls 212A, 212B of the retaining member 200. The retaining member openings 230A, 230B are at least partially aligned with each other in the Y-direction and, when in the assembled configuration, are at least partially aligned in the Y-direction with the fixing protrusion openings 160 of the fixing protrusions 150 to form and / or define the common passage 12 of the cable retainer 10.

[0026] like Figure 1 , Figure 3 and Figure 4 As generally shown, the retaining member 200 includes a positioning body 240 and one or more grooves (e.g., a first groove 242A and a second groove 242B). The positioning body 240 extends across the second end 220B of the receiving portion 220 in the Y direction (e.g., extending between the opposing walls 212A, 212B of the retaining member 200) and divides the second end 220B of the receiving portion 220 to form the first groove 242A and the second groove 242B. The positioning body 240 is configured in a manner complementary to the recess 152 of the fixing protrusion 150. The positioning body 240 is received in the recess 152, and the fixing protrusion 150 is at least partially disposed in the grooves 242A, 242B in the assembled configuration to constrain and / or limit relative movement between the base 100 and the retaining member 200 (e.g., movement in the X direction and / or rotation / tilt movement in the XZ plane), such as movement of the fixing protrusion 150 within the receiving portion 220 and / or relative to one or more walls 212A-212D.

[0027] like Figure 2 and Figure 4As generally illustrated, the retaining member 200 includes an internal connection structure 250 that engages the fixing protrusion 150 (e.g., via the protrusions 154A, 154B and / or the shoulders 156A, 156B) to constrain and / or prevent the fixing protrusion 150 from being removed from the receiving portion 220 (e.g., disconnection of the retaining member 200 and the base 100, and / or disconnection of the flat cable 20 and the cable retainer 10). The internal connection structure 250 is disposed at or around the first end 220A within the receiving portion 220. In some embodiments, the internal connection structure 250 is configured as a plurality of latch noses (e.g., a first latch nose 252A and a second nose 252B). In other embodiments, the internal connection structure 250 is configured as a ridge, edge or lip and / or extends completely around the first end 220A of the receiving portion 220 in other structures.

[0028] The latch noses 252A, 252B are disposed on opposite sides of the axis 222 of the retaining member 200 and / or the receiving portion 220. The latch noses 252A, 252B protrude from the opposite walls 212C, 212D of the retaining member 200 toward each other (e.g., generally in the X direction) into the receiving portion 220. The latch noses 252A, 252B each have an inclined surface 254A, 254B and an engagement surface 256A, 256B. The engagement surfaces 256A, 256B are generally oriented toward the second end 220B of the receiving portion 220, the positioning body 240, and / or the grooves 242A, 242B. When in the assembled configuration, the engagement surfaces 256A, 256B may contact and / or abut one or more of the corresponding protrusions 154A, 154B. The inclined surfaces 254A, 254B are generally inclined toward the first end 220A of the receiving portion 220 and inwardly inclined toward the axis 222 of the receiving portion 220. The inclined surfaces 254A, 254B of the latch noses 252A, 252B facilitate and guide the insertion of the fixing protrusion 150 into the receiving portion 220. When in the assembled configuration, (i) the first latch nose 252A is disposed in the first space 158A defined between the first protrusion 154A and the first shoulder 156A, and (ii) the second latch nose 252B is disposed in the second space 158B between the second protrusion 154B and the second shoulder 156B. Each latch nose 252A, 252B is disposed in the corresponding space 158A, 158B with a gap (e.g., in the Z direction). Thus, (i) the engagement surfaces 256A, 256B of the latch noses 252A, 252B may be and / or may contact one or more of the corresponding protrusions 154A, 154B, and / or (ii) the latch noses 252A, 252B may be and / or may contact the corresponding shoulders 156A, 156B. The clearance of the latch noses 252A, 252B within the spaces 158A, 158B allows the flat cable 20 and the retaining member 200 to move within a limited range relative to the base 100. This in turn allows the cable retainer 10 to be used with a variety of different flat cables 20 having different thicknesses (e.g., in the Z direction) and / or to be connected to several flat cables 20 at the same time (e.g., several flat cables 20 arranged in a stack). This may also facilitate the installation and / or use of the cable retainer 10 (e.g., connecting the cable retainer 10 to the second object 40). In other embodiments, one or more latch noses 252A, 252B (e.g., each latch nose 252A, 252B) is configured to contact one or more of the corresponding protrusions 154A, 154B (e.g., via the engagement surfaces 256A, 256B) and / or contact the corresponding shoulders 156A, 156B (e.g., via the inclined surfaces 254A, 254B) such that the latch noses 252A, 252B are disposed in the corresponding spaces 158A, 158B without gaps (e.g., in the Z direction).

[0029] like Figure 3-Figure 8 and Figure 9C-9E As generally illustrated, when in the assembled configuration, the retaining member 200 is disposed on and connected to the fixing protrusion 150 of the base 100 (e.g., via the engagement of the internal connection structure 250 and the fixing protrusion 150 and / or its protrusions 154A, 154B). The fixing protrusion 150 is disposed and / or received in the receiving portion 220 of the retaining member 200 and protrudes into the grooves 242A, 242B. In at least some instances and / or examples, at least a portion of one or more of the shoulders 156A, 156B is also disposed and / or received in the receiving portion 220. The positioning body 240 is disposed in the recess 152. The retaining member openings 230A, 230B and the fixing protrusion opening 160 are at least partially aligned with each other in the Y direction to define and / or form the common channel 12. The internal connection structure 250 engages with the fixing protrusion 150. For example, (i) the first latch nose 252A is disposed in the first space 158A and can engage one or more first protrusions 154A and / or the first shoulder 156A, and (ii) the second latch nose 252B is disposed in the second space 158B and can engage one or more second protrusions 154B and / or the second shoulder 156B.

[0030] like Figure 5-9EAs generally shown, the flat cable 20 is flexible and includes one or more electrical conductors overmolded and / or embedded in an insulating material that electrically insulates the conductors from each other and / or from other components. The conductors may be arranged substantially parallel to each other and / or may be substantially aligned with a common plane (e.g., an XY plane). The flat cable 20 also includes one or more grooves 22. The groove 22 is arranged in the insulating material and / or is defined by the insulating material, such as between adjacent conductors. The groove 22 has a substantially rectangular shape, but may alternatively have a circular, polygonal or oblong shape. The length and width of the groove 22 correspond to the length and width of the fixing protrusion 150, respectively. For example, the length of the groove 22 (e.g., extending substantially in the X direction) may be substantially equal to or slightly less than the length of the fixing protrusion 150 (e.g., at or around the shoulders 156A, 156B). Similarly, the width of the groove 22 (e.g., extending substantially in the Y direction) may be substantially equal to or slightly less than the width of the fixing protrusion 150. In some configurations, the respective lengths and widths of the groove 22 and the fixing protrusion 150 provide an interference fit between the flat cable 20 and the fixing protrusion 150, so that the base 100 and the flat cable 20 can be connected without the retaining member 200 (e.g., when the cable holder 10 is in a non-assembled configuration). The length and width of the groove 22 are also respectively smaller than the length and width of at least a portion of the retaining member 200 (e.g., at or around the first end 220A of the receiving portion 220), which constrains and / or prevents the retaining member 200 from fully passing through the groove 22.

[0031] The flat cable 20 can be connected to the cable holder 10 in a non-assembled configuration and / or an assembled configuration. When the cable holder 10 is in the non-assembled configuration, the flat cable 20 and the base 100 can be connected via an interference fit of the fixing protrusion 150 in the groove 22 of the flat cable 20. When the cable holder 10 is in the assembled configuration and connected to the flat cable 20, as shown in FIG. Figure 5-Figure 8 and Figure 9C-9EAs generally shown, the flat cable 20 and / or a portion thereof is disposed and / or sandwiched between the retaining member 200 (e.g., one or more walls 212A-212D thereof) and the base 100 (e.g., the platform 110 and / or its flange 120) generally in the Z direction. The fixing protrusion 150 is partially disposed in the groove 22 of the flat cable 20 and partially disposed in the receiving portion 220 of the retaining member 200. The flat cable 20 can contact the retaining member 200 (e.g., one or more walls 212A-212D) and / or the base 100 (e.g., the support surface 112, the platform 110 and / or the flange 120), can be disposed on (e.g., one or more walls 212A-212D) and / or the base 100 (e.g., the support surface 112, the platform 110 and / or the flange 120) and / or can be supported by (e.g., one or more walls 212A-212D) and / or the base 100 (e.g., the support surface 112, the platform 110 and / or the flange 120). The arrangement of the flat cable 20 between the retaining member 200 and the base 100 constrains and / or effectively prevents the fixing protrusion 150 from being removed from the groove 22 of the flat cable 20 (for example, because the retaining member 200, the platform 110 and / or the flange 120 are too large to pass through the groove of the flat cable 20), thereby further connecting and / or locking the cable retainer 10 and the flat cable 20 to each other.

[0032] like Figure 5-9E As generally illustrated, the first object 30 is a wire and / or wiring harness of one or more vehicle subsystems (eg, an airbag system and / or an infotainment system). Figure 5-9EIn the embodiment of the present invention, the first object 30 is circular (e.g., a circular wire and / or a circular wire harness), but in other embodiments, the first object 30 can have other suitable shapes (e.g., roughly rectangular and / or polygonal). In other embodiments, the first object 30 can be and / or include other components, such as tubes, pipes, rods, beams, and other similar components. The first object 30 can be connected to the cable holder 10 via one or more connectors 50. The connector 50 is configured as a tie (e.g., a zipper) including a tail 52 and a head 54. The head 54 is disposed at a first longitudinal end of the tail 52 and connected to the first longitudinal end. The free end of the tail 52 (e.g., a second longitudinal end of the tail 52 opposite to the first longitudinal end and / or the head 54) can be inserted into the through hole 56 of the head 54. The tail 52 includes teeth, serrations, and / or other similar structures that engage the claws of the head 54 to connect the tail 52 to the head 54 and constrain and / or prevent the tail 52 from being removed from the through hole 56 of the head 54. Alternatively, the connector 50 can be another suitable type of connector 50 (e.g., twist tie, string, clip, fastener). For example, in another embodiment, the connector 50 is configured as a fastener 130 (e.g., Christmas tree fastener, locating pin, snap lock pin, push rivet) that engages the common channel 12 of the cable retainer 10 and the mounting tab of the first object 30 to secure the mounting tab between the retaining member 200 and a portion of the fastener 130.

[0033] like Figure 5-Figure 8 and Figure 9D-9E As generally illustrated, when the cable retainer 10 is in an assembled configuration and connected to the first object 30, the connector 50 engages the cable retainer 10 and the first object 30, thereby connecting the cable retainer 10 and the first object 30 to each other. The first object 30 is disposed on and / or adjacent to the retaining member 200. In an example, the first object 30 is disposed at or around the second end 220B of the receiving portion 220 and may substantially cover the first groove 242A, the second groove 242B and / or the positioning body 240. The connector 50 is at least partially wrapped around the first object 30. The connector 50 also extends through the common channel 12 of the cable retainer 10 and is at least partially disposed in the common channel 12 of the cable retainer 10 (e.g., the fixing protrusion opening 160, the retaining member openings 230A, 230B and the receiving portion 220). The tail 52 of the connector 50 (e.g., at or around the free end) is connected to the head 54 of the connector 50 via teeth and claws, so that the connector 50 forms a loop around the first object 30 and a portion of the cable retainer 10 (e.g., a portion of the base 100 and a portion of the retaining member 200). It is contemplated that the first object 30 may also be connected to the base 100 and / or the retaining member 200 when the cable retainer 10 is in a non-assembled configuration.

[0034] The second object 40 may be and / or include a surface, portion and / or component of a vehicle, such as a vehicle floor, a vehicle roof and / or a vehicle panel, and / or may include non-vehicle components, etc. Figure 5-9E As generally shown, the second object 40 is configured as a bracket or support. The second object 40 includes one or more grooves 42 and / or recesses for receiving the fastener 130 of the cable retainer 10. The groove 42 has a generally circular shape, but may alternatively have an elliptical, polygonal, or oblong shape, etc.

[0035] The second object 40 can be connected to the cable retainer 10 in a non-assembled configuration and / or an assembled configuration. Figure 5-Figure 8 and Fig.9E As generally illustrated, when the cable retainer 10 is connected to the second object 40, the fastener 130 of the base 100 is disposed in the groove 42 of the second object 40. One or more of the engagement protrusions 132 of the fastener 130 engage the second object 40 (e.g., contact a surface of the second object 40 facing away from the flange 120), securing and / or connecting the base 100 and / or the cable retainer 10 to the second object 40. The second wider end 120B of the flange 120 is pressed against the second object 40 (e.g., a surface of the second object 40 facing the flange 120), and biases one or more of the engagement protrusions 132 of the fastener 130 against the second object 40. This constrains and / or limits relative movement between the base 100 and the second object 40, which can limit, reduce and / or prevent noise generation (e.g., rattling).

[0036] A method of assembling the cable retainer 10 and / or connecting a plurality of objects (e.g., objects 20, 30, 40) to one another using the cable retainer 10 is generally illustrated in FIG. Figure 9A-9E The method includes connecting a flat cable 20 and a cable retainer 10 (see, for example, Fig.9A and Fig. 9B ), connecting the first object 30 and the cable holder 10 (see, for example, Fig. 9C ), and / or connecting the second object 40 and the cable retainer 10 (see, for example, Fig. 9C ) to connect the flat cable 20, the first object 30 and the second object 40 to each other (see, for example, Figure 5-Figure 8 as well as Fig.9E ).

[0037] like Fig.9A and Fig. 9BAs generally illustrated, connecting the flat cable 20 and the cable holder 10 includes providing a fixing protrusion 150 through a portion of the flat cable 20, such as by inserting the fixing protrusion 150 of the base 100 into the groove 22 of the flat cable 20 to connect the base 100 and the flat cable 20 (see, for example, Fig.9A ). This may include establishing an interference fit of the securing protrusion 150 in the groove 22 and / or positioning the flat cable 20 on the support surface 112 of the platform 110. After the securing protrusion 150 is inserted into the groove 22, the cable retainer 10 may be connected to the base 100 and the retaining member 200 (see, e.g., Fig. 9B ) are adjusted to an assembled configuration (see, e.g., Figure 3 and Figure 4 ), which secures the flat cable 20 between the base 100 and the retaining member 200. Connecting the base 100 and the retaining member 200 includes connecting the fixing protrusion 150 with one or more walls 212A-212D of the retaining member 200. In addition, in at least some embodiments, connecting the base 100 and the retaining member 200 and / or connecting the fixing protrusion 150 with one or more walls 212A-212D includes inserting the fixing protrusion 150 into the receiving portion 220 and engaging the fixing protrusion 150 with the internal connecting structure 250. Connecting the base 100 and the retaining member 200 and / or inserting the fixing protrusion 150 into the receiving portion 220 includes positioning the base 100 and the retaining member 200 to define and / or form the common channel 12 via at least partial alignment of the fixing protrusion opening 160 and the retaining member openings 230A, 230B. When the fixing protrusion 150 is inserted into the receiving portion 220, the internal connection structure 250 (e.g., the latch noses 252A, 252B) can deflect, bend and / or temporarily deform one or more of the protrusions 154A, 154B. In addition, engaging the fixing protrusion 150 with the internal connection structure 250 can include inserting the latch noses 252A, 252B into the corresponding spaces 158A, 158B of the fixing protrusion 150 to engage (e.g., contact) one or more corresponding protrusions 154A, 154B and / or corresponding shoulders 156A, 156B.

[0038] like Fig. 9CAs generally illustrated, connecting the first object 30 and the cable retainer 10 can include positioning the first object 30 relative to the cable retainer 10 so that the first object 30 is disposed at or around the second end 220B of the receiving portion 220 and / or the positioning body 240 of the retaining member 200. Connecting the first object 30 and the cable retainer 10 includes (e.g., after positioning the first object 30 relative to the retaining member 200) engaging the connector 50 with the first object 30 and the cable retainer 10. This in turn includes passing the tail 52 of the connector 50 (e.g., the free end of the tail 52) through the fixing protrusion opening 160, the retaining member openings 230A, 230B, the receiving portion 220 and / or the common channel 12 of the cable retainer 10, wrapping the connector 50 around at least a portion of the first object 30, and connecting the tail 52 of the connector 50 to the head 54 of the connector 50 (e.g., by inserting the free end of the tail 52 into the through hole 56 and engaging the teeth of the tail 52 with the claws of the head 54) so ​​that the connector 50 forms a loop around at least a portion of the first object 30 and a portion of the cable retainer 10 (e.g., a portion of the fixing protrusion 150 and a portion of one or more walls 212A, 212B). Subsequently, relative movement (e.g., play) between the first object 30 and the cable retainer 10 can be reduced, constrained, limited, and / or eliminated (e.g., by manipulating the connector 50, the first object 30, and / or the cable retainer 10 to tighten the annular connector 50 around the first object 30 and the cable retainer 10) to, for example, limit and / or prevent noise generation. Typically, the first object 30 and the cable retainer 10 are connected after the flat cable 20 and the cable retainer 10 have been connected (e.g., after the cable retainer 10 is in an assembled configuration) to, for example, connect the first object 30 and the flat cable 20 together.

[0039] like Fig.9DAs generally illustrated, connecting the second object 40 and the cable retainer 10 includes engaging the fastener 130 of the cable retainer 10 with the second object 40. This includes adjusting, moving and / or pressing the fastener 130 into the groove 42 of the second object 40 so that one or more engagement protrusions 132 of the fastener 130 engage the second object 40 (e.g., contacting a surface of the second object 40 facing away from the flange 120), which connects the base 100, the cable retainer 10, and / or one or more components connected thereto (e.g., the flat cable 20 and / or the first object 30) to the second object 40. Connecting the second object 40 and the cable retainer 10 may also include biasing one or more of the engagement protrusions 132 against the second object 40 via pressing against the flange 120 of the second object 40 (e.g., a surface of the second object 40 facing the flange 120). Typically, the second object 40 and the cable holder 10 are connected after the cable holder 10, the flat cable 20, and the first object 30 have been connected to each other, for example, to connect the flat cable 20 and the first object 30 to the second object 40. However, the second object 40 and the base 100 and / or the cable holder 10 may be connected before connecting the flat cable 20 and the cable holder 10 and / or before connecting the first object 30 and the cable holder 10.

[0040] The present disclosure includes but is not limited to the following embodiments:

[0041] 1. A cable holder for connecting a flat cable, a first object and / or a second object to each other, the cable holder comprising a base and a retaining member, wherein: the base comprises a platform, a fastener extending from the platform, a fixing protrusion extending from the platform and a fixing protrusion opening arranged in the fixing protrusion, the fastener can be engaged with the second object, and the fixing protrusion can be arranged to pass through a portion of the flat cable; the retaining member comprises a wall and a retaining member opening, the fixing protrusion can be connected to the wall to fix the flat cable between the platform and the retaining member; and when in an assembled configuration, the fixing protrusion opening of the fixing protrusion and the retaining member opening of the retaining member are at least partially aligned with each other and define a common channel to receive a connector, the connector is used to connect the first object to the base and the retaining member.

[0042] 2. The cable retainer of embodiment 1, wherein: the first object is at least one of a wire and a wire harness; the second object is at least one of a bracket and a panel; and the connector is a tie strap.

[0043] 3. A cable retainer according to any of the preceding embodiments, wherein: the fixing protrusion is substantially planar and extends from the platform in a first direction; the fixing protrusion opening extends through the fixing protrusion in a second direction; the fixing protrusion includes at least one protrusion capable of engaging with the retaining member, and the at least one protrusion extends from the fixing protrusion in a third direction; and the first direction, the second direction and the third direction extend perpendicular to each other.

[0044] 4. A cable retainer according to any of the preceding embodiments, wherein: the fixing protrusion includes a plurality of first protrusions and a plurality of second protrusions capable of engaging with the retaining member; the plurality of first protrusions and the plurality of second protrusions are arranged on opposite sides of the fixing protrusion and extend from the fixing protrusion in opposite directions; and the fixing protrusion opening is arranged in the fixing protrusion between the plurality of first protrusions and the plurality of second protrusions.

[0045] 5. A cable retainer according to any preceding embodiment, wherein: the free end of the fixing protrusion includes a recess; the retaining member includes a positioning body; and when in the assembled configuration, the positioning body is disposed in the recess and constrains the movement of the fixing protrusion relative to the wall.

[0046] 6. A cable retainer according to any of the preceding embodiments, wherein: the retaining member includes a receiving portion into which the fixing protrusion is insertable; the receiving portion is at least partially defined by the wall of the retaining member; and when in the assembled configuration, the fixing protrusion of the base is at least partially disposed in the receiving portion of the retaining member, (i) securing the flat cable between the platform and the retaining member, and (ii) at least partially aligning the fixing protrusion opening of the fixing protrusion and the retaining member opening of the retaining member.

[0047] 7. A cable retainer according to any of the preceding embodiments, wherein: the retaining member includes an internal connecting structure arranged in the receiving portion, and the internal connecting structure is capable of engaging with the fixing protrusion to prevent the fixing protrusion from being removed from the receiving portion; and when in the assembled configuration, the internal connecting structure of the retaining member engages with the fixing protrusion of the base to connect the retaining member and the base.

[0048] 8. A cable retainer according to any of the preceding embodiments, wherein: the internal connecting structure includes at least one latching nose; the fixing protrusion includes: at least one protrusion capable of engaging with the internal connecting structure; and at least one shoulder arranged between the at least one protrusion and the platform; and when in the assembled configuration, the at least one latching nose is arranged between the at least one protrusion and the at least one shoulder.

[0049] 9. The cable retainer of any preceding embodiment, wherein, when in the assembled configuration, at least a portion of the at least one shoulder is disposed in the receiving portion.

[0050] 10. A cable retainer according to any of the preceding embodiments, wherein: the free end of the fixing protrusion includes a recess; the retaining member includes a positioning body, the positioning body extends across the end of the receiving portion and at least partially closes the end of the receiving portion to define a first groove and a second groove; and when in the assembled configuration, the positioning body is disposed in the recess, and the fixing protrusion is at least partially disposed in the first groove and the second groove, and the first groove and the second groove constrain the movement of the fixing protrusion in the receiving portion.

[0051] 11. The cable retainer of any preceding embodiment, wherein the base includes a flange extending around the fastener.

[0052] 12. A method for connecting multiple objects to each other using the cable retainer described in any of the preceding embodiments, comprising: connecting the flat cable and the cable retainer by inserting the fixing protrusion of the base into a portion of the flat cable and then connecting the base and the retaining member to each other; connecting the first object and the cable retainer by engaging the connector with the first object and the cable retainer; and connecting the second object and the cable retainer by engaging the fastener of the cable retainer with the second object.

[0053] 13. A method according to any of the preceding embodiments, wherein: the retaining member includes: a receiving portion, the fixing protrusion being insertable into the receiving portion; and an internal connecting structure disposed within the receiving portion; the receiving portion is at least partially defined by the wall of the retaining member; and connecting the base and the retaining member to each other includes inserting the fixing protrusion into the receiving portion and engaging the fixing protrusion with the internal connecting structure.

[0054] 14. The method of any preceding embodiment, wherein connecting the base and the retaining member to each other comprises securing the flat cable between the platform of the base and the retaining member.

[0055] 15. The method of any preceding embodiment, wherein connecting the base and the retaining member to each other comprises at least partially aligning the securing protrusion opening of the base and the retaining member opening of the retaining member to form the common channel.

[0056] 16. The method of any preceding embodiment, wherein engaging the fastener of the cable retainer with the second object comprises adjusting the fastener into a groove of the second object.

[0057] 17. The method of any preceding embodiment, wherein the second object is at least one of a bracket and a panel.

[0058] 18. A method according to any of the preceding embodiments, wherein: the connector is a tether; and engaging the connector with the first object and the cable retainer includes passing a tail of the tether through a common channel of the cable retainer, wrapping the tether around the first object, and connecting the tail of the tether to the head of the tether.

[0059] 19. The method of any preceding embodiment, wherein the first object is at least one of a wire and a wire harness.

[0060] 20. The method of any preceding embodiment, wherein: engaging the fastener of the cable retainer with the second object comprises pressing the fastener into a groove of the second object; and the second object is at least one of a bracket and a panel.

[0061] Various examples / embodiments for various devices, systems, and / or methods are described herein. Many specific details are set forth to provide a thorough understanding of the overall structure, function, manufacture, and use of the examples / embodiments described in the specification and illustrated in the accompanying drawings. However, it should be understood by those skilled in the art that the examples / embodiments can be practiced without such specific details. In other examples, well-known operations, parts, and elements are not described in detail so as not to obscure the examples / embodiments described in this specification. It should be understood by those of ordinary skill in the art that the examples / embodiments described and illustrated herein are non-limiting examples, and therefore it can be appreciated that the specific structural and functional details disclosed herein can be representative and do not necessarily limit the scope of the embodiments.

[0062] References to "example", "in an example", "according to an example", "various embodiments", "according to an embodiment", "in an embodiment", or "an embodiment" and the like throughout the specification mean that a particular feature, structure, or characteristic described in conjunction with the example / embodiment is included in at least one embodiment. Therefore, the appearance of the phrases "example", "in an example", "according to an example", "in various embodiments", "according to an embodiment", "in an embodiment", or "an embodiment" and the like in multiple places throughout the specification do not necessarily refer to the same embodiment. In addition, particular features, structures, or characteristics may be combined in any suitable manner in one or more examples / embodiments. Therefore, the particular features, structures, or characteristics illustrated or described in conjunction with one embodiment / example may be combined in whole or in part with the features, structures, functions, and / or characteristics of one or more other embodiments / examples without restriction, as long as such combination is not illogical or inoperative. In addition, many modifications may be made to adapt a particular situation or material to the teachings of the present disclosure without departing from the scope of the present disclosure.

[0063] It should be understood that references to individual elements are not necessarily so limited, but may include one or more such elements. Any directional references (e.g., positive, negative, upper, lower, upward, downward, left, right, leftward, rightward, top, bottom, above, below, vertical, horizontal, clockwise, and counterclockwise) are used only for identification purposes to help the reader understand the present disclosure and do not create limitations, particularly with respect to the position, orientation, or use of the examples / embodiments.

[0064] “One or more” includes a function performed by one element, a function performed by more than one element (eg, in a distributed manner), several functions performed by one element, several functions performed by several elements, or any combination of the foregoing.

[0065] It should also be understood that, although in some cases, the terms first, second, etc. are used to describe various elements in this article, these elements should not be limited by these terms. These terms are only used to distinguish one element from another element. For example, a first element can be called a second element, and similarly, a second element can be called a first element without departing from the scope of the various embodiments described. Both the first element and the second element are elements, but they are not the same element.

[0066] The terms used in the description of the various embodiments described herein are only used for the purpose of describing specific embodiments and are not intended to be limiting. As used in the description of the various described embodiments and the appended claims, the singular forms "a", "an" and "the" are intended to also include plural forms unless the context clearly indicates otherwise. It should also be understood that the term "and / or" as used herein refers to and covers any and all possible combinations of one or more of the associated listed items. It should be further understood that when used in this specification, the terms "includes", "including", "comprises" and / or "comprising" specify the presence of the features, wholes, steps, operations, elements and / or parts, but do not exclude the presence or addition of one or more other features, wholes, steps, operations, elements, parts and / or groups thereof.

[0067] References to engagement (e.g., attachment, connection, connection, etc.) should be interpreted broadly and may include intermediate members between the connection of elements, relative movement between elements, direct connection, indirect connection, fixed connection, removable connection, operational connection, indirect contact and / or direct contact. Therefore, reference to engagement does not necessarily mean that two elements are directly connected / coupled and are in a fixed relationship with each other. The connection of electrical components (if any) may include mechanical connections, electrical connections, wired connections and / or wireless connections, etc. The use of "for example" and "such as" in this specification should be interpreted broadly and used to provide non-limiting examples of embodiments of the present disclosure, and the present disclosure is not limited to such examples.

[0068] Although processes, systems, and methods may be described herein in conjunction with one or more steps in a particular sequence, it should be understood that these methods may be practiced with steps in a different order, by performing certain steps simultaneously, with additional steps, and / or by omitting certain described steps.

[0069] As used herein, the term "if" is optionally interpreted to mean "when..." or "upon..." or "in response to determining..." or "in response to detecting...", as the context requires. Similarly, the phrases "if it is determined" or "if [the condition or event] is detected" are optionally interpreted to mean "upon determining..." or "in response to determining..." or "upon detecting [the condition or event]" or "in response to detecting [the condition or event]", as the context requires.

[0070] It is intended that all matter contained in the above description or shown in the accompanying drawings shall be interpreted as illustrative only and not limiting. Changes may be made in detail or structure without departing from the disclosure.

Claims

1. A cable holder for connecting a flat cable, a first object and / or a second object to each other, the cable holder comprising a base and a holding member, wherein: The base comprises: platform; a fastener extending from the platform, the fastener being engageable with the second object; a securing protrusion extending from the platform, the securing protrusion being positionable to pass through a portion of the flat cable; and a fixing protrusion opening disposed in the fixing protrusion; The retaining member comprises: a wall to which the fixing projection is connectable to fix the flat cable between the platform and the retaining member; and maintaining the member open; and When in an assembled configuration, the securing projection opening of the securing projection and the retaining member opening of the retaining member are at least partially aligned with each other and define a common passage to receive a connector for connecting the first object to the base and the retaining member.

2. The cable retainer according to claim 1, wherein: The first object is at least one of a wire and a wire harness; The second object is at least one of a bracket and a panel; and The connector is a tie strap.

3. The cable retainer according to claim 1, wherein: The fixing projection is substantially planar and extends from the platform in a first direction; The fixing protrusion opening extends through the fixing protrusion in a second direction; The fixing protrusion includes at least one protrusion engageable with the retaining member, the at least one protrusion extending from the fixing protrusion in a third direction; and The first direction, the second direction, and the third direction extend perpendicularly to each other.

4. The cable retainer according to claim 1, wherein: The fixing protrusion includes a plurality of first protrusions and a plurality of second protrusions engageable with the retaining member; The plurality of first protrusions and the plurality of second protrusions are disposed on opposite sides of the fixing protrusion and extend from the fixing protrusion in opposite directions; and The fixing protrusion opening is provided in the fixing protrusion between the plurality of first protrusions and the plurality of second protrusions.

5. The cable retainer according to claim 1, wherein: The free end of the fixing protrusion includes a notch; The retaining member includes a positioning body; and When in the assembled configuration, the locating body is disposed in the recess and constrains movement of the securing projection relative to the wall.

6. The cable retainer according to claim 1, wherein: The retaining member includes a receiving portion into which the fixing protrusion can be inserted; The receiving portion is at least partially defined by the wall of the retaining member; and When in the assembled configuration, the securing protrusion of the base is at least partially disposed in the receiving portion of the retaining member, (i) securing the flat cable between the platform and the retaining member, and (ii) at least partially aligning the securing protrusion opening of the securing protrusion and the retaining member opening of the retaining member.

7. The cable retainer according to claim 6, wherein: the retaining member includes an internal connection structure disposed within the receiving portion, the internal connection structure being engageable with the fixing protrusion to prevent the fixing protrusion from being removed from the receiving portion; and When in the assembled configuration, the internal connection structure of the retaining member engages the securing protrusion of the base to connect the retaining member and the base.

8. The cable retainer according to claim 7, wherein: The internal connection structure includes at least one latch nose; The fixing protrusion comprises: at least one protrusion engageable with the internal connection structure; and at least one shoulder disposed between the at least one protrusion and the platform; and When in the assembled configuration, the at least one latch nose is disposed between the at least one protrusion and the at least one shoulder.

9. The cable retainer according to claim 8, wherein: At least a portion of the at least one shoulder is disposed in the receiving portion when in the assembled configuration.

10. The cable retainer according to claim 6, wherein: The free end of the fixing protrusion includes a notch; The retaining member includes a locating body extending across an end of the receiving portion and at least partially closing the end of the receiving portion to define a first slot and a second slot; and When in the assembled configuration, the locating body is disposed in the recess and the fixing protrusion is at least partially disposed within the first slot and the second slot, the first slot and the second slot constraining movement of the fixing protrusion within the receiving portion.

11. The cable retainer according to claim 1, wherein: The base includes a flange extending around the fastener.

12. A method of connecting a plurality of objects to each other using the cable retainer according to claim 1, comprising: connecting the flat cable and the cable holder via inserting the fixing protrusion of the base into a portion of the flat cable and then connecting the base and the holding member to each other; connecting the first object and the cable retainer via engaging the connector with the first object and the cable retainer; as well as The second object and the cable retainer are connected via engaging the fastener of the cable retainer with the second object.

13. The method according to claim 12, wherein: The retaining member comprises: a receiving portion into which the fixing protrusion can be inserted; and an internal connection structure disposed within the receiving portion; The receiving portion is at least partially defined by the wall of the retaining member; and Connecting the base and the retaining member to each other includes inserting the fixing protrusion into the receiving portion and engaging the fixing protrusion with the internal connection structure.

14. The method according to claim 12, wherein: Connecting the base and the retaining member to each other includes securing the flat cable between the platform of the base and the retaining member.

15. The method according to claim 12, wherein: Connecting the base and the retaining member to each other includes at least partially aligning the fixing protrusion opening of the base and the retaining member opening of the retaining member to form the common passage.

16. The method according to claim 12, wherein: Engaging the fastener of the cable retainer with the second object includes adjusting the fastener into a groove of the second object.

17. The method according to claim 16, wherein: The second object is at least one of a bracket and a panel.

18. The method of claim 12, wherein: The connector is a tie; and Engaging the connector with the first object and the cable retainer includes passing a tail of the tether through a common passage of the cable retainer, wrapping the tether around the first object, and connecting the tail of the tether to a head of the tether.

19. The method according to claim 18, wherein: The first object is at least one of a wire and a wire harness.

20. The method of claim 19, wherein: engaging the fastener of the cable retainer with the second object comprises pressing the fastener into a groove of the second object; and The second object is at least one of a bracket and a panel.

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