Mounting device for a top tether in vehicles

Abstract

The invention relates to a mounting device (10) for a top tether in vehicles, comprising an arc-shaped metal bracket (20) for attaching a top tether, wherein the metal bracket (20) comprises two tubular mounting arms (25); a bracket holder (30) for holding the metal bracket (20), wherein the bracket holder (30) comprises a substantially rectangular base plate (35) which is provided on both sides with at least one semi-cylindrical receiving opening (40); wherein the receiving openings (40) of the bracket holder (30) are designed such that they at least partially enclose the mounting arms (25) of the metal bracket (20) in the inserted state;wherein each of the two fastening arms (25) of the metal bracket (20) is pressed into at least one receiving opening (40) of the bracket holder (30) after being positioned in the receiving openings (40), so that a firm and stable connection of the metal bracket (20) with the bracket holder (30) is created by pressing, which holds the metal bracket (20) securely in its position even under high mechanical loads, such as in the event of an impact.

Description

[0001] The invention relates to a mounting device for a top tether in vehicles and a method for manufacturing a mounting device.

[0002] A top tether is a safety mechanism used in car seat systems, particularly child car seats, in addition to the lower attachment points (e.g., Isofix connectors). It is an extra tether strap that helps keep the child car seat stable in the event of an accident and prevents it from moving forward excessively. The top tether is attached to the top of the child car seat, often to a connection point on the back or top of the seat, and then runs to the anchor point in the vehicle, which is usually located in the boot or under the seat.

[0003] The top tether prevents the child car seat from tipping forward in a frontal collision. Without this strap, the force of the impact would pull the car seat forward, potentially causing greater harm to the child. The top tether ensures the seat remains stable and moves only within a controlled range. Another advantage of the top tether is that it helps prevent the car seat from rotating during an accident. This additional securing reduces the likelihood of the seat rotating excessively, thus contributing to greater safety.

[0004] Besides being used in child car seats, top tethers can also be used for other purposes where additional stabilization is required, e.g., in child safety belts or load securing devices in vehicles.

[0005] To securely and stably attach the top tether, a metal bracket is often used. This metal bracket is part of a mounting system and serves to anchor the top tether to a stable point in the vehicle. The metal bracket is, in turn, connected to a bracket holder in the vehicle. The bracket holder acts as a stable anchor point, securing the metal bracket and top tether to a fixed point in the vehicle (often the parcel shelf or another stable point in the vehicle).

[0006] This mechanism ensures that the top tether maintains the correct position of the child seat in the event of an accident, guaranteeing secure anchoring. The bracket holds the metal bracket firmly in place, which in turn keeps the belt in the correct position within the vehicle, ensuring the child seat remains stable and does not move forward.

[0007] For the attachment of top tether systems in vehicles, a MAG welding connection is often used to join the metal bracket to the bracket holder.

[0008] Although this welding technique is widely used, it has some significant disadvantages. One of the biggest drawbacks is the high manufacturing effort and associated costs. The application of welding techniques requires specialized equipment and skilled labor, resulting in higher production costs. Furthermore, welded joints can be susceptible to material fatigue and quality variations, especially under the extreme conditions of an accident. In such cases, there is a risk of weld failure and wire clamp detachment, compromising the safety of the entire system.

[0009] Another disadvantage is the complexity of the manufacturing process. Welding requires precise control and post-processing to ensure a flawless joint. Furthermore, the heat generated during welding can affect the material, which can also weaken the joint. In addition, the use of welding technology is often associated with significant environmental impacts, as the processes are energy-intensive and produce waste products.

[0010] EP 1 122 119 B1 describes a bracket having two pairs of grooves positioned to receive the arms of anchor points. The arms are firmly fixed in the grooves of the bracket by welding.

[0011] The object of the invention is to overcome these disadvantages and to develop a more cost-effective, safer and more environmentally friendly method for attaching top tether systems, which avoids the problems of the welded connection described above.

[0012] This problem is solved according to the invention with respect to a holding device by the features of claim 1 and with respect to a method for manufacturing a holding device by the features of claim 11. The remaining claims relate to preferred embodiments of the invention.

[0013] The point-by-point crimping of the metal bracket's mounting arms to the bracket's receiving openings creates a firm and stable connection. This ensures that the metal bracket remains securely in position even under high mechanical loads, such as those encountered during an impact. This guarantees a high level of safety for attaching top tether systems.

[0014] The specially shaped, semi-cylindrical mounting holes enable a positive-locking connection that prevents the mounting arms from being pulled out under mechanical stress. This precise fit increases the reliability and service life of the mounting device, as it ensures a firm, immovable connection.

[0015] Precise control of the pressing process, particularly through the use of a hydraulic pressing system, standardizes the production of the mounting device. This improves the quality of the mounting device. Furthermore, the welding process is eliminated, simplifying the manufacturing process and reducing production costs. Eliminating welding not only makes production more efficient but also avoids potential welding-related problems such as deformation or material fatigue.

[0016] According to a first aspect, the invention provides a mounting device for a top tether in vehicles.The mounting device comprises an arc-shaped metal bracket for attaching a top tether, the metal bracket comprising two tubular mounting arms; a bracket holder for holding the metal bracket, the bracket holder having a substantially rectangular base plate provided on both sides with at least one semi-cylindrical receiving opening; the receiving openings of the bracket holder being designed to at least partially enclose the mounting arms of the metal bracket when inserted; each of the two mounting arms of the metal bracket being pressed into at least one receiving opening of the bracket holder after being positioned in the receiving openings, so that a firm and stable connection of the metal bracket to the bracket holder is created by compression, which securely holds the metal bracket in its position even under high mechanical loads, such as during an impact.

[0017] In an advantageous embodiment, the shape of the receiving openings is adapted to the shape of the fastening arms of the metal bracket in order to achieve a positive locking connection that prevents the fastening arms from being pulled out under mechanical stress.

[0018] In another embodiment, the bracket holder is designed as a metal casting to ensure increased stability and load-bearing capacity.

[0019] Advantageously, the receiving openings are formed on the base plate of the bracket holder by means of a corresponding design of the casting mold.

[0020] In particular, the bracket holder is designed as a stamped metal part, with the receiving openings being formed on the base plate of the bracket holder by a corresponding deformation of the metal.

[0021] In a further embodiment, it is provided that at least four receiving openings are provided on each side of the base plate, with a concave semi-cylindrical receiving opening and a convex semi-cylindrical receiving opening alternating each other.

[0022] Advantageously, each fastening arm of the metal bracket is pressed into each of the four receiving openings to achieve an even distribution of force and increased pull-out resistance.

[0023] In particular, localized injection is planned, especially with a stamp in the area of ​​the receiving openings.

[0024] Advantageously, the clamping arms of the metal bracket are pressed together with the receiving openings using a pressing pressure in the range of 100 to 1000 MPa, preferably 300 to 700 MPa, to ensure the required connection security.

[0025] Further training stipulates that the metal bracket and the bracket holder must have a surface treatment to ensure corrosion resistance and an increased service life of the mounting device.

[0026] According to a second aspect, the invention provides a method for manufacturing a mounting device for a top tether in vehicles. The method comprises the following steps: - Providing an arc-shaped metal bracket with two tubular mounting arms; - Providing a bracket holder with a substantially rectangular base plate, which is provided on both sides with at least one semi-cylindrical receiving opening; - Inserting the fastening arms of the metal bracket into the receiving openings of the bracket holder, wherein the receiving openings at least partially enclose the fastening arms; - Pressing the fastening arms of the metal bracket with the receiving openings of the bracket holder under a pressing pressure in the range of 100 to 1000 MPa, preferably 300 to 700 MPa, to create a firm and stable connection that securely holds the metal bracket in its position even under high mechanical loads, such as during an impact.

[0027] In a further development, it is provided that a point pressing is carried out with a hydraulic pressing system that generates a controlled pressing pressure in the range of 100 to 1000 MPa, preferably 300 to 700 MPa, in order to achieve a uniform and stable connection between the fastening arm of the metal bracket and the receiving openings of the bracket holder.

[0028] The invention will now be explained in more detail with reference to exemplary embodiments shown in the drawing.

[0029] This shows: Fig. 1 a top view of a prior art mounting device for a top tether with a metal bracket and a bracket holder in the installed state; Fig. 2 a rear view of the mounting device according to the prior art Fig. 1 in the installed state; Fig. 3 a perspective view of the mounting device according to the state of the art Fig. 1; Fig. 4 a perspective view of a mounting device according to the invention for a top tether; Fig. 5 a perspective view of the bracket holder of the mounting device according to the invention Fig. 4; Fig. 6 a top view of the mounting device Fig. 4 in the installed state; Fig. 7 a rear view of the mounting device Fig. 4 when installed. Fig. 8 a flowchart to explain the individual process steps of a process according to the invention.

[0030] Additional features, aspects and advantages of the invention or its embodiments become apparent from the detailed description in conjunction with the claims.

[0031] Fig. Figure 1 shows a prior art mounting device 10 for a top tether. The mounting device 10 comprises a metal bracket 20 which is connected to a bracket holder 30 in the vehicle. The bracket holder 30 serves as a stable anchor point, securing the metal bracket 20 with the top tether to a fixed point in the vehicle (often on the parcel shelf or another stable point in the vehicle).

[0032] This mechanism ensures that the top tether maintains the correct position of the child seat in the event of an accident, guaranteeing secure anchoring. The bracket 30 holds the metal bracket 20 firmly in place, which in turn keeps the belt in the correct position in the vehicle, so that a child seat connected to the top tether remains stable and does not move forward.

[0033] For attaching top tether systems in vehicles, a MAG welding connection is frequently used to join the metal bracket 20 to the bracket holder 30. As shown in the Fig. 2 and Fig. As shown in Figure 3, welding is carried out at least four weld points 22 on each side of the metal bracket 20 on the rear of the bracket holder 30, thus ensuring a strong mechanical connection between the metal bracket 20 and the bracket holder 30. This multiple welding ensures a high strength of the connection, which must withstand the stresses in an accident. In addition, the bracket holder 30 is usually connected to the parcel shelf 50 and the cross member of the vehicle with 2 x HSN, thus achieving a stable mounting of the mounting device 10.

[0034] MAG stands for Metal Active Gas welding. This is a widely used process in metalworking, in which the welding process is carried out under a shielding gas (usually a mixture of argon and CO2 or pure CO2). The shielding gas protects the weld area from oxidation and impurities, resulting in a very strong and durable weld.

[0035] HSN stands for hollow shank rivet. These rivets are used to join components and provide a strong and durable fastening. Using hollow shank rivets, the bracket 30 is connected to the parcel shelf 50 and the vehicle's crossmember. In this way, the entire mounting device 10 is firmly integrated into the vehicle structure.

[0036] As in Fig. As shown in Figure 4, the mounting device 10 according to the invention for a top tether in vehicles consists of an arc-shaped metal bracket 20 for attaching a top tether and a bracket holder 30 for holding the metal bracket 20. The metal bracket 20 comprises two tubular mounting arms 25. The bracket holder 30 has a substantially rectangular base plate 35, which is provided on both sides with at least one semi-cylindrical receiving opening 40. The receiving openings 40 of the bracket holder 30 are designed such that they at least partially enclose the mounting arms 25 of the metal bracket 20 in the inserted state.Each of the two fastening arms 25 of the metal bracket 20 is pressed into at least one receiving opening 40 of the bracket holder 30 after being positioned in the receiving openings 40, so that a firm and stable connection of the metal bracket 20 with the bracket holder 30 is created by pressing, which holds the metal bracket 20 securely in its position even under high mechanical loads, such as in the event of an impact.

[0037] This connection method increases the strength and safety of the mounting device 10, as it reliably fastens the metal bracket 20 to the bracket holder 30, thus preventing the metal bracket 20 from loosening even under heavy loads. The present invention therefore provides a more cost-effective, safer, and more environmentally friendly mounting device 10 for attaching top tether systems, based on mechanical crimping techniques and thus avoiding the problems described with welded connections.

[0038] As in Fig. As shown in Figure 5, the shape of the receiving openings 40 is adapted to the shape of the fastening arms 25 of the metal bracket 20 in order to achieve a positive locking connection that prevents the fastening arms 25 from being pulled out under mechanical stress.

[0039] The bracket holder 30 can be designed as a metal casting to ensure increased stability and load-bearing capacity. In this case, the receiving openings 40 are formed on the base plate 35 of the bracket holder 30 by means of a corresponding shaping of the casting mold.

[0040] The bracket holder 30 can also be designed as a stamped metal part, wherein the receiving openings 40 are formed on the base plate 35 of the bracket holder 30 by a corresponding deformation of the metal.

[0041] In particular, at least four receiving openings 40 are provided on each side of the base plate 35, wherein a concave semi-cylindrical receiving opening 42 and a convex semi-cylindrical receiving opening 44 alternate.

[0042] Each fastening arm 25 of the metal bracket 20 is crimped to each of the four receiving openings 42, 44 to achieve a uniform force distribution and increased pull-out resistance. Point crimping, particularly with a punch, is provided in the area of ​​the receiving openings 40.

[0043] The crimping of the fastening arms 25 of the metal bracket 20 with the receiving openings 40 is carried out in particular with a hydraulic crimping system at a crimping pressure in the range of 100 to 1000 MPa, preferably 300 to 700 MPa, in order to ensure the required connection security.

[0044] To ensure corrosion resistance and an increased service life of the mounting device 10, the metal bracket 20 and the bracket holder 30 may have a surface treatment.

[0045] The Fig. 6 and Fig. Figure 7 shows the mounting device 10 according to the invention in the installed state for the cost-effective, safe and environmentally friendly fastening of top tether systems, since it is based on mechanical pressing techniques and thus avoids the disadvantages of welded connections shown above.

[0046] In Fig. Figure 8 shows the process steps for manufacturing a mounting device 10 for a top tether in vehicles.

[0047] In step S10, an arc-shaped metal bracket 20 with two tubular mounting arms 25 is provided.

[0048] In step S20, a bracket holder 30 with a substantially rectangular base plate 35, which is provided on both sides with at least one semi-cylindrical receiving opening 40, is provided.

[0049] In step S30, the fastening arms 25 of the metal bracket 20 are inserted into the receiving openings 40 of the bracket holder 30, the receiving openings 40 at least partially enclosing the fastening arms 25.

[0050] In step S40, the fastening arms 25 of the metal bracket 20 are joined to the receiving openings 40 of the bracket holder 30 under a pressing pressure in the range of 100 to 1000 MPa, preferably 300 to 700 MPa, to create a firm and stable connection that securely holds the metal bracket 20 in its position even under high mechanical loads, such as during an impact.

[0051] The present invention offers a number of advantages: - Stable and durable connection: The point-by-point crimping of the mounting arms 25 of the metal bracket 20 with the receiving openings 40 of the bracket holder 30 creates a firm and stable connection. This ensures that the metal bracket 20 is held securely in position even under high mechanical loads, such as those occurring during an impact. A high level of safety is thus achieved for the attachment of top tether systems. - Optimized force transmission: The pinpoint crimping with a punch ensures a uniform and precise crimp. This results in better force transmission between the metal bracket 20 and the bracket holder 30, thereby reducing the risk of loosening or breakage of the metal bracket 20 under mechanical stress. - Positive locking connection: The specially shaped semi-cylindrical receiving openings 40 enable a positive locking connection that prevents the mounting arms 25 from being pulled out under mechanical stress. This precise fit increases the reliability of the mounting device 10. - Manufacturing flexibility: The invention enables manufacturing by both casting and stamping, thus offering high production flexibility. The most suitable method can be selected depending on material requirements and manufacturing costs. - Increased corrosion resistance: The option of applying a surface treatment to both the metal bracket 20 and the bracket holder 30 ensures improved corrosion resistance. This is particularly important for applications in vehicles, where the bracket may be exposed to various environmental influences such as moisture and salt. - Reliable manufacturing quality: Through the precise control of the pressing process, especially through the use of a hydraulic pressing system, the production of the mounting device is standardized, thus ensuring consistent quality. Reference sign 10 Mounting device 20 metal hangers 22 welding points 25 Mounting arm 30 hanger holders 35 Base plate 40 Intake opening 42 concave receiving opening 44 convex aperture 50 Parcel shelf QUOTES INCLUDED IN THE DESCRIPTION

[0000] This list of documents cited by the applicant was automatically generated and is included solely for the reader's convenience. The list is not part of the German patent or utility model application. The DPMA accepts no liability for any errors or omissions. Cited patent literature

[0000] EP 1 122 119 B1

[0010]

Claims

Mounting device (10) for a top tether in vehicles, comprising an arc-shaped metal bracket (20) for attaching a top tether, wherein the metal bracket (20) comprises two tubular mounting arms (25); a bracket holder (30) for holding the metal bracket (20), wherein the bracket holder (30) has a substantially rectangular base plate (35) provided on both sides with at least one semi-cylindrical receiving opening (40); wherein the receiving openings (40) of the bracket holder (30) are designed such that they at least partially enclose the mounting arms (25) of the metal bracket (20) in the inserted state;wherein each of the fastening arms (25) of the metal bracket (20) is pressed into at least one receiving opening (40) of the bracket holder (30) after being positioned in the receiving openings (40), so that a firm and stable connection of the metal bracket (20) with the bracket holder (30) is created by pressing, which holds the metal bracket (20) securely in its position even under high mechanical loads, such as in the event of an impact. Mounting device (10) according to claim 1, wherein the shape of the receiving openings (40) is adapted to the shape of the fastening arms (25) of the metal bracket (20) in order to achieve a positive locking connection which prevents the fastening arms (25) from being pulled out under mechanical stress. Mounting device (10) according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the bracket holder (30) is designed as a metal casting to ensure increased stability and load-bearing capacity. Mounting device (10) according to claim 3, wherein the receiving openings (40) are formed on the base plate (35) of the bracket holder (30) by a corresponding design of the casting mold. Mounting device (10) according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the bracket holder (30) is designed as a stamped metal part, and wherein the receiving openings (40) are formed on the base plate (35) of the bracket holder (30) by a corresponding deformation of the metal. Mounting device (10) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein at least four receiving openings (40) are provided on each side of the base plate (35), wherein a concave semi-cylindrical receiving opening (42) and a convex semi-cylindrical receiving opening (44) alternate. Mounting device (10) according to claim 6, wherein each fastening arm (25) of the metal bracket (20) is pressed into each of the four receiving openings (42, 44) to achieve a uniform force distribution and increased pull-out strength. Holding device (10) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein a point-specific crimping is provided, in particular with a punch in the area of ​​the receiving openings (40). Mounting device (10) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the crimping of the fastening arms (25) of the metal bracket (20) with the receiving openings (40) is carried out with a pressing pressure in the range of 100 to 1000 MPa, preferably 300 to 700 MPa, to ensure the required connection security. Mounting device (10) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the metal bracket (20) and the bracket holder (30) have a surface treatment to ensure corrosion resistance and an increased service life of the mounting device (10). Method for manufacturing a mounting device (10) for a top tether in vehicles, comprising the process steps of: - providing (S10) an arc-shaped metal bracket (20) with two tubular mounting arms (25); - providing (S20) a bracket holder (30) with a substantially rectangular base plate (35) having at least one semi-cylindrical receiving opening (40) on both sides; - inserting (S30) the mounting arms (25) of the metal bracket (20) into the receiving openings (40) of the bracket holder (30), wherein the receiving openings (40) at least partially enclose the mounting arms (25);- Pressing (S40) the fastening arms (25) of the metal bracket (20) with the receiving openings (40) of the bracket holder (30) under a pressing pressure in the range of 100 to 1000 MPa, preferably 300 to 700 MPa, to create a firm and stable connection that securely holds the metal bracket (20) in its position even under high mechanical loads, such as in the event of an impact. Method according to claim 11, wherein a point crimping is carried out with a hydraulic pressing system which generates a controlled pressing pressure in the range of 100 to 1000 MPa, preferably 300 to 700 MPa, to achieve a uniform and stable connection between the fastening arm (25) of the metal bracket (20) and the receiving openings (40) of the bracket holder (30).

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