Fastener and component arrangement with fastener and fastening method

Abstract

Fastening element (1) for the detachable, positive-locking connection of two components (60, 70) to each other, wherein the fastening element (1) has an elongated body (2) with a longitudinal axis (2a) and with a first and a second end region (3, 4) each with a free end (3a, 4a) and a shaft (5) arranged between both ends, wherein a first fastening area (8) for the detachable attachment of a first component (60) is provided at or adjacent to the first end region (3) and a second fastening area (9) for the attachment of a second component (70) is provided at or adjacent to the second end region (4), wherein the first fastening area (8) and / or the first end region (3a) of the body (2) has a head-shaped widening (7), wherein the first fastening area (8) of the fastening element (1) has a first and a second fastening section (10, 20),wherein the second fastening section (20) has an arcuately curved outer surface (21) which is suitable, when in contact with a corresponding contact surface (66) of a receptacle (65) of the first component (60), to form a pivot connection which enables the fastening element (1) to pivot relative to the first component (60) from a first pivot position (V1) to a second pivot position (V2), wherein the first fastening section (10) has fastening means (11) which are adapted or suitable to cooperate with corresponding fastening means on the receptacle (65) of the first component (60) while fixing the fastening element (1) in a fastening position on the first component (60), wherein the fastening position represents the second pivot position (V2) of the fastening element (1), and , wherein the first and second fastening sections (10, 20) are spaced apart from each other along the longitudinal axis (2a) of the body and are designed such that a holding area of ​​the first component (60) can engage at this distance to secure the fastening element (1) to it, wherein the second fastening section (20) of the first fastening area (8) has a second widening (23) and this second widening (23) is arranged facing the opposite end area (4) of the fastening element (1) in relation to the first fastening section (10), and wherein the second widening (23) has a greater radial extent from the longitudinal axis (2a) of the body than the first fastening section (10), characterized in that the head-shaped widening (7) forms the first fastening section (10).

Description

[0001] The invention relates to a fastening element for a detachable, positive-locking connection of two components to one another according to the preamble of claim 1. Furthermore, the invention relates to a method for a detachable, positive-locking connection of two components to one another using a fastening element or to a method for manufacturing a component arrangement with a fastening element.

[0002] Fasteners of this type, as well as component assemblies incorporating such fasteners, are used in a variety of applications, including in the automotive sector, for example, to secure a frame component or an air flap control to a mounting area of ​​the vehicle. Fasteners of this type are often bolt-like in design. For example, the positive locking mechanism of the bolt, used to secure it in the receptacle of a component, features at least several spring tongues with locking lugs projecting in the longitudinal direction of the bolt. These lugs engage an undercut in the first component to secure it. To release the connection between the two components, however, the ends of the spring tongues must be actuated from the surface of the first component facing away from the second component, for example, using a tool, to disengage the locking connection.In many applications, however, the reverse side of the first component, facing away from the second component, is difficult or impossible to access, making it impossible or cumbersome to undo the connection between the two components. Furthermore, fasteners are known that have a ball-shaped extension at one free end, which engages in a spherical socket-like recess on the first component, with the socket overlapping and engaging behind the ball-shaped extension. However, this connection has the disadvantage that the ball-shaped extension can be removed from the socket with the same force with which it is inserted, a problem that also applies to other similar positive-locking connections. Therefore, if a connection is desired in which the fastener can withstand high tensile forces, the positive-locking connection can only be formed with considerable force.Furthermore, the component to which the fastener is detachably attached must have sufficient mechanical stability or stiffness, which increases the design effort or material costs.

[0003] DE 10 2005 026 321 A1 describes a joint arrangement for a vehicle headlight with a spherical joint head held by a recessed joint seat. The joint head is held radially by a pair of flexible ribs that retain the joint head under tensile force. The joint head is inserted into the receptacle along its longitudinal axis.

[0004] US Patent 20200103026 A1 describes a pin-shaped connecting element with first and second flange-shaped mounting areas spaced axially apart from each other. A component receptacle with a flexible sleeve can be positioned between these mounting areas, allowing the assembled connecting element to pivot. The connecting element acts as a damping element to prevent rattling of a lid or similar item and has a fastening means for attachment to another component only at one end.

[0005] US 7 637 686 B2 represents further state of the art.

[0006] The invention is therefore based on the objective of providing a fastening element and a component arrangement with two components that can be connected or joined by the fastening element, wherein the fastening of the two components to each other by means of the fastening element can be formed and released in a simple manner and preferably without tools, and wherein the fastening connection can withstand very high forces in the longitudinal direction of the fastening element.

[0007] This problem is solved by a fastening element according to claim 1 and by a component arrangement with a first and a second component according to claim 13. Furthermore, the problem is solved by a method according to claim 23.

[0008] According to the invention, the first fastening section has fastening means which are adapted or suitable to cooperate with corresponding fastening means on the receiving of the first component, fixing the fastening element in its fastening position on the first component, wherein the fastening position represents a second pivoting position of the fastening element, and wherein - the first and second fastening sections are spaced apart from each other in the longitudinal direction of the body and are designed in such a way that a holding area of ​​the first component can engage in this space to secure the fastening element to it, - wherein the second fastening section of the first fastening area has a widening and this widening is arranged towards the opposite end area of ​​the fastening element in relation to the first fastening section, - wherein the widening has a greater radial extent from the longitudinal axis of the body than the first fastening section - and wherein the head-shaped widening forms the first fastening section.

[0009] The first pivot position can correspond in particular to the position of the fastening element inserted into the receptacle up to a stop, i.e., its insertion position. This area of ​​the second fastening section with a radially outer, arcuately curved outer surface preferably represents the outermost radially outer area of ​​this fastening section, this fastening area, or the fastening element as a whole, whereby this area is particularly advantageously arranged to form a pivot connection, wherein this area adjoins a recess or opening as part of the receptacle into which the fastening element is to be inserted to secure the components.The arcuate outer surface of the second fastening section can be guided, like a sliding bearing, against the contact area of ​​the first component during the pivoting movement, preferably with sliding contact against each other throughout the entire pivoting movement from the insertion position of the fastening element to its fixed position. Furthermore, the second fastening section, and in particular its arcuate outer surface, can form a stop that limits the insertion of the fastening element into the receptacle. The first and second fastening sections of the first mounting area of ​​the fastening element are each also referred to, for short, as "fastening section".

[0010] The first fastening area of ​​the fastener further comprises a first fastening section with fasteners that are adapted or suitable to interact with corresponding fasteners on the receptacle of the first component, fixing the fastener in its fastening position on the first component, wherein the fastening position represents a second pivot position of the fastener. These fasteners on the first component can, in particular, also be part of the component surface facing away from the second component, optionally arranged in a recess of the component surface. The component surface can be engaged by the first fastening section, or the component can be engaged from behind by the first fastening section, when the fastener is fixed in its fastening position on the component, which is particularly simple and versatile in design.If necessary, the mounting area of ​​the component for fixing the fastener in its pivot position, which corresponds to its mounting position, can also be located within the receptacle. The "fixing" of the fastener in its mounting position on the first component by the corresponding fasteners on the receptacle secures the fastener to the first component against any change in its longitudinal position and against any displacement from the first component. This allows the component connection using the fastener to withstand very high tensile forces.

[0011] Alternatively or additionally, the aforementioned "locking" of the fastener secures it in its mounting position against pivoting back towards its insertion position in the receptacle. This allows the assembled component connection to withstand very high tensile forces in the longitudinal direction of the fastener and makes it easy to operate.

[0012] The fastener can thus be attached to the first component very easily, namely by pivoting the fastener, which can be done without additional tools. Furthermore, this allows for blind mounting of the two components by coupling the fastener to the first component, since the fastener only needs to be inserted into the receptacle of the first component, for example, until the second mounting section of the fastener reaches the stop against the contact surface of the first component, and the pivoting of the fastener can be carried out without the user having to see it. Moreover, the connection of the fastener to the first component can be made without having to exert any compressive forces on the fastener in the longitudinal direction of its shaft.Furthermore, the fastener can be easily detached from the first component by pivoting it in the opposite direction to that which detaches the first fastening section from the first component. Thus, the fastener can be removed, and the two components disassembled, without having to access the fastener from the surface of the first component facing away from the second component.

[0013] The receiving area for the first component for the fastening element can be designed as a recess or blind hole, preferably as a perforation of the first component, which is particularly simple from a design perspective.

[0014] In the simplest case, the arc-shaped curved outer surface of the second widening can be designed as a section of a cylindrical surface or a partial circumferential surface of a cylinder.

[0015] The radially outer, arcuately curved surface of the second fastening section can bear against the corresponding contact surface of the first component, at least along a line, and may also have multiple line contact areas. Preferably, the arcuately curved surface of the second fastening section bears flat against the corresponding contact surface of the receptacle, which can also form a stop surface with respect to the insertion of the fastening element into the receptacle. This provides more precise guidance of the fastening element when it pivots from its insertion position in the receptacle of the first component (insertion position) towards its fastening position or into it.Furthermore, due to the flat surface area, a lower surface pressure is present on the first component under a given longitudinal pressure force of the fastening element, which facilitates the handling of the fastening element and, with repeated actuation during loosening and tightening of the fastening element from the first component, makes the fastening element more durable.

[0016] Preferably, a radially outward, arcuately curved outer surface of the second widening is provided on both sides of the shank of the fastening element. This enables precise guidance of the fastening element from a first pivoting position to a second pivoting position, with contact against the corresponding contact surface of the first component, for example, from the insertion position of the fastening element in the receptacle to its mounting position. Generally, within the scope of the invention, the pivoting of the fastening element from its insertion position to its mounting position can occur about the center of curvature of the arcuately curved outer surface of the second fastening section. The arc determining the curvature of the outer surface is preferably arranged in a plane containing the longitudinal axis of the shank. The arc is generally preferably designed as a circular arc segment.

[0017] Preferably, the first and second fastening sections of the first fastening area are spaced apart from each other in the longitudinal direction of the body. This allows both fastening sections to be fixed or secured in the area of ​​or on the first and second surfaces of the first component, preferably independently of each other on the top surface of their respective surfaces, which is particularly simple from a design perspective. This also enables secure fastening of the fastening element to the first component, even with a greater wall thickness. Furthermore, this creates a gap into which a retaining area of ​​the first component can engage to ensure secure fastening of the fastening element.

[0018] Preferably, the head-shaped widening of the fastener is designed as the first fastening section. The first fastening section is thus arranged at the end region or, preferably, at the free first end of the fastener. This allows the first fastening section to be inserted into the receptacle as the first section of the fastener, which facilitates handling the fastener during its installation. When the fastener is installed, the first fastening section can engage behind the first surface of the first component, optionally in a recess or indentation therein, which, from a design perspective, makes secure installation particularly simple. This also results in a compact component arrangement with the installed fastener.

[0019] Preferably, the first fastening section or the head-shaped widening at the first end region of the fastening element has an undercut spaced from the first end of the fastening element with respect to the longitudinal direction of the body. A retaining area of ​​the first component can engage in this undercut to secure the fastening element in its fastening position, preferably against a change in the fastening element's position in its longitudinal direction out of the receptacle and / or against a pivoting from the fastening position outwards towards its insertion position in the receptacle. This fastening method is both effective and capable of withstanding very high tensile forces in the longitudinal direction of the fastening element, while also being structurally simple.

[0020] Preferably, the second fastening section of the first fastening area has a widening (optionally as a second widening with respect to the head-shaped "first widening") which is arranged in relation to the first fastening section in the direction of the opposite end region of the fastening element, wherein the (optionally second) widening has a radially outer, arcuately curved outer surface, the curvature of which is arranged in a plane containing the longitudinal axis of the body, wherein, due to the curvature, the second fastening section preferably tapers towards the first end region of the fastening element, and wherein the second widening preferably has a greater radial extent from the longitudinal axis of the body than the first fastening section.

[0021] This results in a structurally simple and easy-to-handle design of the fastening element, enabling both the pivoting movement and the securing of the first component or a holding area of ​​the component between the first and second fastening sections. The arcuate outer surface can act as a sliding bearing during the pivoting movement and, due to its contact with the component, guide the fastening element as it pivots. The arcuate outer surface can also form a stop when the fastening element is inserted into the component receptacle.

[0022] The second fastening section preferably extends on both sides of the body of the fastening element.

[0023] Preferably, the arcuately curved outer surface (abbreviated: arc surface) of the second fastening section or its widening is designed as a spherical segment, i.e., as a flat section of a sphere's surface. This provides, firstly, a structurally simple way to ensure that the arc surface of the second fastening section makes full contact with the mounting surface of the receptacle, and secondly, enables precise guidance of the fastening element when it pivots from its insertion position to its fastening position on the first component. This flat contact is ensured by the spherical segment both when the fastening element pivots around the center point of the sphere corresponding to the segment and when the fastening element rotates around its longitudinal axis.By rotating the fastener around its body or shaft longitudinal axis, the fastener can be rotated relative to the first and / or second component, for example to rotate any tool engagement area on the fastener and / or with respect to any height adjustment of the two components relative to each other, if they are connected by the fastener and the fastener has a rotatably driven height adjustment mechanism, e.g. a screw thread interacting with the second component.

[0024] In general, the fastening element is preferably rotatable, and particularly preferably freely rotatable, and is arranged or positioned on the fastening area or receptacle of the first component, the fastening area of ​​the fastening element being preferably rotationally symmetrical for its fixation to the first component. Preferably, the fastening element is rotatable at least around its circumference, for example by ≥ 90° or ≥ 180° or ≥ 360° when arranged in the fastening position relative to the first component, preferably freely rotatable, i.e., rotatable by any angle.

[0025] Particularly preferably, the spherical partial surface of the spherical partial-surface extension of the second mounting section of the fastening element is designed as a full-circumference section of a spherical surface, particularly preferably as a spherical segment surface or as the surface of a spherical zone. Due to the full-circumference design of the spherical partial surface, the arcuate outer surface of the second extension can fully contact the mounting surface of the receptacle. This ensures that, even when the fastening element is pivoted, the arcuate surface of the extension makes contact with the mounting surface of the receptacle over the largest possible area, thus ensuring a precise fit of the fastening element to the receptacle, and consequently also providing precise guidance of the fastening element during its pivoting and / or rotation about its longitudinal axis.Furthermore, when the fastening element is subjected to pressure in the longitudinal direction of the shaft, there is a comparatively low surface pressure relative to the first component, resulting in a comparatively low mechanical stress on the contact areas of the fastening element at the mounting and / or of the first component in the area of ​​the mounting.

[0026] Preferably, the spherical widening of the second fastening section tapers in one direction from the second end of the fastening element towards its first end. The fastening element's seat on the first component's receptacle is thus designed as a ball joint, allowing the fastening element to pivot about the ball's center point. The receptacle on the first component is a cup-shaped recess for the second fastening section. The pivot point, or center point, of the spherical surface can lie outside the cross-sectional area of ​​the first component, resulting in a favorable geometry for handling and securing the fastening element and a structurally simple design.

[0027] Preferably, the second fastening section, preferably designed as a second widening with an arcuate outer surface, is separated from the first fastening section, preferably designed as a head-shaped widening, located at the first end region, by a constriction. Preferably, the widening of the fastening element with the arcuately curved outer surface is separated from the first fastening section or its head-shaped widening at the first end region of the fastening element by a constriction. This allows a retaining area for the first component to engage in the constriction between the arcuate outer surface and the first fastening section or its head-shaped widening, thus securing the fastening element against displacement in the longitudinal direction of the shaft in both directions.Furthermore, this allows the fastening element to be easily rotated around its longitudinal axis. The constriction preferably extends completely around the longitudinal axis of the body.

[0028] Preferably, the first and / or the second fastening section of the first fastening area of ​​the fastening element is / are designed to be rotationally symmetrical. This allows for easy rotation, in particular free rotation, of the fastening element in its fastening position on the first and / or second component about its longitudinal axis.

[0029] In a preferred embodiment, the fastening element with its second fastening area is integrally formed on the second component. This allows for particularly easy handling of the second component when attaching it to the first component. Furthermore, this also allows for particularly easy handling of the fastening element itself, since the fastening element can be inserted into the receptacle of the first component and moved into its fastening position on the second component, thus securing the fastening element to the first component.

[0030] According to a particularly preferred alternative, the second fastening element comprises fastening means for the detachable attachment of the fastening element to the second component. The fastening means can be designed such that the fastening element is positionally variable relative to the second component in the longitudinal direction of its shaft, and preferably the second component can be fixed in freely preselected positions in the longitudinal direction of its shaft on the body of the fastening element. This can also apply, in particular, when the fastening element is fixed in its fastening position on the first component.

[0031] This height adjustment of the second component on the fastening element allows, for example, the distance between the first and second components to be adjusted, especially if the first and second components are already fixed to each other by the fastening element.

[0032] Preferably, the second fastening element for securing the fastener to the second component is designed as a screw thread. For example, the end of the fastener's shank can be designed as a screw thread, thus forming a screw connection to the second component, which facilitates easy handling. In particular, this allows the distance between the first and second components to be adjusted by rotating the fastener about its longitudinal shank axis while the fastener is fixed to both components, which is especially advantageous in many applications.

[0033] Preferably, a tool engagement point is provided at the second end of the fastener, for example in the form of a recess at the free end of the fastener for tool engagement. The recess of the fastener can be designed for rotationally fixed coupling of the tool, for example as an internal hexagon or the like. This allows for easy rotation of the fastener in its mounting position on both components.

[0034] Preferably, the fastening element has a locking element at its first fastening area for securing it to the first component. In the fastening element's fastening position, this locking element interacts with a corresponding locking element on the first component. This provides additional security against the fastening element being released from its fastening position by pivoting towards its insertion position in the receptacle. The locking connection can also be designed as a snap-fit ​​connection. Alternatively, less preferably, the fastening element can also be secured in its fastening position by frictional engagement with the first component, e.g., by a clamping fit. To form the locking, snap-fit, or clamping connection, the holding area of ​​the first component can be, for example,also engage a limiting edge at the end of the recording, an undercut at the first mounting area of ​​the fastener, which is particularly easy to construct.

[0035] If the receptacle is designed as a perforation in the first component, the limiting edge can, in particular, define the perforation at its end. If necessary, locking, snap-in, or clamping means for securing the fastener in its mounting position can also be provided on the second mounting area and the adjacent area of ​​the first component, e.g., in the area of ​​the receptacle. Alternatively or additionally, at least a projection or recess can be arranged on the first and / or second mounting section to secure the fastener against rotation in conjunction with corresponding means on the first component.

[0036] The fastening element allows a component assembly to be created with a first and a second component as well as with a fastening element according to the invention. In the component assembly, the two components are detachably and positively locked to one another by means of the fastening element, or can be fixed in place by means of the fastening element.

[0037] In the fastening position, the first component has a first surface facing away from the second component and a second surface facing the second component. A receptacle for the fastening element is provided on the second surface of the first component, and the fastening element engaging in the receptacle can be fixed or secured within it by its first fastening area. Preferably, the receptacle is formed as a continuous opening from the first to the second surface of the component.The first component has a contact surface for the second mounting section of the first mounting area of ​​the fastener to form a pivot connection with it, wherein the pivot connection allows the fastener arranged in the receptacle to pivot relative to the first component from a first pivot position (in particular its insertion position into the receptacle) to a second pivot position in which the fastener is arranged in its mounting position on the first component. The first component has fastening means which interact with the fastening means of the fastener, preferably those of the first mounting section, thereby securing the fastener in the receptacle.The cooperating fastening means are designed to secure the fastening element against displacement in its longitudinal direction out of the receptacle and / or to secure it against pivoting from the fastening position towards the insertion position.

[0038] This allows the fastening element to be inserted into the receptacle at an angle between its longitudinal axis and the longitudinal axis of the receptacle of the first component (insertion position) and then subsequently, by pivoting its longitudinal axis towards the receptacle axis, to be moved into its fastening position on the first component. In this fastening position, a retaining area of ​​the first component can be arranged on or in its receptacle and preferably engages an undercut of the first fastening section, in particular an undercut of the head-shaped first widening of the fastening element at its first end region, in order to secure the fastening element in its fastening position against displacement from the first component in the longitudinal direction of the shaft and / or against pivoting.This allows for easy attachment of the fastener to the first component, and, thanks to the undercut design of the fastener, it can withstand very high tensile forces. Furthermore, this makes it particularly easy to insert the fastener into the receptacle of the first component and to move it into its mounting position on the first component, even when the fastener is already attached to the second component. This makes blind mounting of the second component to the first component especially easy.

[0039] All statements regarding the fastening element also apply to the component arrangement with the fastening element.

[0040] The first component is therefore preferably fixed to the fastening element in such a way that the first fastening section of the first fastening area is fixed in the area or on the first component surface and that the second fastening section of the first fastening area is fixed in the area or on the second component surface.

[0041] Particularly preferably, the fastening element is arranged in its fastening position on the first component such that its shank longitudinal axis is coaxial with the longitudinal axis of the first component's mounting. The fastening element is then generally arranged perpendicular to the first component or its first surface, which is advantageous for many applications.

[0042] Preferably, the contact surface of the receptacle on the first component has the same curvature as the corresponding arcuate outer surface (arc surface) of the second mounting section of the first mounting area of ​​the fastening element, each with a different direction of curvature. The arc surface of the second mounting section is preferably curved outwards, i.e., concave, and the corresponding contact surface of the receptacle is generally preferably curved inwards, i.e., convex. The contact surface and the arc surface can thus preferably be laid flat against each other.

[0043] The contact area of ​​the receptacle for the first component for the fastening element, in particular the second fastening section of the first fastening area, is preferably designed as a spherical surface. The spherical surface preferably extends by ≥ 30°, ≥ 90°, or ≥ 180° around the longitudinal axis of the receptacle, which is arranged coaxially with the longitudinal axis of the fastening element when fixed in its fastening position, preferably completely around it. This allows for rotation, or in particular, free rotation, of the fastening element. Furthermore, the fastening element does not need to be rotated around its longitudinal axis to be inserted into the receptacle and subsequently fixed within it.The curvature of this spherical surface of the receptacle preferably corresponds to the curvature of the arcuate outer surface of the second widening of the fastening element, which is particularly preferably also designed as a spherical surface. This ensures a particularly good fit of the fastening element to the first component, both when the fastening element is pivoted into its fastening position and when it is fixed in its fastening position.

[0044] The fastening section of the fastener and the receiver of the first component interact in the manner of a ball joint connection when the fastener is pivoted.

[0045] Preferably, the fastener, in its installed position, forms a force-fit and / or positive-locking connection with the first component. A positive-locking connection is preferred, as it facilitates rotation of the fixed fastener. In particular, the connection can be a snap-fit ​​or detent connection. This ensures that the fastener is particularly secure against loosening in its installed position on the first component. The snap-fit ​​or detent connection can be designed, for example, by inserting the holding area of ​​the first component's receptacle into an undercut of the first fastening section, especially the head-shaped widening of the fastener, or into the constriction or the space between the first and second widenings of the fastener. This is particularly simple in design and provides reliable locking.The holding area of ​​the first component can be, in particular, its edge that defines the receptacle. In this area, for example, a locking projection extending longitudinally from the receptacle can be provided, which can engage in a locking recess of the fastener or its first fastening section. Alternatively, however, a frictional or clamping fit can be achieved by engaging the holding area of ​​the first component with the undercut of the head-shaped widening or constriction of the fastener. The frictional and / or positive locking connection can also be formed between the first component and the second fastening section of the fastener.

[0046] If necessary, the force-fit and / or form-fit connection can also be made between the first component and the second fastening section of the fastener or a section of the fastener between the first and the second fastening section, which secures the fastener against pivoting in its fastening position.

[0047] Preferably, the receptacle of the first component has a recess arranged on the second component surface, into which, in the fastening position of the fastener, the second fastening section of the first fastening area of ​​the fastener engages, preferably resting against the boundary surface of the recess. This makes the second fastening section particularly simple and visible to the user from the insertion side into the receptacle. Preferably, the recess has a spherical surface that can be applied flatly to, or rests against, the second fastening section of the first fastening area of ​​the fastener, resulting in a structurally simple and easy-to-handle embodiment.

[0048] The receptacle preferably has a channel-shaped section with a longitudinal axis into which, or through which, the fastening section of the first fastening area, or the first fastening section itself, which is closest to the free first end of the fastening element, can be inserted in order to move the fastening element into its insertion position until it is in its intended position with respect to the insertion depth into the receptacle, preferably coming to rest against a stop that limits the insertion depth, and / or to move the fastening element into its fastening position. The stop is preferably arranged on the surface of the first component facing the second component, particularly in the form of a recess on this surface.Preferably, the longitudinal axis of the channel-shaped section is arranged at an angle to the longitudinal axis of the receptacle and / or to the longitudinal axis of the fastener in its fastening position on the first component. The channel-shaped section thus defines the joining angle at which the fastener is to be inserted, or can be inserted, into the receptacle to form the fastening, which significantly simplifies handling. The joining angle is therefore preferably arranged at an angle to the longitudinal axis of the receptacle and / or to the longitudinal axis of the fastener in its fastening position on the first component.

[0049] The channel-shaped section can be adapted to the cross-sectional shape of the first fastening section; preferably, it is cylindrical over a partial circumference, e.g., by ≥ 120° or ≤ 240°, preferably by approximately 180°. Due to the inclined channel-shaped section, the receiving area is thus designed to widen conically over a partial circumference, preferably as defined above, or at least over a cross-section, with a conical widening from the second component surface to the first component surface. The channel-shaped section preferably extends only over a portion of the thickness of the first component in its direction from the first to the wider surface and can open into the recess on the second component surface on the side facing the second surface.

[0050] Furthermore, this design also simplifies the pivot angle, at least partially or completely, at which the fastening element is to be pivoted into its mounting position. The channel-shaped section preferably also forms a guide for inserting the fastening element into the receptacle, preferably until it reaches its target position with respect to the insertion depth into the receptacle, which significantly simplifies handling. The fastening element, preferably its first mounting section, can be guided with minimal lateral play or practically without play within the channel-shaped section when it is arranged, into its first pivot position and / or up to the stop during the insertion process.

[0051] Preferably, the longitudinal axis of the channel-shaped section, and thus the direction for inserting the fastening element into the component receptacle, forms an angle of ≥ 2° and / or ≤ 25° with the longitudinal direction of the receptacle, preferably ≥ 3° and / or ≤ 15°, and particularly preferably approximately 4° to 10°. Within the scope of the invention, the longitudinal direction of the receptacle generally corresponds to the longitudinal axis of the fastening element in its mounting position or is arranged coaxially to it. This allows the fastening element to be inserted into the receptacle of the first component in a direction that is not too oblique relative to the perpendicular of the first component, so that the width of the second component is practically unrestricted. The width should extend to the same plane in which the pivoting of the fastening element occurs when it is moved into its mounting position.On the other hand, the swivel angle for transferring the fastener from its insertion position to its mounting position in the receptacle of the first component is sufficiently large, so that the holding area of ​​the receptacle can engage far enough behind the head-shaped widening of the fastener to ensure a secure fit of the fastener in its mounting position.

[0052] Preferably, when the fastening element is arranged in its mounting position on the first and second components, it is rotatable about the longitudinal axis of the body relative to the first and / or second component. The rotatability can be ≥ 30° or ≥ 90°, preferably ≥ 180°, and particularly freely rotatable, i.e., rotatable through any angular position. During rotation, the fastening element remains continuously fixed in its mounting position on the first and / or second component.

[0053] Preferably, when the fastening element is arranged in its fastening position, the first fastening section of the first fastening area of ​​the fastening element, preferably in the form of a head-shaped widening of the fastening element, engages behind the first component on or in the area of ​​the first surface of the same.

[0054] Preferably, the first and second components are connected to each other by several fastening elements according to the invention, wherein the several fastening elements, as well as the corresponding receptacles of the first component and / or fastening areas of the second component for the fastening element, can each be identical in design. Preferably, the several fastening elements are arranged in a line or in a straight line to each other. To fix the two components to each other, several or all of the provided fastening elements can first be fastened to the second component.The second component is then positioned on the first component in such a way that several or all of the fasteners are arranged in the corresponding receptacles of the first component. By changing the relative position of the two components, several or all of the fasteners are simultaneously inserted into the corresponding receptacles of the first component. The fasteners can then be moved into their stop position on the respective receptacles of the first component. The second component can then be pivoted relative to the first component, so that the fasteners are simultaneously moved into their respective mounting positions on the first component.

[0055] The component connection with the fastening element according to the invention can be designed in such a way that the two components fixed to each other are still positionally variable relative to each other, for example, rotatable or pivotable about the longitudinal axis of the fastening element.

[0056] The invention further comprises a method for fastening a first component to a second component using one or more fastening elements according to the invention, and / or a method for manufacturing a component arrangement of two components with at least one or more fastening elements according to claims 13 to 22, wherein the fastening element(s) are particularly preferably designed according to the invention. Reference is made to the description of the fastening element and / or the component arrangement according to the invention and their respective handling within the scope of the invention. In a first method step, the fastening element is pre-assembled or fastened to the second component with its second fastening area, and then, in a second step, the fastening element pre-assembled or fastened to the second component is fastened to the first component with its first fastening area.

[0057] The invention is described by way of example with reference to an embodiment and explained with reference to the figures. All features of the embodiment are hereby disclosed independently of one another generally within the scope of the invention. The figures show: Fig. 1: a perspective view of a fastening element according to the invention, Fig. 2: a component arrangement with two components and a fastening element according to the invention connecting them, Fig. 3: A perspective view of the mounting of the first component for the fastening element according to the invention ( Fig. 3A) and in schematic representation in top view ( Fig. 3B), Fig. 4: a cross-sectional view of the recording after Fig. 3, Fig. 5: Cross-sectional views of the first and second components with the fastening element attached to the second component at various successive stages of fixing the components to each other using the fastening element ( Fig. 5A to Fig. 5F), Fig. 6: a component arrangement with two fastening elements according to the invention.

[0058] The Fig. Figures 1-5 show a fastening element 1 according to the invention or a component arrangement 50 with a first component 60 and a second component 70, which are positively and releasably connected to each other by means of the fastening element 1.

[0059] The fastening element 1 has an elongated body 2 with a longitudinal axis 2a, comprising a first end region 3 and a first end 3a, as well as a second end region 4 opposite the first end region 3 and having a second free end 4a. The two body end regions or ends here also represent the end regions or ends of the fastening element. Embodiments relating to the body end region or end can, in general, within the scope of the invention, also refer to the corresponding end regions or ends of the fastening element. The body 2 has a shaft 5 with a shaft longitudinal axis 5a, which here runs coaxially to the body longitudinal axis 2a.A first fastening area 8 of the fastening element 1 for the detachable attachment of a first component 60 is provided at or adjacent to the first end region 3, and a second fastening area 9 for the attachment of a second component 70 is provided at or adjacent to the second end region 4. One end region of the body, here the first end region 3, and possibly also the first fastening area 8, has a head-shaped widening 7.

[0060] The first fastening area 8 of the fastening element 1 has a first and a second fastening section 10, 20, wherein the second fastening section 20 has an arcuately curved outer surface 21 which is suitable, when in contact with a corresponding contact surface 66 of a receptacle 65 of the first component 60 for the fastening element 1, to form a pivot connection which allows the fastening element 1 to pivot relative to the first component from a first pivot position V1 to a second pivot position V2 ( Fig. 5d, Fig. 5f) enables. The first pivoting position V1 corresponds to the insertion position of the fastening element into the receptacle until it reaches the stop against the contact surface 66, the second pivoting position V2 to the fastening position of the fastening element on the first component.

[0061] The first fastening section 10 has fastening means 11 which are adapted or suitable to interact with corresponding fastening means 67 on the receptacle 65 of the first component, fixing the fastening element 1 in its fastening position V2 on the first component 60, wherein the fastening position represents a second pivot position V2 of the fastening element. The first and second fastening sections 10, 20 of the first fastening area 8 are spaced apart from each other in the longitudinal direction of the body. The head-shaped extension 7 forms the first fastening section 10. The first fastening section 10, or the head-shaped extension 7 at the first end region 3 of the fastening element, has an undercut 13 spaced apart from the first end 3a of the fastening element with respect to the longitudinal direction of the body. The head-shaped extension 7, orThe first end section 3 tapers conically towards the end 3 in the manner of a search tip.

[0062] The second fastening section 20 of the first fastening area has a second widening 23, which can represent a second widening with respect to the head-shaped widening 7. The second widening 23 is arranged facing the opposite end region 4 of the fastening element with respect to the first fastening section 10. The second widening 23 has a radially outward, arcuately curved outer surface 24, the curvature of which is arranged in a plane containing the longitudinal axis 2a of the body. Due to the curvature, the (second) widening 23 tapers towards the first end region 3 or the first end 3a of the fastening element. The second widening 23 has a greater radial extent from the longitudinal axis 2a of the body than the first fastening section 10.The arc-shaped curved outer surface 24 of the second widening 23 is designed as a spherical sub-surface, more precisely as a full-circumference section of a spherical surface which fully circumferentially around the longitudinal axis 2a of the body.

[0063] The second fastening section 20, preferably in the form of a (possibly second) widening 23 with an arcuate outer surface 24, is separated from the first fastening section 10 arranged at the first end region 3 by a constriction 27, which is designed as a full-circumference constriction with respect to the longitudinal axis 2a of the body.

[0064] The constriction 27 can form the undercut 13, or the undercut 13 can limit the constriction 27.

[0065] According to one embodiment, the second fastening area 9 of the fastening element can be integrally formed on the second component 70 (not shown). According to a preferred embodiment, the second fastening area 9 of the fastening element 1 has fastening means 35 for detachable fastening to the second component, which are designed here as screw threads and can interact with a corresponding threaded opening 73 of the second component 70.

[0066] The second end 4 of the fastening element or body and / or the outer circumference of the extension with an arcuate outer surface is designed as a tool engagement area 38, here as a recess of the second end 4 or as the outer surface or outer hexagon of the extension. This allows the fastening element, fixed to both components 60, 70 (or possibly also to only one component 60, 70), to be rotated about its longitudinal axis 1a. The distance A ( Fig. 2) The distance between the first and second components 60,70 is adjustable by rotating the fastening element about its longitudinal axis (see Fig. 2).

[0067] The Fig. Figures 2-6 show a component arrangement with a first and second component 60, 70 and with a fastening element 1 according to Fig. 1, wherein the two components 60, 70 can be detachably and positively locked or fixed to one another by means of the fastening element. In the fastening position of the fastening element ( Fig. 2, Fig. 5e) According to the pivot position V2, the first component 60 has a first surface 60a facing away from the second component and a second surface 60b facing the second component. A receptacle 65 for the fastening element 1 is provided on the second surface 60b of the first component. The fastening element 1, which engages in the receptacle 65, can be fixed in the receptacle 65 with its first fastening area 8 or is fixed in the receptacle 65. The first component 60 has a contact surface 66 for the second fastening section 11 of the first fastening area 8 of the fastening element to form a pivot connection with it. The pivot connection allows the fastening element 1 arranged in the receptacle 65 to pivot relative to the first component 60 from a first pivot position V1 to a second pivot position V2, in which the fastening element is arranged in its fastening position on the first component.The first component 60 has fastening means 67 which interact with the fastening means 7, 10 of the first fastening section, securing the fastening element in the receptacle. This interaction secures the fastening element against displacement in its longitudinal direction from the receptacle 65 towards the second component and simultaneously against pivoting from its fastening position V2 towards its insertion or pivoting position V1. When the fastening element is in its fastening position, the first fastening section of the first fastening area of ​​the fastening element thus engages the first component at or in the area of ​​its first surface.

[0068] The receptacle 65 has a recess 68 on the surface 60b of the first component facing the second component 70, into which the fastening section 20 engages when the fastening element is in place. The receptacle 65 has a spherical surface area 69 against which the second fastening section 20 of the first fastening area 8 of the fastening element rests in its fastening position, here formed as a recess 68. In the insertion position of the fastening element in the receptacle, the recess 68 or the area 69 forms a stop that limits the insertion depth of the fastening element. The spherical surface of the recess can thus be applied flat against the second fastening section of the first fastening area of ​​the fastening element, or rather, rests flat against it in the fastening position of the fastening element.

[0069] The receptacle 62 of the first component 60 for the fastening element 1 is designed here as a component opening ( Fig. 3-5), however, this may also represent a blind hole.

[0070] The receptacle 65 has an insertion area 65a for the first end region 3 of the fastening element. On the second surface 62 of the first component 60, facing the second component 70, the receptacle 65 is formed with a recess or trough 68 in the shape of a spherical segment, which extends completely around the receptacle and thus forms a spherical socket. The spherical segment forms a contact area of ​​the first component for the second fastening section 20 or the second widening of the fastening element, which also has the shape of a spherical segment, here a spherical segment or a spherical zone. The spherical segment 68a is also designed as a spherical segment surface or surface of a spherical zone. The trough with its non-linear cross-section simultaneously serves as an insertion aid so that the end of the fastening element finds the channel-shaped section.

[0071] The receptacle 65 further comprises a channel-shaped section 69 with a longitudinal axis 69a, wherein the channel-shaped section 69 has the form of a cylindrical surface over a partial circumferential region, here at least by 180°. The longitudinal axis 69a of the section 69, or the cylinder axis, is arranged at an angle W to the longitudinal axis 65a of the receptacle 65a, here at an angle of approximately 7°. The longitudinal axis of the receptacle 65a is perpendicular to the main plane of the first component and / or its surfaces, or, in the mounting position of the fastening element, parallel or coaxial to its longitudinal axis 1a.The angle W between the longitudinal axis 69a and the longitudinal axis 65a of the receptacle defines the insertion angle, i.e., the angle at which the fastening element is to be inserted into the receptacle relative to the longitudinal axis of the receptacle, preferably until the fastening element 1 comes to rest against the first component 60. In this case, the ball-head-like surface, or more generally, the radially outer, arcuately curved outer surface of the second fastening section or the second widening, with its spherical recess, comes into contact with the second surface of the first component, thus forming a kind of spherical socket. The spherical surface of the second fastening section extends completely around it and is therefore designed in the manner of a ball joint or a spherical segment thereof.

[0072] As especially from Fig. As can be seen in Figure 5B, the diameter of the channel-shaped section 69 corresponds to the outer diameter of the first fastening section 10 or the head-shaped first widening 7 of the fastening element, so that this widening can pass through the cylindrical section in the receptacle, preferably with only slight play or practically without play. In the stop position of the fastening element in the receptacle on the first component, the fastening element can then be pivoted relative to the first component, more precisely about the center point of the spherical second fastening section.

[0073] The fastening element 1 is fixed in its fastening position against a pivoting movement by fastening means 67 provided on the first component, here by engagement of the limiting edge 65a of the receptacle in the undercut 13 or the constriction 27, whereby a clamping connection, preferably a snap connection, is formed.

[0074] Fig. Figure 6 shows a component arrangement with two fastening elements 1 pre-mounted on the second component 70. By appropriately arranging and moving the second component 70 relative to the first component 60, the two fastening elements 1 can be simultaneously positioned and inserted into the receptacles of the first component and then, by subsequently pivoting the second component 70, moved into their fastening position on the first component 60, whereby accordingly Fig.Reference is made to section 5. The two or more fastening elements are preferably arranged in a straight line relative to each other.

[0075] According to the exemplary embodiment, a method for the detachable, positive-locking connection of two components using a fastening element (1) according to the invention is thus also provided, as well as a method for producing a component arrangement using a fastening element, in particular a fastening element according to the invention. According to each method, in a first step the fastening element (1) is pre-assembled or attached to the second component (70) with its second fastening area (9), and then in a second step the fastening element (1) pre-assembled or attached to the second component (70) is attached to the first component (60) with its first fastening area (8) in order to connect the two components or to produce the component arrangement.

Claims

[1] Fastening element (1) for detachably, positively locking the connection of two components (60, 70) to each other, wherein the fastening element (1) has an elongated body (2) with a longitudinal axis (2a) and with a first and a second end region (3, 4) each having a free end (3a, 4a) and a shaft (5) arranged between both ends, wherein a first fastening area (8) for detachably securing a first component (60) is provided at or adjacent to the first end region (3) and a second fastening area (9) for securing a second component (70) is provided at or adjacent to the second end region (4), wherein the first fastening area (8) and / or the first end region (3a) of the body (2) has a head-shaped widening (7), wherein the first fastening area (8) of the fastening element (1) has a first and a second fastening section (10, 20),wherein the second fastening section (20) has an arcuately curved outer surface (21) which, when in contact with a corresponding contact surface (66) of a receptacle (65) of the first component (60), is suitable for forming a pivot connection which allows the fastening element (1) to pivot relative to the first component (60) from a first pivot position (V1) to a second pivot position (V2), wherein the first fastening section (10) has fastening means (11) which are adapted or suitable for interacting with corresponding fastening means on the receptacle (65) of the first component (60) while fixing the fastening element (1) in a fastening position on the first component (60), wherein the fastening position represents the second pivot position (V2) of the fastening element (1), and, wherein the first and second fastening sections (10, 20) are spaced apart from each other along the longitudinal axis (2a) of the body and are designed such that a holding area of ​​the first component (60) can engage at this distance to secure the fastening element (1) to it, wherein the second fastening section (20) of the first fastening area (8) has a second widening (23) and this second widening (23) is arranged facing the opposite end area (4) of the fastening element (1) in relation to the first fastening section (10), and wherein the second widening (23) has a greater radial extent from the longitudinal axis (2a) of the body than the first fastening section (10), characterized by , that the head-shaped widening (7) forms the first fastening section (10). [2] Fastening element (1) according to claim 1, characterized by, that the first fastening section (10) or the head-shaped widening (7) at the first end region (3) of the fastening element (1) has an undercut (13) spaced apart from the first end (3a) of the fastening element (1) with respect to the longitudinal axis (2a) of the body. [3] Fastening element (1) according to one of claims 1 or 2, characterized by , that the second widening (23) has a radially outer, arc-shaped curved outer surface (24) whose curvature is arranged in a plane containing the longitudinal axis (2a) of the body, and that due to the curvature the second widening (23) tapers towards the first end region (3) or the first end (3a) of the fastening element (1). [4] Fastening element (1) according to claim 3, characterized by , that the arc-shaped curved outer surface (24) of the second widening (23) is designed as a spherical subsurface. [5] Fastening element (1) according to claim 4, characterized by, that the spherical partial surface of the second widening (23) is formed as a full-circumference section of a spherical surface which fully circumferentially around the longitudinal axis (2a) of the body. [6] Fastening element (1) according to any one of claims 1-5, characterized by , that the second fastening section (20) is separated from the first fastening section (10) arranged at the first end region (3a) by a constriction (27). [7] Fastening element (1) according to claim 6, characterized by , that the constriction (27) is formed as a constriction that extends all the way around the longitudinal axis (2a) of the body. [8] Fastening element (1) according to any one of claims 1-7, characterized by , that the first and / or the second fastening section (10, 20) of the first fastening area (8) is / are rotationally symmetric. [9] Fastening element (1) according to any one of claims 1-8, characterized by, that the second fastening area (9) of the fastening element (1) is integrally formed on the second component (70). [10] Fastening element (1) according to any one of claims 1-9, characterized by , that the second fastening area (9) of the fastening element (1) has second fastening means (35) for detachable fastening to the second component (70). [11] Fastening element (1) according to claim 10, characterized by , that the second fastening means (35) of the fastening element (1) are designed as screw threads for fixing to the second component (70). [12] Fastening element (1) according to any one of claims 1-11, characterized by , that the second end (4) of the fastening element (1) and / or the outer circumference of the second widening (23) is designed with the arcuately curved outer surface (21) as a tool engagement area. [13] Component arrangement (50) comprising a first and second component (60, 70) and a fastening element (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 12, wherein the two components (60, 70) are detachably and positively lockable or fixed to one another by means of the fastening element (1), wherein in the fastening position of the fastening element (1) the first component (60) has a first surface facing away from the second component (70) and a second surface facing the second component (70), wherein the receptacle (65) for the fastening element (1) is provided on the second surface of the first component (60) and wherein the fastening element (1) engaging in the receptacle (65) can be fixed or fixed with its first fastening area (8) in the area of ​​the receptacle (65),wherein the first component (60) has a contact surface for the second fastening section (20) of the first fastening area (8) of the fastening element (1) to form a pivot connection with it, and the pivot connection enables the fastening element (1) arranged in the receptacle (65) to pivot relative to the first component (60) from a first pivot position (V1) to the second pivot position (V2), in which the fastening element (1) is arranged in its fastening position on the first component (70), and wherein the first component (70) has fastening means which cooperate with the fastening means (11) of the first fastening section (10) while fixing the fastening element (1) in the receptacle (65), , characterized by, that the receptacle (65) has a channel-shaped section (69) with a longitudinal axis (69a) into which or through which the fastening section (10) of the first fastening area (8) of the fastening element that is nearest to the free first end (3) of the fastening element (1) can be inserted in order to transfer the fastening element (1) into its fastening position, and that the longitudinal axis (69a) of the channel-shaped section (69) is arranged at an angle W oblique to the longitudinal axis of the receptacle (65) and / or to the longitudinal axis of the fastening element (1) in its fastening position on the first component. [14] Component arrangement (50) according to claim 13 , characterized by , that the receptacle (65) on the surface of the first component (60) facing the second component (70) has a region designed as a spherical part surface, against which the second fastening section (20) of the first fastening area (8) of the fastening element (1) rests. [15] Component arrangement (50) according to one of claims 13 or 14, characterized by , that the receiving (65) of the first component (60) has a recess (68) arranged on the second component surface, in which, in the fastening position of the fastening element (1), the second fastening section (20) of the first fastening area (8) of the fastening element (1) engages. [16] Component arrangement (50) according to claim 15, characterized by , that the recess (68) has a spherical surface which can be applied to or is in contact with the second fastening section (20) of the first fastening area (8) of the fastening element (1). [17] Component arrangement (50) according to one of claims 13-16, characterized by , that the longitudinal axis (69a) of the channel-shaped section (69) and thus the direction for introducing the fastening element (1) into the receptacle (65) to the longitudinal direction of the receptacle (65) includes an angle of ≥ 2° or ≤ 25°. [18] Component arrangement (50) according to one of claims 13-17, characterized by , that when the fastening element (1) is arranged in its fastening position, the first fastening section (10) of the first fastening area (8) of the fastening element (1) engages the first component (60) on or in the area of ​​the first surface of the same. [19] Component arrangement (50) according to one of claims 13-18, characterized by , that the fastening element (1) is fixed in its fastening position against a pivoting movement by means of fastening means provided on the first component (60). [20] Component arrangement (50) according to one of claims 13-19, characterized by , that when the fastening element (1) is arranged in its fastening position on the first and second component (60,70), the fastening element (1) is rotatable about the longitudinal axis of the body (2a) relative to the first and / or second component (60,70). [21] Component arrangement (50) according to one of claims 13-20, characterized by , that the first and second components (60,70) are connected to each other by several fastening elements (1). [22] Method for detachably, positively interlocking two components (60, 70) together using a fastening element (1) according to one of claims 1 to 12, wherein in a first step the fastening element (1) is pre-assembled or attached to the second component (70) with its second fastening area (9) and then in a second step the fastening element (1) pre-assembled or attached to the second component (70) is attached to the first component (60) with its first fastening area (8).

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