Compliant column retainer

Abstract

A post retention assembly for securing a fastener to a post includes a hingedly connected annular clip and a retention insert. The retaining insert is attached to the post and captured within the hingedly connected annular clip, which allows the insert to move slightly in both rotational and linear aspects. This design provides compliance to accommodate misaligned posts, allows interchangeable retention inserts to be applied to different post sizes, and allows for easy maintenance or replacement without removing the clip.

Description

[0001] Related applications This application claims priority to U.S. Provisional Patent Application 63 / 699,230, filed September 26, 2024, entitled “Compliant StudRetainer,” the entire contents of which are incorporated herein by reference. Background Technology

[0002] Vehicle (such as automobile) components typically require simple attachment and fastening methods for manufacturing and assembly. In many cases, objects must be securely fastened to the vehicle to prevent movement or displacement during operation, which could otherwise lead to damage, twisting, or abnormal noise. For example, pipes, hoses, wires, and other conduits are often secured to the vehicle structure using pipe fasteners.

[0003] Fastening techniques used for pipe attachments must be both reliable and efficient. In some cases, pipe fasteners are secured to vehicles via posts. However, alignment can be challenging. Original equipment manufacturers (OEMs) are increasingly demanding products that allow for greater construction variations while still ensuring easy adjustments by operators. Traditional post retainers are typically designed to allow only limited construction variations, usually limited to a single orientation.

[0004] Therefore, despite advancements, a fastener is still needed that offers greater flexibility in construction while ensuring components remain in the correct position. This additional flexibility helps reduce assembly problems and mitigates assembly failures caused by poor construction tolerances. Summary of the Invention

[0005] This disclosure generally relates to a fastening system that uses a compliant fastener assembly that can be coupled to a post to form a connection between two components (e.g., a vehicle component and a pipe (or other object)), which is substantially as shown in and described in conjunction with at least one figure, and is set forth more fully as claimed in the claims. Attached Figure Description

[0006] The above and other objects, features, and advantages of the apparatus, systems, and methods described herein will become apparent from the following description of specific examples as shown in the accompanying drawings, in which the same or similar reference numerals denote the same or similar structures. The drawings are not necessarily drawn to scale, but rather focus on illustrating the principles of the apparatus, systems, and methods described herein.

[0007] Figure 1 A fastening system is shown that, according to one aspect of this disclosure, secures one or more second components relative to a first component having a post thereon via a compliant fastener assembly.

[0008] Figure 2a top isometric view of a compliant fastener assembly of Figure 1

[0009] Figure 2b top isometric view of a compliant fastener assembly of Figure 1

[0010] Figure 2c top isometric view of a compliant fastener assembly of Figure 2d

[0011] Figure 2e top isometric view of a compliant fastener assembly of Figure 1

[0012] Figure 3 top isometric view of a compliant fastener assembly of

[0013] Figure 4 top isometric view of a compliant fastener assembly of DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0014] References to singular items shall include the plural unless otherwise specified or the context clearly indicates otherwise. Grammatical conjunctions are intended to express any and all conjunctive arrangements of the conjunctive clauses, sentences, words, etc. that they connect, unless otherwise stated or the context clearly indicates otherwise. Numerical ranges recited herein are intended to be inclusive of any and all values falling within the range and / or the range itself, unless otherwise indicated, and each individual value within the range is incorporated into the specification as if individually recited. In the following description, it is to be understood that terms such as "first," "second," "top," "bottom," "side," "front," "back," etc., are used for convenience, and do not connote any particular order or arrangement. For example, although a first side can be adjacent to or near a second side in certain instances, the terms "first side" and "second side" do not imply a particular order or arrangement of the sides.

[0015] ​​​​When the terms "about," "approximately," "substantially," or the like are used, they are to be construed as permitting a reasonable amount of deviation, as would be understood by one of ordinary skill in the art having the benefit of the present disclosure. The values / values ranges provided herein are merely exemplary and do not operate to limit the scope of the present disclosure. The use of any example, or exemplary term, such as "for example," "for instance," or like terms, is merely intended to better illuminate the disclosed examples and not to act as a limitation thereon. The terms "for example," "for instance," and the like, are used herein to indicate one or more examples, instances, or illustrations. Any statement herein that contains an element, step, or the like followed by "for example," "for instance," or the like, is not to be construed as an element, step, or the like that is essential to the practice of the disclosed examples.

[0016] The term "and / or" means any one or more of the listed items. For example, "x and / or y" means any element of the three-element set {(x), (y), (x, y)}. In other words, "x and / or y" means "one or both of x and y". In another example, "x, y, and / or z" means any element of 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".

[0017] A compliant fastener assembly can be utilized to couple a second component to a first component including a post. The compliant fastener assembly includes a retention insert configured to shift or transfer to accommodate construction variances while still allowing an operator to perform adjustments and ensure that the coupled components remain in a desired position.

[0018] In one example, a post retention assembly for securing a fastener to a post of a component includes a hingedly connected ring clamp defining a receptacle having a ring slot, and a retention insert configured to be movably retained within the receptacle of the hingedly connected ring clamp, the retention insert including one or more post engagement features configured to securely couple the retention insert to the post, wherein the hingedly connected ring clamp includes a first portion and a second portion coupled together via a hinge, the first portion and the second portion pivotable between an open position and a closed position, the closed position configured to trap the retention insert within the receptacle.

[0019] In some examples, the ring slot is configured to allow linear and rotational movement of the retention insert within the receptacle.

[0020] In some examples, the retention insert is circular.

[0021] In some examples, the hinge is a living hinge.

[0022] In some examples, the compliant fastener assembly further includes a snap receiver on the first portion configured to engage a snap on the second portion to secure the hingedly connected ring clamp in the closed position.

[0023] In some examples, the retaining insert includes a pair of spaced apart discs connected by a hollow cylinder.

[0024] In some examples, the post engagement feature includes one or more cantilevered tangs.

[0025] In some examples, the post engagement feature includes one or more inwardly biased arms or bite-in fingers.

[0026] In some examples, the post engagement feature includes one or more barbs or serrations.

[0027] In another example, a compliant fastener assembly for securing one or more components to a first component having a post includes a carrier portion configured to receive one or more second components and a fastener portion coupled to the carrier portion via a spacer portion, the fastener portion including a post retention assembly having a hingedly connected ring clamp defining a receptacle having a ring-shaped slot and a retaining insert configured to be movably retained within the receptacle of the hingedly connected ring clamp, the retaining insert including one or more post engagement features configured to securely couple the retaining insert to the post, wherein the hingedly connected ring clamp includes first and second portions pivotable between an open position and a closed position, the closed position configured to trap the retaining insert within the receptacle, and wherein the spacer portion is configured to accommodate a length of the post extending beyond the retaining insert.

[0028] In some examples, the receptacle and the movably retaining insert are configured to absorb misalignment of the post without transmitting strain to the second component.

[0029] In some examples, the compliant fastener assembly further includes a cover pivotably coupled to the carrier portion via a hinge, the cover movable between an open position for inserting the second component and a closed position for retaining the second component.

[0030] In some examples, the fastener assembly is formed via injection molding or additive manufacturing.

[0031] In yet another example, a post retention assembly for securing a fastener to a post of a component includes a hingedly connected ring clip including a first portion and a second portion hingedly connected, the first and second portions pivotable between an open position and a closed position, and a retention insert movably retained within a cavity defined by the hingedly connected ring clip, the retention insert including one or more post engagement features configured to securely couple the retention insert to the post, wherein in the closed position of the hingedly connected ring clip, the retention insert is trapped within the cavity but is permitted rotational and linear motion within the cavity.

[0032] In some examples, the hinge is a living hinge.

[0033] In some examples, the cavity includes an annular slot configured to permit movement of the retention insert.

[0034] In some examples, the retention insert includes a pair of spaced apart discs connected by a hollow cylinder.

[0035] In some examples, the retention insert includes a pair of spaced apart discs connected by a hollow cylinder, and wherein the cavity includes an annular slot configured to receive at least a portion of the pair of spaced apart discs.

[0036] In some examples, the post engagement features include one or more cantilevered tangs, inwardly biased arms, or bite-in fingers.

[0037] In some examples, the hingedly connected ring clip is manufactured as a monolithic structure.

[0038] Figure 1 A fastening system 100 according to some aspects of the present disclosure is shown configured to secure one or more second components 110 relative to a first component 104 having a post 122 via a compliant fastener assembly 102.

[0039] In the illustrated example, the first component 104 defines an A-side surface 104a (e.g., an outer surface) from which the post 122 protrudes, and a B-side surface 104b (e.g., an inner surface). In some examples, the post 122 can be threaded (as shown) or otherwise textured to increase friction between the post 122 and the compliant fastener assembly 102 (e.g., the retention insert 134). The post 122 can be, for example, an M6 fastener. In other examples, the post 122 can be substantially smooth or featureless, in which case the compliant fastener assembly 102 can be configured to gouge, bite, or otherwise locally deform into the material of the post 122 to improve retention.

[0040] One or more second components 110 are illustrated as being secured to the A-side surface 104a, although in other examples the second components 110 can be secured in other locations relative to the first component 104. The first component 104 can be, for example, an automotive panel or structural element such as a door, A-pillar, B-pillar or C-pillar, instrument panel cross member, seat frame, center console, fender, or other sheet metal. The first component 104 can be made of metal or metal alloy, synthetic or semi-synthetic polymer (e.g., ABS, PVC, or other plastic), fiber composite, or combinations thereof. The second components 110 can include brake lines, fuel lines, electrical cables or harnesses, conduits, fluid tubes, or other elongate members that need to be secured in place.

[0041] The compliant fastener assembly 102 includes a carrier portion 102a and a fastener portion 102b. In the illustrated example, the fastener portion 102b is oriented substantially perpendicular to the carrier portion 102a such that the central axis 114 extends through the fastener portion 102b and is orthogonal to a transverse axis 120 that extends along the carrier portion 102a. The fastener portion 102b can be integrally formed with the carrier portion 102a (e.g., via injection molding, additive manufacturing, etc.) or can be separately manufactured and mechanically, adhesively, or otherwise coupled with the carrier portion. In some examples, the compliant fastener assembly 102 is manufactured as a unitary structure, with the exception of the retention insert 134.

[0042] Figures 2a-2e Various views of the compliant fastener assembly 102 are shown. Figure 1 Figure 2a A top isometric view of the compliant fastener assembly 102 of Figure 1 Figure 2b A top isometric view of the compliant fastener assembly 102 of Figure 1 Figure 2c and 2d A top isometric view of the compliant fastener assembly 102 in a first offset position and a second offset position, respectively. Finally, Figure 2e A top isometric view of the compliant fastener assembly 102 of Figure 1

[0043] ​​​​In the illustrated example, the fastener portion 102b includes a post retention assembly 132 coupled to the carrier portion 102a via a spacer portion 130. The post retention assembly 132 includes a hingedly connected ring clamp 106 and a retention insert 134, where the hingedly connected ring clamp 106 receives and movably secures the retention insert 134 within a ring-shaped cavity 140. The retention insert 134 is configured to be securely coupled to the post 122. The spacer portion 130 is positioned between the post retention assembly 132 and the carrier portion 102a. The spacer portion 130 is configured to accommodate the length of the post 122 extending beyond the retention insert 134. The size of the spacer portion 130 can be selected based on the expected length of the post. In some examples, an opening can be formed through the carrier portion 102a along the central axis 114 to allow the post 122 to extend into or through the carrier portion 102a.

[0044] The illustrated carrier portion 102a is configured to secure one or more second components 110 relative to the first component 104. In the illustrated example, the carrier portion 102a defines a plurality of cavities 112, each configured to receive a respective second component 110. Each cavity 112 is generally cylindrical and sized such that its inner diameter corresponds to the outer diameter of the retained component 110. Different cavities 112 can be sized to receive second components 110 of different diameters.

[0045] To secure the second components 110, the carrier portion 102a can further include a lid 102c pivotably coupled to the body of the carrier portion 102a via a hinge 124. The hinge 124 can be, for example, a living hinge, which is a thin, flexible section of the same material, allowing repeated bending; a molded pin or barrel hinge, where one part rotates around a solid pin; a snap-fit hinge, which uses a flexible arm that snaps into a slot; or a flex / compliant hinge, which is designed with a thin band or specialized geometry for precise motion.

[0046] The lid 102c pivots between an open position and a closed position, as indicated by arrow 126. In the open position, the second components 110 can be pushed into their respective cavities 112. In the closed position, the lid 102c covers the cavity openings to retain the components 110 in place. A snap feature 128 formed at the free end of the lid 102c engages a corresponding shoulder or protrusion on the carrier portion 102a to lock the lid 102c in the closed position. In other examples, the lid 102c can be omitted and the second components 110 can also be secured by interference or detent features formed at the cavity entrances.

[0047] While described herein primarily with respect to retaining a tubular second component 110, the compliant fastener assembly 102 can also be used to attach, secure, or otherwise position a wire, cable, conduit, hose, or other elongated component relative to the first component 104. In other words, the post retention assembly 132 can be used with other forms of fasteners and should not be limited to wiring clips.

[0048] While the carrier portion 102a retains the second component 110, the fastener portion 102b attaches the fastener assembly 102 to the first component 104. Unlike conventional designs that are rigid and typically only tolerant of dimensional variations along a single axis, the disclosed post retention assembly 132 includes a compliant retention insert 134 that is captured within a hingedly connected ring clamp 106. This configuration provides additional degrees of freedom for positional adjustment while still ensuring secure fastening to the post 122 of the first component 104.

[0049] The post retention assembly 132 includes a retention insert 134 and a hingedly connected ring clamp 106. The hingedly connected ring clamp 106 defines a receptacle cavity 140 having one or more ring cavities 142 that movably retain the retention insert 134. The generally circular shape of the retention insert 134 and the hingedly connected ring clamp 106 allows rotational motion about the central axis 114, while the larger dimensional geometry allows the retention insert 134 to translate linearly (e.g., laterally, fore-aft, etc.) within the plane of the receptacle cavity 140. This compliance allows the fastener assembly 102 to absorb dimensional differences or misalignments of the post 122 without transmitting strain to the second component 110.

[0050] The hingedly connected ring clamp 106 includes a first portion 106a and a second portion 106b that are connected via a hinge 108. The hinge 108 can be, for example, a living hinge, which is a thin flexible section of the same material allowing repeated bending; a molded pin or barrel hinge, where one component rotates around a solid pin; a snap-fit hinge, which uses a flexible arm that snaps into a slot; or a flex / compliant hinge, which is designed with a thin band or specialized geometry for precise motion.

[0051] The two portions pivot about the hinge 108 between an open position and a closed position, as indicated by arrow 136. In the open position, the retention insert 134 can be inserted, removed, or replaced. In the closed position, the retention insert 134 can be captured within the receptacle cavity 140 but allowed to float within its larger dimension via the ring cavities 142 defined by the ring ridges 146. To secure the hingedly connected ring clamp 106 in the closed position, a snap receiver 118 formed on the first portion 106a engages a snap 116 formed on the second portion 106b.

[0052] The retention insert 134 acts as the primary attachment interface between the post 122 and the rest of the fastener assembly 102. The retention insert 134 can include one or more post engagement features 138 and a pair of spaced apart discs 148 (e.g., circular discs) connected by a hollow cylinder 152 (e.g., a tube) with openings 150 formed therethrough. The post engagement features 138 securely couple the retention insert 134 to the post 122, thereby anchoring the fastener assembly 102 to the first component 104. The post engagement features 138 include, for example, one or more barbs, serrations, slots, inwardly biased arms, bite-in fingers, cantilevered tangs, spring clips, E- clips, or C-clips that can engage a circumferential slot formed on the post 122.

[0053] The retention insert 134 is interchangeable. Different inserts 134 can be installed within the same hinged collar 106 to accommodate different sized posts, such as M6, M8 (e.g., Figure 3 ) or other diameters or configurations (e.g. Figure 4 ), without the need for specialized tools. This interchangeability reduces production complexity, facilitates customization, and allows for maintenance by replacing only the retention insert 134 while reusing the hinged collar 106 (and the rest of the compliant fastener assembly 102).

[0054] The inner surface of the cavity 140 can define a ring cavity 142 configured to capture an edge portion of the retention insert 134. The ring cavity 142 and the annular ridge 146 can include radiused or chamfered edges 144 to reduce jamming of the retention insert 134 during movement within the cavity 140. In operation, the retention insert 134 can be slidably retained between the spaced apart discs 148 and the corresponding ring cavity 142 defined between the annular ridge 146. As shown in FIGS. 1 and 2, the retention insert 134 can be secured relative to the post 122 by a retaining ring 156 that is received within the openings 150 of the hollow cylinder 152. Figure 2c and 2d As shown in FIGS. 1 and 2, the retention insert 134 can be secured relative to the post 122 by a retaining ring 156 that is received within the openings 150 of the hollow cylinder 152.

[0055] The compliant fastener assembly 102, including the carrier portion 102a, the fastener portion 102b, and the hinged collar 106, can be manufactured via injection molding. In alternative examples, the fastener assembly 102 can be manufactured using additive manufacturing techniques (e.g., fused deposition modeling, stereolithography, or selective laser sintering). Additive manufacturing can allow different portions of the fastener assembly 102 to be printed at different resolutions— e.g., the carrier portion 102a can be printed at a low resolution to reduce build time, and the fastener portion 102b can be printed at a higher resolution to achieve higher dimensional accuracy. Layer thicknesses can range from approximately 100 pm down to 16 pm.

[0056] The post retention assembly 132, including the retention insert 134 and the hinged ring clamp 106, provides several advantages. First, the large size of the cavity 140 allows for accommodation and absorption of construction variances, ensuring that the second component 110 is properly laid out even if the post 122 is misaligned. Second, the interchangeability of the insert 134 allows for a single clamp design to support multiple post sizes, thereby reducing the need for specialized tools and unique part numbers. Third, the hinged ring clamp 106 allows for maintenance and replacement of the insert 134 without damaging the clamp, thereby extending component life. Finally, by isolating the compliant retention insert 134 from the carrier portion 102a, adjustment of the post engagement does not transfer strain to the laid out second component 110.

[0057] The one or more post engagement features 138 of the retention insert 134 can be implemented in a variety of forms to accommodate different fastening applications, including barbs, serrations, slots, or a snap-on collar.

[0058] Figure 3 A top isometric view of the compliant fastener assembly 102 in a closed, loaded position is shown, according to another aspect, with a retention insert 134. In this example, the retention insert 134 includes one or more post engagement features 138 configured to engage an M8 post.

[0059] Figure 4 A top isometric view of the compliant fastener assembly 102 in an open, loaded position is shown, according to yet another aspect, with a retention insert 134. In this example, the retention insert 134 includes one or more post engagement features 138 that take the form of inwardly biased arms. In this design, the retention insert 134 includes a plurality of resilient arms 132a that extend inwardly toward the central opening. The end of each arm 132a is provided with a foot 132b that is configured to engage the post 122 through an interference fit. The foot 132b can further include a friction feature 132c, such as a ridge, tooth, barb, or hardened surface, to increase pull-out resistance. During installation, the arms 132a are resiliently deflected outward to receive the post 122, and then spring back to their biased position, thereby locking the retention insert 134 to the post 122.

[0060] Other examples of retention inserts 134 can employ different geometries of post engagement features 138. In some examples, the retention insert 134 can include a compliant leaf structure that can flex radially to capture the post 122. In other examples, the retention insert 134 can include a segmented ring or split collar that shrinks around the post 122 after installation. In yet other examples, a snap-in finger or cantilevered knife handle can be used to engage a slot, shoulder, or undercut formed on the post 122.

[0061] The post engagement features 138 can also be configured to accommodate various surface conditions of the post. For example, for a smooth post 122, the retention insert 134 can include sharp serrations and cutting edges to gouge into the post surface and create a mechanical interlock. For a threaded post 122, the retention insert 134 can include complementary threaded segments or partial helical ribs to mate with the post threads. For a slotted post 122, the retention insert 134 can include inwardly facing lips or snap heads that are disposed within the slot to prevent circumferential displacement.

[0062] By providing a variety of interchangeable retention inserts 134, the compliant fastener assembly 102 can accommodate different post diameters, surface finishes, and retention requirements without requiring redesign of the hingedly connected ring clamp 106. This interchangeability allows a single clamp architecture to be deployed across different vehicle platforms and fastening scenarios, thereby reducing part proliferation, simplifying the assembly process, and accommodating a wide range of constructional variations.

[0063] The patents and patent documents referred to in this disclosure are incorporated by reference in their entirety. To the extent that any definition or usage of a term in this disclosure is inconsistent or contrary to the definition or use of that term as expressed in documents incorporated herein by reference, the definition or use that appears in this disclosure controls, and the definition of that term in the incorporated reference does not necessarily apply.

[0064] While the method and / or system has been described with reference to certain implementations, it will be understood by those skilled in the art that various changes can be made and equivalents can be substituted for elements without departing from the scope of the method and / or system. In addition, many modifications can be made to adapt a particular situation or material to the teachings of the disclosure without departing from its scope. For example, modules and / or components from the disclosed examples can be combined, divided, re arranged, and / or otherwise modified, in various ways. Therefore, the method and / or system disclosed should not be limited to the particular implementations disclosed. Instead, the method and / or system disclosed are intended for resort to all appropriate methods, structures and the like coming within the scope of the claims, as interpreted in their broadest reasonable manner.

Claims

1. A post retaining assembly for securing a fastener to a post of a component, the post retaining assembly comprising: A hinged ring clamp that defines a cavity with an annular groove; as well as A retaining insert, configured to be movably held within the cavity of the hinged annular clip, the retaining insert including one or more post engagement features configured to securely engage the retaining insert to the post. The hinged ring clamp includes a first portion and a second portion connected via a hinge, the first and second portions being pivotable between an open position and a closed position, the closed position being configured to capture the retaining insert within the cavity.

2. The column retaining assembly as claimed in claim 1, wherein, The annular groove is configured to allow linear and rotational movement of the retaining insert within the cavity.

3. The column retaining assembly as claimed in claim 1, wherein, The retaining insert is circular.

4. The column retaining assembly as claimed in claim 1, wherein, The hinge is a movable hinge.

5. The column retaining assembly of claim 1, further comprising a snap-on receiving portion on the first portion, the snap-on receiving portion being configured to engage a snap on the second portion to secure the hinged annular clamp in the closed position.

6. The column retaining assembly as claimed in claim 1, wherein, The retaining insert comprises a pair of spaced-apart discs connected by a hollow cylinder.

7. The column retaining assembly as claimed in claim 1, wherein, The column engagement feature includes one or more cantilevered handle-like structures.

8. The column retaining assembly as claimed in claim 1, wherein, The column engagement feature includes one or more inwardly offset arms or biting fingers.

9. The column retaining assembly as claimed in claim 1, wherein, The column engagement features include one or more barbs or serrations.

10. A compliant fastener assembly for securing one or more components to a first component having a post, comprising: The carrier portion is configured to receive one or more second components; as well as A fastener portion, connected to the carrier portion via a spacer portion, the fastener portion including a post retaining assembly having: A hinged annular clamp defining a cavity with an annular groove; and A retaining insert, configured to be movably held within the cavity of the hinged annular clip, the retaining insert including one or more post engagement features configured to securely engage the retaining insert to the post. The hinged annular clamp includes a first portion and a second portion connected via a hinge, the first and second portions being pivotable between an open position and a closed position, the closed position being configured to capture the retaining insert within the cavity, and The spacer portion is configured to accommodate the post extending beyond the length of the retaining insert.

11. The compliant fastener assembly of claim 10, wherein the cavity and the movable retaining insert are configured to absorb misalignment of the post without transferring strain to the second component.

12. The compliant fastener assembly of claim 10, further comprising a cover pivotally connected to the carrier portion via a hinge, the cover being movable between an open position for inserting the second component and a closed position for retaining the second component.

13. The compliant fastener assembly of claim 10, wherein the fastener assembly is formed by injection molding or additive manufacturing.

14. A post retaining assembly for securing a fastener to a post of a component, the post retaining assembly comprising: A hinged ring clamp, the ring clamp comprising a first portion and a second portion connected by a hinge, the first portion and the second portion being pivotable between an open position and a closed position; as well as A retaining insert, movably held within a cavity defined by an annular clamp connected by the hinge, the retaining insert including one or more post engagement features configured to securely engage the retaining insert to the post. In the closed position of the hinged annular clamp, the retaining insert is captured within the cavity but is allowed to rotate and move linearly within the cavity.

15. The column retaining assembly of claim 14, wherein, The hinge is a movable hinge.

16. The column retaining assembly of claim 14, wherein, The cavity includes an annular groove configured to allow movement of the retaining insert.

17. The column retaining assembly of claim 14, wherein the retaining insert comprises a pair of spaced-apart discs connected by a hollow cylinder.

18. The column retaining assembly of claim 14, wherein, The retaining insert includes a pair of spaced-apart discs connected by a hollow cylinder, and wherein the cavity includes an annular groove configured to receive at least a portion of the pair of spaced-apart discs.

19. The column retaining assembly of claim 14, wherein, The column engagement features include one or more cantilevered handle-like structures, inwardly offset arms, or biting fingers.

20. The column retaining assembly of claim 14, wherein, The hinged ring clamp is manufactured as a single-unit structure.

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