Method for connecting connecting sections of at least two components and assembly

Description

[0001] The invention relates to methods for connecting connecting sections of at least two components, in particular vehicle components, wherein the connecting sections are connected to one another exclusively using a fiber-containing, thermosetting molding compound.

[0002] Furthermore, the invention relates to assemblies comprising at least two components, in particular vehicle components, each having at least one connecting section, wherein the connecting sections are connected to one another exclusively via a connecting component made of a cured, fiber-containing, thermosetting molding compound.

[0003] Particularly in the automotive industry, it is common practice to join components, for example, profiles or shells, using adhesive technology. Additionally, mechanical fasteners may be required to create a suitable connection between the vehicle components. Two profile components can be joined together using a component designed as a junction shell. This is particularly advantageous for profiles made of fiber composite material, with regard to the introduction of forces into the profiles during assembly or operation.

[0004] DE 10 2010 050 874 A1 discloses an assembly with components that are connected to one another via a cast node element made of an aluminum or magnesium alloy.

[0005] GB 1 547 196 A discloses an assembly comprising components which are joined together either exclusively by a coating of a fiberglass-reinforced polyester resin or by a joining material formed as a self-curing polymer system of fiber-containing polyester.

[0006] EP 2 397 312 A discloses the joining of components, wherein mutually overlapping fiber mats are placed around connecting sections of the components, then a sealing sheath is placed around the fiber mats, then the space between the sheath and the connecting sections is relieved of pressure and finally a liquid synthetic resin is injected into the sheath.

[0007] WO 2007 / 048408 A1 discloses the bonding of components of a wind turbine blade. For this purpose, a flowable adhesive and a porous material, such as a fiber material, are arranged separately between the components to be bonded. The components are then brought together so that the adhesive penetrates and saturates the porous material. Excess adhesive escaping from the bonding gap between the components is also absorbed by the porous material, preventing the excess adhesive from breaking off during operation of the wind turbine.

[0008] DE 10 2011 017007 A1 discloses a method that involves inserting a part of a fastening unit into a tool mold. A semi-finished fiber material is introduced into the mold. The part and the material are bonded together. A plastic matrix is introduced into the mold, a flowing state of the plastic is provided to the mold, and the material is impregnated such that the part is embedded in the plastic and confined in such a way that the material is simultaneously bonded to a fiber composite component. The plastic is partially cured.

[0009] The object of the invention is to create a simple way of forming high-quality connections between components, with which structurally complex assemblies can be manufactured.

[0010] This object is achieved by methods according to patent claims 1 and 2 and assemblies according to patent claims 8 and 9. Advantageous embodiments are recited in the dependent claims, which may each represent an aspect of the invention individually or in various combinations with one another.

[0011] By connecting the connecting sections of the components according to the invention, conventional joining techniques such as gluing, screwing, riveting, and the like can be eliminated. This eliminates the need for process surfaces arranged on the connecting sections to be joined, which are required for conventional joining techniques. Furthermore, the devices required to implement conventional joining techniques do not need to be used. Overall, the costs associated with conventional joining techniques can thus be saved.

[0012] Using the methods according to the invention, more structurally complex and integrated assemblies can be produced from interconnected components than is possible using conventional joining techniques. This is due, among other things, to the fact that connection-specific design regulations that must be observed when using conventional joining methods, such as avoiding shearing of adhesive joints, are no longer required.

[0013] A further disadvantage of conventional joining techniques is that material-damaging peeling stresses on the joints cannot usually be avoided. The occurrence of such peeling stresses is associated with a loss of stiffness and strength in assemblies manufactured from components using conventional joining techniques.

[0014] If the connecting sections are encompassed three-dimensionally and at least partially in a form-fitting manner by the fiber-containing, thermosetting molding compound, bond strengths and stiffnesses can be achieved that are unattainable with conventional joining techniques. The methods according to the invention allow relatively large assemblies to be formed from interconnected components by joining the components together in a single step.

[0015] The fiber-containing, thermosetting molding compound can, for example, be designed as an SMC ("Sheet Molding Compound").

[0016] The components to be connected to one another can be made of metal or a fiber composite material. Using the methods according to the invention, three or more components can also be connected to one another, particularly simultaneously. One of the components to be connected to one another can be designed as a node component, with which two or more components are to be connected.

[0017] The connecting sections are inserted into the open pressing tool in the desired relative position to one another. The fiber-containing, thermosetting molding compound, for example in the form of SMC, can then be inserted into the open pressing tool in the area of the connecting sections to be joined. The pressing tool is then closed, and a pressing process with the addition of heat can begin. Optionally, the fiber-containing, thermosetting molding compound can be preheated separately, which improves its flow properties and requires lower pressing pressures during the pressing process. This reduces the risk of damage to the joining partners, i.e. the components, during the pressing process due to the respective pressing pressure. When the pressing tool is closed, the connecting sections can be at least partially surrounded by the fiber-containing, thermosetting molding compound in a form-fitting manner.The curing of the fiber-containing, thermosetting molding compound can take place partially or completely inside or outside the molding tool.

[0018] In contrast to the previously described embodiment, the fiber-containing, thermosetting molding compound can be inserted into the mold first, followed by the components to be joined. Particular care must be taken to ensure that the components are not damaged when closing the mold.

[0019] Alternatively, a fiber-containing, thermosetting molding compound is first inserted into the mold, lying beneath the connecting sections when the mold is closed. The components to be joined are then inserted into the mold. Finally, a fiber-containing, thermosetting molding compound is inserted into the mold, lying above the connecting sections when the mold is closed; this can also be referred to as covering the top surface with the fiber-containing, thermosetting molding compound. This design has the advantage that the fiber-containing, thermosetting molding compounds do not have such long flow paths to form a desired connection between components. In particular, even fiber-containing, thermosetting molding compounds with poorer flow properties can be used here.

[0020] According to one embodiment of the invention, at least one cavity is formed on at least one connecting section before the connecting sections are connected. The fiber-containing, thermosetting molding compound can flow into the cavity during a pressing process using a pressing tool, thereby establishing a positive connection between the fiber-containing, thermosetting molding compound or a connecting component formed thereon and the component having the cavity, which strengthens the connection between the components. Two or more cavities can also be formed on one connecting section. Corresponding cavities can also be formed on all connecting sections of components to be connected to one another.

[0021] According to a further embodiment of the invention, the connecting sections to be connected to one another are arranged relative to one another in such a way that one connecting section is at least partially surrounded by the connecting section to be connected to it. This allows the components to support one another.

[0022] Advantageously, the cavity is formed as a through-hole or blind hole. A through-hole offers the possibility that the fiber-containing, thermosetting molding compound flowing through the through-hole from a first side of a connecting section to the second side of the connecting section during a pressing process can exit the through-hole on the second side and at least partially encompass the second side there, which strengthens the connection between the components. Alternatively, ribs or the like can be formed on the connecting section to achieve a positive connection between a connecting section and the fiber-containing, thermosetting molding compound.

[0023] It is further considered advantageous if, according to an embodiment of the invention, at least one undercut is formed on the cavity, running transversely to the cavity. The fiber-containing, thermosetting molding compound can flow into the cavity and its undercut during a molding process by means of a molding tool, thereby further strengthening the connection between the components. The undercut can, for example, be designed as a single transverse bore. Alternatively, at least one cavity can be designed as a bulkhead, i.e., as internal walls in the components. Such a cavity can be formed by a hollow space in a foam core of a component.

[0024] According to a further advantageous embodiment, the connecting sections to be joined are arranged in such a way that the connecting sections are in physical contact with each other. This allows the components to support each other.

[0025] A further advantageous embodiment provides that the connecting sections to be joined are arranged relative to one another such that the connecting sections are arranged at a predetermined distance from one another. The gap thus formed between the connecting sections is preferably at least partially filled with the fiber-containing, thermosetting molding compound.

[0026] Furthermore, according to the invention, an assembly with at least two components, in particular vehicle components, each having at least one connecting section, wherein the connecting sections are connected to one another exclusively via a connecting component made of a cured fiber-containing, thermosetting molding compound, characterized in that the connecting component surrounds the connecting sections in a form-fitting manner and in that at least one cavity is formed on at least one connecting section, which cavity is at least partially filled with the cured fiber-containing, thermosetting molding compound.

[0027] According to one embodiment of the invention, at least one undercut extending transversely to the cavity is formed on the cavity. This embodiment provides the advantages and refinements mentioned above with reference to the corresponding embodiment of the method.

[0028] According to a further embodiment of the invention, a connecting section is at least partially surrounded by the connecting section to be connected thereto. This embodiment provides the advantage mentioned above with reference to the corresponding embodiment of the method.

[0029] These assemblies can be manufactured using the above-mentioned processes. These assemblies offer the corresponding advantages mentioned above with reference to the processes.

[0030] Advantageously, the cavity is designed as a through hole or blind hole. This design provides the advantages and refinements mentioned above with reference to the corresponding design of the method.

[0031] According to a further advantageous embodiment, the connecting sections are in physical contact with one another. This embodiment provides the advantage mentioned above with reference to the corresponding embodiment of the method.

[0032] A further advantageous embodiment provides that the connecting sections are arranged at a predetermined distance from one another. This embodiment provides the advantage mentioned above with reference to the corresponding embodiment of the method.

[0033] Further details, features, and advantages of the invention will become apparent from the following description and the figures. They show: Figure 1 shows a schematic representation of an exemplary embodiment of an assembly not according to the invention, Figure 2 shows a schematic representation of a further exemplary embodiment of an assembly not according to the invention, Figure 3 shows a schematic representation of a further exemplary embodiment of an assembly not according to the invention, Figure 4 shows a schematic representation of a further exemplary embodiment of an assembly not according to the invention, Figure 5 shows a schematic representation of an exemplary embodiment of an assembly according to the invention, Figure 6 shows a schematic representation of a further exemplary embodiment of an assembly according to the invention, Figure 7 shows a schematic representation of a further exemplary embodiment of an assembly according to the invention, Figure 7a shows a schematic representation of a further exemplary embodiment of an assembly according to the invention,Figure 8 shows a schematic representation of a further exemplary embodiment of an assembly not according to the invention, Figure 9 shows a schematic representation of a further exemplary embodiment of an assembly not according to the invention, Figure 10 shows a schematic representation of a further exemplary embodiment of an assembly not according to the invention, Figure 11 shows a schematic representation of a further exemplary embodiment of an assembly not according to the invention, Figure 12 shows a schematic representation of a further exemplary embodiment of an assembly not according to the invention, Figure 13 shows a schematic representation of a further exemplary embodiment of an assembly not according to the invention, Figure 14 shows a schematic representation of a further exemplary embodiment of an assembly not according to the invention, Figure 15 shows a schematic representation of a further exemplary embodiment of an assembly not according to the invention,Figure 16 shows a schematic representation of a further exemplary embodiment of an assembly not according to the invention. Figure 17 shows a schematic representation of a further exemplary embodiment of an assembly not according to the invention. Figure 18 shows a schematic representation of a further exemplary embodiment of an assembly not according to the invention. Figure 19 shows a schematic representation of a further exemplary embodiment of an assembly not according to the invention. Figure 20 shows a schematic representation of a further exemplary embodiment of an assembly not according to the invention. Figure 21 shows a schematic representation of a further exemplary embodiment of an assembly not according to the invention. Figure 22 shows a schematic representation of a further exemplary embodiment of an assembly not according to the invention. Figure 23 shows a schematic representation of a further exemplary embodiment of an assembly not according to the invention.Figure 24 shows a schematic representation of a further exemplary embodiment of an assembly not according to the invention, Figure 25 shows a schematic representation of a further exemplary embodiment of an assembly not according to the invention, Figure 26 shows a schematic representation of a further exemplary embodiment of an assembly not according to the invention, Figure 27 shows a schematic representation of a further exemplary embodiment of an assembly not according to the invention, and Figure 28 shows a schematic representation of a further exemplary embodiment of an assembly not according to the invention.

[0034] Figure 1shows a schematic representation of an exemplary embodiment of an assembly 1 not according to the invention. The assembly 1 comprises two components 4 and 5, each having a connecting section 2 and 3, respectively, which are designed as profiles. The connecting sections 2 and 3 are connected to one another exclusively via a connecting component 6 made of a cured, fiber-containing, thermosetting molding compound, which at least partially surrounds the connecting sections 2 and 3 in a form-fitting manner.

[0035] The connecting sections 2 and 3 are in physical contact with each other.

[0036] Figure 2shows a schematic representation of a further exemplary embodiment of an assembly 1 not according to the invention. The assembly 1 comprises two components 4 and 5, each having a connecting section 2 and 3, respectively, which are designed as profiles. The connecting sections 2 and 3 are connected to one another exclusively via a connecting component 6 made of a cured, fiber-containing, thermosetting molding compound, which at least partially surrounds the connecting sections 2 and 3 in a form-fitting manner. The connecting sections 2 and 3 are in physical contact with one another. A cavity 7 is formed on the connecting section 2, which is at least partially filled with the cured, fiber-containing, thermosetting molding compound. Two cavities 7 are formed on the connecting section 3, which are at least partially filled with the cured, fiber-containing, thermosetting molding compound.

[0037] Figure 3shows a schematic representation of a further exemplary embodiment of an assembly 1 not according to the invention. The assembly 1 comprises two components 4 and 5, each having a connecting section 2 and 3, respectively, which are designed as profiles. The connecting sections 2 and 3 are connected to one another exclusively via a connecting component 6 made of a cured, fiber-containing, thermosetting molding compound, which at least partially surrounds the connecting sections 2 and 3 in a form-fitting manner. The connecting sections 2 and 3 are in physical contact with one another. On each connecting section 2 and 3, respectively, two cavities 7 are formed, which are at least partially filled with the cured, fiber-containing, thermosetting molding compound.

[0038] Figure 4shows a schematic representation of a further exemplary embodiment of an assembly 1 not according to the invention. The assembly 1 comprises two components 4 and 5, each having a connecting section 2 and 3, respectively, which are designed as profiles. The connecting sections 2 and 3 are connected to one another exclusively via a connecting component 6 made of a cured, fiber-containing, thermosetting molding compound, which at least partially surrounds the connecting sections 2 and 3 in a form-fitting manner. The connecting sections 2 and 3 are arranged at a distance from one another, leaving a gap 8.

[0039] Figure 5shows a schematic representation of an embodiment of an assembly 1 according to the invention. The assembly 1 comprises two components 4 and 5, each having a connecting section 2 and 3, respectively, which are designed as profiles. The connecting sections 2 and 3 are connected to one another exclusively via a connecting component 6 made of a cured, fiber-containing, thermosetting molding compound, which at least partially surrounds the connecting sections 2 and 3 in a form-fitting manner. The connecting sections 2 and 3 are in physical contact with one another. A cavity 7 is formed on each connecting section 2, which is at least partially filled with the cured, fiber-containing, thermosetting molding compound. An undercut 9 in the form of transverse bores is formed on each cavity 7.The undercut 9 on the connecting section 3 is filled with the cured fiber-containing, thermosetting molding compound that has been pressed into the undercut 9.

[0040] Figure 6shows a schematic representation of a further embodiment of an assembly 1 according to the invention. The assembly 1 comprises two components 4 and 5, each having a connecting section 2 and 3, respectively, which are designed as profiles. The connecting sections 2 and 3 are connected to one another exclusively via a connecting component 6 made of a cured, fiber-containing, thermosetting molding compound, which at least partially surrounds the connecting sections 2 and 3 in a form-fitting manner. The connecting sections 2 and 3 are in physical contact with one another. Two cavities 7 are formed on each connecting section 2, which cavities are at least partially filled with the cured, fiber-containing, thermosetting molding compound. An undercut 9 in the form of transverse bores is formed on each cavity 7.The undercuts 9 are partially filled with the cured fiber-containing, thermosetting molding compound that has been pressed into the undercuts 9.

[0041] Figure 7shows a schematic representation of a further embodiment of an assembly 1 according to the invention. The assembly 1 comprises two components 4 and 5, each having a connecting section 2 and 3, respectively, which are designed as profiles and are inserted into one another over a certain length. The connecting sections 2 and 3 are connected to one another exclusively via a connecting component 6 made of a cured, fiber-containing, thermosetting molding compound, which at least partially surrounds the connecting sections 2 and 3 in a form-fitting manner. The connecting section 2 is partially surrounded by the connecting section 3 to be connected thereto. On each connecting section 2, a cavity 7 in the form of a transverse bore is formed, which is filled with the cured, fiber-containing, thermosetting molding compound. The cavities 7 can also be designed as undercuts 9 corresponding to Figures 5 or 6 or be trained as a Scotsman.

[0042] Figure 7ashows a schematic representation of a further embodiment of an assembly 1 according to the invention. The assembly 1 comprises two components 4 and 5, each having a connecting section 2 and 3, which are designed as profiles and are inserted into one another over a certain length. The connecting sections 2 and 3 are connected to one another exclusively via a connecting component 6 made of a cured, fiber-containing, thermosetting molding compound, which at least partially surrounds the connecting sections 2 and 3 in a form-fitting manner. The connecting section 2 is partially surrounded by the connecting section 3 to be connected to it. On each connecting section 2, a cavity 7 in the form of a transverse bore is formed, which is filled with the cured, fiber-containing, thermosetting molding compound, wherein the cavities 7 are aligned with one another and are arranged in the overlapping region of the connecting sections 2 and 3.This allows the connection point and the connecting component 6 to be dimensioned smaller. The cavities 7 can also be designed as undercuts 9. Figures 5 or 6 or be trained as a Scotsman.

[0043] Figure 8 shows a schematic representation of a further exemplary embodiment of an assembly 1 not according to the invention. The assembly 1 comprises two components 4 and 5, each having a connecting section 2 and 3, respectively, wherein component 4 is designed as a profile running transversely to the plane of the drawing and component 5 is designed as a shell. The connecting sections 2 and 3 are connected to one another exclusively via a connecting component 6 made of a cured, fiber-containing, thermosetting molding compound, which at least partially surrounds the connecting sections 2 and 3 in a form-fitting manner. The connecting sections 2 and 3 are in physical contact with one another.

[0044] Figure 9shows a schematic representation of a further exemplary embodiment of an assembly 1 not according to the invention. The assembly 1 comprises two components 4 and 5, each having a connecting section 2 and 3, respectively, wherein component 4 is designed as a profile running transversely to the plane of the drawing and component 5 is designed as a shell. The connecting sections 2 and 3 are connected to one another exclusively via a connecting component 6 made of a cured, fiber-containing, thermosetting molding compound, which at least partially surrounds the connecting sections 2 and 3 in a form-fitting manner. The connecting sections 2 and 3 are in physical contact with one another.

[0045] Figure 10shows a schematic representation of a further embodiment of an assembly 1 not according to the invention. The assembly 1 comprises two components 4 and 5, each having a connecting section 2 and 3, respectively, wherein the component 4 is designed as a profile running transversely to the plane of the drawing and the component 5 is designed as a shell. The connecting sections 2 and 3 are connected to one another exclusively via a connecting component 6 made of a cured, fiber-containing, thermosetting molding compound, which at least partially surrounds the connecting sections 2 and 3 in a form-fitting manner. The connecting sections 2 and 3 are in physical contact with one another. In contrast to the Figure 8 In the embodiment shown, a cavity 7 in the form of a through-hole is formed on the component 5, which is filled with the cured fiber-containing, thermosetting molding compound.

[0046] Figure 11shows a schematic representation of a further embodiment of an assembly 1 not according to the invention. The assembly 1 comprises two components 4 and 5, each having a connecting section 2 and 3, respectively, wherein the component 4 is designed as a profile running transversely to the plane of the drawing and the component 5 is designed as a shell. The connecting sections 2 and 3 are connected to one another exclusively via a connecting component 6 made of a cured, fiber-containing, thermosetting molding compound, which at least partially surrounds the connecting sections 2 and 3 in a form-fitting manner. The connecting sections 2 and 3 are in physical contact with one another. In contrast to the Figure 9 In the embodiment shown, a cavity 7 in the form of a through-hole is formed on the component 5, which is filled with the cured fiber-containing, thermosetting molding compound.

[0047] Figure 12shows a schematic representation of a further exemplary embodiment of an assembly 1 not according to the invention. The assembly 1 comprises two components 4 and 5, each having a connecting section 2 and 3, respectively, which are designed as profiles and arranged at an angle to one another. The connecting sections 2 and 3 are connected to one another exclusively via a connecting component 6 made of a cured, fiber-containing, thermosetting molding compound in the form of a node component, which at least partially surrounds the connecting sections 2 and 3 in a form-fitting manner. The connecting sections 2 and 3 are in physical contact with one another.

[0048] Figure 13shows a schematic representation of a further exemplary embodiment of an assembly 1 not according to the invention. The assembly 1 comprises two components 4 and 5, each having a connecting section 2 and 3, respectively, which are designed as profiles and arranged at an angle to one another to form a miter. The connecting sections 2 and 3 are connected to one another exclusively via a connecting component 6 made of a cured, fiber-containing, thermosetting molding compound in the form of a node component, which at least partially surrounds the connecting sections 2 and 3 in a form-fitting manner. The connecting sections 2 and 3 are arranged at a distance from one another, leaving a gap 8 filled with the cured, fiber-containing, thermosetting molding compound.

[0049] Figure 14shows a schematic representation of a further exemplary embodiment of an assembly 1 not according to the invention. The assembly 1 comprises two components 4 and 5, each having a connecting section 2 and 3, respectively, which are designed as profiles and arranged at an angle to one another. The connecting sections 2 and 3 are connected to one another exclusively via a connecting component 6 made of a cured, fiber-containing, thermosetting molding compound in the form of a node component, which at least partially surrounds the connecting sections 2 and 3 in a form-fitting manner. The connecting sections 2 and 3 are arranged at a distance from one another, leaving a gap 8 filled with the cured, fiber-containing, thermosetting molding compound.

[0050] Figure 15shows a schematic representation of a further exemplary embodiment of an assembly 1 not according to the invention. The assembly 1 comprises two components 4 and 5, each having a connecting section 2 and 3, respectively, which are designed as profiles and arranged at an angle to one another. The connecting sections 2 and 3 are connected to one another exclusively via a connecting component 6 made of a cured, fiber-containing, thermosetting molding compound in the form of a node component, which at least partially surrounds the connecting sections 2 and 3 in a form-fitting manner. The connecting sections 2 and 3 are arranged at a distance from one another, leaving a gap 8 filled with the cured, fiber-containing, thermosetting molding compound.

[0051] Figure 16shows a schematic representation of a further exemplary embodiment of an assembly 1 not according to the invention. The assembly 1 comprises two components 4 and 5, each having a connecting section 2 and 3, respectively, which are designed as profiles and arranged at an angle to one another. The connecting sections 2 and 3 are connected to one another exclusively via a connecting component 6 made of a cured, fiber-containing, thermosetting molding compound in the form of a node component, which at least partially surrounds the connecting sections 2 and 3 in a form-fitting manner. The connecting sections 2 and 3 are arranged at a distance from one another, leaving a gap 8 filled with the cured, fiber-containing, thermosetting molding compound.

[0052] Figure 17shows a schematic representation of a further exemplary embodiment of an assembly 1 not according to the invention. The assembly 1 comprises three components 4, 5 and 11, each having a connecting section 2, 3 and 10, respectively, which are designed as profiles. The connecting sections 2, 3 and 10 are connected to one another exclusively via a connecting component 6 made of a cured, fiber-containing, thermosetting molding compound in the form of a node component, which at least partially surrounds the connecting sections 2, 3 and 10 in a form-fitting manner. The connecting sections 2, 3 and 10 are each arranged at a distance from one another, leaving a gap 8 filled with the cured, fiber-containing, thermosetting molding compound.

[0053] Figure 18shows a schematic representation of a further exemplary embodiment of an assembly 1 not according to the invention. The assembly 1 comprises three components 4, 5 and 11, each having a connecting section 2, 3 and 10, respectively, which are designed as profiles, wherein the connecting section 3 is partially arranged between the connecting sections 2 and 10. The connecting sections 2, 3 and 10 are connected to one another exclusively via a connecting component 6 made of a cured, fiber-containing, thermosetting molding compound in the form of a node component, which at least partially surrounds the connecting sections 2, 3 and 10 in a form-fitting manner. The connecting sections 2 and 3 or 3 and 11 are each arranged at a distance from one another, leaving a gap 8 filled with the cured, fiber-containing, thermosetting molding compound.

[0054] Figure 19shows a schematic representation of a further exemplary embodiment of an assembly 1 not according to the invention. The assembly 1 comprises three components 4, 5 and 11, each having a connecting section 2, 3 and 10, respectively, which are designed as profiles. The connecting sections 2, 3 and 10 are connected to one another exclusively via a connecting component 6 made of a cured, fiber-containing, thermosetting molding compound in the form of a node component, which at least partially surrounds the connecting sections 2, 3 and 10 in a form-fitting manner. The connecting sections 2 and 10 or 3 and 10 are each arranged at a distance from one another, leaving a gap 8 filled with the cured, fiber-containing, thermosetting molding compound.

[0055] Figure 20shows a schematic representation of a further exemplary embodiment of an assembly 1 not according to the invention. The assembly 1 comprises three components 4, 5 and 11, each having a connecting section 2, 3 and 10, respectively, which are designed as profiles, with the component 11 running transversely to the plane of the drawing. The connecting sections 2, 3 and 10 are connected to one another exclusively via a connecting component 6 made of a cured, fiber-containing, thermosetting molding compound in the form of a node component, which at least partially surrounds the connecting sections 2, 3 and 10 in a form-fitting manner. The connecting sections 2 and 10 or 3 and 10 are each arranged at a distance from one another, leaving a gap 8 filled with the cured, fiber-containing, thermosetting molding compound.

[0056] Figure 21shows a schematic representation of a further exemplary embodiment of an assembly 1 not according to the invention. The assembly 1 comprises three components 4, 5 and 11, each having a connecting section 2, 3 and 10, respectively, which are designed as profiles, with component 11 running transversely to the plane of the drawing. The connecting sections 2, 3 and 10 are connected to one another exclusively via a connecting component 6 made of a cured, fiber-containing, thermosetting molding compound in the form of a node component, which at least partially surrounds the connecting sections 2, 3 and 10 in a form-fitting manner. The connecting sections 2 and 10 or 3 and 10 are in physical contact with one another.

[0057] Figure 22shows a schematic representation of a further exemplary embodiment of an assembly 1 not according to the invention. The assembly 1 comprises three components 4, 5 and 11, each having a connecting section 2, 3 and 10, respectively, wherein the components 4 and 5 are designed as profiles and the component 11 is designed as a shell, and wherein the component 4 runs transversely to the plane of the drawing. The connecting sections 2, 3 and 10 are connected to one another exclusively via a connecting component 6 made of a cured fiber-containing, thermosetting molding compound in the form of a node component, which at least partially surrounds the connecting sections 2, 3 and 10 in a form-fitting manner. The connecting sections 2 and 10 or 3 and 10 are each arranged at a distance from one another, leaving a gap 8 filled with the cured fiber-containing, thermosetting molding compound. The connecting section 10 is partially arranged between the connecting sections 2 and 3.

[0058] Figure 23 shows a schematic representation of a further exemplary embodiment of an assembly 1 not according to the invention. The assembly 1 comprises three components 4, 5 and 11, each having a connecting section 2, 3 and 10, respectively, wherein the components 4 and 5 are designed as profiles and the component 11 is designed as a shell, and wherein the component 4 runs transversely to the plane of the drawing. The connecting sections 2, 3 and 10 are connected to one another exclusively via a connecting component 6 made of a cured, fiber-containing, thermosetting molding compound in the form of a node component, which at least partially surrounds the connecting sections 2, 3 and 10 in a form-fitting manner. The connecting sections 2 and 10 or 3 and 10 are in physical contact with one another. The connecting section 10 is partially arranged between the connecting sections 2 and 3.

[0059] Figure 24shows a schematic representation of a further exemplary embodiment of an assembly 1 not according to the invention. The assembly 1 comprises four components 4, 5, 11 and 13, each having a connecting section 2, 3, 10 and 12, respectively, which are designed as profiles. The connecting sections 2, 3, 10 and 12 are connected to one another exclusively via a connecting component 6 made of a cured, fiber-containing, thermosetting molding compound in the form of a node component, which at least partially surrounds the connecting sections 2, 3, 10 and 12 in a form-fitting manner. The connecting sections 2, 3, 10 and 12 are arranged at a distance from one another, leaving gaps 8 filled with the cured, fiber-containing, thermosetting molding compound. The connecting sections 2 and 10 are partially arranged between the connecting sections 3 and 12.

[0060] Figure 25shows a schematic representation of a further exemplary embodiment of an assembly 1 not according to the invention. The assembly 1 comprises four components 4, 5, 11 and 13, each having a connecting section 2, 3, 10 and 12, respectively, which are designed as profiles. The connecting sections 2, 3, 10 and 12 are connected to one another exclusively via a connecting component 6 made of a cured, fiber-containing, thermosetting molding compound in the form of a node component, which at least partially surrounds the connecting sections 2, 3, 10 and 12 in a form-fitting manner. The connecting sections 2, 3, 10 and 12 are arranged at a distance from one another, leaving gaps 8 filled with the cured, fiber-containing, thermosetting molding compound. The connecting section 10 is partially arranged between the connecting sections 3 and 12.

[0061] Figure 26shows a schematic representation of a further exemplary embodiment of an assembly 1 not according to the invention. The assembly 1 comprises three components 4, 5 and 11, each having a connecting section 2, 3 and 10, respectively, wherein the components 4, 5 and 11 are designed as profiles and the connecting section 10 is arranged between the two connecting sections 2 and 3. The connecting sections 2, 3 and 10 are connected to one another exclusively via a connecting component 6 made of a cured, fiber-containing, thermosetting molding compound in the form of a node component, which at least partially surrounds the connecting sections 2, 3 and 10 in a form-fitting manner. The connecting sections 2 and 10 or 3 and 10 are each arranged at a distance from one another, leaving a gap 8 filled with the cured, fiber-containing, thermosetting molding compound.

[0062] Figure 27shows a schematic representation of a further exemplary embodiment of an assembly 1 not according to the invention. The assembly 1 comprises four components 4, 5, 11 and 13, each having a connecting section 2, 3, 10 and 12, respectively, which are designed as profiles, with component 11 extending transversely to the plane of the drawing. The connecting sections 2, 3, 10 and 12 are connected to one another exclusively via a connecting component 6 made of a cured, fiber-containing, thermosetting molding compound in the form of a node component, which at least partially surrounds the connecting sections 2, 3, 10 and 12 in a form-fitting manner. The connecting sections 2, 3, 10 and 12 are arranged at a distance from one another, leaving gaps 8 filled with the cured, fiber-containing, thermosetting molding compound. The connecting section 10 is partially arranged between the connecting sections 3 and 12.

[0063] Figure 28shows a schematic and perspective representation of a further exemplary embodiment of an assembly 1 for a vehicle, not according to the invention. The assembly 1 comprises four components 4, 5, 11, and 13, each having a connecting section 2, 3, 10, and 12, respectively, which are designed as profiles, with component 11 extending transversely to the plane of the drawing. The connecting sections 2, 3, 10, and 12 are connected to one another exclusively via a connecting component 6 made of a cured, fiber-containing, thermosetting molding compound in the form of a node component, which at least partially surrounds the connecting sections 2, 3, 10, and 12 in a form-fitting manner.

[0064] Regarding the exemplary embodiments described above, it should be noted that all connection variants can also be designed without cavities (7). Furthermore, all exemplary embodiments can be designed for pure shell-to-shell connections, shell-to-profile connections in any combination, or as pure profile-to-profile connections. List of reference symbols:

[0065] 1Assembly 2Connecting section 3Connecting section 4Component 5Component 6Connecting component 7Cavity 8Gap 9Undercut 10Connecting section 11Component 12Connecting section 13Component

Claims

1. Method for joining connecting portions (2, 3, 10, 12) of at least two components (4, 5, 11, 13), in particular vehicle components, wherein the connecting portions (2, 3, 10, 12) are joined to one another exclusively using a fibrous thermoset moulding compound, characterized by the steps of: - introducing into a compression mould the connecting portions (2, 3, 10, 12) to be joined to one another; - introducing into the compression mould, in the region of the join between the connecting portions (2, 3, 10, 12) that is to be established, a fibrous thermoset moulding compound before and / or after the connecting portions (2, 3, 10, 12) to be joined to one another have been introduced into the compression mould; - closing the compression mould after the connecting portions to be joined to one another and the fibrous thermoset moulding compound have been introduced into the compression mould; and - curing the fibrous thermoset moulding compound, wherein at least one cavity (7) is formed at at least one connecting portion (2, 3, 10, 12) before the connecting portions (2, 3, 10, 12) are joined, characterized in that, at the cavity (7), there is formed at least one undercut (9) which extends transversely to the cavity.

2. Method for joining connecting portions (2, 3, 10, 12) of at least two components (4, 5, 11, 13), in particular vehicle components, wherein the connecting portions (2, 3, 10, 12) are joined to one another exclusively using a fibrous thermoset moulding compound, characterized by the steps of: - introducing into a compression mould the connecting portions (2, 3, 10, 12) to be joined to one another; - introducing into the compression mould, in the region of the join between the connecting portions (2, 3, 10, 12) that is to be established, a fibrous thermoset moulding compound before and / or after the connecting portions (2, 3, 10, 12) to be joined to one another have been introduced into the compression mould; - closing the compression mould after the connecting portions to be joined to one another and the fibrous thermoset moulding compound have been introduced into the compression mould; and - curing the fibrous thermoset moulding compound, characterized in that the connecting portions (2, 3, 10, 12) to be joined to one another are arranged in relation to one another in such a way that one connecting portion (2, 3, 10, 12) is surrounded at least partially by the connecting portion (2, 3, 10, 12) to be joined thereto.

3. Method according to Claim 2, characterized in that at least one cavity (7) is formed at at least one connecting portion (2, 3, 10, 12) before the connecting portions (2, 3, 10, 12) are joined.

4. Method according to Claim 1 or 3, characterized in that the cavity (7) is formed as a through-hole or blind hole.

5. Method according to Claim 3 or 4, characterized in that, at the cavity (7), there is formed at least one undercut (9) which extends transversely to the cavity.

6. Method according to one of Claims 1 to 5, characterized in that the connecting portions (2, 3, 10, 12) to be joined to one another are arranged in relation to one another in such a way that the connecting portions (2, 3, 10, 12) are in physical contact with one another.

7. Method according to one of Claims 1 to 5, characterized in that the connecting portions (2, 3, 10, 12) to be joined to one another are arranged in relation to one another in such a way that the connecting portions (2, 3, 10, 12) are arranged at a predefined distance from one another.

8. Assembly (1) having at least two components (4, 5, 11, 13), in particular vehicle components, which each have at least one connecting portion (2, 3, 10, 12), wherein the connecting portions (2, 3, 10, 12) are joined to one another exclusively via a connecting component (6) composed of a cured fibrous thermoset moulding compound, characterized in that the connecting component (6) surrounds the connecting portions (2, 3, 10, 12) in a form-fitting manner, and in that at least one cavity (7) is formed at at least one connecting portion (2, 3, 10, 12) and is filled at least partially with the cured fibrous thermoset moulding compound, characterized in that, at the cavity (7), there is formed at least one undercut (9) which extends transversely to the cavity (7).

9. Assembly (1) having at least two components (4, 5, 11, 13), in particular vehicle components, which each have at least one connecting portion (2, 3, 10, 12), wherein the connecting portions (2, 3, 10, 12) are joined to one another exclusively via a connecting component (6) composed of a cured fibrous thermoset moulding compound, characterized in that the connecting component (6) surrounds the connecting portions (2, 3, 10, 12) in a form-fitting manner, and in that at least one cavity (7) is formed at at least one connecting portion (2, 3, 10, 12) and is filled at least partially with the cured fibrous thermoset moulding compound, characterized in that one connecting portion (2, 3, 10, 12) is surrounded at least partially by the connecting portion (2, 3, 10, 12) to be joined thereto.

10. Assembly (1) according to Claim 8 or 9, characterized in that the cavity (7) is formed as a through-hole or blind hole.

11. Assembly (1) according to Claim 9 or 10, characterized in that, at the cavity (7), there is formed at least one undercut (9) which extends transversely to the cavity (7).

12. Assembly (1) according to one of Claims 8 to 11, characterized in that the connecting portions (2, 3, 10, 12) are in physical contact with one another.

13. Assembly (1) according to one of Claims 8 to 11, characterized in that the connecting portions (2, 3, 10, 12) are arranged at a predefined distance from one another.