Cable holder and method

Abstract

A cable holder and a method are provided. A cable holder for connecting a flat cable, a first object, and / or a second object to each other may include a base, a holding member, and a passage. The base may include a platform, a fastener extending from the platform, a plurality of walls extending from the platform, and a plurality of wall openings disposed in the plurality of walls. A fastener may be engaged with the second object. A plurality of walls may be disposed through a portion of the flat cable. The plurality of wall openings may be aligned with each other and may at least partially define a common channel in which a connector is received to connect the first object to the base. The retaining member may be adjustably connected to a first wall of the plurality of walls and may be adjustable to an open position and a closed position.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present disclosure generally relates to cable retainers for connecting one or more objects together, such as cable retainers that can be used in conjunction with and / or incorporated into a vehicle. Brief Description of the Drawings

[0003] Although the claims are not limited to specific illustrations, an understanding of the various aspects can be obtained through discussion of the various examples. The drawings are not necessarily to scale, and some features may be exaggerated or hidden to better illustrate and explain the innovative aspects of the examples. Additionally, the exemplary illustrations described herein are not exhaustive or otherwise limiting, and the embodiments are not limited to the exact forms and configurations shown in the drawings or disclosed in the following detailed description. The exemplary illustrations are described in detail below with reference to the drawings:

[0004] Figure 1 and Figure 2 is a perspective view generally illustrating an embodiment of a cable retainer having a retaining member in an open position in accordance with the teachings of the present disclosure.

[0005] Figure 3 is a perspective view generally illustrating an embodiment of a cable retainer having a retaining member in a closed position in accordance with the teachings of the present disclosure.

[0006] Figure 4 and Figure 5 is a perspective 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.

[0007] Figure 6 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] Figures 7A to 7E is a perspective view generally illustrating an embodiment of a method of connecting a flat cable, a first object, and a second object to a cable retainer in accordance with the teachings of the present disclosure. Detailed Description

[0010] Reference will now be made in detail to the embodiments, examples of which are illustrated in the drawings. In the following detailed description, numerous specific details are set forth in order to provide a thorough understanding of the various described embodiments. However, it will be apparent to those of ordinary skill in the art that the various described embodiments may be practiced without these specific details. In other instances, well-known methods, procedures, components, circuits, and networks have not been described in detail so as not to unnecessarily obscure aspects of the embodiments.

[0011] Reference Figures 1 - 3, depicts a cable retainer 10 for connecting multiple objects to each other. As Figures 4 - 7E Generally illustrated in, the cable retainer 10 can be used to connect a flat cable 20 (e.g., a flat cable), a first object 30 (e.g., a wire and / or a circular wire harness), and / or a second object 40 (e.g., a bracket, a support, a panel, a surface, an external object, and / or another element or component of a vehicle) to each other. By way of example and not limitation, 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, a retaining member 200, and a passage 14 that receives at least a portion of the flat cable 20. The passage 14 is disposed between the base 100 and / or the retaining member 200 and is at least partially defined by the base 100 and / or the retaining member 200. The base 100 and the retaining member 200 are integrally formed as a single monolithic unitary component. In other embodiments, the base 100 and the retaining member 200 are formed separately from each other (e.g., as separate components) and may or may not be connected to each other (e.g., via a separate hinge connector, a flexible strap, a tether). 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 of their parts are made of other suitable materials (e.g., metal and / or metal alloy).

[0013] The base 100 and the retaining member 200 are adjustable relative to each other and are at least partially (e.g., adjustably and / or releasably) connected to each other to, for example, selectively open and / or close at least a portion of the passage 14 (e.g., the openable / closable end of the passage 14 that is disposed opposite the platform 110), thereby releasably attaching, connecting, and / or fixing the cable retainer 10 and the flat cable 20 to each other. The base 100 and / or the retaining member 200 can be adjusted relative to each other to set the retaining member 200 in an open position (see, for example, Figure 1 , Figure 2 , Figure 7A and Figure 7B ) and a closed position (see, for example, Figures 3 - 6 Figures 7C - 7E) etc. When the retaining member 200 is held in the open position, the passage 14 is defined by the base 100 (e.g., walls 150, 160 and platform 110), and the openable / closable end of the passage 14 is open (e.g., not covered by the retaining member 200). When the retaining member 200 is in the closed position, the openable / closable end of the passage 14 is at least partially closed and / or covered by the retaining member 200, such that the passage 14 is defined by the base 100 (e.g., walls 150, 160 and platform 110) and the retaining member 200 and is between the base 100 and the retaining member 200. When the retaining member 200 is in the open position, the cable retainer 10 can be connected to the flat cable 20, but when the retaining member 200 is in the closed position, the cable retainer 10 may not be able to connect to the flat cable 20 and / or may be disconnected from the flat cable 20. When the retaining member 200 is in the open position and when the retaining member 200 is in the closed position, the cable retainer 10 can be connected to the first object 30 and / or the second object 40.

[0014] As Figures 1 - 3 Generally illustrated in, the base 100 includes a platform 110, a flange 120, a fastener 130 and a plurality of walls (e.g., a first wall 150 and a second wall 160). The base 100 can be connected to the retaining member 200, the flat cable 20 and the first object 30 via one or more of the walls 150, 160. The base 100 can also be connected to the second object 40 via the fastener 130.

[0015] As Figures 1 - 6 Generally illustrated in, the flange 120 has a hollow conical configuration. The platform 110 is disposed at the first narrower end 120A of the flange 120 and extends generally in the Z direction from the first narrower end 120A (see, for example Figure 6)。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 facing 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 walls 150, 160 extend from the platform 110 (e.g., the support surface 112) and / or the flange 120 generally in the Z direction (e.g., a first direction). The walls 150, 160 are spaced apart from each other generally in the Y direction (e.g., a second direction). The walls 150, 160 are disposed at opposite ends of the platform 110 and / or the support surface 112 relative to the Y direction. The support surface 112 extends between and connects the walls 150, 160 transverse to (e.g., inclined or perpendicular to) the Z direction. The passageway 14 is at least partially defined by the walls 150, 160 and / or the support surface 112 and is between the walls 150, 160 and / or the support surface 112. When the cable holder is in the closed configuration, the passageway 14 is also at least partially defined by the retaining member 200. The fastener 130 is disposed on opposite sides of the platform 110 and / or the flange 120 relative to the walls 150, 160, and extends from the platform 110 and / or the flange 120 generally in a direction away from the walls 150, 160 (e.g., generally 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 projects from the second, wider end 120B of the flange 120 (see, e.g., Figure 6 )。In other embodiments, one or more of the walls 150, 160 and the fastener 130 extend in the same direction, extend obliquely relative to each other, or extend perpendicular to each other.

[0016] As Figure 1 and Figures 3 - 6 generally illustrated in, the fastener 130 is configured to engage a second object 40 (e.g., its groove 42) 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 outwardly, inclined, and / or curved toward the platform 110 (e.g., each engagement protrusion 132 has 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] As Figures 1 - 6As generally illustrated, base 100 includes a first wall 150 and a second wall 160. Walls 150, 160 may be configured to pass through a portion of flat cable 20 (e.g., corresponding grooves 22, 24), and in at least some embodiments, walls 150, 160 connect base 100 and flat cable 20 together. Walls 150, 160 are configured as extensions, protrusions, projections, flanges, or other suitable bodies or structures extending from platform 110 and / or flange 120. Although walls 150, 160 are each constructed as generally planar bodies in the figures, in other embodiments, one or more of walls 150, 160 may have other suitable configurations. First wall 150 is disposed at or around a first end of platform 110, and second wall 160 is disposed at or around a second, opposite end of platform 110.

[0018] As Figure 1 , Figure 3 , Figure 6 and Figure 7C As generally illustrated, base 100 includes and / or defines at least one wall opening (e.g., first wall opening 152 and second wall opening 162) that receives a portion of connector 50 (e.g., a tie). Base 100 engages connector 50 via wall openings 152, 162 to connect, for example, cable holder 10, base 100, retaining member 200, flat cable 20, and / or second object 40 to first object 30. Wall openings 152, 162 are disposed on opposite sides of platform 110 and / or passageway 14. Wall openings 152, 162 are respectively disposed in and defined by walls 150, 160 of base 100. Wall openings 152, 162 generally extend completely through corresponding walls 150, 160 of base 100 in the Y direction. Wall openings 152, 162 are at least partially aligned with each other in the Y direction and form and / or define a common passageway 12 for cable holder 10. Wall openings 152, 162 are generally rectangular, but may have other shapes and dimensions in other embodiments.

[0019] As Figures 1 - 3 and Figure 6As generally illustrated, the base 100 includes a latch nose 170 that engages a retaining member 200 (e.g., a latch lug 210) to at least partially connect the retaining member 200 to the base 100 (e.g., the second wall 160). The latch nose 170 is disposed at the free end of the second wall 160 and projects from the second wall 160 toward the first wall 150 (e.g., generally in the X direction). The latch nose 170 has a guide surface 174 and an engagement surface 172. The engagement surface 172 generally faces the platform 110 and / or the support surface 112. When the cable retainer 10 is in the closed position, the engagement surface 172 can contact and / or abut the latch lug 210 (e.g., its engagement surface 212). The guide surface 174 is generally inclined inwardly away from the platform 110 and toward the passage 14 and / or the first wall 150. The guide surface 174 of the latch nose 170 facilitates and guides at least a portion of the second wall 160 (e.g., the latch nose 170) into the recess 202 of the retaining member 200 and / or into engagement with the latch lug 210, such as by contacting, abutting, and / or sliding along the guide surface 212 of the latch lug 210. When in the closed position, (i) at least a portion of the second wall 160 and / or the latch nose 170 is disposed in the recess 202 of the retaining member 200, (ii) the latch nose 170 can engage the latch lug 210, and (iii) the engagement surface 172 of the latch nose 170 can contact the engagement surface 212 of the latch lug 210, which can limit and / or prevent the second wall 160 and the retaining member 200 from disconnecting (e.g., limit and / or prevent the cable retainer 10 from being adjusted from the closed position to the open position).

[0020] As Figure 1 , Figure 2 and Figure 7BAs generally illustrated, the base 100 includes a first shoulder 164A and a second shoulder 164B that engage (e.g., contact, abut) a retaining member 200 to at least partially support the retaining member 200 and / or a first object 30. The shoulders 164A, 164B are part of and / or defined by a second wall 160. The shoulders 164A, 164B are disposed at a free end of the second wall 160 on opposite sides of a latch nose 170 and extend away from each other (e.g., generally in the X direction). When in an assembled configuration, when at least a portion of the second wall 160 (e.g., the latch nose 170) is disposed in a recess 202 and / or when the latch nose 170 engages a latch lug 210, the retaining member 200 can contact and / or rest on the shoulders 164A, 164B and can thereby be supported by the shoulders 164A, 164B. In this way, the shoulders 164A, 164B can limit and / or constrain movement (e.g., further rotation) of the retaining member 200 in the direction of the base 100, the platform 110, and / or the flange 120, which in turn can help maintain the size and shape of the passageway 14.

[0021] As Figures 1 - 6 As generally illustrated, the retaining member 200 is configured to selectively open and / or close at least a portion of the passageway 14 (e.g., an openable / closable end of the passageway 14 disposed opposite the platform 110). The retaining member 200 is adjustably (e.g., rotatably, pivotally) connected to a first wall 150 of the base 100 and is releasably connected to a second wall 160 of the base 100. The retaining member 200 is adjustable (e.g., rotatable, pivotable) relative to the base 100, the platform 110, the first wall 150, and / or the second wall 160 between an open position and a closed position. When the retaining member 200 is in the open position, the retaining member 200 is spaced from and disconnected from the first wall 150, the retaining member 200 does not at least partially close the passageway 14 (e.g., the openable / closable end of the passageway 14 is at least partially open), and at least a portion of the flat cable 20 can be inserted into and / or removed from the passageway 14 (e.g., via the openable / closable end). Thus, when the retaining member 200 is in the open position, the cable retainer 10 and the flat cable 20 can be connected and / or disconnected from each other. When the retaining member 200 is in the closed position, the retaining member 200 is connected to the first wall 150, the retaining member 200 at least partially closes the passageway 14 (e.g., its openable / closable end), and the retaining member 200 blocks and / or prevents at least a portion of the flat cable 20 (e.g., via the openable / closable end) from being inserted into and / or removed from the passageway 14. Thus, when the retaining member 200 is in the closed position, the cable retainer 10 and the flat cable 20 can be attached, connected, fixed, and / or locked to each other.

[0022] As Figures 1 - 3 and Figures 5 - 7C Generally illustrated in, the retaining member 200 is configured as a generally planar body, but may have other suitable configurations in other embodiments. The ends of the retaining member 200 are adjustably (e.g., rotatably, pivotally) connected to the end of the first wall 150 opposite the platform 110 via a coupler. In the illustrative example described herein, the coupler is a living hinge 154. The retaining member 200, the first wall 150, and the living hinge 154 are integrally connected and / or formed as a single unitary component. The living hinge 154 is an elastically deformable and / or flexible region or portion of material that is generally thinner (e.g., in the Y direction) than the retaining member 200 and the first wall 150, which facilitates adjusting and / or pivoting the retaining member 200 relative to the base 100, the platform 110, the first wall 150, and / or the second wall 160 (e.g., when adjusting the retaining member 200 to an open position and / or a closed position). In other embodiments, the retaining member 200 and the first wall 150 may be separate, independent components / elements and / or may or may not be connected to each other (e.g., adjustably and / or releasably) via one or more suitable couplers, connectors, and / or fasteners (e.g., via a separate hinge connector, a flexible strap, a tether).

[0023] As Figures 1 - 3 and Figures 6 - 7C Generally illustrated in, the retaining member 200 includes and / or defines a recess 202 that receives at least a portion of the base 100 (e.g., at least a portion of the second wall 160 and / or the latch nose 170). The recess 202 is disposed in the retaining member 200 at or near the free end of the retaining member 200 opposite the first wall 150. The recess 202 extends completely through the retaining member 200 (e.g., generally in the Z direction and / or perpendicular to the support surface 112 when the retaining member 200 is in the closed position). The recess 202 is generally rectangular, but may have other shapes and / or dimensions in other embodiments.

[0024] As Figure 1 , Figure 2 and Figure 6Generally illustrated, the retaining member 200 includes a latch lug 210 that releasably engages the base 100 (e.g., via the latch nose 170) to at least partially connect the retaining member 200 to the base 100 (e.g., the second wall 160). The latch lug 210 and the latch nose 170 are complementary to each other. The latch lug 210 is at least partially disposed within the groove 202. The latch lug 210 extends and / or protrudes from the retaining member 200 into the groove 202 in a direction toward the free end of the retaining member 200. The latch lug 210 is recessed into the retaining member 200 and / or the groove 202 such that the engaging surface 212 of the latch lug 210 is offset from the outer surface of the retaining member 200 (e.g., when the retaining member 200 is in the closed position, generally in the Z direction and / or toward the platform 110).

[0025] The latch lug 210 has an engaging surface 212 and a guiding surface 214. When the retaining member 200 is in the closed position, the engaging surface 212 can engage, contact, and / or abut the latch nose 170 (e.g., its engaging surface 172), which restricts and / or prevents the retaining member 200 and the second wall 160 from disengaging and / or disconnecting (e.g., restricts and / or prevents the retaining member 200 from adjusting and / or moving out of the closed position, such as moving to and / or toward the open position). The guiding surface 214 facilitates the insertion of at least a portion of the second wall 160 (e.g., the latch nose 170) into the groove 202 of the retaining member 200, the engagement of the latch lug 210 and the latch nose 170, and / or the elastic deformation (e.g., flexure and / or bending) of the first wall 150 and / or the second wall 160 away from each other, such as by contacting, abutting, and / or sliding on the guiding surface 174 of the latch nose 170.

[0026] As Figures 3 - 6 and Figures 7C - 7EAs generally illustrated, when in the closed position, the retaining member 200 is disposed on and connected to the first wall 150 and the second wall 160 of the base 100. The retaining member 200 extends between the first wall 150 and the second wall 160 of the base 100 (e.g., generally in the Y direction), and at least partially closes the passage 14 (e.g., its openable / closable port). The free end of the retaining member 200 extends beyond the second wall 160, which provides an area of the retaining member 200 that is easily accessible and engageable by the user, and this area can be used (e.g., pressed and / or pushed) to actuate and / or adjust the position of the retaining member 200 (e.g., to disconnect the retaining member 200 from the second wall 160). The active hinge 210 is at least partially deformed such that the retaining member 200 extends laterally (e.g., obliquely or vertically) with respect to the walls 150, 160. The retaining member 200 contacts, abuts, and / or rests on the shoulders 164A, 164B, and is thus supported by the shoulders 164A, 164B and / or the second wall 160. At least a portion of the second wall 160 (e.g., the latch nose 170) projects into and is at least partially disposed within the recess 202 of the retaining member 200. The latch lug 210 engages the latch nose 170, thereby releasably connecting the retaining member 200 to the second wall 160 of the base 100, and restricting and / or preventing the retaining member 200 from adjusting and / or moving out of the closed position, e.g., moving to and / or toward the open position. The guide surface 214 of the latch lug 210 generally faces the platform 110, slopes backwardly toward the first wall 150 and / or the wall opening 152, and / or extends substantially parallel to the guide surface 174 of the latch nose 170. The engaging surface 212 of the latch lug 210 generally (i) faces away from the platform 110 and / or the support surface 112 and (ii) faces toward the latch nose 170 and / or its engaging surface 172 (e.g., generally in the Z direction). The engaging surface 212 of the latch lug 210 contacts and / or biases against the engaging surface 172 of the latch nose 170 via the active hinge 256 (e.g., due to its tendency to resist deformation and return to the equilibrium state, which can be consistent with the open position of the retaining member 200). Biasing the latch lug 210 against the latch nose 170 restricts and / or constrains relative movement between the base 100 and the retaining member 200, which can, for example, reduce and / or prevent noise generation (e.g., clicking).

[0027] As Figures 4 - 7EAs generally illustrated, the flat cable 20 is flexible and includes one or more electrical conductors overmolded and / or embedded within an insulating material that electrically insulates the conductors from each other and / or from other components. The conductors may be disposed substantially parallel to each other and / or may be substantially aligned with a common plane (e.g., the X-Y plane). The flat cable 20 also includes a plurality of grooves (e.g., a first groove 22 and a second groove 24) configured to receive corresponding walls 150, 160 of the base 100. Here, the first groove 22 is configured to receive the first wall 150, and the second groove 24 is configured to receive the second wall 160. The grooves 22, 24 are each disposed within and / or defined by the insulating material, such as between adjacent conductors. The grooves 22, 24 each have a generally rectangular shape, but may alternatively have a circular, polygonal, or oval shape, etc. The grooves 22, 24 have lengths and widths that generally correspond to the lengths and widths of the corresponding walls 150, 160 of the base 100, respectively. For example, the length of the first groove 22 (e.g., extending generally in the X direction) may be substantially equal to or slightly less than the length of the first wall 150 (e.g., at or around the platform 110). Similarly, the width of the first groove 22 (e.g., extending generally in the Y direction) may be substantially equal to or slightly less than the width of the first wall 150 (e.g., at or around the platform 110). In some configurations, the corresponding lengths and widths of the grooves 22, 24 and the walls 150, 160 provide an interference fit between the flat cable 20 and the walls 150, 160 such that the base 100 and the flat cable 20 can be connected without closing the retaining member 200 (e.g., when the cable retainer 10 is in the open position).

[0028] The flat cable 20 may be connected to the cable retainer 10 when the retaining member 200 is in the open position and / or when the retaining member 200 is in the closed position. When the retaining member 200 is in the open position, the cable retainer 10 and the flat cable 20 may be connected via an interference fit of the walls 150, 160 within the grooves 22, 24 of the flat cable 20 (see, e.g., Figure 7B ). When the retaining member 200 is in the closed position, as shown in Figures 4 - 6 and Figures 7C - 7EAs generally illustrated, at least a portion of the flat cable 20 (e.g., the portion disposed and / or defined between the grooves 22, 24 in the Y direction) can be disposed in the passageway 14 and held in the passageway 14 via the platform 110, the walls 150, 160, and the retaining member 200. The first wall 150 is partially disposed in the first groove 22 of the flat cable 20. The second wall 160 is partially disposed in the second groove 24 of the flat cable 20 and is partially disposed in the groove 202 of the retaining member 200. When connected to the cable retainer 10, the flat cable 20 can contact, can be disposed on, and / or can be supported by the retaining member 200 and / or the base 100 (e.g., the support surface 112, the platform 110, and / or the flange 120).

[0029] As Figures 4 - 7A and Figures 7C - 7E generally illustrated, for example, the first object 30 is a wire and / or wire harness of one or more vehicle subsystems (such as an airbag system and / or an infotainment system). Although in Figures 4 - 7A and Figures 7C - 7E the first object 30 is circular (e.g., a circular wire and / or a circular wire harness), in other embodiments, the first object 30 can have other suitable shapes (e.g., generally 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 retainer 10 via one or more connectors 50. The connector 50 is configured as a lacing (e.g., a zipper) including a tail 52 and a head 54. The head 54 is disposed at the first longitudinal end of the tail 52 and is connected to the first longitudinal end. The free end of the tail 52 (e.g., the second longitudinal end of the tail 52 opposite 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 to restrain 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., a twist tie, a string, a clip, a fastener). For example, in another embodiment, the connector 50 is constructed as a fastener (e.g., a Christmas tree fastener, a dowel pin, a snap-lock pin, a push rivet) that engages the common passage 12 of the cable retainer 10 and the mounting lug of the first object 30 to fix the mounting lug between the base 100 (e.g., the first wall 150 and / or the second wall 160) and a portion of the fastener.

[0030] As Figures 4 - 6 、 Figure 7D and Figure 7EAs generally illustrated, when the retaining member 200 is held in the closed position and the cable retainer 10 is connected to the first object 30, the connector 50 engages with 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 outside the passage 14. In the example, the first object 30 is disposed at or around the recess 202, the latch lug 210, and / or the latch nose 170 and may substantially cover the recess 202, the latch lug 210, and / or the latch nose 170. The connector 50 at least partially wraps around the first object 30. The connector 50 also extends through the common passage 12 of the cable retainer 10 (e.g., the wall openings 152, 162, and the passage 14) and is at least partially disposed in the common passage 12 of the cable retainer 10. 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 such 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, the first arm 150, and / or the second wall 160). Conceivably, when the retaining member 200 is in the open position, the first object 30 may also be connected to the cable retainer 10, and the open position may include the connector 50 that also extends through the recess and / or opening (e.g., the recess 202) of the retaining member 200.

[0031] The second object 40 may be and / or include a surface, part, and / or component of a vehicle, such as a vehicle floor, a vehicle roof, and / or a vehicle panel, and / or may include a non-vehicle component, etc. As Figures 4 - 6 , Figure 7A , Figure 7D and Figure 7E generally illustrated, the second object 40 is configured as a bracket or a support. The second object 40 includes one or more recesses 42 and / or depressions for receiving the fastener 130 of the cable retainer 10. The recess 42 has a generally circular shape, but may alternatively have an oval, polygonal, oblong shape, etc.

[0032] When the retaining member 200 is in the open position and / or the closed position, the second object 40 may be connected to the cable retainer 10. As Figures 4 - 6 and Figure 7EAs 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 engaging protrusions 132 of the fastener 130 engage the second object 40 (e.g., contact the surface of the second object 40 facing away from the flange 120), fixing 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 bears against the second object 40 (e.g., the surface of the second object 40 facing the flange 120) and biases one or more of the engaging protrusions 132 of the fastener 130 against the second object 40. This restricts 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).

[0033] A method of assembling the cable retainer 10 and / or connecting a plurality of objects (e.g., objects 20, 30, 40) to each other with the cable retainer 10 is generally illustrated in Figures 7A - 7E FIGS. The method includes connecting the flat cable 20 and the cable retainer 10 (see, e.g., Figure 7A and Figure 7B ), connecting the first object 30 and the cable retainer 10 (see, e.g., Figure 7C ), and / or connecting the second object 40 and the cable retainer 10 (see, e.g., Figure 7D ) to connect the flat cable 20, the first object 30, and the second object 40 to each other (see, e.g., Figures 4 - 6 and Figure 7E ).

[0034] As Figure 7A and Figure 7B generally illustrated in FIGS., connecting the flat cable 20 and the cable retainer 10 includes, when the retainer 200 is in the open position, disposing the walls 150, 160 of the base 100 to pass through a portion of the flat cable 20 (e.g., the corresponding grooves 22, 24) by, for example, inserting the first wall 150 into the first groove 22 of the flat cable 20 and inserting the second wall 160 into the second groove 24 of the flat cable 20 (see, e.g., Figure 7A ). Disposing the walls 150, 160 to pass through a portion of the flat cable 20 may include passing the retainer 200 completely through the first groove 22, disposing at least a portion of the flat cable 20 in the passageway 14, and / or disposing the flat cable 20 on the support surface 112 of the platform 110. Additionally, disposing the walls 150, 160 to pass through a portion of the flat cable 20 may include connecting the base 100 and the flat cable 20 to each other via an interference fit of the walls 150, 160 in the grooves 22, 24.

[0035] After inserting walls 150, 160 into the grooves 22, 24, the retaining member 200 is adjusted from an open position (see, e.g., Figure 7B ) to a closed position (see, e.g., Figure 7C ) to attach, connect, and / or secure the flat cable 20 and the cable retainer 10 to each other. Adjusting the retaining member 200 from the open position to the closed position includes adjusting and / or pivoting the retaining member 200 about the movable hinge 154 (e.g., toward the second wall 160 and / or the platform 110) relative to the base 100, the first wall 150, the second wall 160, and / or the platform 110 to connect the retaining member 200 and the second wall 160 to each other and to at least partially close the passage 14 (e.g., its openable / closable port) with the retaining member 200 such that removal of the flat cable 20 from the passage 14 (e.g., generally in the Z direction) is restricted and / or prevented by the base 100 and the retaining member 200. Adjusting and / or pivoting the retaining member 200 about the movable hinge 154 includes bending, flexing, and / or deforming the movable hinge 154 (e.g., elastically). Adjusting and / or pivoting the retaining member 200 about the movable hinge 154 includes setting and / or inserting at least a portion of the second wall 160 (e.g., at least a portion of the latch nose 170) into the groove 202 of the retaining member 200 to engage the latch nose 170 of the second wall 160 and the latch lug 210 of the retaining member 200, which in turn connects the retaining member 200 and the second wall 160. Engaging the latch nose 170 and the latch lug 210 includes contacting and / or adjoining the guide surface 174 of the latch nose 170 and the guide surface 214 of the latch lug 210 and adjusting, moving, and / or sliding the guide surfaces 174, 214 relative to each other to guide the latch nose 170 and the latch lug 210 into engagement. Adjusting, moving, and / or sliding the guide surfaces 174, 214 relative to each other in turn causes the first wall 150 and / or the second wall 160 to bend, flex, and / or deform (e.g., elastically) away from each other (e.g., generally in the Y direction) such that the latch nose 170 and the latch lug 210 can move past each other (e.g., generally in the Z direction) and their engagement surfaces 172, 212 can engage, contact, and / or adjoin each other by adjusting the retaining member 200 about the hinge 154. Adjusting and / or pivoting the retaining member 200 about the movable hinge 154 further includes setting the retaining member 200 on the shoulders 164A, 164B of the second wall 160 to support the retaining member 200.

[0036] As Figure 7CAs generally illustrated, connecting the first object 30 and the cable retainer 10 includes positioning the first object 30 relative to the cable retainer 10 and / or setting the first object 30 on the retaining member 20. Connecting the first object 30 and the cable retainer 10 includes (e.g., after positioning the first object 30 relative to and / or on 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 first wall 150 (e.g., via the wall opening 152) and the second wall 160 (e.g., via the wall opening 162) such that the tail 52 of the connector 50 is partially disposed within and extends through the common passage 12, 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 tail 52 with the claw of the head 54) such 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., the first wall 150, the second wall 160, and / or a portion of the retaining member 200), as Figure 7D generally illustrated therein. Subsequently, relative movement (e.g., clearance) 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 looped connector 50 around the first object 30 and the cable retainer 10) to, for example, limit and / or prevent noise generation. Generally, after the flat cable 20 and the cable retainer 10 have been connected (e.g., after the flat cable 20 is disposed in the passageway 14 and the retaining member 200 is in the closed position), the first object 30 and the cable retainer 10 are connected to, for example, connect the first object 30 and the flat cable 20 together.

[0037] As Figure 7D generally illustrated therein, 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 (e.g., from Figure 7D the position shown in Figure 7Eat the position shown in [Fig.], such that one or more engaging protrusions 132 of the fastener 130 engage the second object 40 (e.g., contact the surface of the second object 40 facing away from the flange 120), which connects the base 100, the cable holder 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 holder 10 may also include biasing one or more of the engaging protrusions 132 against the second object 40 via the flange 120 of the second object 40 (e.g., the surface of the second object 40 facing the flange 120). Generally, 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 to each other before connecting the flat cable 20 and the cable holder 10 and / or before connecting the first object 30 and the cable holder 10.

[0038] The present disclosure includes, but is not limited to, the following embodiments:

[0039] 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 including a platform, a fastener, a plurality of walls, and a plurality of wall openings, the fastener extending from the platform and being capable of engaging the second object, the plurality of walls extending from the platform and being configured to pass through a portion of the flat cable, the plurality of wall openings being provided in the plurality of walls and being aligned with each other and at least partially defining a common passage in which a connector is received to connect the first object to the base; a retaining member adjustably connected to a first wall of the plurality of walls and adjustable to an open position and a closed position; and a passage at least partially defined by the base; wherein when the retaining member is set in the closed position, the retaining member is set on a second wall of the plurality of walls and releasably connected to the second wall of the plurality of walls, and at least partially closes an end of the passage; and wherein, when the retaining member is set in the open position, the retaining member is set to be spaced apart from the second wall, and the end of the passage is at least partially open such that at least a portion of the flat cable can be inserted into the passage through the end of the passage.

[0040] 2. The cable holder according to 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 lace.

[0041] 3. The cable holder according to any one of the preceding embodiments, wherein the retaining member is adjustably connected to the first wall of the base via a living hinge.

[0042] 4. The cable retainer according to any one of the foregoing embodiments, wherein: the retaining member includes a latch lug; the second wall includes a latch nose complementary to the latch lug of the retaining member; and when the retaining member is disposed in the closed position, the latch lug and the latch nose are engaged with each other, thereby releasably connecting the retaining member and the second wall.

[0043] 5. The cable retainer according to any one of the foregoing embodiments, wherein: the retaining member includes a groove; the latch lug projects into the groove; and when the retaining member is disposed in the closed position, at least a portion of the latch nose is disposed within the groove.

[0044] 6. The cable retainer according to any one of the foregoing embodiments, wherein: the latch lug includes an engaging surface and a guiding surface; and the latch lug is recessed into the retaining member such that the engaging surface is offset from the outer surface of the retaining member.

[0045] 7. The cable retainer according to any one of the foregoing embodiments, wherein: the second wall includes at least one shoulder; and when the retaining member is disposed in the closed position, the retaining member is disposed on and supported by the at least one shoulder.

[0046] 8. A method of connecting a plurality of objects to each other using the cable retainer according to any one of the foregoing embodiments, comprising: connecting a flat cable and the cable retainer by inserting a plurality of walls of a base through a portion of the flat cable, and then connecting the retaining member and a second wall of the base to each other by adjusting the retaining member from an open position to a closed position; connecting a first object and the cable retainer by engaging a connector with the first object and the cable retainer; and connecting a second object and the cable retainer by engaging a fastener of the cable retainer with the second object.

[0047] 9. The method according to any one of the foregoing embodiments, wherein connecting the flat cable and the cable retainer includes: restricting and / or preventing at least a portion of the flat cable from being removed from the passage by at least partially closing an end of the passage with the retaining member.

[0048] 10. The method according to any one of the foregoing embodiments, wherein: the retaining member is adjustably connected to a first wall of the base via a movable hinge; and adjusting the retaining member from the open position to the closed position includes pivoting the retaining member about the movable hinge and deforming the movable hinge.

[0049] 11. The method according to any one of the foregoing embodiments, wherein adjusting the retaining member from the open position to the closed position includes engaging a latch lug of the retaining member and a latch nose of the second wall.

[0050] 12. The method according to any one of the foregoing embodiments, wherein joining the latch lug and the latch nose includes elastically deforming at least one of the first wall and the second wall by sliding the guiding surface of the latch lug and the guiding surface of the latch nose against each other.

[0051] 13. The method according to any one of the foregoing embodiments, wherein adjusting the retaining member from the open position to the closed position includes: inserting at least a portion of the second wall into the groove of the retaining member; and setting the retaining member on at least one shoulder of the second wall.

[0052] 14. The method according to any one of the foregoing embodiments, wherein inserting at least a portion of the second wall into the groove of the retaining member includes: inserting the latch nose of the second wall into the groove of the retaining member; and engaging the latch nose with the latch lug of the retaining member disposed in the groove.

[0053] 15. The method according to any one of the foregoing embodiments, wherein inserting the plurality of walls of the base through a portion of the flat cable includes: passing the retainer through the first groove of the flat cable; inserting the first wall of the base into the first groove of the flat cable; inserting the second wall of the base into the second groove of the flat cable; and setting at least a portion of the flat cable in the passageway.

[0054] 16. The method according to any one of the foregoing embodiments, wherein engaging the fastener of the cable retainer with the second object includes adjusting the fastener into the groove of the second object.

[0055] 17. The method according to any one of the foregoing embodiments, wherein the second object is at least one of a bracket and a panel.

[0056] 18. The method according to any one of the foregoing embodiments, wherein: the connector is a lace; and engaging the connector with the first object and the cable retainer includes passing the tail of the lace through the common passage of the cable retainer, winding the lace around the first object, and connecting the tail of the lace to the head of the lace.

[0057] 19. The method according to any one of the foregoing embodiments, wherein the first object is at least one of a wire and a wire harness.

[0058] 20. The method according to any one of the foregoing embodiments, wherein: engaging the fastener of the cable retainer with the second object includes pressing the fastener into the groove of the second object; and the second object is at least one of a bracket and a panel.

[0059] This document describes various examples / embodiments for various devices, systems, and / or methods. Numerous 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 drawings. However, those skilled in the art will understand that the examples / embodiments may be practiced without such specific details. In other instances, well-known operations, components, and elements have not been described in detail so as not to obscure the examples / embodiments described in this specification. Those of ordinary skill in the art will understand that the examples / embodiments described and illustrated herein are non-limiting examples, and thus it can be recognized that the specific structural and functional details disclosed herein may be representative and not necessarily limit the scope of the embodiments.

[0060] References throughout this specification to "example", "in an example", "according to an example", "various embodiments", "according to an embodiment", "in an embodiment", or "an embodiment", etc., mean that a particular feature, structure, or characteristic described in connection with the example / embodiment is included in at least one embodiment. Thus, the appearances of the phrases "example", "in an example", "according to an example", "in various embodiments", "according to an embodiment", "in an embodiment", or "an embodiment", etc., in multiple places throughout this specification are not necessarily all referring to the same embodiment. Additionally, the particular features, structures, or characteristics may be combined in any suitable manner in one or more examples / embodiments. Accordingly, a particular feature, structure, or characteristic illustrated or described in connection with one embodiment / example may be combined, without limitation, in whole or in part with the features, structures, functions, and / or characteristics of one or more other embodiments / examples, so long as such combination is not illogical or non-functional. Further, 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.

[0061] It should be understood that references to a single element 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 for identification purposes only to assist the reader in understanding the present disclosure and do not create a limitation, particularly as to the position, orientation, or use of the examples / embodiments.

[0062] "One or more" includes functions performed by one element, functions performed by more than one element (e.g., in a distributed manner), several functions performed by one element, several functions performed by several elements, or any combination of the above.

[0063] It should also be understood that although in some cases the terms first, second, etc. are used herein to describe various elements, these elements should not be limited by these terms. These terms are only used to distinguish one element from another. For example, a first element may be referred to as a second element, and similarly, a second element may be referred to as 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.

[0064] The terms used in the description of the various embodiments described herein are for the purpose of describing particular embodiments only and are not intended to be limiting. As used in the description of the various embodiments and the appended claims, the singular forms "a", "an", and "the" are intended to include the plural forms as well, unless the context clearly indicates otherwise. It should also be understood that the term "and / or" as used herein refers to and encompasses 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 stated features, integers, steps, operations, elements, and / or components, but do not preclude the presence or addition of one or more other features, integers, steps, operations, elements, components, and / or groups thereof.

[0065] References to couplings (e.g., attachment, connection, joining, etc.) should be construed broadly and may include intermediate members between the connections of elements, relative movement between elements, direct connection, indirect connection, fixed connection, movable connection, operative connection, indirect contact, and / or direct contact. Thus, references to couplings do not necessarily mean that two elements are directly connected / joined and in a fixed relationship to each other. Connections of electrical components (if any) may include mechanical connection, electrical connection, wired connection, and / or wireless connection, etc. The use of "for example" and "such as" in this specification should be construed broadly and are used to provide non-limiting examples of embodiments of the present disclosure, and the present disclosure is not limited to such examples.

[0066] Although processes, systems, and methods may be described herein in connection 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, by additional steps, and / or by omitting certain described steps.

[0067] As used herein, the term "if" is optionally construed to mean "when" or "upon" or "in response to determining" or "in response to detecting", depending on the context. Similarly, the phrase "if determined" or "if [the condition or event] is detected" is optionally construed to mean "when determining" or "in response to determining" or "when detecting [the condition or event]" or "in response to detecting [the condition or event]", depending on the context.

[0068] All matter included in the above description or shown in the accompanying drawings is to be construed as illustrative and not restrictive. Changes in detail or structure may be made without departing from the present disclosure.

Claims

1. A cable retainer for connecting a flat cable, a first object, and / or a second object to each other, the cable retainer comprising: A base, the base comprising: A platform; A fastener extending from the platform, the fastener being capable of engaging with the second object; A plurality of walls extending from the platform, the plurality of walls being capable of being arranged to pass through a part of the flat cable; and A plurality of wall openings provided in the plurality of walls, the plurality of wall openings being aligned with each other and at least partially defining a common passage, in which a connector is received to connect the first object to the base; A retaining member adjustably connected to a first wall among the plurality of walls, the retaining member being capable of being adjusted to an open position and a closed position; and A passage at least partially defined by the base; Wherein, when the retaining member is set in the closed position, the retaining member is set on a second wall among the plurality of walls and releasably connected to the second wall, and at least partially closes an end of the passage; and Wherein, when the retaining member is set in the open position, the retaining member is set to be spaced apart from the second wall, and the end of the passage is at least partially open, so that at least a part of the flat cable can be inserted into the passage through the end of the passage.

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 lacing.

3. The cable retainer according to claim 1, wherein, The retaining member is adjustably connected to the first wall of the base via a movable hinge.

4. The cable retainer according to claim 1, wherein: The retaining member includes a latch lug; The second wall includes a latch nose complementary to the latch lug of the retaining member; And When the retaining member is set in the closed position, the latch lug and the latch nose engage with each other, thereby releasably connecting the retaining member and the second wall.

5. The cable retainer according to claim 4, wherein: The retaining member includes a groove; The latch lug projects into the groove; And When the retaining member is set in the closed position, at least a part of the latch nose is arranged inside the groove.

6. The cable retainer according to claim 4, wherein: The latch lug includes an engaging surface and a guiding surface; and The latch lug is recessed in the retaining member, so that the engaging surface deviates from the outer surface of the retaining member.

7. The cable retainer according to claim 1, wherein: The second wall includes at least one shoulder; and When the retaining member is set in the closed position, the retaining member is set on the at least one shoulder and supported by the at least one shoulder.

8. A method of connecting a plurality of objects to each other using the cable retainer according to claim 1, comprising: The flat cable and the cable holder are connected by inserting the plurality of walls of the base through a portion of the flat cable, and then the holding member and the second wall of the base are connected to each other by adjusting the holding member from the open position to the closed position; The first object and the cable holder are connected by engaging the connector with the first object and the cable holder; and The second object and the cable holder are connected by engaging the fastener of the cable holder with the second object.

9. The method according to claim 8, wherein, Connecting the flat cable and the cable holder includes restricting and / or preventing at least a portion of the flat cable from being removed from the passage by at least partially closing the end of the passage with the holding member.

10. The method according to claim 8, wherein: The holding member is adjustably connected to the first wall of the base via a living hinge; and Adjusting the holding member from the open position to the closed position includes pivoting the holding member about the living hinge and deforming the living hinge.

11. The method according to claim 8, wherein, Adjusting the holding member from the open position to the closed position includes engaging the latch lug of the holding member and the latch nose of the second wall.

12. The method according to claim 11, wherein, Engaging the latch lug and the latch nose includes elastically deforming at least one of the first wall and the second wall by sliding the guiding surfaces of the latch lug and the latch nose against each other.

13. The method according to claim 8, wherein, Adjusting the holding member from the open position to the closed position includes: Inserting at least a portion of the second wall into the groove of the holding member; and Setting the holding member on at least one shoulder of the second wall.

14. The method according to claim 13, wherein, Inserting at least a portion of the second wall into the groove of the holding member includes: Inserting the latch nose of the second wall into the groove of the holding member; and Engaging the latch nose with the latch lug of the holding member disposed in the groove.

15. The method according to claim 8, wherein, Inserting the plurality of walls of the base through the portion of the flat cable includes: Passing the cable holder through a first groove of the flat cable; Inserting the first wall of the base into the first groove of the flat cable; Inserting the second wall of the base into a second groove of the flat cable; and Setting at least a portion of the flat cable in the passage.

16. The method according to claim 8, wherein, Engaging the fastener of the cable holder 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 according to claim 8, wherein: The connector is a tie; and Engaging the connector with the first object and the cable holder includes: passing the tail of the tie through the common passage of the cable holder, winding the tie around the first object, and connecting the tail of the tie to the head of the tie.

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 according to claim 19, wherein: Engaging the fastener of the cable retainer with the second object includes pressing the fastener into a recess of the second object; and The second object is at least one of a bracket and a panel.

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