Blanking cap, buckle and fastener

Abstract

Blanks, catches, and fasteners that may be used in die-cast parts and panels for use in vehicle assembly are disclosed herein. Aspects of the invention described below may reduce manufacturing process steps, tolerate greater loads, and allow for longer use times.

Description

Priority Claim

[0001] This application claims priority to U.S. Provisional Application No. 63 / 527,897, filed July 20, 2023, which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety. Technical Field

[0002] This application relates to plugs, clips, and fasteners. More specifically, these plugs, clips, and fasteners can be used in die-cast parts. Background Technology

[0003] Various types of plugs, clips, and fasteners are required during the manufacturing and assembly processes of many devices, such as vehicles. The production and installation of these plugs, clips, and fasteners can be very time-consuming during the manufacturing process. Such plugs, clips, and fasteners can wear out or break due to use. There remains a need for more durable plugs, clips, and fasteners that are easier to manufacture and install. Summary of the Invention

[0004] Some of the examples described in this article typically involve improved designs of plugs, clips, and fasteners used primarily in manufacturing and assembly processes, such as in vehicle assembly. These components are crucial, even essential, for holding parts together securely and efficiently.

[0005] In some examples, a hole plug is demonstrated. The example hole plug consists of a soft part and a hard part. The soft part is designed to cover the hole and attach to it via a snap-fit ​​mechanism, characterized by a receiving groove for the hard part. The hard part is embedded within the soft part and has a protrusion that locks into the receiving groove of the soft part. This design allows for easy and secure attachment, thus providing a durable solution that can withstand large loads without significant deformation. This arrangement can be particularly useful in environments where components are frequently subjected to stress.

[0006] In some examples, a sheet metal clip is provided. One example sheet metal clip includes a top portion, a bottom portion, and a middle portion, and is used to attach two sheets together. The bottom includes a post with a window that allows the clip-fitting connector to bend and lock into place, thus simplifying installation. This clip can accommodate varying sheet metal thicknesses and hole sizes, which is particularly advantageous for materials with inconsistent dimensions due to manufacturing tolerances, such as die-cast aluminum sheets. It requires less insertion force while ensuring strong retention, thereby reducing the risk of damage during assembly.

[0007] In some examples, a snap-fit ​​nut is provided. One example snap-fit ​​nut includes a snap-fit ​​with a window and a nut attached to the snap-fit. The nut overlaps with a hole in the sheet metal, allowing fasteners to lock all components into place. Various designs allow the snap-fit ​​nut to be attached to different parts of the sheet metal, including edges and corners, and some designs allow the nut to slide along the snap-fit ​​for adjustable positioning. Snap-fit ​​nuts are easy to install and can be adjusted or removed for maintenance, providing flexibility in use. They are particularly useful for die-cast sheet metal, reducing the need for additional machining of the holes.

[0008] In some examples, a threaded nut is provided. One example threaded nut features a hexagonal head, a cylinder with a trilobal thread, and a collar with angular teeth. This design allows for quick and secure fastening with just a quarter turn, making it ideal for fast-paced assembly lines. The trilobal thread provides strong retention on sheet metal, suitable for creating semi-permanent joints.

[0009] In some examples, these plugs, clips, and fasteners are designed to simplify manufacturing and assembly processes, reduce the need for additional tools or steps, and improve the durability and reliability of connections in a variety of applications, particularly in automotive manufacturing.

[0010] The present invention relates to a hole plug comprising a flexible member sized and shaped to cover a hole and engaged with the hole by a snap-fit ​​mechanism, the flexible member including one or more receiving grooves. The hole plug further comprises a rigid member sized and shaped to be at least partially embedded within the flexible member, the rigid member including at least one protrusion configured to be embedded within at least one receiving groove and to engage the rigid member with the flexible member.

[0011] A variation of the above is that the soft and hard components are also configured to be connected by snap-fit.

[0012] Another aspect relates to a panel snap fastener, including a top portion configured to attach to a first panel, a bottom portion configured to attach to a second panel, and an intermediate portion extending between the top and bottom portions. The bottom portion includes a post extending from the bottom side of the panel snap fastener to the intermediate portion, and at least one snap-fit ​​connector extending from the bottom side of the panel snap fastener. The post includes a window configured to receive the top end of at least one snap-fit ​​connector when it is deflected inward toward the post.

[0013] Another aspect relates to a snap-fit ​​nut, comprising a snap-fit ​​and a nut. The snap-fit ​​includes a snap-fit ​​body and a snap-fit ​​head, the snap-fit ​​body including a window, and the snap-fit ​​head being attached to a plate having a hole using one or more teeth. The nut includes a lug and a hole, the lug being configured to engage the nut with the snap-fit ​​body. The hole of the nut overlaps with at least a portion of the hole in the plate and the window, and the hole of the nut is configured to receive a fastener.

[0014] A variation of the above aspect is that the plate includes a first side and a second side, a nut is configured to be positioned on the first side of the plate, and a fastener is configured to be inserted from the second side of the plate.

[0015] One variation of the above is in which the plate is bent.

[0016] One variation of the above is in which the plate clip head is configured to attach to the edge of the plate.

[0017] Another aspect relates to a snap-fit ​​nut, comprising a snap-fit ​​and a nut. The snap-fit ​​includes: a snap-fit ​​body having an elongated window having at least one groove; and a snap-fit ​​head sized and shaped to clamp onto an edge of a plate, the snap-fit ​​head including one or more teeth configured to lock the snap-fit ​​to the plate, the plate having a hole. The nut includes a lug and a hole, the lug being configured to engage with the snap-fit ​​body within at least one groove, the lug being movable along at least one groove. The nut is sized and shaped to be inserted into the hole in the plate, and the hole in the nut is configured to receive a fastener.

[0018] Another aspect relates to a snap-fit ​​nut, including a snap-fit ​​body and a nut. The snap-fit ​​body includes: a snap-fit ​​body comprising a window and a snap-fit ​​ring extending from a side of the window; and a snap-fit ​​head sized and shaped to be embedded inside a corner of a panel, the snap-fit ​​head including one or more teeth configured to lock the snap-fit ​​head to the panel, the panel having a hole. The nut includes a lug and a hole, the lug being configured to engage the nut with the snap-fit ​​body. The snap-fit ​​ring of the snap-fit ​​body is configured to engage with the hole in the panel, while the hole in the nut is configured to receive a fastener.

[0019] Another aspect relates to an adjustable snap-fit ​​nut configured to clamp onto an edge of a plate and engage with a hole in the plate. The adjustable nut includes a snap-fit ​​body and a nut. The snap-fit ​​body is configured to clamp onto the edge of the plate and extend along at least a portion of the plate. The nut engages with the snap-fit ​​body to slide along the snap-fit ​​body and that portion of the plate, thereby positioning at least a portion of the nut within the hole.

[0020] A variation of the above is in which this portion of the nut is configured to accommodate a fastener.

[0021] Another aspect relates to a snap-fit ​​nut configured to be embedded within a corner between two legs of a plate and to engage with a hole on one of the legs. The snap-fit ​​nut includes a snap-fit ​​body and a nut. The snap-fit ​​body is configured to engage with the corner of the plate and extends along at least a portion of one of the legs. The nut engages with the snap-fit ​​body, thereby positioning at least a portion of the nut within the hole.

[0022] One variation of the above is in which the portion of the nut is configured to accommodate a fastener.

[0023] Another aspect relates to a threaded nut comprising: a cavity extending from a top side to a bottom side; a head near the top side and having a hexagonal shape; a cylinder near the bottom side; a plurality of trilobal threads disposed above the outer surface of the cylinder; and a collar positioned between the head and the cylinder.

[0024] One variation of the above is in which the dimensions and shape of the plurality of trilobal threads are adapted to lock the fastener when the head is rotated a quarter turn.

[0025] One variation of the above is in which the collar includes angular teeth.

[0026] One variation of the above is in which the cavity is configured to accommodate a fastener. Attached Figure Description

[0027] This disclosure is described with reference to the accompanying drawings, wherein like reference numerals refer to like elements, and wherein:

[0028] Figure 1A This is a perspective view of an example of a plug according to this disclosure.

[0029] Figure 1B yes Figure 1A Exploded perspective view of the plug.

[0030] Figure 1C yes Figure 1A A top view showing the plug installed in the hole.

[0031] Figure 1D It is a 1D-1D section along the line. Figure 1C A cross-sectional view of the plug in the hole.

[0032] Figure 1E It is a section taken along line 1E-1E. Figure 1C A cross-sectional view of the plug in the hole.

[0033] Figure 1F yes Figure 1E A close-up view of the plug in the hole.

[0034] Figure 1G yes Figure 1E A close-up view of the plug in the hole.

[0035] Figure 2A This is a perspective view of a plate clip according to an example of this disclosure.

[0036] Figure 2B yes Figure 2A Top view of the plate clips.

[0037] Figure 2C yes Figure 2A Side view of the plate clips.

[0038] Figure 2D It is a 2D-2D section along the line. Figure 2C A sectional view of the plate clips.

[0039] Figure 2E yes Figure 2A Front view of the plate clips.

[0040] Figure 3A This is a perspective view of a snap nut with a movable nut, according to an example of this disclosure.

[0041] Figure 3B The diagram shows... Figure 3A The process of aligning the snap nut with the plate and moving it towards the plate.

[0042] Figure 3C The illustration shows adjusting the nut along the position of the snap nut so that the nut is aligned with the hole in the plate.

[0043] Figure 3D The diagram shows... Figure 3A The process of attaching the snap-fit ​​nut to the plate.

[0044] Figure 4A This is a front perspective view of a snap nut according to an example of this disclosure.

[0045] Figure 4B yes Figure 4A Rear view of the snap nut.

[0046] Figure 4C It is the section AA along the line. Figure 4A A cross-sectional view of the snap nut.

[0047] Figure 4D yes Figure 4A Front view of the snap nut.

[0048] Figure 4E The diagram shows... Figure 4A The process of moving the clip nut to the corner of the plate.

[0049] Figure 4F The diagram shows... Figure 4AThe snap nut is about to be fastened into the hole in the plate.

[0050] Figure 4G It comes from Figure 4F A close-up view of the holes in the sheet metal.

[0051] Figure 4H yes Figure 4A Rear perspective view of the snap nut.

[0052] Figure 5A This is a top view of a quarter-turn nut according to an example of this disclosure.

[0053] Figure 5B yes Figure 5A A bottom view of a quarter-turn nut.

[0054] Figure 5C It was taken from line 5C-5C. Figure 5A A cross-sectional view of a quarter-turn nut.

[0055] Figure 5D This is a top view of a quarter-turn nut according to an example of this disclosure.

[0056] Figure 5E yes Figure 5D A bottom view of a quarter-turn nut.

[0057] Figure 5F It was taken from 5F to 5F along the line. Figure 5D A cross-sectional view of a quarter-turn nut.

[0058] Figure 6A This is a perspective view of another example of a quarter-turn nut.

[0059] Figure 6B yes Figure 6A A bottom view of a quarter-turn nut.

[0060] Figure 6C yes Figure 6A Side view of a quarter-turn nut. Detailed Implementation

[0061] In general, one or more aspects of this disclosure relate to plugs, snap-fits, and fasteners. In some embodiments, this disclosure relates to plugs, snap-fits, and fasteners that can be used on die-cast parts and sheet metal for vehicle assembly. The aspects of this disclosure described below can reduce manufacturing steps, tolerate greater loads, and allow for longer service life.

[0062] One aspect of this disclosure includes an orifice plug with a large load resistance. In some examples, the orifice plug can be used with oversized orifices. Figures 1A-1GAs shown, an example of the hole plug 100 according to this disclosure may include a soft element 120 and a hard element 110. In some examples, the soft element 120 may be attached to the hole 190 (see [link]). Figure 1C The flexible part 120 is attached to the hole 190 by means of a snap-fit, a tight fit, or other desired fastening mechanism. For example... Figure 1G As shown, the flexible component 120 may include one or more snap-fit ​​connectors 150 configured to engage the flexible component 120 with the hole 190.

[0063] In some examples, the rigid part 110 of the plug 100 can be attached to the flexible part 120 via a snap-fit, tight fit, or any other desired attachment mechanism. For example, the rigid part 110 may include one or more protrusions 112 configured to embed within one or more corresponding receiving grooves 122 on the flexible part 120. Interference 130 between one or more protrusions 112 of the rigid part 110 and one or more corresponding receiving grooves 122 of the flexible part 120 can create a tight fit and connect the rigid part 110 and the flexible part 120 together. Figure 1G As shown, the rigid component 110 may include one or more snap-fit ​​connectors 140 to lock the rigid component 110 to the flexible component 120. According to various examples, the orifice plugs disclosed herein can withstand loads, for example, in diameter ranges of 100-300 mm, 10-300 mm, 50-200 mm, and 150-200 mm, in the ranges of 100-300 mm, 10-300 mm, 50-200 mm, and 150-200 N, without significant deformation, for example, deformation within 5 mm, 10 mm, 15 mm, or less. Of course, other load ranges and other diameters also fall within the scope of this disclosure.

[0064] Another aspect of this disclosure includes a sheet metal clip for holding sheets together, the clip being adaptable to various sheet thicknesses and hole sizes. For example, such a clip can be used on die-cast aluminum sheets with large manufacturing tolerances, resulting in varying sheet thicknesses P. min To P max (For example, varying within a thickness range of 1-5 mm, 1-3 mm, 1.5-3 mm, etc.), and varying hole size W (for example, decreasing or increasing within a range of 5 mm, 3 mm, 7 mm, etc.).

[0065] like Figures 2A-2EAs shown, the plate clip 200 disclosed herein may include a top portion 210, a bottom portion 220, and an intermediate portion 230 between the top portion 210 and the bottom portion 220. In some examples, the top portion 210 is configured to engage with a first plate, and the bottom portion 210 is configured to engage with a second plate, thereby holding the first and second plates together, while the intermediate portion 230 is positioned between the first and second plates. In some examples, the first plate is held between the top plate 212 and the bottom plate 214 of the top portion 210 by engaging the top plate 212 into a hole in the first plate (see [link to documentation]). Figure 2A The top part 210 can be connected to the first plate.

[0066] In some examples, the bottom 220 may include a post 222 and one or more snap-fit ​​connectors 224 extending upward from the bottom side of the plate clips 200 from the post 222. When inserted into a hole in the second plate, the one or more snap-fit ​​connectors 224 may be pushed toward the post 222 by the hole and return to their starting position after being fully inserted. The post 222 of the bottom 220 may also include a cavity or window 226, which allows the one or more snap-fit ​​connectors 224 to move further into the post 222 when inserted into the hole. Through the window 226, the one or more snap-fit ​​connectors 224 may have greater bending space, thereby requiring a smaller insertion force (e.g., about 30 N, 40 N, 45 N, or 50 N) while maintaining a higher pull-out force (e.g., about 170 N, 200 N, 220 N, 250 N).

[0067] Another aspect of this disclosure includes a snap-fit ​​nut that provides a nut to a hole by snapping it into the hole in a sheet metal part. Various examples of snap-fit ​​nuts are easy to install and adaptable to different hole locations. In some examples, the snap-fit ​​nut can be implemented in a hole in a die-cast sheet metal part to reduce the manufacturing steps required to machine the hole. In some examples, the snap-fit ​​nut can also be removed for maintenance.

[0068] A snap-fit ​​nut may include a snap-fit ​​portion and a nut portion. In some examples, the nut portion is engaged with the snap-fit ​​portion by inserting lugs of the nut portion into the interior of two slots on either side of the snap-fit ​​portion. In some examples, the snap-fit ​​portion may also include a window that at least partially overlaps with a hole on the nut portion. The hole on the nut portion may be configured to receive a bolt. In some examples, the snap-fit ​​portion may include one or more teeth configured to engage a plate and lock the snap-fit ​​nut to the plate.

[0069] like Figures 3A-3DAs shown, the snap nut 300 may include an elongated snap portion 310 and a nut portion 320 engaged with the snap portion 310. In some examples, the nut portion 320 may be engaged with the snap portion 310 by inserting lugs 322 of the nut portion 320 into two slots or grooves 312 on either side of the snap portion 310. In some examples, the nut portion 320 may be movable relative to the snap portion 310 along the grooves 312. In some examples, the snap portion 310 of the snap nut 300 may include a snap body 318 and a snap head 314. In some examples, the snap head 314 may be configured to snap onto the edge of the plate 390. In some examples, at least a portion of the plate near the edge is flat.

[0070] like Figures 3B-3D As shown, the snap-fit ​​nut 300 can be snapped onto the plate 390 using a snap-fit ​​head 314. In some examples, the snap-fit ​​head 314 may include one or more teeth 316 configured to engage with the plate 390 and prevent the snap-fit ​​nut 300 from falling off the plate 390. During the movement of the snap-fit ​​nut 300 toward the plate 390, the nut portion 320 may be moved along the groove 312 to a position corresponding to the location of the hole 392 on the plate 390 and inserted into the hole 392. In some examples, the size and shape of the nut portion 320 may be designed to be smaller than or approximately equal to the hole 392 on the plate 390, so that it can be easily inserted into the hole 392. The hole 324 inside the nut portion 320 may be configured to receive a bolt. For example, in some examples, the hole 324 may include threads on the inner side of the hole 324. When the nut portion 320 of the snap nut 300 is inserted into the hole 392, the hole 324 on the nut portion 320 can be configured to receive a bolt instead of the hole 392 on the plate 390.

[0071] Figures 4A-4H Another example of a snap-fit ​​nut 400 according to this disclosure is shown. Similarly, the snap-fit ​​nut 400 may include a snap-fit ​​portion 410 and a nut portion 420. The nut portion 420 can be engaged with the snap-fit ​​portion 410 by inserting the lug 422 of the nut portion 420 into the two slots 412 of the snap-fit ​​portion 410. The snap-fit ​​nut 400 differs from the snap-fit ​​nut 300 in that the nut portion 420 can be secured within the slots 412. In some examples, the snap-fit ​​portion 410 may include a snap-fit ​​head 414 and a snap-fit ​​body 418 having a window 417 overlapping a hole 424 on the nut portion 420. In some examples, the hole 424 of the nut portion 420 may include threads and is configured to receive and lock a bolt within the hole 424.

[0072] In some examples, the snap head 414 of the snap portion 410 may be configured to embed within an arcuate corner 490 of a plate (e.g., a metal sheet), the curvature of which may be similar to or greater than that of the arcuate corner, such that the snap nut 400 may be locked to the plate. In some examples, the snap head 414 of the snap portion 410 may also include a plurality of teeth 416 configured to engage the plate when the snap nut 400 is inserted into the arcuate corner 490, thereby preventing the snap nut 400 from falling off the plate. In some examples, the snap body 418 may also include a snap ring 419 extending from the side of the window 417. The size and shape of the snap ring 419 may be designed to engage with a hole 492 in the plate, thereby further securing the attachment of the snap nut 400 to the plate. When the snap nut 400 is attached in place, the hole 424 of the nut portion 420 of the snap nut 400 can substantially overlap with the hole 492 on the plate, so that the hole 424 of the snap nut 400 can replace the hole 492 on the plate as a nut hole to accommodate the bolt.

[0073] This disclosure also includes a quarter-turn nut that allows for the creation of a single-sided access accessory without the need for any special equipment (e.g., a C-clamp). Of course, the quarter-turn fastener can be configured to rotate more or less than a quarter turn, and this still falls within the scope of this disclosure. In some examples, a torque gun can be used to install the quarter-turn nut. In some examples, the quarter-turn nut can be used with any plate with a thickness greater than a predetermined thickness (e.g., 2 mm, 3 mm, 4 mm, 5 mm). In some examples, the quarter-turn nut may include serrations on a collar below its head to create a semi-permanent joint with a plate that can be used to attach to other plates. In some examples, the quarter-turn nut may be made of a material stronger than plastic (e.g., metal). Figures 5A-5C As shown, the quarter-turn nut 500 disclosed herein may include a trilobal thread 510 positioned above the cylindrical surface of the quarter-turn nut 500. Similarly, as Figures 5D-5F As shown, the quarter-turn nut 600 disclosed herein may include a trefoil thread 610 positioned above the cylindrical surface of the quarter-turn nut 600. The trefoil thread 610 may be at a steep angle, such that attaching the quarter-turn nut 600 to the plate requires less rotation. Figures 6A-6C Another exemplary embodiment of a quarter-turn nut 700, similar to the quarter-turn nuts 500 and 600 described above, is shown. Example

[0074] Some examples may include the following aspects.

[0075] Example 1 includes a hole plug comprising: a soft member sized and shaped to cover a hole and engaged with a hole connection using a snap-fit ​​mechanism, the soft member including one or more receiving grooves; and a hard member sized and shaped to be at least partially embedded within the soft member, the hard member including at least one protrusion configured to be embedded within at least one receiving groove and to engage the hard member with the soft member.

[0076] Example 2 includes the plug according to Example 1, wherein the soft and hard parts are further configured to be connected by a snap-fit ​​engagement.

[0077] Example 3 includes a panel snap fastener comprising: a top portion configured to be attached to a first panel; a bottom portion configured to be attached to a second panel; and an intermediate portion extending between the top and bottom portions, wherein the bottom portion includes: a post extending from the bottom side of the panel snap fastener to the intermediate portion, and at least one snap-fit ​​connector extending from the bottom side of the panel snap fastener, wherein the post includes a window configured to receive the top end of the at least one snap-fit ​​connector when the at least one snap-fit ​​connector is deflected inward toward the post.

[0078] Example 4 includes a snap nut comprising: a snap fastener including: a snap body including a window; and a snap head configured to attach to a plate having a hole using one or more teeth; and a nut including a lug and a hole, the lug being configured to engage the nut with the snap body, wherein the hole of the nut overlaps with at least a portion of the hole in the plate and the window, and the hole of the nut is configured to receive a fastener.

[0079] Example 5 includes a snap nut according to Example 4, wherein the plate includes a first side and a second side, the nut is configured to be positioned on the first side of the plate, and the fastener is configured to be inserted from the second side of the plate.

[0080] Example 6 includes a snap nut as described in Example 4 or Example 5, wherein the plate is bent.

[0081] Example 7 includes a snap nut according to any one of Examples 4-6, wherein a plate snap head is configured to attach to the edge of the plate.

[0082] Example 8 includes a snap nut comprising: a snap nut including: a snap nut body including an elongated window having at least one groove; and a snap nut head sized and shaped to clamp onto an edge of a plate, the snap nut head including one or more teeth configured to lock the snap nut to the plate having a hole; and a nut including a lug and a hole, the lug being configured to engage with the snap nut and the snap nut within at least one groove, the lug being movable along at least one groove, wherein the nut is sized and shaped to be inserted into the hole in the plate, and the hole in the nut is configured to receive a fastener.

[0083] Example 9 includes a snap nut comprising: a snap, including: a snap body having a window and a snap ring extending from one side of the window; and a snap head sized and shaped to be embedded inside a corner of a plate, the snap head including one or more teeth configured to lock the snap head to the plate having a hole; and a nut including a lug and a hole, the lug being configured to engage the nut with the snap body; wherein the snap ring of the snap body is configured to engage with the hole in the plate, and the hole in the nut is configured to receive a fastener.

[0084] Example 10 includes an adjustable snap nut configured to clamp onto an edge of a plate and engage with a hole in the plate. The adjustable nut includes a snap body and a nut. The snap body is configured to clamp the edge of the plate and extend along at least a portion of the plate. The nut engages with the snap body to slide along the snap body and a portion of the plate to position at least a portion of the nut in the hole.

[0085] Example 11 includes an adjustable snap nut according to Example 10, wherein this portion of the nut is configured to receive a fastener.

[0086] Example 12 includes a snap nut configured to be embedded in a corner between two legs of a plate and engage with a hole on one of the two legs. The snap nut includes a snap body and a nut, the snap body being configured to engage with the corner of the plate and extend along at least a portion of one of the two legs, and the nut engaging with the snap body to position at least a portion of the nut in the hole.

[0087] Example 13 includes a snap nut according to Example 12, wherein this portion of the nut is configured to receive a fastener.

[0088] Example 14 includes a threaded nut comprising: a cavity extending from a top side to a bottom side; a head near the top side and having a hexagonal shape; a cylinder near the bottom side; a plurality of trilobal threads disposed above the outer surface of the cylinder; and a collar positioned between the head and the cylinder.

[0089] Example 15 includes a threaded nut according to Example 14, wherein the size and shape of a plurality of trilobal threads are adapted to lock the threaded nut when the head is rotated a quarter turn.

[0090] Example 16 includes the threaded nut of Example 14 or Example 15, wherein the collar contains angular teeth.

[0091] Example 17 includes a threaded nut of any of Examples 14 to 16, wherein the cavity is configured to receive a fastener.

[0092] In some examples, a hole plug includes: a soft part configured to cover and attach to a hole via a snap-fit ​​engagement, the soft part including a plurality of receiving grooves; and a hard part designed to be at least partially embedded within the soft part, characterized by having a plurality of protrusions, each protrusion configured to engage with a corresponding receiving groove in the soft part; wherein the engagement between the protrusions and the receiving grooves provides a reversible locking mechanism, thereby allowing easy assembly and disassembly.

[0093] In some examples, the soft parts are made of flexible polymer materials, while the hard parts are made of durable metals, thus combining flexibility and strength.

[0094] In some examples, the soft part includes a textured surface around the receiving groove to increase friction and enhance the firm fit between the soft part and the hard part.

[0095] In some examples, the plate clip includes: a top portion designed to attach to a first plate; a bottom portion designed to attach to a second plate; and an intermediate portion between the top and bottom portions; wherein the bottom portion includes a flexible snap-fit ​​connector that can accommodate variations in plate thickness and hole size; and also includes a locking mechanism within the bottom portion to enhance retention force after installation.

[0096] In some examples, the top portion includes a pressure-sensitive adhesive layer to temporarily hold the snap-fit ​​in place during assembly before permanent attachment.

[0097] In some examples, the locking mechanism includes a ratchet feature that allows for incremental adjustment of the tension of the snap-fit ​​joint.

[0098] In some examples, the snap nut includes: a snap head having an integrated window and a snap head and a snap head designed to be attached to a plate via multiple teeth; a nut having lugs and threaded holes, wherein the lugs are designed to slide within grooves located on the snap body; wherein the nut is adjustable along the length of the snap body to align with holes in the plate; and also includes a locking mechanism that locks the position of the nut once aligned.

[0099] In some examples, the grooves in the snap-fit ​​body are lined with abrasion-resistant material to extend the life of the snap-fit ​​nut during repeated adjustments.

[0100] In some examples, the snap nut also includes a spring mechanism integrated into the snap body to automatically align the nut with the plate hole when positioned nearby.

[0101] In some examples, the threaded nut includes: a hexagonal head and a cylinder; a trilobal thread on the cylinder designed for quick engagement with a plate; and a toothed collar positioned between the head and the cylinder; wherein the collar is designed to engage with the surface of the plate to prevent rotational movement after installation.

[0102] In some examples, the trefoil-shaped threads are coated with an anti-corrosion layer to enhance their durability in harsh environments.

[0103] In some examples, the teeth on the collar are replaceable to allow for maintenance and extend the life of the nut.

[0104] In some examples, the fastening system includes: a combination of hole plugs, plate clips, and clip nuts as summarized above, wherein each component is configured to interlock with at least one other component; wherein the system provides a modular assembly method that allows for various configurations depending on application requirements; and also includes uniform installation tools designed to engage with each component of the system.

[0105] In some examples, the unified installation tool includes a digital interface to provide feedback on installation force and alignment accuracy during use.

[0106] In some examples, each component of the system is color-coded according to its function, making it easier for technicians to identify and assemble.

[0107] The foregoing disclosure is not intended to limit this disclosure to its precise form or particular purpose. Thus, it is foreseeable that various alternative examples and / or modifications can be made to this disclosure, whether explicitly described or implied. Having thus described examples of this disclosure, those skilled in the art will recognize that changes to the form and details of this disclosure can be made without departing from its scope. Therefore, this disclosure is limited only by the claims.

[0108] In the foregoing description, this disclosure has been described with reference to specific examples. However, those skilled in the art will understand that various modifications or other implementations of the various examples disclosed herein can be made without departing from the spirit and scope of this disclosure. Therefore, this specification is to be considered illustrative and intended to teach those skilled in the art how to manufacture and use the various examples of the disclosed snaps, plugs, and fasteners. It should be understood that the forms of disclosure shown and described herein are to be considered representative examples only. Equivalent elements, materials, processes, or steps may be substituted for those representatively illustrated and described herein. Furthermore, certain features of this disclosure may be utilized independently of the use of other features, all of which will be apparent to those skilled in the art upon reading this specification. Expressions such as “comprising,” “including,” “incorporated,” “consisting of,” “having,” and “is” are used to describe and claim that this disclosure is interpreted in a non-exclusive manner, i.e., allowing for the presence of items, components, or elements not explicitly described. Singular references should also be interpreted as plural.

[0109] Furthermore, the various examples disclosed herein should be illustrative and explanatory in nature, and should never be construed as limiting this disclosure. All conjunctions (e.g., attach, link, connect, etc.) are used only to aid the reader's understanding of this disclosure and should not constitute any limitation, especially regarding the location, orientation, or purpose of the systems and / or methods disclosed herein. Therefore, conjunctions (if any) should be interpreted broadly. Moreover, such conjunctions do not necessarily imply that two elements are directly connected to each other. Additionally, all numerical terms (such as, but not limited to, "first," "second," "third," "primary," "secondary," "main," or any other common and / or numerical terms) should be considered only as identifiers to aid the reader's understanding of the various elements, examples, variations, and / or modifications of this disclosure, and should not constitute any limitation, especially not limiting the order or priority of any element, example, variation, and / or modification relative to other elements, examples, variations, and / or modifications.

[0110] It should also be understood that one or more of the elements depicted in the accompanying drawings can also be implemented in a more independent or integrated manner, and in some cases the element can even be removed or disabled, which may be useful depending on the specific application.

Claims

1. A plug, comprising: A flexible component, the size and shape of which are adapted to cover a hole and are attached to the hole using a snap-fit ​​engagement, the flexible component including one or more receiving grooves; as well as A rigid component, the rigid component being sized and shaped to be at least partially embedded within the flexible component, the rigid component including at least one protrusion configured to be embedded within the one or more receiving slots and to connect the rigid component to the flexible component.

2. The plug according to claim 1, wherein the soft component and the hard component are further configured to be connected by a snap-fit ​​engagement.

3. A plate clip, comprising: Top portion, which is configured to be attached to the first plate; The bottom portion is configured to be attached to the second plate; as well as The middle portion extending between the top portion and the bottom portion, The bottom portion includes: The upright extending from the bottom side of the plate clip to the middle portion, and At least one snap-fit ​​connector extending from the bottom side of the plate clip, The column includes a window configured to receive the top end of the at least one snap-fit ​​joint when the at least one snap-fit ​​joint is deflected inward toward the column.

4. A snap-fit ​​nut, comprising: The buckle includes: The snap-fit ​​body includes a window; and A snap-fit ​​head, configured to attach to a plate having holes using one or more teeth; and A nut, comprising a lug and a hole, the lug being configured to engage the nut to the snap-fit ​​body. The hole of the nut overlaps with at least a portion of the hole in the plate and the window, and the hole of the nut is configured to receive a fastener.

5. The snap nut of claim 4, wherein the plate includes a first side and a second side, the nut is configured to be positioned on the first side of the plate, and the fastener is configured to be inserted from the second side of the plate.

6. The snap nut according to claim 4, wherein the plate is bent.

7. The snap nut of claim 4, wherein the snap head is configured to be attached to the edge of the plate.

8. A snap-fit ​​nut, comprising: The buckle includes: A snap-fit ​​body, the snap-fit ​​body comprising an elongated window having at least one groove; and A snap-fit ​​head, the snap-fit ​​head being sized and shaped to clamp onto the edge of a plate, the snap-fit ​​head including one or more teeth configured to lock the snap-fit ​​to the plate, the plate having a hole; and A nut, comprising a lug and a hole, the lug being configured to engage with the nut to the snap-fit ​​body by fitting into the at least one groove, the lug being movable along the at least one groove. The nut is sized and shaped to be inserted into a hole in the plate, and the hole in the nut is configured to accommodate a fastener.

9. A snap-fit ​​nut, comprising: The buckle includes: A snap-fit ​​body, the snap-fit ​​body including a window and a snap-fit ​​ring extending from one side of the window; and A snap-fit ​​head, the size and shape of which are adapted to be embedded inside a corner of a panel, the snap-fit ​​head including one or more teeth configured to lock the snap-fit ​​head to the panel, the panel having a hole; and A nut, the nut including a lug and a hole, the lug being configured to engage the nut to the snap-fit ​​body; The snap ring of the snap-fit ​​body is configured to engage with a hole in the plate, and the hole of the nut is configured to receive a fastener.

10. An adjustable snap-fit ​​nut configured to clamp onto an edge of a plate and engage with a hole in the plate, the adjustable snap-fit ​​nut comprising: A snap-fit ​​body and a nut, the snap-fit ​​body being configured to clamp onto the edge of the plate and extend along at least a portion of the plate, the nut engaging the snap-fit ​​body to slide along the snap-fit ​​body and the portion of the plate to position at least a portion of the nut in the hole.

11. The adjustable snap nut of claim 10, wherein the portion of the nut is configured to receive a fastener.

12. A snap-fit ​​nut configured to be embedded in a corner between two legs of a plate and engage with a hole in one of the two legs, the snap-fit ​​nut comprising: A snap-fit ​​body and a nut, the snap-fit ​​body being configured to engage with the corner of the plate and extend along at least a portion of one of the two legs, the nut engaging with the snap-fit ​​body to position at least a portion of the nut in the hole.

13. The snap nut of claim 12, wherein the portion of the nut is configured to receive a fastener.

14. A threaded nut, comprising: A cavity extending from the top to the bottom; A head that is close to the top side and has a hexagonal shape; A cylinder near the bottom side; Multiple trilobed threads are placed above the outer surface of the cylinder; as well as A collar positioned between the head and the cylinder.

15. The threaded nut of claim 14, wherein the plurality of trilobal threads are sized and shaped to lock the threaded nut when the head is rotated a quarter turn.

16. The threaded nut of claim 14, wherein the collar comprises angular teeth.

17. The threaded nut of claim 14, wherein the cavity is configured to receive a fastener.

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