Fastener for round holes and slots

Abstract

A fastener is disclosed for connecting a first component to a second component having an opening, whether circular or slotted. The fastener includes: a head portion attached to the first component; and a retention portion integrally connected to the head portion and engaged with the second component. The retention portion includes: a central rod extending along a central axis; and at least one clip wing elastically attached to the distal end of the rod. Each clip wing has a first leg and a second leg joined to the central rod at one end and joined to each other at the other end by an intermediate joint clip extending outwardly from the central axis. The first leg, the second leg, and the intermediate joint clip together define an aperture.

Description

[0001] Cross - reference

[0002] This application claims the benefit of priority to U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 63 / 618,621, filed on January 8, 2024, entitled "Fastener for a Round Hole and a Slot", which is hereby incorporated by reference in its entirety. Background Art

[0003] Automotive components require fastening techniques that are not only simple to manufacture and assemble but also highly reliable and efficient. To attach a sub - panel to a main panel, fasteners are commonly used.

[0004] In some instances, the fastener engages an opening formed in one or both panels. The shape or form of these openings can vary, such as slots or holes. However, existing fasteners are often specifically designed or optimized to work with only one type of opening, such as a round hole or a slot.

[0005] Despite advancements in fastening techniques, there remains a need for a fastener that can effectively couple with both slot - shaped and round - hole - shaped openings, thereby providing greater versatility and functionality. Summary of the Invention

[0006] The present disclosure generally relates to a fastening system and fastener for forming a connection between components, such as automotive panels, substantially as shown and described with respect to at least one of the drawings and more fully set forth in the claims. More specifically, in one example, the present disclosure provides a fastener that can effectively couple with both slots and round holes, thereby providing greater versatility and functionality. Brief Description of the Drawings

[0007] The foregoing and other objects, features, and advantages of the devices, systems, and methods described herein will become apparent from the following description of specific examples as shown in the drawings; where like or similar reference numerals refer to like or similar structures. The drawings are not necessarily to scale, but rather focus on illustrating the principles of the devices, systems, and methods described herein.

[0008] Figure 1a and Figure 1b respectively show an exploded side view and an assembled side view of an example fastening system according to aspects of the present disclosure, the fastening system being configured to form a connection between components.

[0009] Figure 2a Shows an isometric bottom view of a fastener according to one aspect of the present disclosure.

[0010] Figure 2b Shows an isometric view of the top side of a fastener in accordance with one aspect of the present disclosure.

[0011] Figure 2c Shows a first elevation side view of the fastener.

[0012] Figure 2d Shows a first cross-sectional elevation side view of the fastener taken along section line B-B ( Figure 2g ).

[0013] Figure 2e Shows a second elevation side view of the fastener.

[0014] Figure 2f Shows a second cross-sectional elevation side view of the fastener taken along section line C-C ( Figure 2g ).

[0015] Figure 2g Shows Figure 2a a top plan view of the fastener.

[0016] Figure 2h Shows Figure 2a a bottom plan view of the fastener.

[0017] Figure 2i Shows a top plan view of the fastener taken along section line A-A ( Figure 2c ).

[0018] Figure 2j Shows a top isometric view of the fastener taken along section line A-A ( Figure 2c ).

[0019] Figure 2k Shows a top plan view of the fastener taken along section line D-D ( Figure 2c ).

[0020] Figure 2l Shows a top isometric view of the fastener taken along section line D-D ( Figure 2c ). DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0021] References to singular items are to be construed to include plural items and vice versa, unless expressly stated otherwise or clear from the context. Grammatical conjunctions are intended to express any and all disjunctive and conjunctive combinations of connected clauses, sentences, words, etc., unless stated otherwise or clear from the context. Unless otherwise indicated herein, recitations of ranges of values herein are not intended to be limiting, but rather to refer individually to each and every value falling within the range and / or encompassing the range, and each separate value within such range is incorporated into the specification as if it were individually recited herein. In the following description, it is to be understood that terms such as "first", "second", "top", "bottom", "side", "front", "rear", etc. are words for convenience and are not to be construed as limiting terms. For example, although in some instances the first side is adjacent to or near the second side, the terms "first side" and "second side" do not imply any particular order by which these sides are sequenced.

[0022] When accompanied by a numerical value, terms such as "about", "approximately", "substantially", etc. are to be understood as indicating deviations as would be understood by a person of ordinary skill in the art for satisfactory operation for the intended purpose. Values and / or ranges of numerical values are provided herein only as examples and do not constitute a limitation on the scope of the present disclosure. The use of any and all examples or exemplary language ("e.g.", "such as", etc.) provided herein is merely intended to better illustrate the disclosed examples and does not constitute a limitation on the scope of the present disclosure. The terms "such as" and "e.g." introduce a list of one or more non-limiting examples, instances, or demonstrations. No language in the specification should be construed as indicating that any non-claimed element is essential to the practice of the disclosed examples.

[0023] The term "and / or" means any one or more of the items in a list joined by "and / or". As an example, "x and / or y" means any element in the three-element set {(x), (y), (x, y)}. In other words, "x and / or y" means "one or both of x and y". As another example, "x, y and / or z" means any element in the seven-element set {(x), (y), (z), (x, y), (x, z), (y, z), (x, y, z)}. In other words, "x, y and / or z" means "one or more of x, y and z".

[0024] Fasteners can be used to form a connection between a first component and a second component (such as an automotive panel). The disclosed fasteners provide a seamless, one-piece design that offers several advantages, including a secure and repeatable engagement achieved through flexible retention features, adaptability to various opening shapes (such as slots and round holes), and enhanced structural integrity provided by a reinforcing bracket and a center rod. Additionally, its beveled entry nose and flexible retention legs facilitate installation.

[0025] In one example, a fastener for forming a connection between a first component and a second component having an opening includes: a head portion configured to engage the first component; and a retention portion integrally formed with the head portion and configured to engage the second component, the retention portion including: a center rod defining a central axis; and at least one clip wing elastically coupled to the center rod at a distal end of the center rod, wherein the at least one clip wing includes: a first leg and a second leg, each of the first leg and the second leg being coupled to the center rod at a first end and to each other at a second end; and an intermediate joint clip disposed between the first leg and the second leg and configured to flex toward the central axis during assembly.

[0026] In some examples, the first leg includes a first joint, and the second leg includes a second joint. In some examples, the intermediate joint clip is connected to the first joint and the second joint and extends between the first joint and the second joint. In some examples, the head portion includes a first plate and a second plate connected by a neck to define a gap between the first plate and the second plate. In some examples, the fastener is configured to secure the first component within the gap between the first plate and the second plate. In some examples, the fastener further includes a collar integrally formed between the head portion and the retention portion. In some examples, the retention portion is configured to couple to an opening of the second component, regardless of whether the opening is shaped as a round hole or a slot. In some examples, each of the first leg and the second leg includes an intermediate beam extending from the distal end of the center rod to the first joint or the second joint, respectively. In some examples, each of the first leg and the second leg further includes a rear corner section extending inwardly toward the central axis. In some examples, the fastener further includes a bracket extending between the at least one clip wing and the center rod.

[0027] In another example, a fastener for forming a connection between a first component and a second component having an opening includes: a central rod that defines a central axis; and two clamping wings that are elastically coupled to the central rod at a distal end of the central rod, wherein each of the two clamping wings includes: a pair of legs that are coupled to the central rod at a first end and are coupled to each other at a second end; and an intermediate joint clip that is disposed between the pair of legs and is configured to flex toward the central axis during assembly.

[0028] In some examples, each of the pair of legs includes a joint. In some examples, the intermediate joint clip is disposed between the joints of each of the pair of legs. In some examples, the profile of the outer surface of the intermediate joint clip is designed to bridge the pair of legs at the joints. In some examples, each of the two clamping wings includes a bridging portion located between the pair of legs. In some examples, the intermediate joint clip is coupled to the bridging portion via a flexible rod. In some examples, the intermediate joint clip is disposed between the joints of each of the pair of legs.

[0029] In yet another example, a fastener for forming a connection between a first component and a second component having an opening includes: a central rod that defines a central axis; and two clamping wings that are elastically coupled to the central rod at a distal end of the central rod, wherein each of the two clamping wings includes: a pair of legs that are coupled to the central rod at a first end and are coupled to each other at a second end via a bridging portion; and an intermediate joint clip that is connected to the bridging portion via a flexible rod and is disposed between the pair of legs, wherein the intermediate joint clip is configured to flex toward the central axis during assembly.

[0030] In some examples, the intermediate joint clip is disposed between the joints of each of the pair of legs. In some examples, the profile of the outer surface of the intermediate joint clip is designed to bridge the pair of legs at the joints.

[0031] Figure 1a and Figure 1b FIG. shows a side view of an exemplary fastening system 100 having a fastener 106 configured to form a connection between a first component 102 and a second component 104. The first component 102 and the second component 104 can be, for example, automotive panels. Depending on the application, the first component 102 and / or the second component 104 can be made of, for example, metal (or metal alloy), synthetic or semi-synthetic polymers (e.g., plastics such as acrylonitrile butadiene styrene (ABS) and polyvinyl chloride (PVC)), composite materials (e.g., fiberglass), or combinations thereof. In the automotive industry, exemplary first components 102 include, but are not limited to, door trim panels, moldings, decorative pieces, and other substrates (whether used as an inner surface or an outer surface).

[0032] The first component 102 may define an A surface 102a and a B surface 102b (shown as the lower surface). The A surface 102a (also referred to as the A-class surface) is typically the surface visible after assembly and is thus more aesthetically pleasing (e.g., textured, coated, or otherwise decorated) and typically has no attachment means and / or associated features. In contrast, the B surface 102b (also referred to as the B-class surface) is typically the surface not visible after assembly and typically includes various attachment means and / or associated features. In the example shown, the first component 102 defines a doghouse feature 116, while the second component 104 defines an opening 118.

[0033] The second component 104 may be, for example, a structural component of a vehicle, such as a door, a pillar (e.g., an A-pillar, a B-pillar, a C-pillar, etc.), an instrument panel component (e.g., a cross member, a bracket, a frame, etc.), a seat frame, a center console, a fender, a sheet metal frame, etc. The second component 104 may define an A surface 104a and a B surface 104b (shown as the lower surface). After assembly, as Figure 1b best shown, the second component 104 is at least partially covered by the first component 102.

[0034] As shown, the fastener 106 is attached to the B surface 102b and may be attached to the B surface 102b after manufacturing the first component 102 (e.g., using an adhesive or a mechanical attachment method, such as the doghouse feature 116 shown), depending on the material type. Although only a single fastener 106 is shown in the example, it should be understood that multiple fasteners 106 may be used to couple the first component 102 to the second component 104 depending on the number of fastening points required between the first component 102 and the second component 104. For example, larger panels typically require multiple fastening points.

[0035] The fastener 106 is generally a rigid component that generally defines a head portion 106a and a retention portion 106b extending along a central axis 110. In some examples, a collar 108 is provided between the head portion 106a and the retention portion 106b. The head portion 106a may be integrally formed with the retention portion 106b and, where applicable, with the collar 108.

[0036] The head portion 106a is configured to engage or otherwise attach to the first component 102. In the illustrated example, the head portion 106a generally defines a set of spaced-apart planar components (shown as the first plate 112a and the second plate 112b) separated by a neck 114. In the illustrated embodiment, each of the first plate 112a and the second plate 112b is generally rectangular; however, one or both of the first plate 112a and the second plate 112b may alternatively be configured in other geometric shapes, such as circular, oval, etc., depending on the desired application and / or the shape of the kennel feature 116. The size and thickness of the disc may be adjusted to accommodate different load requirements or space limitations.

[0037] The illustrated head portion 106a thus includes a first plate 112a and a second plate 112b, which are connected by a neck 114 to define a gap between the first plate 112a and the second plate 112b. The neck 114 extends between the first plate 112a and the second plate 112b and integrally connects the first plate 112a to the second plate 112b. The illustrated neck 114 is cylindrical and ensures the spacing between the first plate 112a and the second plate 112b to accommodate features of the first component 102, such as the kennel feature 116. The neck 114 is aligned along a central axis 110, which also serves as the central axis of the entire fastener 106.

[0038] During assembly, a portion of the head portion 106a may slide or slip into a cavity 120 defined by the kennel feature 116 of the first component 102. For example, the size and shape of the first plate 112a and the second plate 112b are designed such that the second plate 112b can fit into the cavity 120. The cylindrical geometry of the neck 114 also allows for a degree of rotational alignment during installation. Although shown as being configured to be used with the kennel feature 116, the kennel feature 116, the second plate 112b, and / or the neck 114 may be omitted, and the fastener 106 or a portion thereof may be attached to or integrated with the first component by another means. For example, the head portion 106a may be adhesively fixed to the first component 102. In another example, the first component 102 and the fastener 106 may be formed as a single structure. Thus, although the present disclosure will be generally described in connection with the kennel feature 116, the teachings of the present disclosure (such as teachings directed to the retention portion 106b) may be applied to other types of fasteners that are desired to be compatible with both round hole openings 118 and slot openings 118.

[0039] The retention portion 106b is configured to engage or otherwise attach to the second component 104. The retention portion 106b is configured to attach to (e.g., via the opening 118), embed within, or pass through at least a portion of the second component 104. The opening 118 formed in the second component 104 defines a size and shape complementary to the retention portion 106b such that the retention portion 106b can be inserted and retained therein. In an example, the opening 118 can be generally circular (e.g., a round hole) and / or a slot (e.g., a narrow rectangular opening).

[0040] The illustrated retention portion 106b includes a central stem 122 and a pair of clamping wings 124 that are elastically coupled to the central stem 122 at or near (e.g., at or near the introduction nose 126) the distal end of the central stem 122, for example. While a pair of clamping wings 124 (i.e., two clamping wings 124) are shown, additional or fewer clamping wings 124 can be employed to meet the design requirements for a given size or shape of the opening 118.

[0041] The central stem 122 extends downward from the lower surface of the first plate 112a or, where applicable, from the collar 108 along the central axis 110 to be connected to the introduction nose 126 via the shaft portion 128. The introduction nose 126 can be beveled to facilitate insertion of the distal end of the retention portion 106b of the fastener 106 into the opening 118 of the second component 104. The central stem 122 provides structural support to reduce deformation of the retention portion 106b during installation and to remain aligned with the central axis 110. The introduction nose 126 serves as a guide for the fastener during engagement, while the shaft portion 128 helps ensure a secure attachment between the stem 122 and the introduction nose 126.

[0042] At the time of assembly, the collar 108 is disposed between the first component 102 and the second component 104, as Figure 1b shown. In some examples, the fastener 106 can include a seal to reduce dust, dirt, and / or moisture penetration through the opening 118. The seal can be implemented as a ring (e.g., an annular structure) and made of a foam material, thermoplastic, rubber, etc. For example, the seal can be overmolded onto the collar 108, or the seal can be configured to fit over the distal end of the fastener 106 to surround a portion of the fastener 106 between the first component 102 and the second component 104 (e.g., adjacent to the collar 108). In some examples, the fastener 106 can include additional features (such as ribs and wings) to reduce noise and / or rattling between the first component 102 and the second component 104.

[0043] While it is contemplated that the fastener 106 will be manufactured as an integral part via an injection molding process, other materials and / or processes are also contemplated, such as additive manufacturing techniques. Using additive manufacturing techniques, components can be printed with a high degree of accuracy with many details, which is particularly advantageous, for example, in manufacturing components that require complex and / or precise features. Additionally, additive manufacturing techniques do not require the use of tooling typically associated with injection molding, thereby reducing upfront manufacturing costs, which is particularly advantageous in small batch production. In some examples, the fastener 106 can be manufactured with the first component 102 by using material extrusion (e.g., fused deposition modeling (FDM)), stereolithography (SLA), selective laser sintering (SLS), material jetting, binder jetting, powder bed fusion, directed energy deposition, VAT photopolymerization, and / or any other suitable type of additive manufacturing / 3D printing process.

[0044] Additive manufacturing techniques print objects in three dimensions, so both the minimum feature size (i.e., resolution) in the X-Y plane (horizontal resolution) and the layer height in the Z-axis (vertical resolution) are considered in the overall printer resolution. The horizontal resolution is the minimum movement that the printer's extruder can make in the X-axis and Y-axis within a layer, while the vertical resolution is the minimum thickness of the layer that the printer produces in one go. Printer resolution is described in dots per inch (DPI) or micrometers (μm) for layer thickness and X-Y resolution. The diameter of the particles (3D points) in the horizontal resolution can be about 50 to 100 μm (510 to 250 DPI). A typical layer thickness (vertical resolution) is about 100 μm (250 DPI), but the layer can be as thin as 16 μm (1,600 DPI). The smaller the particles, the higher the horizontal resolution (i.e., the more advanced the details produced by the printer). Similarly, the smaller the layer thickness on the Z-axis, the higher the vertical resolution (i.e., the smoother the printed surface will be). However, the printing process in higher vertical resolution printing will take longer to produce finer layers because the printer has to produce more layers. In some examples, the first component 102 and the fastener 106 can be formed or otherwise manufactured at different resolutions during the printing operation. For example, depending on the requirements of a particular application, the fastener 106 portion can be printed at a higher resolution than the first component 102, and vice versa.

[0045] In some examples, the first component 102 and the fastener 106 can be integrally printed thermoplastic material components. Although it is contemplated that the first component 102 and the fastener 106 can be formed during the same printing period (i.e., printed during the same printing operation), the fastener 106 can also be printed onto a pre-existing first component 102. For example, the first component 102 can be printed with one or more landmark structures (e.g., protrusions or recesses) during a first time period, and the one or more landmark structures can be positioned and filled and / or surrounded with material during a second time period to form the fastener 106.

[0046] Figure 2a and Figure 2b respectively show an isometric view from below and an isometric view from above of the fastener 106 according to one aspect of the present disclosure; Figure 2c shows a first elevation side view of the fastener 106, while Figure 2d shows a first cross-sectional elevation side view of the fastener 106 taken along the cutting plane B-B ( Figure 2g ). Figure 2e shows a second elevation side view of the fastener 106, while Figure 2f illustrates a second cross-sectional elevation side view of the fastener 106 taken along the cutting plane C-C ( Figure 2g ). Figure 2g and Figure 2h respectively show Figure 2a a top plan view and a bottom plan view of the fastener 106. Figure 2i shows a top plan view of the fastener 106 taken along the cutting plane A-A ( Figure 2c ), while Figure 2j shows its isometric view from above. Finally, Figure 2k shows a top plan view of the fastener taken along the cutting plane D-D ( Figure 2c ), while Figure 2l shows its isometric view from above.

[0047] As described above, the retention portion 106b includes a central rod 122 and a pair of clamping wings 124 that are elastically coupled to the central rod 122 at or near, for example, the introduction nose 126. Each of the pair of clamping wings 124 shown includes an intermediate joint clip 134, one or more brackets 130, and a plurality of retention legs 132 that extend outwardly and upwardly from the introduction nose 126 and the central rod 122.

[0048] In the example shown, the retention portion 106b employs a pair of clamping wings 124, which pair includes a first clamping wing 124 and a second clamping wing 124. Each of the clamping wings 124 generally may include a pair of spaced retention legs 132, which pair of retention legs, together with the introduction nose 126 and the bridging portion 146, define an aperture 150. The first clamping wing 124 includes a first retention leg 132a and a second retention leg 132b, while the second clamping wing 124 includes a third retention leg 132c and a fourth retention leg 132d. The retention legs 132 may be symmetrically arranged about a central axis 110 to provide a uniform load distribution and engagement.

[0049] Reference Figure 2e , each retention leg 132 may be composed of a plurality of segments, for example including a flexible root 136, an intermediate extension beam 138, a joint 140, a rear corner segment 142, and a tab 144. The flexible root 136 is located at the base end of each retention leg 132 and is coupled to or joined at the introduction nose 126. The flexible root 136 allows the retention leg 132 to bend or flex inwardly toward the central axis 110 during installation, thereby facilitating the smooth passage of the retention portion 106b through the opening 118 of the second component 104.

[0050] The intermediate extension beam 138 extends from the flexible root 136. In some examples, as Figure 2e and Figure 2f shown, the intermediate extension beam 138 has a concave outer surface and extends outwardly increasing toward the joint 140. This geometry enhances the ability of the leg to snap back into place after passing through the opening 118.

[0051] The joint 140 is provided at the transition between the intermediate extension beam 138 and the rear corner segment 142. The joint 140 serves as a retention feature that is configured to hold the fastener 106 in place after installation. In some embodiments, the joint 140 may be reconfigured based on specific design requirements.

[0052] The rear corner segment 142 is coupled to the joint 140 and extends from the joint 140. Angling the rear corner segment 142 inwardly toward the central rod 122 provides additional retention strength and prevents accidental displacement of the fastener 106.

[0053] The tab 144 extends upwardly from the rear corner segment 142 toward the lower surface of the first plate 112a (or the collar 108, if applicable). The tab 144 may create a clearance that allows for slight flexing during engagement, thereby improving the adaptability of the fastener 106.

[0054] One or more brackets 130 are disposed between the central rod 122 and each pair of adjacent retention legs 132. In this example, these pairs of retention legs are shown as a first retention leg 132a and a second retention leg 132b that define a set of retention legs, and a third retention leg 132c and a fourth retention leg 132d that define another set of retention legs. As best shown in Figure 2f , the bracket 130 is coupled to the central rod 122 and extends from the central rod 122 so as to be attached to the inner surface of the adjacent leg 132 at an angle, thereby forming a bridging portion 146 between the adjacent legs 132 or being attached to the bridging portion 146, and this bridging portion provides additional structural reinforcement for the clamping wings 124.

[0055] The bracket 130 is configured to distribute the load between the central rod 122 and each pair of retention legs 132, thereby preventing deformation and improving the overall durability of the fastener. In some examples, the bracket 130 may be omitted, and the bridging portion 146 may be formed between the inner surfaces of the adjacent legs 132 (e.g., formed between the adjacent rear corner sections 142 and / or tabs 144) to provide structural reinforcement and provide attachment points for other features (such as the intermediate joint clip 134 (e.g., between adjacent joints 140)).

[0056] As Figure 2a (Detail A), Figure 2b (Detail B), Figure 2f (Cross-section) and Figure 2l (Cross-section) best shown, the intermediate joint clip 134 is located between each pair of retention legs 132. In this example, the intermediate joint clip 134 is disposed between the adjacent joints 140 of each clamping wing 124. The intermediate joint clip 134 serves as a retention feature that is configured to hold the fastener 106 in place via the opening 118 after installation, particularly when the opening 118 is in the shape of a slot.

[0057] In the example shown, the intermediate joint clip 134 is disposed between the joints 140 of each pair of retention legs 132. As best shown in Figure 2e , the intermediate joint clip 134 is elastically coupled to the bridging portion 146 via a flexible rod 148. The intermediate joint clip 134 is spaced apart from the bracket 130 by a gap 152. During installation, the intermediate joint clip 134 is configured to flex inwardly towards the bracket 130, thereby narrowing the gap 152 during compression.

[0058] As shown, the profile of the outer surface of the intermediate joint clip 134 is designed to continue to bridge the gap between two adjacent joints 140. The additional material of the intermediate joint clip 134 between the joints 140 improves the contact area and function in the opening 118 formed as a slot. Notably, the additional material of the intermediate joint clip 134 provides a limited interference with the opening 118 formed as a round hole, thus allowing the fastener 106 to be installed in the opening 118 formed as a slot and the opening 118 formed as a round hole. This cross-compatibility allows the user to use a single fastener regardless of the opening shape.

[0059] During the assembly process, the fastener 106 is attached to the first component 102 by sliding the head portion 106a into the cavity 120 defined by the kennel feature 116. This attachment ensures that the fastener remains firmly in place during alignment with the second component 104.

[0060] The first component 102 and the attached fastener 106 are aligned relative to the second component 104 such that the insertion nose 126 is aligned with the opening 118 in the second component. The opening 118 can be a slot, a round hole, or any other compatible shape.

[0061] When a force is applied and the retention portion 106b is pushed through the opening 118, the retention legs 132 (e.g., the first retention leg 132a, the second retention leg 132b, the third retention leg 132c, and the fourth retention leg 132d) flex inwardly towards the central axis 110. Once the joints 140 and the intermediate joint clip 134 pass over the opening edge, the retention legs snap outwardly, thereby fixing the fastener 106 in place. Then, the first component 102 is firmly retained between the first plate 112a and the second plate 112b.

[0062] Including the intermediate joint clip 134 and the flexible retention legs 132 enables the fastener 106 to engage openings of different shapes and sizes, which promotes compatibility in a wide range of applications, including but not limited to automotive, aerospace, and consumer product components.

[0063] Although the present method and / or system has been described with reference to certain embodiments, those skilled in the art will understand that various changes can be made and equivalents can be substituted without departing from the scope of the present method and / or system. Additionally, many modifications can 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. For example, the blocks and / or components of the disclosed examples can be combined, divided, rearranged, and / or otherwise modified. Accordingly, the present method and / or system is not limited to the particular embodiments disclosed. Instead, the present method and / or system will include all embodiments that fall within the scope of the appended claims, either literally or under the doctrine of equivalents.

Claims

1. A fastener for forming a connection between a first component and a second component having an opening, the fastener comprising: A head portion configured to engage the first component; And A retention portion integrally formed with the head portion and configured to engage the second component, the retention portion comprising: A central stem defining a central axis; and At least one clamping wing elastically coupled to the central stem at a distal end of the central stem, Wherein the at least one clamping wing comprises: A first leg and a second leg, each of the first leg and the second leg being coupled to the central stem at a first end and to each other at a second end, and An intermediate articulation clip disposed between the first leg and the second leg and configured to flex toward the central axis during assembly.

2. The fastener according to claim 1, wherein, The first leg includes a first joint, and the second leg includes a second joint.

3. The fastener according to claim 2, wherein, The intermediate articulation clip is connected to the first joint and the second joint and extends between the first joint and the second joint.

4. The fastener according to claim 1, wherein, The head portion includes a first plate and a second plate connected by a neck to define a gap between the first plate and the second plate.

5. The fastener according to claim 4, wherein, The fastener is configured to secure the first component within the gap between the first plate and the second plate.

6. The fastener of claim 1, further comprising a collar integrally formed between the head portion and the retention portion.

7. The fastener according to claim 4, wherein, The retention portion is configured to couple with the opening of the second component, whether the opening is shaped as a round hole or a slot.

8. The fastener according to claim 2, wherein, Each of the first leg and the second leg includes an intermediate beam extending from the distal end of the central stem to the first joint or the second joint, respectively.

9. The fastener according to claim 8, wherein, Each of the first leg and the second leg further includes a rear corner section extending inwardly toward the central axis.

10. The fastener of claim 1, further comprising a bracket extending between the at least one clamping wing and the central stem.

11. A fastener for forming a connection between a first component and a second component having an opening, the fastener comprising: A central stem defining a central axis; And Two clamping wings elastically coupled to the central stem at a distal end of the central stem, wherein each of the two clamping wings includes: A pair of legs coupled to the central stem at a first end and to each other at a second end, and An intermediate articulation clip disposed between the pair of legs and configured to flex toward the central axis during assembly.

12. The fastener according to claim 11, wherein, Each of the pair of legs includes a joint.

13. The fastener according to claim 12, wherein, The intermediate articulation clip is disposed between the joints of each of the pair of legs.

14. The fastener according to claim 12, wherein, The profile of the outer surface of the intermediate articulation clip is designed to bridge the pair of legs at the joints.

15. The fastener according to claim 12, wherein, Each of the two clamping wings includes a bridging portion located between the pair of legs.

16. The fastener according to claim 15, wherein, The intermediate joint clip is coupled to the bridging portion via a flexible rod.

17. The fastener according to claim 12, wherein, The intermediate joint clip is disposed between the joints of each of the pair of legs.

18. A fastener for forming a connection between a first component and a second component having an opening, the fastener comprising: A central rod defining a central axis; And Two clip wings elastically coupled to the central rod at the distal end of the central rod, wherein each of the two clip wings comprises: A pair of legs coupled to the central rod at a first end and coupled to each other via a bridging portion at a second end, and An intermediate joint clip connected to the bridging portion via a flexible rod and disposed between the pair of legs, wherein the intermediate joint clip is configured to flex towards the central axis during assembly.

19. The fastener according to claim 18, wherein, The intermediate joint clip is disposed between the joints of each of the pair of legs.

20. The fastener according to claim 18, wherein, The profile of the outer surface of the intermediate joint clip is designed to bridge the pair of legs at the joints.

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