Cable holders and processes

Abstract

A cable holder for connecting a flat cable, a first object, and / or a second object together may include a base, a retaining member, and a channel. The base may include a platform, a fastener extending from the platform, a plurality of walls extending from the platform, and a plurality of wall openings disposed in the plurality of walls. The fastener may be engageable with said second object. The plurality of walls may be locatable through a portion of said flat cable. The plurality of wall openings may be aligned with one another and at least partially define a common passageway in which a connector is received to connect the first object to the base.The retaining member may be adjustably connected to a first wall of the plurality of walls and may be adjusted to an open position and a closed position.

Description

Technical field

[0001] The present disclosure relates generally to cable holders for connecting one or more objects, such as cable holders, which can be used, for example, in connection with and / or incorporated into vehicles. Short description of the drawings

[0002] While the claims are not limited to any particular illustration, an understanding of various aspects may be gained through the discussion of various examples. The drawings are not necessarily to scale, and certain features may be exaggerated or obscured to better illustrate and explain an innovative aspect of an example. Furthermore, the exemplary illustrations described herein are not exhaustive or otherwise limiting, and the embodiments are not limited to the precise form and configuration shown in the drawings or in the following detailed description. Example illustrations are described in detail by reference to the drawings as follows: Fig. 1 and Fig. 2 are perspective views generally showing one embodiment of a cable holder with a retaining member in an open position according to the teachings of the present disclosure. Fig. 3 is a perspective view substantially showing one embodiment of a cable holder with a retention member in a closed position according to the teachings of the present disclosure. Fig. 4 and Fig. 5 are perspective views generally showing one embodiment of a cable holder connected to a flat cable, a first object, and a second object according to the teachings of the present disclosure. Fig. 6 is a cross-sectional view substantially illustrating one embodiment of a cable holder connected to a flat cable, a first object, and a second object in accordance with the teachings of the present disclosure. Fig. 7A to 7E are perspective views generally showing one embodiment of a method for connecting a flat cable, a first object, and a second object to a cable holder according to the teachings of the present disclosure. Detailed description

[0003] Reference will now be made in detail to embodiments, examples of which are illustrated in the accompanying drawings. In the following detailed description, numerous specific details are set forth in order to provide a thorough understanding of the various described embodiments. However, it will be apparent to one skilled in the art that the various described embodiments may be practiced without these specific details. In other instances, well-known methods, processes, components, circuits, and networks have not been described in detail in order not to unnecessarily obscure aspects of the embodiments.

[0004] Referring to the Fig. 1-3, a cable holder 10 for connecting a plurality of objects together is shown. As essentially shown in the Fig. 4-7E, the cable holder 10 may be used to interconnect a flat cable 20 (e.g., a flexible flat cable), a first object 30 (e.g., a wire and / or a round wire bundle), and / or a second object 40 (e.g., a bracket, a mount, a panel, a surface, an external object, and / or another element or component of a vehicle). For example, and without limitation, the cable holder 10 may be used to interconnect and / or mount a flat cable 20 and / or a first object 30 to a second object 40.

[0005] The cable holder 10 includes a base 100, a retention member 200, and a channel 14 that receives at least a portion of the flat cable 20. The channel 14 is disposed between and at least partially defined by the base 100 and / or the retention member 200. The base 100 and the retention member 200 are integrally molded as a single, unitary, monolithic component. In other embodiments, the base 100 and the retention member 200 are molded separately (e.g., as independent components) and may or may not be connected to each other (e.g., via an independent connector hinge, a flexible band, a tether). The cable holder 10, the base 100, and the retention member 200 are constructed from one or more plastic materials.In other embodiments, the cable holder 10, the base 100, the retaining element 200 and / or one or more parts thereof may also be made of other suitable materials, for example a metal and / or a metal alloy.

[0006] The base 100 and the retaining element 200 are adjustable relative to each other and at least partially (e.g., adjustable and / or detachably) connected to each other, for example, to selectively open and / or close at least a portion of the channel 14 (e.g., an openable / closable end of the channel 14 opposite the platform 110) and thereby detachably attach, connect, and / or secure the cable holder 10 and the flat cable 20. The base 100 and / or the retaining element 200 can be adjusted relative to each other to hold the retaining element 200 in an open position (see, e.g., Fig. 1, Fig. 2, Fig. 7A and Fig. 7B) and in a closed position (see e.g. Fig. 3-6 and 7C-7E). When the retention member 200 is in an open position, the channel 14 is defined by the base 100 (e.g., the walls 150, 160 and the platform 110), and an openable / closable end of the channel 14 is open (e.g., exposed by the retention member 200). When the retention member 200 is in a closed position, the openable / closable end of the channel 14 is at least partially closed and / or covered by the retention member 200, such that the channel 14 is defined by and between the base 100 (e.g., the walls 150, 160 and the platform 110) and the retention member 200. The cable holder 10 is connectable to the flat cable 20 when the retaining element 200 is in an open position, but cannot be connected to and / or disconnected from the flat cable 20 when the retaining element 200 is in a closed position.The cable holder 10 is connectable to the first object 30 and / or the second object 40 when the retaining element 200 is in an open position and when the retaining element 200 is in a closed position.

[0007] As essentially in the Fig. 1-3, the base 100 includes a platform 110, a flange 120, a fastening element 130, and a plurality of walls (e.g., a first wall 150 and a second wall 160). The base 100 is connectable to the retaining element 200, the flat cable 20, and the first object 30 via one or more of the walls 150, 160. The base 100 is also connectable to the second object 40 via the fastening element 130.

[0008] As essentially in the Fig. 1-6, the flange 120 has a hollow, conical configuration. The platform 110 is disposed at a first, narrower end 120A of the flange 120 and extends therefrom substantially in the Z direction (see, for example, Fig. 6). In other embodiments, the platform 110 does not extend from the flange 120 and / or is defined by a portion of the flange 120. The platform 110 has a support surface 112 facing away from the flange 120 (e.g., substantially in the Z direction) and supporting at least a portion of the flat cable 20 when the flat cable 20 is connected to the cable holder 10. The walls 150, 160 extend from the platform 110 (e.g., the support surface 112) and / or the flange 120 substantially in the Z direction (e.g., in a first direction). The walls 150, 160 are spaced apart from one another substantially in the Y direction (e.g., a second direction). The walls 150, 160 are disposed substantially at opposite ends of the platform 110 and / or the support surface 112 relative to the Y direction. The support surface 112 extends between the walls 150, 160 and connects them transversely (e.g., obliquely or perpendicularly) to the Z direction.The channel 14 is at least partially defined by the walls 150, 160 and / or the support surface 112. The channel 14 is also at least partially defined by the retention member 200 when the cable holder is in the closed configuration. The fastener 130 is disposed on an opposite side of the platform 110 and / or the flange 120 relative to the walls 150, 160 and extends therefrom substantially in a direction away from the walls 150, 160 (e.g., substantially in the Z direction). The fastener 130 is at least partially surrounded by the flange 120 (e.g., the flange 120 extends around the fastener 130) and extends from a second, wider end 120B of the flange 120 (see, e.g., Fig. 6). In other embodiments, one or more of the walls 150, 160 and the fastening element 130 extend in the same direction, obliquely to each other, or perpendicularly to each other.

[0009] As essentially in the Fig. 1 and 3-6, the fastener 130 is configured to engage the second object 40 (e.g., a recess 42 thereof) to connect the base 100 and / or the cable holder 10 and the second object 40. The fastener 130 includes one or more engagement projections 132 that engage the second object 40 to connect the cable holder 10 and / or the base 100 to the second object 40. The engagement projections 132 have a substantially hollow, conical shape and are outwardly angled, tapered, and / or curved toward the platform 110 (e.g., the engagement projections 132 each have a wider end that opens toward the platform 110). The engagement projections 132 are spaced apart from one another along the length of the fastener 130 (e.g., substantially in the Z-direction).In other embodiments, the engagement projections 132 abut one another and / or are structured in a step-like and / or sawtooth-like manner.

[0010] As essentially in the Fig. 1-6, the base 100 includes the first wall 150 and the second wall 160. The walls 150, 160 are locatable by a portion of the flat cable 20 (e.g., a corresponding recess 22, 24), which in at least some embodiments interconnects the base 100 and the flat cable 20. The walls 150, 160 are configured to extend as an extension, projection, appendage, flange, or other suitable body or structure from the platform 110 and / or the flange 120. While the walls 150, 160 are each formed as a substantially planar body in the figures, one or more of the walls 150, 160 may have other suitable configurations in other embodiments. The first wall 150 is disposed at or around a first end of the platform 110 and the second wall 160 is disposed at or around a second, opposite end of the platform 110.

[0011] As essentially in the Fig. 1-3, 6 and 7C, the base 100 includes and / or defines at least one wall opening (e.g., a first wall opening 152 and a second wall opening 162) that receives a portion of the connector 50 (e.g., a ratchet strap). The base 100 engages the connector 50 via the wall openings 152, 162 to connect, for example, the cable holder 10, the base 100, the retaining member 200, the flat cable 20, and / or the second object 40 to the first object 30. The wall openings 152, 162 are disposed on opposite sides of the platform 110 and / or the channel 14. The wall openings 152, 162 are disposed in or defined by the walls 150, 160 of the base 100. The wall openings 152, 162 extend completely through the corresponding wall 150, 160 of the base 100 substantially in the Y direction.The wall openings 152, 162 are at least partially aligned with each other in the Y direction and form and / or define a common passage 12 of the cable holder 10. The wall openings 152, 162 are substantially rectangular, but in other embodiments have other shapes and sizes.

[0012] As essentially in the Fig. 1-3 and 6, the base 100 includes a locking tab 170 that engages the retaining element 200 (e.g., the locking flap 210) to at least partially connect the retaining element 200 to the base 100 (e.g., the second wall 160). The locking tab 170 is disposed at a free end of the second wall 160 and projects therefrom toward the first wall 150 (e.g., substantially in the X direction). The locking tab 170 has a guide surface 174 and an engagement surface 172. The engagement surface 172 faces substantially toward the platform 110 and / or the support surface 112. The engagement surface 172 may contact and / or abut the locking flap 210 (e.g., its engagement surface 212) when the cable holder 10 is in the closed position. The guide surface 174 faces substantially away from the platform 110 and is tapered inwardly toward the channel 14 and / or the first wall 150.The guide surface 174 of the locking tab 170 facilitates and guides the insertion of at least a portion of the second wall 160 (e.g., the locking tab 170) into the recess 202 of the retaining element 200 and / or into engagement with the locking tab 210, for example, by touching, abutting, and / or sliding along the guide surface 212 of the locking tab 210. In the closed position, (i) at least a portion of the second wall 160 and / or the locking tab 170 is disposed in the recess 202 of the retaining element 200, (ii) the locking tab 170 can be engaged with the locking tab 210, and (iii) the engagement surface 172 of the locking tab 170 can be in contact with and / or come into contact with the engagement surface 212 of the locking tab 210, which enables the separation of the second wall 160 and the retaining element 200 can restrict and / or prevent (e.g., which may restrict and / or prevent the cable holder 10 from being adjusted from the closed position to the open position).

[0013] As essentially in the Fig. 1, Fig. 2 and Fig. 7B, the base 100 includes a first shoulder 164A and a second shoulder 164B that engage (e.g., touch, abut) the retaining element 200 to at least partially support the retaining element 200 and / or the first object 30. The shoulders 164A, 164B are part of and / or defined by the second wall 160. The shoulders 164A, 164B are disposed at the free end of the second wall 160 on opposite sides of the locking tab 170 and extend away from each other (e.g., substantially in the X direction). When, in the assembled configuration, at least a portion of the second wall 160 (e.g., the locking tab 170) is disposed within the recess 202 and / or the locking tab 170 is engaged with the locking tab 210, the retaining member 200 may contact and / or rest upon the shoulders 164A, 164B and be supported thereby. In this manner, the shoulders 164A, 164B may restrict movement (e.g.,further rotation) of the retaining element 200 toward the base 100, the platform 110 and / or the flange 120, which in turn may help maintain the size and shape of the channel 14.

[0014] As essentially in the Fig. 1-6, the retention member 200 is configured to selectively open and / or close at least a portion of the channel 14 (e.g., an openable / closable end of the channel 14 disposed opposite the platform 110). The retention member 200 is adjustably (e.g., rotatably, pivotably) connected to the first wall 150 of the base 100 and is removably connectable to the second wall 160 of the base 100. The retention member 200 is adjustably (e.g., rotatably, pivotably) connected to an open position and a closed position relative to the base 100, the platform 110, the first wall 150, and / or the second wall 160. When the retaining element 200 is in an open position, the retaining element 200 is spaced apart from and arranged separately from the first wall 150, the retaining element 200 does not at least partially close the channel 14 (e.g.the openable / closable end of the channel 14 is at least partially open), and at least a portion of the flat cable 20 is insertable into and / or removable from the channel 14 (e.g., via the openable / closable end). Thus, the cable holder 10 and the flat cable 20 are connectable to and / or separable from each other when the retaining element 200 is in an open position. When the retaining element 200 is in a closed position, the retaining element 200 is connected to the first wall 150, the retaining element 200 at least partially closes the channel 14 (e.g., the openable / closable end thereof), and the retaining element 200 blocks and / or prevents at least a portion of the flat cable 20 from being insertable into and / or removed from the channel 14 (e.g., via the openable / closable end).Thus, the cable holder 10 and the flat cable 20 can be attached, connected, secured and / or locked to each other when the retaining element 200 is in a closed position.

[0015] As essentially in the Fig. 1-3 and 5-7C, the retaining member 200 is structured as a substantially planar body, but in other embodiments may have other suitable configurations. One end of the retaining member 200 is adjustably (e.g., rotatably, pivotably) connected to an end of the first wall 150 opposite the platform 110 via a coupling. In the example described here, the coupling is an integral hinge 154. The retaining member 200, the first wall 150, and the integral hinge 154 are integrally connected and / or formed as a single, unitary, monolithic component. The integral hinge 154 is an elastically deformable and / or flexible region or portion of the material that is substantially thinner (e.g.,in the Y-direction) than the retention member 200 and the first wall 150, which facilitates the adjustment and / or pivoting of the retention member 200 relative to the base 100, the platform 110, the first wall 150, and / or the second wall 160 (e.g., when adjusting the retention member 200 to an open position and / or to a closed position). In other embodiments, the retention member 200 and the first wall 150 may be separate, independent components / elements and / or may or may not be coupled (e.g., adjustable and / or releasable) via one or more suitable couplings, connectors, and / or fasteners (e.g., via an independent hinge connector, a flexible strap, a tether).

[0016] As essentially in the Fig. 1-3 and 6-7C, the retention member 200 includes and / or defines a recess 202 that receives at least a portion of the base 100 (e.g., at least a portion of the second wall 160 and / or the locking tab 170). The recess 202 is disposed in the retention member 200 at or about a free end of the retention member 200 that is opposite the first wall 150. The recess 202 extends completely through the retention member 200 (e.g., substantially in the Z-direction and / or perpendicular to the support surface 112 when the retention member 200 is in the closed position). The recess 202 is substantially rectangular, but in other embodiments has other shapes and / or sizes.

[0017] As essentially in the Fig. 1, Fig. 2 and Fig. 6, the retention member 200 includes a locking tab 210 that releasably engages the base 100 (e.g., via the locking tab 170) to at least partially connect the retention member 200 to the base 100 (e.g., the second wall 160). The locking tab 210 and the locking tab 170 are complementary to each other. The locking tab 210 is at least partially disposed within the recess 202. The locking tab 210 extends and / or protrudes from the retention member 200 into the recess 202 toward the free end of the retention member 200. The closure tab 210 is recessed in the retaining element 200 and / or the recess 202 such that an engagement surface 212 of the closure tab 210 is offset from an outer surface of the retaining element 200 (e.g., substantially in the Z direction and / or toward the platform 110 when the retaining element 200 is in the closed position).

[0018] The locking tab 210 has an engagement surface 212 and a guide surface 214. The engagement surface 212 can engage, contact, and / or abut the locking tab 170 (e.g., its engagement surface 172) when the retaining member 200 is in the closed position, limiting and / or preventing the release and / or separation of the retaining member 200 and the second wall 160 (e.g., limiting and / or preventing the release and / or movement of the retaining member 200 from the closed position, such as into and / or toward the open position). The guide surface 214 facilitates the insertion of at least a portion of the second wall 160 (e.g., the locking tab 170) into the recess 202 of the retaining element 200, the engagement of the locking tab 210 and the locking tab 170, and / or the elastic deformation (e.g.,Bending and / or flexing) of the first wall 150 and / or the second wall 160 away from each other, for example by touching, abutting and / or sliding on the guide surface 174 of the locking nose 170.

[0019] As essentially in the Fig. 3-6 and 7C-7E, in the closed position, the retention member 200 is disposed on and connected to the first wall 150 and the second wall 160 of the base 100. The retention member 200 extends (e.g., substantially in the Y direction) between the first wall 150 and the second wall 160 of the base 100 and at least partially closes the channel 14 (e.g., its openable / closable end). The free end of the retention member 200 extends beyond the second wall 160, providing a user with an easily accessible and engageable portion of the retention member 200 that can be used (e.g., pushed and / or slid) to drive and / or adjust a position of the retention member 200 (e.g., to disengage the retention member 200 from the second wall 160). The integral hinge 210 is at least partially deformed so that the retaining element 200 can be moved transversely (e.g.obliquely or perpendicularly) to the walls 150, 160. The retention member 200 contacts, abuts, and / or rests on the shoulders 164A, 164B and is thereby supported by the shoulders 164A, 164B and / or the second wall 160. At least a portion of the second wall 160 (e.g., the locking tab 170) protrudes and is at least partially disposed within the recess 202 of the retention member 200. The locking tab 210 is engaged with the locking tab 170, thereby releasably connecting the retention member 200 to the second wall 160 of the base 100 and interlocking the retention member 200 and / or preventing it from adjusting and / or moving from the closed position, e.g., to and / or toward the open position.The guide surface 214 of the closure tab 210 faces substantially toward the platform 110, slopes back toward the first wall 150 and / or the wall opening 152, and / or extends substantially parallel to the guide surface 174 of the closure lug 170. The engagement surface 212 of the closure tab 210 faces substantially (i) away from the platform 110 and / or the support surface 112 and (ii) toward the closure lug 170 and / or its engagement surface 172 (e.g., substantially in the Z direction). The engagement surface 212 of the locking tab 210 contacts the engagement surface 172 of the locking nose 170 via the integral hinge 256 (e.g., due to its tendency to resist deformation and return to a state of equilibrium, which may correspond to an open position of the retaining element 200) and / or is biased against it.By pre-tensioning the locking tab 210 against the locking nose 170, the relative movement between the base 100 and the retaining element 200 is restricted and / or prevented, which can, for example, reduce and / or prevent the development of noise (e.g., rattling).

[0020] As essentially in the Fig. 4-7E, the flat cable 20 is flexible and includes one or more electrical conductors overmolded and / or embedded in an insulating material that electrically insulates the conductors from each other and / or from other components. The conductors may be arranged substantially parallel to each other and / or substantially aligned with a common plane (e.g., an XY plane). The flat cable 20 also includes a plurality of recesses (e.g., a first recess 22 and a second recess 24) configured to receive a corresponding wall 150, 160 of the base 100. The first recess 22 is configured to receive the first wall 150, and the second recess 24 is configured to receive the second wall 160. The recesses 22, 24 are each disposed in and / or defined by the insulating material, e.g., between adjacent conductors.The recesses 22, 24 are substantially rectangular in shape, but may also be circular, polygonal, or oblong, among others. The recesses 22, 24 have a length and a width that are substantially based on a length and a width, respectively, of the corresponding wall 150, 160 of the base 100. For example, the length of the first recess 22 (extending substantially in the X direction) may be substantially equal to or slightly less than the length of the first wall 150 (e.g., at or around the plate 110). Similarly, the width of the first recess 22 (extending substantially in the Y direction) may be substantially equal to or slightly less than the width of the first wall 150 (e.g., at or around the platform 110).In some configurations, the corresponding lengths and widths of the recesses 22, 24 and the walls 150, 160 are configured to provide an interference fit between the flat cable 20 and the walls 150, 160, which allows the base 100 and the flat cable 20 to be connected without closing the retention member 200 (e.g., when the cable holder 10 is in the open position).

[0021] The flat cable 20 can be connected to the cable holder 10 when the retaining element 200 is in the open position and / or when the retaining element 200 is in the closed position. When the retaining element 200 is in an open position, the cable holder 10 and the flat cable 20 can be connected via the press fit of the walls 150, 160 in the recesses 22, 24 of the flat cable 20 (see, for example, Fig. 7B). When the retaining element 200 is in a closed position, as shown substantially in the Fig. 4-6 and 7C-7E, at least a portion of the flat cable 20 (e.g., a portion disposed and / or defined between the recesses 22, 24 in the Y direction) may be disposed within the channel 14 and retained therein via the platform 110, the walls 150, 160, and the retaining member 200. The first wall 150 is partially disposed within the first recess 22 of the flat cable 20. The second wall 160 is partially disposed within the second recess 24 of the flat cable 20 and partially within the recess 202 of the retaining member 200. The flat cable 20 may contact, be disposed upon, and / or be supported by the retaining member 200 and / or the base 100 (e.g., the support surface 112, the platform 110, and / or the flange 120) when connected to the cable holder 10.

[0022] As essentially in the Fig. 4-7A and 7C-7E, the first object 30 is a wire and / or a wire bundle of one or more vehicle subsystems, such as an airbag system and / or an infotainment system. While the first object 30 in the Fig. 4-7A and 7C-7E is round (e.g., a round wire and / or a round wire bundle), in other embodiments the first object 30 may have other suitable shapes (e.g., substantially rectangular and / or polygonal). In other embodiments, the first object 30 may consist of and / or include other components, such as a tube, a rod, a beam, and other similar components. The first object 30 is connectable to the cable holder 10 via one or more connectors 50. The connector 50 is configured as a tensioning strap (e.g., a cable tie) and includes an end 52 and a head 54. The head 54 is disposed at and connected to a first longitudinal end of the end piece 52. A free end of the end piece 52 (e.g., a second longitudinal end of the end piece 52 opposite the first longitudinal end and / or the head 54) is insertable into a through hole 56 of the head 54.The end piece 52 includes teeth, prongs, and / or other similar formations that engage a claw of the head 54 to connect the end piece 52 to the head 54 and to restrict and / or prevent removal of the end piece 52 from the through-hole 56 of the head 54. Alternatively, the connector 50 may be any other suitable type of connector 50 (e.g., a twist lock, a cord, a clip, a fastener). In another embodiment, the connector 50 is configured, for example, as a fastener (e.g., a Christmas tree fastener, a detent pin, a snap-in pin, a clinch rivet) that engages the common passage 12 of the cable holder 10 and a fastening tab of the first object 30 to secure the fastening tab between the base 100 (e.g., the first wall 150 and / or the second wall 160) and a portion of the fastener.

[0023] As essentially in the Fig. 4-6, 7D, and 7E, the connector 50 is engaged with the cable retainer 10 and the first object 30 when the retention member 200 is in a closed position and the cable retainer 10 is connected to the first object 30, thereby interconnecting the cable retainer 10 and the first object 30. The first object 30 is disposed on and / or adjacent to the retention member 200 outside the channel 14. In examples, the first object 30 is disposed at or around, and may substantially cover, the recess 202, the locking tab 210, and / or the locking tab 170. The connector 50 is at least partially wrapped around the first object 30. The connector 50 also extends through the common passage 12 of the cable holder 10 (e.g., the wall openings 152, 162 and the channel 14) and is at least partially disposed therein. The end 52 of the connector 50 (e.g.,The first object 30 (e.g., at or around the free end) is connected to the head 54 of the connector 50 via the teeth and the claw, such that the connector 50 forms a loop around the first object 30 and a portion of the cable holder 10 (e.g., a portion of the base 100, the first wall 150, and / or the second wall 160). It is also conceivable that the first object 30 is connected to the cable holder 10 when the retaining element 200 is in an open position, which may also include the connector 50 extending through a recess and / or opening (e.g., recess 202) of the retaining element 200.

[0024] The second object 40 may be and / or include a surface, part, and / or component of a vehicle, such as a vehicle floor, a vehicle ceiling, and / or a vehicle panel, and / or include a non-vehicle component, among others. As substantially described in the Fig. 4-6, 7A, 7D, and 7E, the second object 40 is configured as a clamp or bracket. The second object 40 includes one or more recesses 42 and / or indentations for receiving the fastening element 130 of the cable holder 10. The recess 42 has a substantially circular shape, but may alternatively have an oval, polygonal, or oblong shape, among others.

[0025] The second object 40 can be connected to the cable holder 10 when the retaining element 200 is in an open position and / or in a closed position. As shown substantially in the Fig. 4-6 and 7E, the fastening element 130 of the base 100 is arranged in the recess 42 of the second object 40 when the cable holder 10 is connected to the second object 40. One or more of the engaging projections 132 of the fastener 130 engage the second object 40 (e.g., contact a surface of the second object 40 facing away from the flange 120) and secure and / or connect the base 100 and / or the cable holder 10 to the second object 40. The second, wider end 120B of the flange 120 presses against the second object 40 (e.g., a surface of the second object 40 facing the flange 120) and presses one or more of the engaging projections 132 of the fastener 130 against the second object 40. This restricts and / or limits the relative movement between the base 100 and the second object 40, which can limit, reduce, and / or prevent noise (e.g., rattling).

[0026] A method for assembling the cable holder 10 and / or for connecting a plurality of objects (e.g., objects 20, 30, 40) to one another with the cable holder 10 is essentially described in the Fig. 7A-7E. The procedure includes connecting the flat cable 20 and the cable holder 10 (see e.g. Fig. 7A and Fig. 7B), connecting the first object 30 and the cable holder 10 (see e.g. Fig. 7C), and / or connecting the second object 40 and the cable holder 10 (see e.g. Fig. 7D) to connect the flat cable 20, the first object 30 and the second object 40 (see e.g. Fig. 4-6 and 7E).

[0027] As essentially in Fig. 7A and Fig. 7B, connecting the flat cable 20 and the cable holder 10 includes disposing the walls 150, 160 of the base 100 through a portion of the flat cable 20 (e.g., a corresponding recess 22, 24) when the retaining member 200 is in an open position, such as by inserting the first wall 150 into the first recess 22 of the flat cable 20 and the second wall 160 into the second recess 24 of the flat cable 20 (see, e.g., Fig. 7A). Disposing the walls 150, 160 through a portion of the flat cable 20 may include passing the retaining element 200 completely through the first recess 22, disposing at least a portion of the flat cable 20 in the channel 14, and / or disposing the flat cable 20 on the support surface 112 of the platform 110. Furthermore, disposing the walls 150, 160 through a portion of the flat cable 20 may include connecting the base 100 and the flat cable 20 by creating an interference fit of the walls 150, 160 in the recesses 22, 24.

[0028] After inserting the walls 150, 160 into the recesses 22, 24, the retaining element 200 is moved from an open position (see e.g. Fig. 7B) into a closed position (see e.g. Fig. 7C) to attach, connect and / or secure the flat cable 20 and the cable holder 10 to each other. Adjusting the retention member 200 from an open position to a closed position includes adjusting and / or pivoting the retention member 200 about the integral hinge 154 (e.g., toward the second wall 160 and / or the platform 110) relative to the base 100, the first wall 150, the second wall 160, and / or the platform 110 to interconnect the retention member 200 and the second wall 160 and to at least partially close the channel 14 (e.g., the openable / closable end thereof) with the retention member 200 such that removal of the flat cable 20 from the channel 14 (e.g., substantially in a Z-direction) is restricted and / or prevented by the base 100 and the retention member 200.Adjusting and / or pivoting the retaining element 200 about the integral hinge 154 includes bending, flexing and / or deforming (e.g., elastically) the integral hinge 154. Adjusting and / or pivoting the retaining element 200 about the integral hinge 154 includes arranging and / or inserting at least a portion of the second wall 160 (e.g., at least a portion of the locking tab 170) into the recess 202 of the retaining element 200 to engage the locking tab 170 of the second wall 160 and the locking tab 210 of the retaining element 200, which in turn connects the retaining element 200 and the second wall 160.Engaging the locking tab 170 and the locking tab 210 includes contacting and / or abutting the guide surfaces 174, 214 of the locking tab 170 and the locking tab 210 and adjusting, moving and / or sliding the guide surfaces 174, 214 toward each other to engage the locking tab 170 and the locking tab 210. The adjustment, movement and / or sliding of the guide surfaces 174, 214 on each other in turn causes the first wall 150 and / or the second wall 160 to bend, flex and / or deform (e.g., elastically) away from each other (e.g., substantially in the Y direction) so that the locking nose 170 and the locking tab 210 can move past each other (e.g., substantially in the Z direction) and their engagement surfaces 172, 212 engage, touch and / or abut each other by adjusting the retaining element 200 about the hinge 154.Adjusting and / or pivoting the retaining member 200 about the integral hinge 154 also includes disposing the retaining member 200 on the shoulders 164A, 164B of the second wall 160 to support the retaining member 200.

[0029] As essentially in Fig. 7C, connecting the first object 30 and the cable holder 10 includes positioning the first object 30 relative to the cable holder 10 and / or arranging the first object 30 on the retaining element 200. Connecting the first object 30 and the cable holder 10 includes (e.g., after positioning the first object 30 relative to and / or on the retaining element 200) engaging the connector 50 with the first object 30 and with the cable holder 10. This, in turn, includes passing the end piece 52 of the connector 50 (e.g., the free end of the end piece 52) through the first wall 150 (e.g., via the wall opening 152) and the second wall 160 (e.g.,across the wall opening 162) such that the end piece 52 of the connector 50 is partially disposed within and extends through the common passageway 12, wrapping the connector 50 around at least a portion of the first object 30, and connecting the end piece 52 of the connector 50 to the head 54 of the connector 50 (e.g., by inserting the free end of the end piece 52 into the through-hole 56 and engaging the teeth of the end piece 52 with the claw of the head 54) such that the connector 50 forms a loop around at least a portion of the first object 30 and a portion of the cable holder 10 (e.g., a portion of the first wall 150, the second wall 160, and / or the retaining member 200), substantially as shown in FIG. Fig. 7D. Subsequently, the relative movement (e.g., play) between the first object 30 and the cable holder 10 can be reduced, restricted, limited, and / or eliminated (e.g., by manipulating the connector 50, the first object 30, and / or the cable holder 10 to tighten the looped connector 50 around the first object 30 and the cable holder 10), e.g., to limit and / or prevent noise generation. Essentially, the first object 30 and the cable holder 10 are connected after the flat cable 20 and the cable holder 10 have been connected (e.g., after the flat cable 20 is disposed in the channel 14 and the retaining element 200 is in the closed position), e.g., to interconnect the first object 30 and the flat cable 20.

[0030] As essentially in Fig. 7D, connecting the second object 40 and the cable holder 10 includes engaging the fastening element 130 of the cable holder 10 with the second object 40. This includes adjusting, moving and / or pressing the fastening element 130 into the recess 42 of the second object 40 (e.g., from the position shown in Fig. 7D shown position into the Fig.7E) such that one or more engagement projections 132 of the fastener 130 engage the second object 40 (e.g., contact a surface of the second object 40 facing away from the flange 120), thereby connecting the base 100, the cable holder 10, and / or one or more associated components (e.g., the flat cable 20 and / or the first object 30) to the second object 40. Connecting the second object 40 and the cable holder 10 may also include pressing one or more of the engagement projections 132 against the second object 40 via the flange 120, which presses against the second object 40 (e.g., a surface of the second object 40 facing the flange 120).Essentially, the second object 40 and the cable holder 10 are connected after the cable holder 10, the flat cable 20, and the first object 30 have been connected to each other, for example, to connect the flat cable 20 and the first object 30 to the second object 40. However, the second object 40 and the base 100 and / or the cable holder 10 may also be connected to each other before connecting the flat cable 20 and the cable holder 10 and / or before connecting the first object 30 and the cable holder 10.

[0031] The disclosure includes, without limitation, the following embodiments: 1. A cable holder for connecting a flat cable, a first object, and / or a second object together, the cable holder comprising: a base including: a platform; a fastener extending from the platform, the fastener engageable with the second object; a plurality of walls extending from the platform, the plurality of walls displaceable through a portion of the flat cable; and a plurality of wall openings disposed in the plurality of walls, the plurality of wall openings being aligned with each other and at least partially defining a common passageway in which a connector is received to connect the first object to the base; a retaining member adjustably connected to a first wall of the plurality of walls, the retaining member adjustable to an open position and a closed position;and a channel at least partially defined by the base; wherein, when the retaining member is arranged in the closed position, the retaining member is arranged on and releasably connected to a second wall of the plurality of walls and at least partially closes one end of the channel; and wherein, when the retaining member is arranged in the open position, the retaining member is arranged spaced from the second wall and the end of the channel is at least partially open such that at least a portion of the flat cable is insertable into the channel through the end of the channel.; 2. The cable holder of embodiment 1, wherein: said first object is at least one of a wire and a wire bundle; said second object is at least one of a bracket and a panel; and said connector is a tension belt. 3. The cable holder according to any one of the preceding embodiments, wherein the retaining element is adjustably connected to the first wall of the base via an integral hinge. 4. The cable holder according to any one of the preceding embodiments, wherein: the retaining member includes a locking tab; the second wall includes a locking tab complementary to the locking tab of the retaining member; and when the retaining member is arranged in the closed position, the locking tab and the locking tab are connected to each other to releasably connect the retaining member and the second wall. 5. The cable holder according to any one of the preceding embodiments, wherein: the retaining element includes a recess; the locking tab protrudes into the recess; and at least a portion of the locking tab is disposed within the recess when the retaining element is disposed in the closed position. 6. The cable holder according to any one of the preceding embodiments, wherein: the locking tab includes an engagement surface and a guide surface; and the locking tab is recessed in the retaining element such that the engagement surface is offset from an outer surface of the retaining element. 7. The cable holder according to any one of the preceding embodiments, wherein: the second wall includes at least one shoulder; and the retaining member is disposed on and supported by the at least one shoulder when the retaining member is disposed in the closed position. 8. A method for connecting a plurality of objects together with the cable holder according to any one of the preceding embodiments, comprising: connecting the flat cable and the cable holder by inserting the plurality of walls of the base through a portion of the flat cable and then connecting the retaining member and the second wall of the base together by adjusting the retaining member from the open position to the closed position; connecting the first object and the cable holder by engaging the connector with the first object and with the cable holder; and connecting the second object and the cable holder by engaging the fastening member of the cable holder with the second object. 9. The method according to any one of the preceding embodiments, wherein connecting the flat cable and the cable holder includes at least one of the following: restricting and preventing removal of at least a portion of the flat cable from the channel by at least partially closing the end of the channel with the retaining element. 10. The method of any preceding embodiment, wherein: the retaining member is adjustably connected to the first wall of the base via an integral hinge; and adjusting the retaining member from the open position to the closed position includes pivoting the retaining member about the integral hinge and deforming the integral hinge. 11. The method of any preceding embodiment, wherein moving the retaining member from the open position to the closed position includes engaging a locking tab of the retaining member and a locking tab of the second wall. 12. The method according to any one of the preceding embodiments, wherein engaging the closure tab and the closure nose includes elastically deforming at least one of the first wall and the second wall by sliding a guide surface of the closure tab and a guide surface of the closure nose on each other. 13. The method of any preceding embodiment, wherein adjusting the retaining member from the open position to the closed position includes: inserting at least a portion of the second wall into a recess of the retaining member; and disposing the retaining member on at least one shoulder of the second wall. 14. The method according to any one of the preceding embodiments, wherein inserting at least a portion of the second wall into the recess of the retaining element includes: inserting a locking tab of the second wall into the recess of the retaining element; and engaging the locking tab with a locking tab of the retaining element disposed in the recess. 15. The method of any preceding embodiment, wherein inserting the plurality of walls of the base through the portion of the flat cable includes: inserting the retainer through a first recess of the flat cable; inserting the first wall of the base into the first recess of the flat cable; inserting the second wall of the base into a second recess of the flat cable; and disposing at least a portion of the flat cable in the channel. 16. The method according to any one of the preceding embodiments, wherein engaging the fastening element of the cable holder with the second object includes adjusting the fastening element into a recess of the second object. 17. The method according to any one of the preceding embodiments, wherein the second object is at least one bracket or a panel. 18. The method of any preceding embodiment, wherein: the connector is a tensioning strap; and engaging the connector with the first object and with the cable holder includes passing an end of the tensioning strap through the common passageway of the cable holder, wrapping the tensioning strap around the first object, and connecting the end of the tensioning strap to a head of the tensioning strap. 19. The method according to any one of the preceding embodiments, wherein the first object is at least one of a wire and a wire bundle. 20. The method of any preceding embodiment, wherein: engaging the fastener of the cable holder with the second object includes pressing the fastener into a recess of the second object; and the second object is at least one of a bracket and a panel.

[0032] Various examples / embodiments of various devices, systems, and / or methods are described herein. Numerous specific details are set forth in order to provide a thorough understanding of the overall structure, function, manufacture, and use of the examples / embodiments as described in the specification and illustrated in the accompanying drawings. However, one skilled in the art will understand that the examples / embodiments may be practiced without such specific details. In other instances, well-known operations, components, and elements have not been described in detail in order not to obscure the examples / embodiments described in the specification.Those skilled in the art will understand that the examples / embodiments described and illustrated herein are non-limiting examples and that the specific structural and functional details disclosed herein may be representative and do not necessarily limit the scope of the embodiments.

[0033] Whenever references are made throughout the specification to "examples," "in examples," "with examples," "various embodiments," "with embodiments," "in embodiments," or "an embodiment" or the like, it means that a particular feature, structure, or characteristic described in connection with the example / embodiment is included in at least one embodiment. Therefore, the terms "examples," "in examples," "with examples," "in various embodiments," "with embodiments," "in embodiments," or "an embodiment" or the like, placed at various points in the specification, do not necessarily all refer to the same embodiment. Moreover, the particular features, structures, or characteristics in one or more examples / embodiments may be combined in any suitable manner.Thus, the particular features, structures, or characteristics illustrated or described in connection with one embodiment / example may be combined, in whole or in part, with the features, structures, functions, and / or characteristics of one or more other embodiments / examples without limitation, provided that such combination is not illogical or nonfunctional. Furthermore, many changes may be made to adapt a particular situation or material to the teachings of the present disclosure without departing from the scope of the disclosure.

[0034] It should be understood that references to a single element are not necessarily so limited and may include one or more such elements. All directional designations (e.g., plus, minus, upper, lower, upward, downward, left, right, left-hand side, right-hand side, top, bottom, above, below, vertical, horizontal, clockwise, and counterclockwise) are for identification purposes only to assist the reader in understanding the present disclosure and do not constitute limitations, particularly regarding the position, orientation, or use of examples / embodiments.

[0035] “One or more” includes a function performed by one element, a function performed by more than one element, such as in a distributed form, multiple functions performed by one element, multiple functions performed by multiple elements, or any combination of the above.

[0036] It should also be understood that although the terms "first," "second," etc., are used herein in some instances to describe various elements, those elements should not be limited by those terms. These terms are used only to distinguish one element from another. For example, a first element could be referred to as a second element, and likewise, a second element could be referred to as a first element, without departing from the scope of the various described embodiments. The first element and the second element are both elements, but they are not the same element.

[0037] The terminology used in the description of the various embodiments described herein is for the purpose of describing particular embodiments only and is not intended to be limiting. As used in the description of the various embodiments and the appended claims, the singular forms "a," "an," "the," and "the" are intended to include the plural forms, unless the context clearly indicates otherwise. It is also to be understood that the term "and / or," as used herein, refers to and encompasses all possible combinations of one or more of the listed items.Furthermore, the terms "includes", "containing", "comprises" and / or "comprising", when used in this specification, are understood to specify the presence of stated features, integers, steps, operations, elements and / or components, but do not preclude the presence or addition of one or more other features, integers, steps, operations, elements, components and / or groups thereof.

[0038] The connection terms (e.g., attached, coupled, connected, etc.) are to be interpreted broadly and may include intermediaries between a connection of elements, relative movement between elements, direct connections, indirect connections, fixed connections, movable connections, operative connections, indirect contact, and / or direct contact. Therefore, references to connections do not necessarily imply that two elements are directly connected / coupled and in a fixed relationship to one another. Connections of electrical components may include, but are not limited to, mechanical connections, electrical connections, wired connections, and / or wireless connections. The use of "e.g.," "such as," and "such as" in the description is to be interpreted broadly and is intended to provide non-limiting examples of embodiments of the disclosure, and the disclosure is not limited to such examples.

[0039] While processes, systems, and methods may be described herein in connection with one or more steps in a particular order, it should be understood that such methods may be practiced with the steps in a different order, with certain steps performed concurrently, with additional steps, and / or with the omission of certain described steps.

[0040] As used herein, the term "if" shall be interpreted, as appropriate, to mean "when" or "upon" or "in response to determining" or "in response to detecting," depending on the context. Similarly, the phrase "when determined" or "when [a particular condition or event] is detected" shall be interpreted, as appropriate, to mean "upon determining" or "in response to detecting" or "upon detecting [the particular condition or event]" or "in response to detecting [the particular condition or event]," depending on the context.

[0041] Everything contained in the above description or shown in the accompanying drawings is to be considered as illustrative and not restrictive. Changes in detail or structure may be made without departing from the present disclosure.

Claims

[1] A cable holder for connecting a flat cable, a first object and / or a second object to each other, the cable holder comprising: a base containing: a platform; a fastener extending from the platform, the fastener engageable with the second object; a plurality of walls extending from the platform, the plurality of walls being locatable by a portion of the flat cable; and a plurality of wall openings disposed in the plurality of walls, the plurality of wall openings being aligned with one another and at least partially defining a common passageway in which a connector is received to connect the first object to the base; a retaining member adjustably connected to a first wall of the plurality of walls, the retaining member being adjustable to an open position and a closed position; and a channel defined at least in part by the base; wherein, when the retaining element is arranged in the closed position, the retaining element is arranged on and releasably connected to a second wall of the plurality of walls and at least partially closes one end of the channel; and wherein, when the retaining element is arranged in the open position, the retaining element is arranged spaced from the second wall and the end of the channel is at least partially open such that at least a portion of the flat cable is insertable into the channel through the end of the channel. [2] The cable holder according to claim 1, wherein: said first object is at least one of a wire and a wire bundle; said second object is at least one of a bracket and a panel; and the connector in question is a tensioning strap. [3] The cable holder according to claim 1, wherein the retaining member is adjustably connected to the first wall of the base via an integral hinge. [4] The cable holder according to claim 1, wherein: the retaining element contains a closure tab; the second wall contains a locking lug that is complementary to the locking tab of the retaining element; and when the retaining element is arranged in the closed position, the locking tab and the locking nose engage with each other and releasably connect the retaining element and the second wall. [5] The cable holder according to claim 4, wherein: the retaining element contains a recess; the closure tab protrudes into the recess; and at least a part of the locking nose is arranged within the recess when the retaining element is in the closed position. [6] The cable holder according to claim 4, wherein: the closure tab includes an engagement surface and a guide surface; and the closure tab is hollowed out in the retaining element such that the engagement surface is offset from an outer surface of the retaining element. [7] The cable holder according to claim 1, wherein: the second wall contains at least one shoulder; and the retaining element is arranged on the at least one shoulder and is supported thereby when the retaining element is arranged in the closed position. [8] The method for connecting a plurality of objects together with the cable holder according to claim 1, comprising: Connecting the flat cable and the cable holder by inserting the plurality of walls of the base through a portion of the flat cable and then connecting the retaining member and the second wall of the base to each other by moving the retaining member from the open position to the closed position; Connecting the first object and the cable holder by engaging the connector with the first object and with the cable holder; and Connecting the second object and the cable holder by engaging the fastening element of the cable holder with the second object. [9] The method of claim 8, wherein connecting the flat cable and the cable holder includes at least one of the following: restricting and preventing removal of at least a portion of the flat cable from the channel by at least partially closing the end of the channel with the retaining member. [10] The method of claim 8, wherein: the retaining element is adjustably connected to the first wall of the base via an integral hinge; and adjusting the retaining element from the open position to the closed position includes pivoting the retaining element about the integral hinge and deforming the integral hinge. [11] The method of claim 8, wherein moving the retaining member from the open position to the closed position includes engaging a locking tab of the retaining member and a locking tab of the second wall. [12] The method of claim 11, wherein engaging the locking tab and the locking nose includes elastically deforming the first wall and / or the second wall by sliding a guide surface of the locking tab and a guide surface of the locking nose against each other. [13] The method of claim 8, wherein adjusting the retaining member from the open position to the closed position includes: Inserting at least a portion of the second wall into a recess of the retaining element; and arranging the retaining element on at least one shoulder of the second wall. [14] The method of claim 13, wherein inserting at least a portion of the second wall into the recess of the retaining member includes inserting a locking tab of the second wall into the recess of the retaining member; and Engaging the locking nose with a locking tab of the retaining element arranged in the recess. [15] The method of claim 8, wherein inserting the plurality of walls of the base through the portion of the flat cable includes: Passing the cable holder through a first recess in the flat cable; Inserting the first wall of the base into the first recess of the flat cable; Inserting the second wall of the base into a second recess of the flat cable; and Arranging at least a portion of the flat cable in the channel. [16] The method of claim 8, wherein engaging the fastening element of the cable holder with the second object includes adjusting the fastening element into a recess of the second object. [17] The method of claim 16, wherein the second object is at least one of a bracket and a panel. [18] The method of claim 8, wherein: the connector is a tensioning belt; and engaging the connector with the first object and with the cable holder includes passing one end of the tensioning strap through the common passage of the cable holder, wrapping the tensioning strap around the first object, and connecting the end of the tensioning strap to a head of the tensioning strap. [19] The method of claim 18, wherein the first object is at least one wire or a wire bundle. [20] The method of claim 19, wherein: engaging the fastening element of the cable holder with the second object includes pressing the fastening element into a recess of the second object; and the second object is at least one of a bracket and a panel.

Images