Device for compensating for tolerances between two components to be connected

Abstract

The invention relates to a device (1) for compensating for tolerances between two components (B1, B2) to be connected, comprising a base element (2) having at least a cavity (26) with an internal thread (25); and a compensation element (3) having an external thread (33), which is in threaded engagement with or can be in threaded engagement with the base element (2) and which can be moved by rotation relative to the base element (2) from a starting position (P1) to a compensation position (P2), at least the external thread (33) of the compensation element (3) having a cross-section having a shape different from a circular cross-section, the compensation element (3) being movable by rotation relative to the base element (2) from a starting position (P1) to a compensation position (P2), and the compensation element (3) being movable by rotation relative to the base element (2) from the starting position (P1) to the compensation position (P2). And in a compensation position (P2), frictionally engaging with the internal thread (25) of the base element (2) for tightening the screw element (4).

Description

Field of the Invention

[0001] The present invention relates to a device for compensating tolerances between two components to be joined, such as body components and / or interior components of a vehicle. Background Art

[0002] Devices of this type are basically known and are used, for example, in vehicle construction, especially when it comes to screwing two components together with a tolerance engagement gap and / or engagement distance.

[0003] Tolerance compensation devices are generally known and are part of fastening elements for fastening parts and components to one another, especially in motor vehicles. For example, tolerance compensation devices or tolerance compensation elements for vehicle construction are known, especially when it comes to screwing two components together with a tolerance engagement gap. For this purpose, the tolerance compensation device is arranged between the components to be connected, and a screw element for screwing into the component, such as a screw or a bolt, is guided through a correspondingly provided opening in the component and through the tolerance compensation device. When the screw element is screwed in, the compensation element rotates relative to the base element by means of a follower spring connected between the screw element and the compensation element, and thus axially moves out of its starting position, for example out of the base element, until it reaches its compensation position, in which the base element and the compensation element each bear against one of the components, thereby bridging the engagement gap. Summary of the Invention

[0004] The object of the present invention is to provide an improved device compared to the prior art, especially a tolerance compensation device.

[0005] According to the present invention, this object is achieved by the features described in claim 1.

[0006] The device according to the present invention for compensating tolerances between two components to be joined includes at least a base element having a cavity with an internal thread; and a compensation element having an external thread, the compensation element being threadedly engaged or capable of being threadedly engaged with the base element and being movable from a starting position to a compensation position by rotation relative to the base element, wherein at least the external thread of the compensation element has a cross-section different from a circular cross-section and frictionally engages with the internal thread of the base element in the compensation position for tightening a screw element.

[0007] Since the external thread of at least the compensating element has a cross-section deviating from a circular cross-section and frictionally engages with the internal thread of the base element for screwing in the screw element, the compensating element can be brought to the corresponding compensating position before fixing the two components to be connected, so that the screw element can then be screwed in. Due to the different cross-sections of the external thread, such as a non-circular cross-section or a non-round cross-section, the compensating element can be connected to the base element in a simple manner, in particular wedged and / or clamped in the base element. The different cross-sections, in particular cross-sections deviating from a circular or round cross-section, can particularly strengthen the required thread engagement in order to absorb the torque to be applied to the screw element during screwing in.

[0008] Furthermore, the advantages achieved with the present invention are that simple assembly of the device and simple subsequent fixing of the two components to be connected can be achieved. By the different shapes of the external thread, in particular non-circular or non-round shapes, control of the torque can be achieved. Furthermore, a gapless connection between the device and the components can be ensured.

[0009] The device can be, for example, a tolerance compensation device which can be brought to a suitable height before fixing the components to be connected in order to bridge the gap between the components, such as a mating gap. For example, it can relate to components for assembling a vehicle tail light.

[0010] In other words: The base element with the compensating element arranged therein can be pre-assembled to one of the components in a simple manner, for example at the customer interface. The compensating element can be rotated relative to the base element to adjust the height of the compensating element relative to the base element. The compensating element can have a non-circular profile to control the torque.

[0011] The compensating element has at least one drive profile by means of which the compensating element can be moved from the base element to the compensating position before fixing the components to be connected. This enables axial tolerance compensation. The compensating element can be rotated relative to the base element by means of the drive profile. By rotating the compensating element at the drive profile, in particular at the drive interface, the compensating element can be moved relative to the base element, in particular out of the base element. Thus, the height of the device, in particular the height of the tolerance compensation device, can be adjusted.

[0012] The drive profile can be a drive interface. The drive profile can be an internal profile, such as an internal drive interface. Alternatively or optionally, the drive profile can be an external profile, such as an external drive interface.

[0013] For example, the drive profile can be formed by a flange part on the compensating element, wherein the flange part can have an angular drive profile, in particular an external profile, which can be gripped by a suitable tool. The drive profile, such as an external drive interface, can be configured as a drive hexagon or a drive square. In this case, conventional drive tools, such as in the form of a wrench, can be used.

[0014] For example, the drive profile can be formed by a notch formed in the flange part, into which a suitable tool can be inserted. For example, the drive profile, such as an internal drive interface, can include an internal hexagon or square, a slot or a cross-slot. For example, the compensating element can rotate on the drive profile. In this case, a conventional drive tool, such as in the form of a screwdriver, can be used.

[0015] The compensating element can include a cavity with an internal thread, into which, after occupying the compensation position, a screw element can be screwed to fix the components to be connected in the cavity. The internal thread of the compensating element can have a circular cross-section. The screw element can be a connecting screw.

[0016] The internal thread of the base element can have a circular cross-section, in which, in the compensation position, the compensating element is in a gapless clamping frictional engagement with the base element. By the interaction of a circular or circular-internal thread with a non-circular or non-circular external thread, a gapless clamping connection, in particular a frictional engagement, can be achieved in a simple manner.

[0017] The gapless, at least gap-reducing and / or self-locking engagement of the base element and the compensating element is particularly understood as a form-fit and / or force-fit clamping, in particular wedging, of the two elements, such that they are firmly connected together and immovable, in particular prevented from rotating relative to each other.

[0018] The external thread can have an olive-shaped, oval or three-lobed cross-section. The external thread can have at least two rounded corners in cross-section.

[0019] The external thread, in particular the external profile of the compensating element, can have a cross-section deviating from a circular cross-section, in particular a substantially non-circular cross-section. The internal thread, in particular the internal profile of the base element, can be substantially circular. The external profile can be three-lobed and have three rounded corners, also known as triangular rounded corners. Optionally, the external profile can be olive-shaped or oval, in which case only two radial protrusions are formed instead of three radial protrusions. Furthermore, the external thread, in particular the external profile, can form four radial protrusions. Such an external profile is also known as a quadrilateral rounded corner.

[0020] Thus, when the compensating element is unscrewed from the base element, at least a gap reduction, in particular a gapless and clamping, in particular self-locking frictional engagement, can be achieved. Such profiles and counter-profiles, in particular such external and internal threads, can achieve a particularly effective force fit and engagement in a simple manner without additional means.

[0021] The external thread can also have different cross-sectional shapes, such as a double-angled circular shape, a quadrilateral circular shape or a polygonal circular shape.

[0022] Alternatively, the external thread of the compensating element may have a circular cross-section and the internal thread of the base element may have a different cross-section, such as a non-circular or off-round cross-section.

[0023] The base element may include a flange portion extending at least partially around the periphery and at least one outwardly protruding retaining nose. The retaining nose may have a support surface extending at least partially in a circumferential direction. For example, the retaining nose may include at least one substantially straight portion and an inclined portion adjacent thereto. In a state where the base element is assembled on one of the components, the component may be clamped or has been accommodated between the flange portion and the retaining nose. The inclined portion may form a ramp and, when the base element rotates relative to the component, is used to clamp or clamp the component between the flange portion and the retaining nose, serving as an insertion aid. The retaining nose may be reversibly flexible.

[0024] The base element and the compensation element can be pre-positioned, in particular pre-assembled on one of the components. The base element can be pre-assembled on one of the two components to be connected, for example, by a bayonet connection.

[0025] The base element may include at least one positioning element which may be configured to clamp and / or lock the base element against rotation on the component in a state in which the base element is mounted on one of the components.

[0026] The advantages achieved by the invention are, in particular, that a structurally simple device for connecting two components is provided, which compensates for tolerances between the components and is particularly easy to preassemble and assemble. Before the two components are fixed together by means of a connecting element, in particular a screw element, the device can be brought to the correct height, in particular by axial adjustment of the compensating element relative to the base element.

[0027] The method according to the invention for connecting two components by means of at least one of the above-described devices, in particular a tolerance compensation device, may comprise at least the following steps:

[0028] - pre-assembling the base element with the compensating element arranged therein onto one of the components to be connected,

[0029] - adjusting or positioning the compensating element into the compensating position by rotating the compensating element from the base element from the starting position into the compensating position,

[0030] - supporting the second component on the compensation element after assuming the compensation position,

[0031] - The screw element passes through the second component and is screwed into the compensating element, and the screw element is tightened onto the compensating element to fix the two components. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0032] The embodiments of the present invention will be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings. Among them:

[0033] Figure 1 A perspective view schematically shows a device for compensating for tolerances between two components to be joined, the device including at least a base element and a compensation element.

[0034] Figure 2 Schematically shows according to Figure 1 Another perspective view of the device.

[0035] Figure 3 Schematically shows according to Figure 1 A cross-sectional view of the device.

[0036] Figure 4 Schematically shows according to Figure 1 An exploded view of the device.

[0037] Figure 5 A perspective view schematically shows the compensation element of the device.

[0038] Figure 6 Schematically shows according to Figure 1 A top view of the device.

[0039] Figures 7 to 9 Schematically shows in perspective the pre-assembly process of the device on one of the components to be joined.

[0040] Figures 10 to 12 Schematically shows in cross-section the assembly process for fixing the two components to be joined together.

[0041] Figure 13 Schematically shows a top view of the device in a pre-assembled state on one of the components to be joined.

[0042] Figure 14 Schematically shows in cross-section a partial view of the device in a pre-assembled state on one of the components to be joined.

[0043] Figure 15 A perspective view schematically shows another embodiment of a device for compensating for tolerances between two components to be joined according to the present invention, the device including at least a base element and a compensation element.

[0044] Figure 16 Schematically shows in another perspective view according to Figure 15 the device, and

[0045] Figure 17A cross-sectional view schematically showing another embodiment of a compensating element of a device for compensating tolerances between two components to be joined is shown.

[0046] The same components are denoted by the same reference numerals in all the figures. Detailed description of the invention

[0047] Figure 1 A perspective view schematically showing a device 1 according to the present invention for compensating tolerances, in particular axial tolerances, between at least two components B1, B2 to be joined (as Figures 7 to 14 shown) is shown.

[0048] The device 1 is used, for example, to connect a first component B1 (such as a bearing bracket, an electronic component, a lamp, a decorative component) to a second component B2 (such as a door panel, a support structure or a body structure of a vehicle). For example, the device 1 can be used to connect components inside a vehicle, such as a console, an armrest and other vehicle components.

[0049] The device 1 includes at least one base element 2, such as a hollow cylindrical base element 2. The device 1 includes at least one compensating element 3, such as a substantially hollow cylindrical compensating element 3.

[0050] The base element 2 is configured as a holding element of the device 1 on the first component B1. For this purpose, the first component B1 has at least one groove B1.1, such as Figure 7 shown.

[0051] The base element 2 includes at least one base body 23. A flange portion 24 is provided on the end face of the base body 23. The diameter of the flange portion 24 can be larger than that of the base body 23 and can form a contact surface for contacting one of the components B1, B2.

[0052] The base element 2 includes at least one retaining nose 21 or a plurality of retaining noses 21, and these retaining noses 21 together with the base body 23 are guided through the groove B1.1 of the component B1. In addition, the base element 2 includes at least one positioning element 22 or a plurality of positioning elements 22.

[0053] In the illustrated embodiment, the base element 2 includes three retaining noses 21 and three positioning elements 22. In each case, the positioning element 22 is arranged between two retaining noses 21, or in each case, the retaining nose 21 is arranged between two positioning elements 22.

[0054] The retaining noses 21 are distributed in a rotationally symmetric manner on the outer circumference of the base element 2, in particular on the base body 23. In each case, the retaining noses 21 are spaced apart and / or offset from each other within an angular range of 120°.

[0055] The positioning elements 22 are distributed in a rotationally symmetric manner on the lower side of the flange portion 24 of the base element 2. The positioning elements 22 project downward from the lower side of the flange portion 24. The positioning elements 22 are spaced apart and / or offset from each other within an angular range of 120°.

[0056] The respective positioning elements 22 are offset by 60° and / or spaced apart relative to the respective retaining noses 21.

[0057] Other angles and angular ranges are conceivable and can vary depending on the number of retaining noses 21 and / or positioning elements 22.

[0058] In each case, the retaining nose 21 has a support surface 211 which extends at least partially obliquely in the circumferential direction of the base element 2 or the base body 23. In each case, the retaining nose 21 can have two support webs 212 spaced apart from each other and extending parallel to each other and a support surface 211 connecting the support webs 212. The retaining nose 21 can be, for example, a bayonet element, such as a bayonet nose, a so-called bayonet leg or a bayonet arm.

[0059] The retaining nose 21 can also have a different shape, such as a block shape.

[0060] In the assembled state of the base element 2, for example, in the pre-assembled state, the compensation element 3 is arranged on one of the components B1, B2, and the components B1, B2 can be clamped and received between the lower side of the flange portion 24, in particular, and the respective retaining nose 21.

[0061] When the base element 2 is assembled on one of the components B1, B2, the respective positioning element 22 can clamp the base element 2 to prevent rotation.

[0062] Figure 2 Schematically shown according to Figure 1 Another perspective view of the device 1.

[0063] The base element 2 includes a cavity 26 having an internal thread 25 (as shown, for example Figure 3 ). The internal thread 25 can extend, for example, on a part of the cavity 26. For example, the internal thread 25 can be formed segmentally on an end face. For example, the internal thread 25 can be arranged in the region of the flange portion 24. In a further refinement, the internal thread 25 can also extend continuously on the entire inner circumferential surface of the cavity 26.

[0064] The compensation element 3 includes a base body 31 and a flange portion 32 provided on the end face of the base body 31. The diameter of the flange portion 32 can be larger than that of the base body 31 and can form a contact surface for contacting one of the components B1, B2.

[0065] The compensating element 3, in particular its base body 31, includes an external thread 33 and a cavity 35 having an internal thread 34. The compensating element 3 is threadedly engaged with the base element 2 and can be moved from a starting position P1 to, for example, Figure 11 and Figure 12 the compensating position P2 shown.

[0066] Figure 3 A cross-sectional view of the device 1 according to Figure 1 is schematically shown.

[0067] The external thread 33 of the compensating element 3 particularly has a cross-section whose shape is different from a circular cross-section. Since the external thread 33 of the compensating element 3 has a cross-section different from a circular cross-section, before fixing the two members B1, B2 to be connected, the compensating element 3 can be brought to the corresponding compensating position P2 by means of a screw element 5 (as Figure 12 shown) so that the screw element 5 can then be tightened.

[0068] Figure 4 A perspective view of the device 1 according to Figure 1 is schematically shown.

[0069] The device 1 includes at least a base element 2 having a cavity 26 with an internal thread 25 and a compensating element 3 having at least one external thread 33 that is threadedly engaged with or can be threadedly engaged with the base element 2 and can be moved from a starting position P1 to a compensating position P2 by rotating relative to the base element 2. At least the external thread 33 of the compensating element 3 has a cross-section deviating from a circular cross-section and is in frictional engagement with the internal thread 25 of the base element 2 at the compensating position P2 for tightening the screw element 5.

[0070] The internal thread 25 of the base element 2 particularly has a circular cross-section. At the compensating position P2, the compensating element 3 is in non-clearance and clamping frictional engagement with the base element 2. Through the interaction of the circular or circular-internal thread 25 and the non-circular or non-circular external thread 33, a non-clearance clamping connection, in particular a frictional engagement, can be achieved in a simple manner.

[0071] Figure 5 A perspective view of the compensating element 3 of the device 1 (as Figure 1 shown) is schematically shown.

[0072] The external thread 33 of the compensating element 3 particularly has a cross-section whose shape is different from a circular cross-section. Since the external thread 33 of the compensating element 3 has a cross-section different from a circular cross-section, before fixing the two members B1, B2 to be connected, the compensating element 3 can be brought to the corresponding compensating position P2 by means of a screw element 5 (as Figure 12 shown) so that the screw element 5 can then be tightened.

[0073] The external thread 33 of the compensating element 3 may have an olive-shaped cross-section. The cross-section of the external thread 33 may have two rounded corners.

[0074] Optionally, the external thread 33 may have an oval cross-section. The cross-section of the external thread 33 may have two rounded corners.

[0075] Optionally, the external thread 33 may have a three-lobed cross-section. The external thread 33 may have three rounded corners in cross-section, also known as triangular rounded corners.

[0076] As a result, when the compensating element 3 is rotated from the base element 2, at least a reduction in clearance, in particular clearance-free and clamping, in particular self-locking frictional engagement, can be achieved. Such a profile and counter-profile, in particular such an external thread 33 and internal thread 25, can achieve a particularly effective force-locking and engagement in a simple manner without additional devices.

[0077] Figure 6 is schematically shown a top view of the device 1 according to Figure 1 of.

[0078] The compensating element 3 includes at least one drive profile 36 by which the compensating element 3 can be moved from the base element 2 to the compensation position P2 before the members B1, B2 to be connected are fixed. By rotating the compensating element 3 at the drive profile 36, for example in the form of a drive interface, the compensating element 3 can be moved relative to the base element 2, in particular out of the base element 2. In this way, the desired height H of the device 1 to be occupied (as Figure 11 and Figure 12 shown) can be set to overcome the predetermined distance between the members B1, B2.

[0079] The compensating element 3 may have, for example, an internal drive profile 36a. The compensating element 3 may alternatively or optionally additionally have an external drive profile 36b.

[0080] For example, the external drive profile 36b may be formed by a flange portion 32 of the compensating element 3, and the flange portion 32 may have an outer circumference provided with corners and edges. The external drive profile 36b can be gripped by a suitable tool. The external drive profile 36b can be a drive hexagon or a drive square. In this case, conventional drive tools, for example in the form of a wrench, can be used.

[0081] For example, the internal drive profile 36a may be formed by a notch or groove centrally formed in the flange portion 32 of the compensating element 3 into which a suitable tool can be inserted. For example, the internal drive profile 36a may be configured as an internal hexagon or an internal square, a slot or a cross-slot. Conventional drive tools not shown in detail here, for example in the form of a screwdriver, can be used here.

[0082] Figure 7 The pre-positioning of the device 1 relative to one of the components B1, B2 to be connected (in the illustrated embodiment, on the first component B1) is schematically shown in a perspective view.

[0083] The first component B1 is shown, which has a groove B1.1 for guiding and arranging the base element 2. The component B1 with the groove B1.1 forms, for example, a customer interface.

[0084] The device 1 is shown in a supply state, in which the compensation element 3 is in threaded engagement with the base element 2. The groove B1.1 of the component B1 can have three guide grooves B1.2 corresponding to the retaining nose 21 and the positioning element 22 of the base element 2.

[0085] The guide grooves B1.2 are configured according to the distribution of the retaining nose 21 and the positioning element 22. For example, the guide grooves B1.2 are rotationally symmetrically distributed around the circumference of the groove B1.1. The guide grooves B1.2 are spaced apart and / or offset within an angular range of 120°.

[0086] Figure 8 The pre-assembly, in particular the pre-fixing, of the device 1 according to Figure 7 on the first component B1 is schematically shown in a perspective view.

[0087] The base element 2 can have at least one drive profile 27 by which the base element 2 can be moved for assembling, in particular pre-assembling and fixing, the device 1 on the first component B1. By rotating the base element 2 at the drive profile 27, for example in the form of a drive interface, the base element 2 can be moved relative to the first component B1 and the guide grooves B1.2 together with the compensation element 3 arranged therein.

[0088] For example, the base element 2 can have an external drive profile 27a. The external drive profile 27a can be formed by a flange portion 24 of the base element 2, and the flange portion 24 can have an outer circumference provided with corners and edges. The external drive profile 27a can be gripped with a suitable tool. The external drive profile 27a can be configured as a drive hexagon or a drive square. In this case, conventional drive tools, for example in the form of a wrench, can be used. Optionally, the compensation element 3 can also be rotated.

[0089] In this case, the base element 2 is moved relative to the first component B1 until the positioning element 22 of the base element 2 snaps into the guide groove B1.2, for example into the guide groove B1.2. The positioning element 22 can be reversibly flexible. Thus, the positioning element 22 can form a rotation protection.

[0090] Due to maintaining the inclination of the corresponding support surface 211 of the nose part 21, the flange part 24, for example in the form of a collar, can be clamped when rotating on the component B1. Thus, a bayonet connection can be achieved. In this case, the nose part 21 is located below the interface, that is, below the first component B1, for example, the groove B1.1.

[0091] Figure 9 The device 1 on the component B1 according to Figure 7 is schematically shown in an assembled state, in particular a pre-assembled and fixed state.

[0092] The positioning element 22 is configured in the form of, for example, a flexible locking nose, a bulge, a clip element, and / or a projection. The positioning element 22 is arranged to radially position the base element 2 on the component B1 and prevent rotation in the interface, that is, in the first component B1, for example, in the groove B1.1 of the component B1. The positioning element 22 is arranged to clamp, wedge, and / or lock the base element 2 in and / or on one of the components B1, B2.

[0093] The base element 2 is radially and axially fixed in and / or on the associated components B1, B2 by the holding nose 21 and the positioning element 22. The device 1 and the first component B1 can be connected to each other particularly without clearance.

[0094] Figure 10 A cross-sectional view of the device 1 in an assembled state, in particular a pre-assembled and fixed state, on the component B1 according to Figure 9 is schematically shown.

[0095] In the assembled state, the flange part 24 abuts against the top side (or bottom side) of the corresponding components B1, B2. In the assembled state, the first component B1 is arranged between the flange part 24 and the holding nose 21, in particular its support surface 211, and is particularly clamped, for example, clamped in and / or wedged in. Thus, axial tension can be absorbed.

[0096] Figure 11 A cross-sectional view of the adjustment of the compensation element 3 of the device 1 from the starting position P1 to the compensation position P2 relative to the base element 2 and the component B1 is schematically shown.

[0097] By driving, in particular rotating, the compensation element 3 relative to the base element 2, the compensation element 3 can be adjusted to the desired height H to overcome the predetermined distance between the two components B1, B2 to be connected.

[0098] Figure 12 A cross-sectional view of the fixation of another second component B2 with the device 1 and the first component B1 is schematically shown.

[0099] If the compensation element 3 is at the desired height H relative to the base element 2, i.e., in the compensation position P2, the second component B2 can be fixed. In the compensation position P2, the compensation element 3 is frictionally engaged with the internal thread 25 of the base element 2 via its non-circular external thread 33 for tightening the screw element 4. The compensation element 3 is screwed onto the second component B2. Through the frictional engagement between the compensation element 3 and the base element 2, the screw element 4 can be firmly tightened.

[0100] The screw element 4 can include at least one head 41, such as a screw head, and a shaft 42. The shaft 42 can be at least partially provided with a thread 43 on the circumference. In the final assembled state, the head 41 of the connecting element 4 abuts against the upper side of the second component B2.

[0101] Figure 13 A top view of the device 1 in the assembled state, in particular in the pre-assembled state, on one of the components B1, B2 to be connected is schematically shown.

[0102] The base body 23 of the base element 2 can be arranged in the groove B1.1 of the component B1 without radial clearance. The positioning element 22 can be arranged in the guide groove B1.2 without clearance in the rotational direction.

[0103] Since the shape of the compensation element 3 is different from circular, a clearance-free and torque can be generated relative to the base element 2 by means of at least one projection 5 relative to the base element 2. In the corresponding region of the projection 5, the compensation element 3 can be clamped relative to the base element 2.

[0104] At the same time, the compensation element 3 and the base element 2 can have a clearance 6 relative to each other. For example, the circumference of the base element 2 can be greater than the circumference of the compensation element 3, for example, measured by the side diameter. Thus, the base element 2 can adopt a more robust shape, for example, of the compensation element 3, without the need to enlarge the circumference of the base element 2. Thus, the insertion voltage can be avoided.

[0105] Figure 14 A cross-sectional view of a partial view of the device 1 in the assembled (e.g., pre-assembled) state on one of the components B1, B2 to be connected is schematically shown.

[0106] The base element 2 can be axially clearance-free relative to the interface, i.e., relative to the corresponding components B1, B2. For this purpose, the flange portion 24 of the base element 2, such as a journal or a collar, can be pressed through. The flange portion 24 can be elastic through the hollow wedge opening 28 on the flange portion 24.

[0107] Figure 15A perspective view schematically shows another embodiment of a device 1 for compensating for tolerances between at least two components B1, B2 to be connected. The device includes a base element 2 having at least a cavity 26 with an internal thread 25 and a compensating element 3 having an external thread 33 which is or can be thread-engaged with the base element 2 and can be moved from a starting position P1 to a compensating position P2 by rotation relative to the base element 2.

[0108] Contrary to the embodiments described so far, the base element 2 includes a retaining clip 21a as a retaining nose 21. Each retaining clip 21a may have a support surface 211a extending linearly in the circumferential direction of the base element 2. Each retaining clip 21a may include a lower end connected to the base body 23 of the base element 2 and an upper end protruding from the base body 23 and forming the support surface 211a. In the assembled state of the base element 2, for example, in a pre-assembled state, the compensating element 3 is arranged on one of the components B1, B2, and the components B1, B2 can be clamped between the flange portion 24, in particular the lower side of the flange portion 24, and the corresponding retaining clip 21a.

[0109] When the base element 2 is assembled on one of the components B1, B2, the corresponding positioning element 22 can clamp the base element 2 to prevent rotation.

[0110] Figure 16 Is schematically shown in another perspective view according to Figure 15 of the device 1.

[0111] In addition, the base element 2 includes at least one positioning element 22 or a plurality of positioning elements 22.

[0112] In the illustrated embodiment, the base element 2 includes three retaining clips 21a and three positioning elements 22. In each case, the positioning element 22 is arranged between two retaining clips 21a, or in each case, the retaining clip 21a is arranged between two positioning elements 22.

[0113] The retaining clips 21a are distributed symmetrically about the outer circumference of the base element 2, in particular on the base body 23. The retaining clips 21a are spaced apart and / or offset from each other within an angular range of 120°.

[0114] The positioning elements 22 are distributed symmetrically about the lower side of the flange portion 24 of the base element 2. The positioning elements 22 protrude downward from the lower side of the flange portion 24. The positioning elements 22 are spaced apart and / or offset from each other within an angular range of 120°.

[0115] The corresponding positioning element 22 is offset by 60° and / or spaced apart from the corresponding retaining clip 21a.

[0116] Figure 17 A cross-sectional view of another embodiment of the compensating element 3 of the device 1 for compensating the tolerance between at least two components B1, B2 to be connected is schematically shown.

[0117] The compensating element 3 particularly includes an external thread 33 having a cross-section different from a circular cross-section and frictionally engaging with the internal thread 25 of the base element 2 in the compensating position P2 for tightening the screw element 4.

[0118] The compensating element 3 may have a nut element 37 integrated in the cavity 35, such as a metal insert. By using the nut element 37, the compensating element 3 can be made of a simple non-reinforced material.

[0119] The base element 2 can be formed, for example, of plastic. The base element 2 can be formed of glass fiber-containing plastic.

[0120] The compensating element 3 can be formed, for example, of plastic. The compensating element 3 can be formed, for example, of PPA (polyphthalamide) or PA (polyamide). The compensating element 3 can be formed of glass fiber-containing plastic.

[0121] The compensating element 3 and / or the base element 2 can also be at least partially formed of metal.

[0122] The nut element 37 can be, for example, a hollow cylinder. The nut element 37 can include a base body 371 and a flange portion 372 provided on the end face of the base body 371. At the other front end of the nut element 37, the latter can include a fastening flange 373. The fastening flange 373 can be configured to fasten the nut element 37 in the cavity 35 of the compensating element 3. The nut element 37 can include a cavity 375 provided with an internal thread 374. In particular, the nut element 37 can have a shape corresponding to that of the compensating element 3.

[0123] The nut element 37 can be configured to be threadedly engaged with the screw element 4 for fixing the two components B1, B2 to be connected when the screw element 4 is tightened.

[0124] List of Reference Signs

[0125] 1 Device

[0126] 2 Base element

[0127] 21 Retaining nose

[0128] 211 Support surface

[0129] 21a Retaining clip

[0130] 211a Support surface

[0131] 22 Positioning element

[0132] 23 Base body

[0133] 24 Flange portion

[0134] 25 Internal thread

[0135] 26 Cavity

[0136] 27 Driving profile

[0137] 27a External driving profile

[0138] 28 Hollow wedge

[0139] 3 Compensating element

[0140] 31 Base body

[0141] 32 Flange portion

[0142] 33 External thread

[0143] 34 Internal thread

[0144] 35 Cavity

[0145] 36 Driving profile

[0146] 36a Internal driving profile

[0147] 36b External driving profile

[0148] 37 Nut element

[0149] 371 Base body

[0150] 372 Flange portion

[0151] 373 Fastening flange

[0152] 374 Internal thread

[0153] 375 Cavity

[0154] 4 Screw element

[0155] 41 Head

[0156] 42 Shaft

[0157] 43 Thread

[0158] 5 Protrusion

[0159] 6 Clearance

[0160] B1, B2 components

[0161] B1.1 Groove

[0162] B1.2 Guide Groove

[0163] H Height

[0164] P1 Starting Position

[0165] P2 Compensation Position

Claims

1. A device (1) for compensating for tolerances between two components (B1, B2) to be connected, comprising at least - a base element (2) having a cavity (26) with an internal thread (25); and a compensating element (3) having an external thread (33), which is threadably engaged with the base element (2) or can be threadably engaged with the base element (2) and can be moved from a starting position (P1) to a compensating position (P2) by rotating relative to the base element (2), -in, At least the external thread (33) of the compensation element (3) has a cross-section that is different from a circular cross-section and is frictionally engaged with the internal thread (25) of the base element (2) in the compensation position (P2) for tightening the screw element (4).

2. The device (1) according to claim 1, wherein: The compensating element (3) has at least one drive contour (36) by means of which the compensating element (3) can be moved from the base element (2) into the compensating position (P2) before the components (B1, B2) to be connected are fixed.

3. The device (1) according to claim 1 or 2, wherein: The compensating element (3) comprises a cavity (35) with an internal thread (34), wherein, after assuming the compensating position (P2), the screw element (4) can be tightened to fix the components (B1, B2) to be connected in the cavity (35).

4. The device (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein: The internal thread (25) of the base element (2) has a circular cross section, wherein in the compensation position (P2) the compensation element (3) is in a clamping friction engagement with at least reduced play, in particular without play, with the base element (2).

5. The device (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein: The external thread (33) has an olive-shaped, elliptical or trilobal cross section.

6. The device (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein: The external thread (33) has at least two rounded corners in cross section.

7. The device (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein: The base element (2) comprises a flange portion (24) extending at least partially around the periphery and at least one outwardly protruding retaining nose (21).

8. The device (1) according to claim 7, wherein: The retaining nose (21) has a support surface (211) extending at least partially obliquely in the circumferential direction.

9. The device (1) according to claim 7 or 8, wherein: In a state in which the base element (2) is mounted on one of the components (B1, B2), the component (B1, B2) can be or is already accommodated in a clamping manner between the flange portion (24) and the retaining nose (21).

10. The device (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein: The base element (2) comprises at least one positioning element (22), which is configured to clamp and / or lock the base element (2) to prevent rotation on the component (B1, B2) when the base element (2) is assembled on one of the components (B1, B2).

Images