A clip to removably attach a first vehicle component to a second vehicle component, the first vehicle component, an assembly, and a method of separating an assembly comprising a first vehicle component and a second vehicle component
Patent Information
- Application Number
- CN202610277029.7
- Authority / Receiving Office
- CN · China
- Patent Type
- Applications(China)
- Current Assignee / Owner
- Priority Date
- 2025-03-14
- Filing Date
- 2026-03-09
- Publication Date
- 2026-09-15
Smart Images
Figure CN122747784A_ABST
Abstract
Description
Technical Field
[0001] This disclosure relates to a clamp for removably attaching a first vehicle component to a second vehicle component.
[0002] Furthermore, this disclosure relates to a first vehicle component including a clamp and an assembly including the first vehicle component and a second vehicle component.
[0003] Furthermore, this disclosure relates to a method for separating an assembly comprising a first vehicle component and a second vehicle component. Background Technology
[0004] Fixtures are widely used in the automotive industry to attach internal or external vehicle components, such as cable conduits, ventilation ducts, or covers, to the vehicle body.
[0005] As functionality increases and therefore the number of functional components in a vehicle increases, there is a growing need to remove these components from the vehicle body in order to access the functional components, for example, for maintenance.
[0006] However, the clamps used to attach these components to the vehicle body are typically designed to establish a connection between the corresponding component and the vehicle body only once. Therefore, if the clamps used to attach the components to the vehicle body are removed, the clamps often break or are severely damaged. This prevents the clamps from being reused when the corresponding components should be reattached to the vehicle body after maintenance. Summary of the Invention
[0007] Therefore, one object of this disclosure is to provide an improved clamp for removably attaching a first component to a second component.
[0008] This problem is at least partially solved or mitigated by the subject matter of this disclosure.
[0009] According to a first aspect, a clamp is provided for removably attaching a first vehicle component to a second vehicle component. The second vehicle component includes a column having finned and / or threaded side surfaces. The clamp includes a base having an opening for receiving the column. Furthermore, the clamp includes at least two hooks arranged around the periphery of the opening. Each of the at least two hooks includes a flexible leg and an engagement portion for engaging the side surface of the column. The flexible leg of each of the at least two hooks is at least partially arranged between the periphery of the opening and the corresponding engagement portion, such that each engagement portion is configured to be biased toward the side surface of the column by bending the corresponding leg toward the radially outward side of the opening. Each of the at least two hooks includes a release interface for separating the hook from the column using a release tool. Each release interface includes a thrust surface having a surface normal having an extension component along the central axis of the opening and an extension component perpendicular to the central axis of the opening.
[0010] To receive the column, the size (e.g., diameter) of the opening in the base of the clamp is larger than the diameter of the column to be coupled to the clamp. The periphery where at least two hooks are arranged can be understood as the edge of the opening for receiving the column. It should be understood that at least two hooks extend from the base in the same direction. If the clamp is mounted to the second vehicle component such that the column passes through the opening of the clamp, the at least two hooks bend radially outward relative to the central axis of the opening. This bending can be achieved by a bendable leg included in each of the at least two hooks. It should also be understood that if the clamp is mounted to the second vehicle component, the column moves along the extension direction through the opening of the clamp. Each of the at least two hooks also includes an engagement portion that engages with the side surface of the column by mechanical locking (e.g., by engagement with fins or threads) and / or by friction. Due to the radial outward bending of the at least two hooks, an elastic force is generated that biases the engagement portion of the at least two hooks against the side surface of the column. Thus, a reliable mechanical connection is formed between the clamp and the second vehicle component.
[0011] Each of the at least two hooks includes a release interface that can be actuated by a release tool. Upon doing so, the at least two hooks separate from the column, i.e., releasing the mechanical lock and / or friction between the engagement and the column. Therefore, the clamp can be released from the column without damaging either of the at least two hooks, and in particular without damaging any engagement of either of the at least two hooks. To achieve this, the release interface includes a thrust surface. The thrust surface is a surface inclined relative to the central axis of the opening at the base of the clamp. More specifically, the thrust surface is inclined relative to the central axis at an angle between 0° and 90°, where precise values of 0° and 90° are excluded. Therefore, the surface normal of the thrust surface has an extension component along the central axis of the opening and an extension component perpendicular to the central axis of the opening. It should be noted that the extension component of the surface normal of the thrust surface perpendicular to the central axis of the opening points towards the central axis of the opening. In short, this means that the distance between the thrust surface and the central axis of the opening widens from the base along the extension direction of the at least two hooks. However, this does not necessarily mean that the inclination of the thrust surface toward the central axis of the opening is constant along the extension direction of at least two hooks; for example, the thrust surface may include a chamfer with a constant inclination. Instead, the thrust surface may also include a radius component that shows a varying inclination toward the central axis of the opening. The inclination of the thrust surface relative to the central axis of the opening has the effect that if the release tool is pushed against the thrust surface along the central axis, the engagement of at least two hooks is pushed radially outward, releasing the engagement between the engagement and the column. It should be understood that when the release tool is pushed against the thrust surface, the pushing direction is oriented opposite to the extension direction of the at least two hooks from the base. In summary, the release interface allows the clamp to reliably separate from the column of the second vehicle component.
[0012] In one example, the first vehicle component may be or include cable conduits, ventilation ducts, covers, etc. A clamp may be mechanically attached to the first vehicle component. The second vehicle component may be or include the vehicle body, another cover, or another structural component of the vehicle. The column may be permanently attached to the second vehicle component, for example, because the column is integrally formed with the second vehicle component by welding or screwing it to it. The column may include a cylindrical base shape having fins and / or threaded structures on its side surfaces.
[0013] In one example, the opening at the base has a substantially rectangular cross-section. Alternatively, the opening at the base has a substantially circular cross-section. In the case of a substantially rectangular cross-section of the opening, at least two hooks of the clamp are arranged on either of the two parallel sides of the rectangular cross-section. The at least two hooks may extend along the full length of the two parallel sides of the rectangular cross-section or along a portion of the length of the two parallel sides of the rectangular cross-section. In the latter case, the at least two hooks arranged on either of the two parallel sides of the rectangular cross-section may face each other such that they are mirror images of each other with respect to the longitudinal central axis of the rectangular cross-section. In all cases of an opening with a rectangular cross-section, if the column is inserted into the opening, the column can move relative to the clamp in the direction of the longitudinal central axis of the rectangular cross-section, even if the joint of the at least two hooks engages the side surface of the column. This is possible because of the geometrical degrees of freedom or clearance between the opening with a rectangular cross-section and the column, which may include a circular cross-section smaller than the longitudinal extension of the opening with a rectangular cross-section. It should be understood that the same consideration applies if the opening at the base is curved, for example, if it includes the shape of an annular segment such as a circular ring segment. The opening with a rectangular cross-section allows the clamp to be reliably attached to the column of the second vehicle component, but at the same time allows for a certain relative movement between the clamp and the second vehicle component, which can be used to compensate for tolerances.
[0014] In the case of a roughly circular cross-section, the diameter of the column can be smaller than the diameter of the opening in the base, allowing the column to fit through the opening. If inserted into the opening, the column may not be able to move relative to the clamp in any radial direction. In other words, by engaging the joints of at least two hooks with the column, the clamp can be fixed to the column without any degree of freedom of movement. This allows for a reliable and mechanically stable connection between the clamp and the column.
[0015] In one example, the clamp includes at least three hooks arranged around the periphery of the opening. Using three or more hooks around the periphery of the opening ensures a particularly firm grip of the column by the clamp's at least three hooks. This is because the elastic force generated at each hook when the corresponding leg of each hook bends radially outward toward the opening includes a force component that limits the column in each direction perpendicular to the central axis of the opening (i.e., in each radial direction). In contrast, if only two hooks are used, the column can slide relative to the two hooks even if the joint of the two hooks engages with the side surface of the column. However, such sliding may be particularly advantageous if desired, for example, when the opening has a rectangular cross-section or when the opening comprises an annular segment.
[0016] In one example, at least two hooks are evenly distributed along the perimeter. This can be understood as the center points of at least two hooks being arranged at equal angles relative to each other with respect to the central axis of the opening. Additionally or alternatively, this can be understood as the center points of at least two hooks being arranged at equal distances relative to each other. In the case of a circular shape of the opening in the base of the clamp, the equal angles and equal distances define each other. In this document, the center point of the hooks of the clamp is the geometric center of the respective hook. Evenly distributing at least two hooks along the perimeter of the opening maintains effective clamping of at least two hooks on the column, and more precisely, maintains effective clamping of the corresponding joints on the side surfaces of the column. This is because the elastic forces generated by the offset of the at least two hooks against the column are oriented relative to each other, so that the column is not pushed in any direction perpendicular to the central axis. In other words, the elastic forces cancel each other out at the column. Moreover, each hook that engages its joint with the column can deform by the same amount. This defines the position of the column within the opening, i.e., at the center point or on the longitudinal central axis of the opening. If the position of the column is precisely defined by the clamp, then the position of the second vehicle component relative to the clamp is also precisely defined. It should be understood that the same applies if at least three (i.e., three or more) hooks are evenly distributed along the perimeter.
[0017] In one example, the release interface also includes a retaining surface for holding the release tool. The retaining surface has a surface normal with an extension component perpendicular to the central axis. Assuming equal lengths of the respective surface normals (e.g., the unit vector is the surface normal), the extension component perpendicular to the central axis can be greater than the extension component perpendicular to the central axis of the normal of the thrust surface. In one example, the surface normal of the retaining surface can be perpendicular to the central axis of the opening; that is, the retaining surface can be parallel to the central axis. This is particularly relevant when the release tool is held by the retaining surface. The retaining surface can be arranged adjacent to the thrust surface, but closer to the base of the clamp. The retaining surface has the effect that once the edge of the release tool is pushed past the thrust surface in the direction of the central axis, the release tool is held between the retaining surfaces of the release interface of the at least two hooks without generating a force resisting the pushing of the release tool in the direction of the central axis. Additionally or alternatively, no resultant force pushing the release tool away from the release interface may be applied to the release tool. In this document, it should be noted that the absence of a resultant force may mean that a force is generated at the interface between the holding surface and the release tool due to the bias of at least two hooks, including a component that pushes the release tool away from the release interface. However, in this case, frictional forces may be generated at the interface between the holding surface and the release tool due to the bias balancing the force components. The holding surface has the effect of holding the release tool in place by the hooks of the clamp. The release tool does not need to be held by the operator. Instead, the operator can focus on manipulating the clamp to remove it from the post of the second vehicle component.
[0018] Note that the retaining surface does not have to be straight. In one example, one might imagine that the retaining surface includes a locking element, such as a protrusion or recess, which interlocks with the recess or protrusion in the release tool once the release tool is pushed along the defined length of the retaining surface.
[0019] In one example, the thrust surface is arranged radially outward relative to the retaining surface. In this document, radially outward refers to the central axis of the opening. Therefore, the thrust surface is positioned at a greater distance from the central axis of the opening than the retaining surface. Consequently, as the release tool is pushed along the central axis and against the thrust surface and further along the retaining surface, the bending of the legs of at least two hooks of the clamp increases. This generates a particularly high elastic force between the retaining surfaces of the release interface of the at least two hooks. Therefore, the release tool can be secured in a particularly reliable manner by the retaining surfaces. The operator or maintenance personnel can remove their grip from the release tool and focus on removing the clamp from the column of the second component.
[0020] In one example, the release interface includes an abutment surface for abutting the release tool while it is held by a retaining surface. The abutment surface limits the length of movement and / or pushing of the release tool along the retaining surface (i.e., along the central axis) by providing an abutment portion for the release tool. Therefore, contact between the release tool and a second vehicle component, including a pillar, can be prevented. Accidental scratching of the second vehicle component by the release tool can be avoided. Furthermore, short circuits between live parts of the vehicle and the second vehicle component due to contact with the release tool can be prevented. Additionally, the abutment surface prevents the release tool from being pushed too far along the retaining surface, causing locking elements (such as protrusions or recesses) on the release tool to miss corresponding elements (such as recesses or protrusions) in the retaining surface. Therefore, a firm grip of the retaining surface on the release tool can be achieved.
[0021] In one example, the engagement includes an engagement edge configured to engage the side surface of the column. The engagement edge may, in particular, include a pointed shape to improve engagement with the side surface of the column. The pointed shape may include a triangular, rectangular, square, or trapezoidal shape. Additionally or alternatively, the engagement edge may include a negative face of the finned and / or threaded side surface of the column. The engagement edge improves the engagement of the engagement of at least two hooks of the clamp with the starting point of the second vehicle component. In other words, the engagement edge prevents the clamp from releasing from the column without the application of a release tool (i.e., without the clamp unintentionally separating from the column).
[0022] In one example, the engaging edge includes the abutting surface, or the abutting surface includes the engaging edge. Additionally or alternatively, the engaging edge may be the same portion as the abutting surface, or may at least be part of the same portion of the hook. Due to this integral design, the number of parts and / or components of the clamp is reduced, making its production and use simple and reliable. Furthermore, this construction makes the clamp compact.
[0023] In one example, the clamp further includes a first reinforcing rib disposed at least partially on the radially outer side of at least one hook and / or at least partially on the base. This means that the first reinforcing rib may be disposed on a side of at least one hook opposite to the central axis of the opening in the base. The first reinforcing rib may connect said side of at least one hook to the base. More precisely, the first reinforcing rib may connect said side of at least one hook to a portion of the base from which at least one hook does not extend directly. Therefore, the bending stiffness of at least one hook is increased. Thus, if the joint of at least two hooks of the clamp engages with the column, the elastic force that causes at least two hooks to be biased against the column is increased. Thus, the engagement between at least two hooks and the column can resist higher forces that can be used to release the clamp from the column. In one example, all hooks of the clamp include the first reinforcing rib. This may further increase the strength of the mechanical locking and / or the friction between the joint of the hook and the column. The degree of additional reinforcement of at least one hook can be adjusted by adjusting the size of the first reinforcing rib, such as supporting the thickness and / or length of the hook.
[0024] In one example, the clamp also includes a protective collar extending from the base in an extension direction substantially parallel to the central axis. The extension direction of the protective collar from the base is the same as the extension direction of the at least two hooks from the base. The protective collar is arranged radially outside the opening in the base. The at least two hooks and the protective collar extend on the same side of the base. The protective collar may be arranged at a radial distance from the central axis of the opening greater than the radial distance of the at least two hooks from the central axis. Furthermore, the protective collar may be integrally formed with the base. In other words, the protective collar and at least two hooks of the clamp may be integrally formed with the base. The protective collar can protect the at least two hooks from accidental mechanical impacts, such as from tools falling during maintenance of vehicle parts. In particular, the protective collar can prevent objects from interacting with the at least two hooks in a manner that would loosen the engagement between the joints of the at least two hooks and the post. Furthermore, the protective collar can prevent objects from damaging one or more hooks of the clamp. This is particularly relevant if the clamp is used on a part of a vehicle exposed to the environment, especially the road surface on which the vehicle travels. Such a part could be the lower side of the vehicle body.
[0025] In one example, the height of the protective collar is greater than the height of the at least two hooks. The height of the protective collar and the height of the at least two hooks are measured relative to the base and along a direction parallel to the central axis. The greater height of the protective collar enhances its shielding capability against unwanted mechanical impacts to the at least two hooks. Note that the greater height of the protective collar than the at least two hooks does not interfere with the application of the release tool used to release the clamp from the column, because the release tool is pushed against the thrust surface of the release interface of the at least two hooks in a direction along the central axis of the opening at the base of the clamp. This pushing direction of the release tool is not hindered or blocked by the protective collar.
[0026] In one example, the protective collar includes one or more second reinforcing ribs. These second reinforcing ribs may be arranged at least partially on the radially outer side of the protective collar and / or at least partially on the base. This means that the second reinforcing ribs may be arranged on a side of the protective collar opposite to the central axis of the opening in the base. The second reinforcing ribs can connect said side of the protective collar to the base. More precisely, the second reinforcing ribs can connect said side of the protective collar to a portion of the base from which the protective collar does not extend directly. Therefore, the stiffness and / or strength of the protective collar is increased, thereby enhancing its shielding capability. The degree of additional reinforcement and / or strengthening of the protective collar can be modified by adjusting the dimensions of the second reinforcing ribs, for example, by supporting the thickness and / or length of the protective collar.
[0027] According to a second aspect, a first vehicle component is provided, comprising a clamp according to a first aspect. A base and hooks are integrally formed with the first vehicle component. By providing such a first vehicle component, the first vehicle component can be attached to a second vehicle component including a pillar. The first vehicle component may be or includes cable conduits, ventilation ducts, covers, etc. The second vehicle component may be or includes a vehicle body, another cover, or other structural component of the vehicle. The pillar is permanently connected to the second vehicle component, for example, because the pillar is integrally formed with the second vehicle component by welding or screwing it to the second vehicle component. Each of at least two hooks of the clamp for the first vehicle component includes an engagement portion that engages with a side surface of the pillar by mechanical locking and / or by friction. An elastic force is generated due to the radial outward bending of the at least two hooks when the pillar is inserted into an opening in the base of the clamp, which biases the engagement portion of the at least two hooks against the side surface of the pillar. Thus, a mechanical connection is created between the first vehicle component and the second vehicle component. A release interface included in each of the at least two hooks can be actuated by a release tool. In doing so, at least two hooks separate from the post, releasing the mechanical lock and / or friction between the engagement and the post. Thus, the first vehicle component can be released from the second vehicle component without damaging either of the at least two hooks, and in particular without damaging any engagement of either of the at least two hooks.
[0028] According to a third aspect, an assembly is provided comprising a first vehicle component and a second vehicle component. The first vehicle component includes a clamp according to the first aspect. The second vehicle component includes a column having finned and / or threaded side surfaces. At least two hooks of the clamp engage the finned and / or threaded side surfaces of the column, such that the first vehicle component and the second vehicle component are connected to each other. Each of the at least two hooks of the clamp of the first vehicle component includes an engagement portion that engages with the side surface of the column by mechanical locking and / or friction. An elastic force is generated due to the radial outward bending of the at least two hooks when the column is inserted into an opening in the base of the clamp, which biases the engagement portion of the at least two hooks against the side surface of the column. Therefore, a reliable and stable mechanical connection is created between the first vehicle component and the second vehicle component. A release interface included in each of the at least two hooks can be actuated by a release tool. Upon doing so, the at least two hooks disengage from the column, i.e., releasing the mechanical locking and / or friction between the engagement portion and the column. Therefore, the first vehicle component can be released from the second vehicle component without damaging either of the two hooks, and in particular without damaging any engagement of either of the two hooks.
[0029] According to a fourth aspect, a method is provided for separating an assembly comprising a first vehicle component and a second vehicle component according to a third aspect. The method includes pushing a release tool against a thrust surface of a release interface of a clamp, wherein the release tool is pushed along the central axis of the opening. By pushing the release tool against the thrust surface, the flexible legs of at least two hooks of the clamp are bent radially outward relative to the central axis of the opening at the base of the clamp. This causes the engagement portion of the at least two hooks to move away from and separate from the finned and / or threaded side surfaces of a post attached to the second vehicle component. In doing so, the at least two hooks separate from the post, i.e., releasing the mechanical locking and / or friction between the engagement portion and the post. Therefore, the first vehicle component can be released from the second vehicle component without damaging either of the at least two hooks, and in particular without damaging any engagement portion of either of the at least two hooks.
[0030] It should be noted that the above examples can be combined with each other, regardless of the aspects involved. Therefore, the method can be combined with structural features of a fixture, a first vehicle component, or an assembly, and similarly, the fixture, the first vehicle component, or an assembly can be combined with the features described above regarding the method. Furthermore, the structural features of the fixture, the first vehicle component, or an assembly can be combined with each other.
[0031] These and other aspects of this disclosure will become apparent from the examples described below and will be illustrated with reference to the examples described below. Attached Figure Description
[0032] Examples of this disclosure will now be described with reference to the following figures.
[0033] Figure 1 A vehicle including components according to the present disclosure is shown, wherein the components include a first vehicle component and a second vehicle component according to the present disclosure, wherein the first vehicle component is a cable conduit. Figure 2 The following are shown: including a clamp according to the present disclosure Figure 1 A more detailed perspective view of the first vehicle component I. Figure 3 It shows along Figure 2 The image shows a cross-sectional view of the clamp and the second vehicle component, with the clamp comprising a column to which the clamp is to be connected. Figure 4 It shows the connected state. Figure 2 and Figure 3 clamps and Figure 3 The second vehicle component. Figure 5 A release tool is shown, which is pushed against. Figures 2 to 4The thrust surface of the release interface of the clamp is used to clamp the... Figure 3 and Figure 4 The second vehicle component is disconnected. Figure 6 The release tool is shown against the ground. Figures 2 to 5 The abutment portion of the clamp and the engagement edge of the clamp with Figures 3 to 5 The side surface of the pillar of the second vehicle component is separated, and Figure 7 It shows Figures 2 to 6 The clamp is in the position of Figures 3 to 6 The state of the second vehicle component's column being removed. Detailed Implementation
[0034] The accompanying drawings are merely schematic representations and are intended to illustrate this disclosure only. In principle, identical or equivalent elements have the same reference numerals.
[0035] Figure 1 Vehicle 10 is shown.
[0036] The vehicle 10 includes a body 12, an engine 14, a transmission 16, a front brake 18, and a rear brake 20.
[0037] The vehicle 10 also includes a control unit 22 for controlling vehicle dynamics while in motion.
[0038] For this purpose, the control unit 22 is communicatively connected to the engine 14, transmission 16, front brake 18 and rear brake 20 via cable harness 24.
[0039] The cable harness 24 is held in place by a cable conduit 26, which may be referred to as a first vehicle component 28. The cable conduit 26 is connected to the body 12 of the vehicle 10, which may be referred to as a second vehicle component 30.
[0040] The body 12 of the vehicle 10 includes two pillars 32 welded to the body 12 of the vehicle 10. The cable conduit 26 includes two clamps 34 integrally formed with the cable conduit 26. The connection between the cable conduit 26 and the body 12 of the vehicle 10 is established by the two clamps 34 engaging with the side surfaces 36 of the pillars 32.
[0041] Figure 2 A portion of the cable conduit 26, including one of the two clamps 34, is shown. This portion... Figure 1 The middle part is represented as detail I.
[0042] Since the two clamps 34 of the cable conduit 26 are identical, only one of them will be explained in detail below.
[0043] The clamp 34 includes a base 38. The base 38 may also be referred to as a substrate. In this example, the base 38 includes a circular opening 40. However, other shapes of the opening 40 in the base 38, such as a rectangular shape or an annular segment shape, especially a circular annular segment shape, are also possible.
[0044] The four hooks 42 of the clamp 34 extend in a direction away from the base 38. The four hooks 42 are arranged in a uniformly distributed manner around the periphery of the opening 40. In this example, this means that adjacent hooks 42 are arranged at the same angle of 90° relative to each other with respect to the central axis 44 of the opening 40. Furthermore, adjacent hooks 42 are arranged at the same distance from each other.
[0045] On the radially outer side relative to the central axis 44, each hook 42 includes a first reinforcing rib 46 that connects the back side of each hook 42 to the base 38. The bending stiffness of the hook 42 is increased due to the first reinforcing rib 46. This increase in bending stiffness can be adjusted by modifying the thickness of the first reinforcing rib 46. For the same purpose, the length of the back side of each hook 42 directly supported by the first reinforcing rib 46 can be modified.
[0046] The four hooks 42 are protected by a protective collar 48. The protective collar 48 extends away from the base 38 in the same direction of extension as the four hooks 42. In other words, the four hooks 42 and the protective collar 48 are arranged on the same side of the base 38. The height of the protective collar 48, measured along the direction of extension, is greater than the height of the four hooks 42 of the clamp 34, which is also measured along the direction of extension.
[0047] The protective collar 48 has a circular shape with a diameter greater than the furthest distance between any of the four hooks 42. The opening 40 in the base 38 and the circular protective collar 48 share the same central axis 44.
[0048] On the radially outer side relative to the central axis 44, the protective collar 48 includes four second reinforcing ribs 50 connecting the outer side of the protective collar 48 to the base 38. The strength and / or stiffness of the protective collar 48 is increased due to the second reinforcing ribs 50. This increase in strength and / or stiffness can be adjusted by modifying the thickness of the second reinforcing ribs 50. For the same purpose, the length of the outer side of the protective collar 48 directly supported by the second reinforcing ribs 50 can be modified. Again for the same purpose, the number of second reinforcing ribs 50 can be modified.
[0049] exist Figure 3 The upper part shows Figure 2 A cross-sectional view of fixture 34. Figure 3 At the bottom, the body 12 of the vehicle 10, including the column 32, is schematically shown. The clamp 34 and the body 12 of the vehicle 10 are not yet assembled together.
[0050] The column 32 includes a columnar base shape that is welded to the body 12 of the vehicle 10. The columnar surface of the base shape (i.e., the side surface 36 of the column 32) includes threads.
[0051] The opening 40 in the base 38 is configured to receive the post 32. However, the post 32 is not screwed into the opening 40. Instead, the post 32, including a diameter smaller than the circular opening 40 in the base, can pass through the opening 40 to reach the clamp 34, such that the threads on the side surface 36 of the post 32 engage with the clamp 34. This engagement state is... Figure 4 As shown in the image.
[0052] Each hook 42 of the clamp includes a leg 52. The leg 52 of the hook 42 is arranged between the periphery of the opening 40 and the engagement portion 54 of the hook 42. Compared with the unassembled state, the leg 52 of the hook 42 is bent radially outward relative to the central axis 44 due to the column 32 passing through the opening 40 and being received by the hook 42.
[0053] The engagement portion 54 of the hook 42 includes an engagement edge 56 that engages with the side surface 36 of the pillar 32, or more precisely, with its threads. In this example, the engagement edge 56 comprises a pointed triangular shape. The engagement edge 56 is pressed into a recess in the threads by an elastic force generated by the radial outward bending of the leg 52 of the corresponding hook 42, which results from the corresponding hook 42 receiving the pillar 32. In other words, it can be said that the engagement portion 54 of the corresponding hook 42 is biased toward the side surface 36 of the pillar 32.
[0054] Each hook 42 of the clamp 34 also includes a release port 58 for separating the clamp 34 from the column 32.
[0055] The release port 58 includes a thrust surface 60 at the free end of the hook 42.
[0056] The thrust surface 60 is inclined relative to the central axis 44 of the opening 40. In this example, the thrust surface 60 is formed with a chamfer.
[0057] The surface normal 62 of the thrust surface is indicated by a solid arrow. It is assumed that the chamfered surface normal 62 has a unit length. Dashed arrows indicate the extension components of the surface normal 62 parallel to and perpendicular to the central axis 44. Therefore, the surface normal 62 of the thrust surface 60 includes an extension component 64 along the central axis 44 of the opening 40 and an extension component 66 perpendicular to the central axis 44 of the opening 40. Furthermore, the thrust surface 60 faces the central axis 44. Note that this is for the non-engaged state of the clamp 34 and the column 32 (see...). Figure 3 The engagement state of the clamp 34 and the column 32 (see) Figure 4 () is correct.
[0058] It should be noted that the thrust surface 60 is not necessarily straight, such as with a chamfer. The thrust surface 60 may also include a rounded edge (see [link to relevant documentation]). Figure 3 The dashed line in the image can be composed of different inclined sections and / or may include locking elements, such as protrusions or recesses.
[0059] The release interface 58 also includes a retaining surface 68 adjacent to the thrust surface 60.
[0060] The surface normal 70 of retaining surface 68 is indicated by a solid arrow. It is assumed that the surface normal 70 of retaining surface 68 has a unit length. The dashed arrows indicate the extension component 72 parallel to the central axis and the extension component 74 perpendicular to the central axis 44 of the surface normal. It can be observed that the extension component 74 perpendicular to the central axis 44 of the surface normal of the retaining surface is longer than the extension component 66 perpendicular to the central axis 44 of the surface normal of the thrust surface. In short, the retaining surface 68 has a smaller angle of inclination relative to the central axis 44 than the thrust surface 60. Note that this is for the non-engaged state of the clamp 34 and the cylinder 32 (see...). Figure 3 The engagement state of the clamp 34 and the column 32 (see) Figure 4 () is correct.
[0061] Relative to the centerline 44, the retaining surface 68 is arranged radially inward relative to the thrust surface 60. This means that the thrust surface 60 is arranged radially outward relative to the centerline 44 and the retaining surface 68. In short, the retaining surface 68 is arranged closer to the centerline 44 than the thrust surface 60.
[0062] In the following text, we will combine Figures 3 to 7 The example is used to explain the method for separating the components including the first vehicle component 28 and the second vehicle component 30.
[0063] Figure 3 The first vehicle component 28 (here, the cable conduit 26 including the clamp 34) is shown before it is assembled to the second vehicle component 30 (here: the body 12 of the vehicle 10 including the pillar 32).
[0064] exist Figure 4 The diagram shows a column 32 inserted into an opening 40 in the base 38 of a clamp 34, such that it is received by a hook 42 of the clamp 34. The engaging portion 54 of the hook 42 engages with the threaded side surface 36 of the column 32. Thus, an assembly 76 comprising a first vehicle component 28 and a second vehicle component 30 is formed. This means that in... Figure 4 In the middle, the first vehicle component 28 and the second vehicle component 30 are mechanically connected to each other.
[0065] exist Figure 5The diagram shows a method step S1 of pushing the release tool 78 against the thrust surface 60 of the release interface 58 of the clamp 34.
[0066] The release tool 78 is a cylindrical tool. It is conceivable that the release tool 78 is, for example, a pipe fitting, a hollow rod, or a socket of a torque wrench.
[0067] The outer diameter of the release tool 78 is greater than the distance between the relative holding surfaces 68 of the different hooks 42 of the clamp 34. Combined with the inclination of the thrust surface 60 relative to the central axis 44, as the release tool 78 moves along the central axis 44 in the direction toward the thrust surface 60, the legs 52 of the hooks 42 bend radially outward relative to the central axis 44.
[0068] Due to the bending, the distance between the opposing engagement portions 54 of the different hook portions 42 widens. Therefore, the engagement edge 56 of the corresponding engagement portion 54 disengages from the thread on the side surface 36 of the column 32. This state occurs... Figure 6 As shown in the image.
[0069] Figure 6 It is also shown that the release tool 78 can be moved further down toward the body 12 of the vehicle 10 until it reaches the abutment surface 80 of the release port 58. The abutment surface 80 prevents the release tool 78 from being pushed further along the retaining surface 68.
[0070] In this abutting state, the release tool 78 is held in place between the retaining surfaces 68 of the opposing hooks 42 of the clamp 34. Due to the bending of the legs 52 of the hooks 42 caused by the release tool 78, an elastic force is applied to the outer surface of the release tool, causing the release tool to be clamped between the opposing retaining surfaces 68. This allows the operator to release the grip on the release tool 78 without the risk of the release tool 78 falling from the clamp 34.
[0071] Instead, the operator can focus on separating the first vehicle component 28 from the second vehicle component 30. This is in Figure 7 As shown, the clamp 34 is removed from the column 32 without damaging the clamp 34, in particular without damaging any hook 42, and further particularly without damaging any engagement portion 54 or engagement edge 56 of the hook portion 42 of the clamp 34.
[0072] After the clamp 34 is removed from the column 32, the release tool 78 can be removed from the clamp 34. Therefore, the hook 42 of the clamp 34 bends radially inward in an elastic manner to its initial position, as... Figure 3 As shown. Therefore, clamp 34 can also be used to connect the first vehicle component 28 to the second vehicle component 30 (see...). Figure 4 Furthermore, the reusable fixture 34 can be used... Figures 5 to 7The steps shown are to separate from the column 32 of the second vehicle component 30.
[0073] In summary, the same clamp 34 can be used to repeatedly establish a connection between the first vehicle component 28 and the second vehicle component 30, for example, before and after maintenance of the vehicle 10 that requires the temporary removal of the first vehicle component 28. This allows the clamp 34 to be integrally formed with the first vehicle component 28, i.e., the hook 42 and the base 38 are integrally formed with the first vehicle component 28.
[0074] It should be noted that although the clamp 34 has been explained in the above example in conjunction with the cable conduit 26 installed on the vehicle body 12, the use of the clamp 34 is not limited thereto.
[0075] As used herein, the phrase “at least one” in relation to a list of one or more entities should be understood to mean at least one entity selected from any one or more entities in the entity list, but not necessarily at least one of each entity specifically listed in the entity list, and does not exclude any combination of entities in the entity list. This definition also allows for the optional presence of entities other than those specifically identified in the entity list referred to by the phrase “at least one,” whether related to or unrelated to those specifically identified entities. Thus, as a non-limiting example, “at least one of A and B” (or equivalently, “at least one of A or B”, or equivalently, “at least one of A and / or B”) could in one example mean at least one (optionally including more than one) A, without B (and optionally including entities other than B); in another example, at least one (optionally including more than one) B, without A (and optionally including entities other than A); and in yet another example, at least one (optionally including more than one) A and at least one (optionally including more than one) B (and optionally including other entities). In other words, the phrases “at least one,” “one or more,” and “and / or” are open-ended expressions that are both connected and separate in operation. For example, each of the expressions “at least one of A, B, and C,” “at least one of A, B, or C,” “one or more of A, B, and C,” “one or more of A, B, or C,” and “A, B, and / or C” can mean a single A, a single B, a single C, A and B together, A and C together, B and C together, A, B, and C together, and optionally, any of the above combined with at least one other entity.
[0076] By studying the accompanying drawings, the disclosure, and the appended claims, those skilled in the art can understand and implement other variations of the disclosed examples in practice with respect to the claimed disclosure. In the claims, the word "comprising" does not exclude other elements or steps, and the indefinite articles "a" or "an" do not exclude multiple. A single processor or other unit can perform the function of several items or steps recited in the claims. The fact that certain measures are recited in mutually different dependent claims does not mean that a combination of these measures cannot be used advantageously. Computer programs can be stored / distributed on suitable media, such as optical storage media or solid-state media provided with or as part of other hardware, but can also be distributed in other forms, such as via the Internet or other wired or wireless telecommunications systems. Any reference numerals in the claims should not be construed as limiting the scope of the claims.
[0077] List of reference numerals 10 vehicles 12 Body 14 Engines 16. Transmission 18. Front brakes 20 Rear Brake 22 Control Unit 24 Cable harness 26 Cable conduits 28 First vehicle component 30 Second vehicle components 32 prisms 34 Fixtures 36 side surfaces 38 Base 40 Opening 42 Hook 44 Central Axis 46 First reinforcing rib 48 Protective collar 50 Second reinforcing rib 52 Legs 54 Joint 56 Joint edge 58 Release Interface 60 Thrust Surface 62. Surface normal of the thrust surface 64. The extension component of the surface normal of the thrust surface parallel to the central axis. 66. The perpendicular extension component of the surface normal of the thrust surface to the central axis. 68. Maintain surface 70. Maintain the surface normal. 72. Maintain the extension component of the surface normal parallel to the central axis. 74. Maintain the perpendicular extension component of the surface normal to the central axis. 76. An assembly including a first vehicle component and a second vehicle component. 78. Release Tool 80 contact surface
Claims
1. A clamp (34) for removably attaching a first vehicle component (28) to a second vehicle component (30), wherein, The second vehicle component (30) includes a column (32) having a finned and / or threaded side surface (36). The clamp (34) includes a base (38) having an opening (40) for receiving the column (32) and at least two hooks (42) arranged around the periphery of the opening (40). Each of the at least two hooks (42) includes a bendable leg (52) and a joint (54) for engaging the side surface (36) of the column (32). In this embodiment, the flexible leg (52) of each of the at least two hooks (42) is at least partially arranged between the periphery of the opening (40) and the corresponding engagement (54), such that each engagement (54) is configured to be biased toward the side surface (36) of the column (32) by bending the corresponding leg (52) toward the radially outward side of the opening (40). Each of the at least two hooks (42) includes a release port (58) for separating the hook (42) from the column (32) using a release tool (78), and Each of the release ports (58) includes a thrust surface (60) having a surface normal (62) having an extension component (64) along the central axis (44) of the opening (40) and an extension component (66) perpendicular to the central axis (44) of the opening (40).
2. The clamp (34) according to claim 1, wherein, The opening (40) of the base (38) has a substantially rectangular or oblong cross-section, or the opening (40) of the base (38) has a substantially circular cross-section.
3. The clamp (34) according to claim 1 or 2, wherein, The clamp (34) includes at least three hooks (42) arranged around the periphery of the opening (40).
4. The clamp (34) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein, The at least two hooks (42) are evenly distributed along the perimeter.
5. The clamp (34) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein, The release interface (58) further includes a holding surface (68) for holding the release tool (78), the holding surface (68) having a surface normal (70) having an extension component (74) perpendicular to the central axis (44).
6. The clamp (34) according to claim 5, wherein, The thrust surface (60) is arranged radially outward relative to the holding surface (68).
7. The clamp (34) according to claim 5 or 6, wherein, The release interface (58) includes an abutment surface (80) for abutting the release tool (78) when the release tool (78) is held by the retaining surface (68).
8. The clamp (34) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein, The joint (54) includes a joint edge (56) configured to engage the side surface (36) of the column (32).
9. The clamp (34) according to any one of the preceding claims further includes a first reinforcing rib (46) arranged at least partially on the radially outer side of at least one hook (42) and / or at least partially on the base (38).
10. The clamp (34) according to any one of the preceding claims further includes a protective collar (48) extending from the base (38) in an extension direction substantially parallel to the central axis (44), wherein, The protective collar (48) extends from the base (38) in the same direction as the at least two hooks (42) extend from the base (38), and The protective collar (48) is arranged radially outside the opening (40) in the base (38).
11. The clamp (34) according to claim 10, wherein, The height of the protective collar (48) is greater than the height of the at least two hooks (42), wherein the height of the protective collar (48) and the height of the at least two hooks (42) are measured relative to the base (38) and along a direction parallel to the central axis (44).
12. The clamp (34) according to any one of claims 10 or 11, wherein, The protective collar (48) includes one or more second reinforcing ribs (50).
13. A first vehicle component (28) comprising a clamp (34) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein, The base (38) and the hook (42) are integrally formed with the first vehicle component (28).
14. An assembly (76) comprising a first vehicle component (28) and a second vehicle component (30), wherein, The first vehicle component (28) includes a clamp (34) according to any one of claims 1 to 12. The second vehicle component (30) includes a column (32) having finned and / or threaded side surfaces (36). The at least two hooks (42) of the clamp (34) engage the finned and / or threaded side surface (36) of the column (32) so that the first vehicle component (28) and the second vehicle component (30) are connected to each other.
15. A method for separating an assembly (76) comprising a first vehicle component (28) and a second vehicle component (30) according to claim 14, the method comprising: The release tool (78) is pushed by the thrust surface (60) of the release port (58) of the clamp (34) (S1), wherein the release tool (78) is pushed along the central axis (44) of the opening (40).