Retaining element for a built-in device for installation in a motor vehicle and system
The retaining element's innovative design with multiple bends and angles addresses the issue of deformation during device removal, ensuring secure and damage-free mounting and dismounting by directing forces to specific points, maintaining shape stability and secure retention.
Patent Information
- Application Number
- FR2025005538
- Authority / Receiving Office
- FR · FR
- Patent Type
- Applications
- Current Assignee / Owner
- Priority Date
- 2024-05-23
- Filing Date
- 2025-05-23
- Publication Date
- 2025-11-28
AI Technical Summary
Existing retaining elements for built-in devices in motor vehicles are prone to damage or deformation when the device is removed, leading to difficulty in reinstallation due to mismatched dimensions and tolerances.
The retaining element features a design with multiple bends and angles, including acute angles and sharp folding edges, allowing targeted absorption of forces during assembly and disassembly, preventing deformation in non-critical areas and ensuring shape stability.
The design effectively directs forces to specific points, preventing deformation of the retaining means and ensuring secure retention of the built-in device, facilitating easy and secure mounting and dismounting without damaging the element.
Smart Images
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Abstract
Description
Title of the invention: Retaining element for a built-in device for mounting in a motor vehicle and system
[0001] The present invention relates to a retaining element for a built-in appliance for installation in a motor vehicle. The invention further relates to a system comprising this retaining element mounted on an external face of the built-in appliance, intended to be mounted in a mounting space, in particular a mounting space for a built-in appliance designed for front mounting, in a motor vehicle.
[0002] Such retaining elements are now used in almost all motor vehicles for mounting a built-in device, for example a tachograph unit, also called a speedometer.
[0003] A retaining element of the aforementioned type comprises a base plate and a retaining means, the base plate being formed as a single unit with the retaining means. The retaining means has several parts, a first part of the retaining means connecting to the base plate by forming a first bend oriented opposite to the base plane, in a direction opposite to the mounting direction in which the built-in device is installed in the motor vehicle, forming a first angle between a base plane defined by the base plate and the first part. The retaining element is designed such that the built-in device can be retained in the motor vehicle in the mounted state by means of the retaining means.
[0004] The possibilities for securing the built-in device in the vehicle's mounting space using a retaining element are generally based on DIN ISO 7736:1985-04. Preferably, a lateral mounting of the built-in device in the vehicle's mounting space is proposed, in which the built-in device has a retaining element. The retaining element, which is mounted on the outer face of a housing of the built-in device, snaps into a corresponding recess in a mounting means within the vehicle's mounting space, which is used to mount the built-in device in the vehicle's mounting space. The built-in device is thus locked and held in the vehicle's mounting space by the retaining element, preventing its removal.
[0005] The drawback of these prior art retaining elements is that if the built-in device is removed from the vehicle's mounting space, the retaining element mounted on the device is damaged or deformed. This is because an extraction tool strikes the retaining means formed on the retaining element or The device slips under the retaining element, between the housing of the built-in appliance and the retaining element, and uncontrollably deforms it at some point, making it difficult or even impossible to remove the built-in appliance from the vehicle's mounting space. Furthermore, problems arise when the built-in appliance is reinstalled. The dimensions and tolerances of the built-in appliance and the retaining element mounted on it are no longer met due to the uncontrolled deformation of the retaining element. The built-in appliance can then only be inserted and locked into the vehicle's mounting space with great difficulty.
[0006] The present invention aims to provide a retaining element and a system comprising said retaining element, allowing safe and reliable mounting or dismounting of the built-in appliance on which the retaining element is mounted, without the retaining means formed on the retaining element being damaged by the extraction tool or uncontrollably deformed at any point on the retaining means.
[0007] According to a first aspect of the present invention, the retaining means has, in its longitudinal extension, in a direction opposite to the direction of assembly, between the base plate of the retaining element and a third part of the retaining means, a second bend oriented towards the base plane between the first part and a second part which connects to it of the retaining means and a third bend oriented towards the base plane between the second part and the third part which connects to it of the retaining means.
[0008] A particular advantage of the retaining element according to the invention is the design and shape of the retaining means formed therein, which has a first, a second, and a third bend. Thus, the forces acting on the retaining means, in particular the pressure forces acting during disassembly and assembly, can be absorbed particularly effectively by the second part of the retaining means, so that the retaining means allows deformation in a non-critical area and exhibits shape stability with respect to the forces exerted.
[0009] The design and shape of the retaining means also allow the forces exerted to be directed more towards the first part or the first bend of the retaining means, which is securely connected to the base plate of the retaining element at a certain angle. This ensures that the retaining means deforms in its longitudinal extension only at the first part or the first bend, and that the second and third parts of the retaining means that connect to it retain their shape and securely hold the built-in appliance in the mounting space.
[0010] According to an advantageous embodiment of the invention, the first bend has an angular range between 10° and 16°, preferably an angle of 13°.
[0011] In the preferred case, the first bend formed between the base plate of the retaining element and the first part of the retaining means forms an acute angle. Tests have shown that acute angles in the range of 10° to 16°, preferably 13°, are particularly well suited. Furthermore, the first bend is formed as a sharp folding edge.
[0012] During a manufacturing process, a punch exerts pressure on the part to be deformed, here the retaining means of the retaining element, in a die, making it possible to give the retaining means its desired shape in a targeted manner and thus to form the sharp bending edge between the base plate and the first part of the retaining means.
[0013] Tests carried out for this purpose have shown that the first bend having an acute angle is particularly advantageous. In particular, when the first bend has a sharp folding edge. This allows for particularly satisfactory absorption of the forces exerted in this area of the retaining means.
[0014] A further advantage lies in the fact that the forces, particularly the pressure forces, acting on the retaining means during disassembly or assembly can be directed precisely onto the first bend by the extraction tool, causing plastic deformation at the first bend between the base plate and the first section. This prevents deformation of the second and third sections of the retaining means, which connect to the first section. This ensures that the retaining means retains its function of securely holding the built-in appliance in the mounting space.
[0015] According to an advantageous embodiment of the invention, the second elbow has, between an extension of the first part and the second part, an angular range between 11° and 17°, preferably an angle of 14°.
[0016] In the preferred case, the retaining means is designed such that the second bend formed between the first part of the retaining means and the second part which connects to it of the retaining means also forms an acute angle, the second bend having a sharp folding edge.
[0017] One advantage lies in the fact that, as described above, the forces exerted on the retaining means, particularly on the second part of the retaining means, during disassembly or assembly, are directed in a targeted manner towards the first part of the retaining means. This should lead in a targeted manner to plastic deformation in the first part of the retaining means. This avoids deformation of the second and third parts of the retaining means. In its In the second and third parts, the retaining means retains its function of holding the built-in appliance in the mounting space.
[0018] If the retaining means is nevertheless deformed during disassembly or assembly, the deformation occurs first at the sharp folding edge, so that the rest of the retaining means retains its shape.
[0019] According to an advantageous embodiment of the invention, the third bend has, between an extension of the second part and the third part, an angular range between 32° and 37°, preferably an angle of 34°.
[0020] Tests carried out for this purpose have shown that angles within this angular range are particularly advantageous for ensuring that the third bend and the third part are undeformable with respect to the forces exerted, in particular pressure forces.
[0021] One advantage lies in the fact that the forces exerted on the retaining means do not cause deformation at the third bend or the third part of the retaining means. The fact that the third bend has a larger angle than the first and second bends allows the third bend and the third part of the retaining means to maintain their shape with respect to the applied forces. The third bend and the third part do not deform.
[0022] According to an advantageous embodiment of the invention, the second part has, in its longitudinal extension, a slope of between 0.5° and 2°, preferably a slope of 1°, in the direction of the base plane and in a direction opposite to the direction of assembly.
[0023] One advantage lies in the fact that the extraction tool can be guided effectively due to the slope of the second part. The retaining means can thus be subjected to particularly appropriate pressure by means of an extraction tool and removed from the mounting space. The forces exerted on the retaining means are directed precisely towards the first part of the retaining means due to the slope. This has the advantage that the second part of the retaining means does not deform and retains its shape for a firm hold in the mounting space of the motor vehicle.
[0024] According to an advantageous embodiment of the invention, a radius between 3 mm and 5.5 mm, preferably a radius of 5 mm, is present between the second part and the third part which connects to it, at the level of the third bend.
[0025] One advantage lies in the fact that, at this point, due to the radius formed, the retaining means exhibits greater shape stability with respect to the applied forces and can absorb these forces particularly effectively without the retaining means deforming at this point. Furthermore, due to the radius formed, the transition between the second and third parts of the retaining means is elastic with respect to a sharp folding edge.
[0026] According to an advantageous embodiment of the invention, the retaining means has, in its longitudinal extension in the direction of the base plane and in the direction of assembly, on the third part of the retaining means, a rounded edge, the rounded edge having a radius between 0.3 mm and at most half the thickness of the material of the third part of the retaining means, preferably a rounded edge having a radius of 0.3 mm.
[0027] One advantage lies in the fact that, due to the rounded shape of the third part of the retaining means, the third part being a separate free end, this end can be guided particularly effectively along the outer face of the housing when a force is exerted on the retaining means, without the free end of the third part penetrating the housing material and thus damaging or deforming the third part of the retaining means. The rounded shape of the third part provides particularly effective sliding friction.
[0028] According to an advantageous embodiment of the invention, the retaining means has, in its longitudinal extension oriented opposite to the base plane, at least one first snap-on lug on a longitudinal side of the second part of the retaining means.
[0029] One advantage lies in the fact that, thanks to the snap-in lug formed on the retaining means, the built-in device, when mounted in the mounting space of the motor vehicle, has a tight and secure fit and the built-in device, when mounted, cannot be easily removed from the mounting space.
[0030] Another advantage lies in the fact that, thanks to the snap-in lug of the retaining means, the pressure force required to hold the recessed device in the vehicle's mounting space is increased. Indeed, the snap-in lug of the retaining means can snap into a corresponding recess, for example, in a mounting means provided separately in the vehicle's mounting space. The snap-in lug exerts pressure in a direction opposite to the mounting direction against a surface of a recess in the mounting means, thus ensuring a tight and secure fit of the recessed device in the vehicle's mounting space.
[0031] According to an advantageous embodiment of the invention, the retaining means has a second snap-on lug on a longitudinal side of the second part of the retaining means, the first snap-on lug being formed parallel to the second snap-on lug.
[0032] One advantage lies in the fact that the forces exerted on the retaining element in the mounted state, in particular the pressure forces, are distributed uniformly on the first and second locking lugs of the retaining means, which helps to avoid deformation, particularly in the second part of the retaining means.
[0033] Another advantage lies in the fact that the recessed device, when installed, provides a tight fit in the vehicle's mounting space. To this end, at least one of the two locking lugs formed on the retaining means engages in a corresponding recess, for example, in the mounting means located in the vehicle's mounting space. The locking lugs exert pressure against a surface of the recesses in the mounting means in a direction opposite to the mounting direction, thus ensuring a tight fit of the recessed device in the vehicle's mounting space. The locking lugs of the retaining means, arranged parallel to each other, also serve to guide the extraction tool during the removal or installation of the recessed device in the vehicle's mounting space.This has the advantage that the dismantling tool is guided between the two ratcheting lugs of the retaining means and does not slip laterally, which could cause deformation of the retaining means.
[0034] According to an advantageous embodiment of the invention, at least one snap-in lug of the retaining means has at least one step.
[0035] One advantage lies in the fact that, thanks to the stepped feature on the retaining lug, the flush-mounting device, when mounted, can be clipped and held in various positions within the vehicle's mounting space, for example, in a mounting means additionally provided within the mounting space. This increases the pressure force between the locking lug on the retaining means or the stepped feature on the locking lug and, for example, the mounting means inserted into the vehicle's mounting space. Furthermore, tolerances between the retaining means and the mounting means can be compensated for, allowing the flush-mounting device to be correctly mounted and held within the vehicle's mounting space, thus ensuring a tight fit.
[0036] Another advantage lies in the fact that the step formed on the snap-in lug ensures that the snap-in lug of the retaining means remains engaged in the mounting means in the mounting space, even in the event of slight deformation of the retaining means, and thus firmly holds the built-in appliance in the mounted state.
[0037] According to an advantageous embodiment of the invention, the retaining means has, in its longitudinal extension oriented in the direction of assembly and opposite to the base plane, a tab on the second part of the retaining means.
[0038] One advantage lies in the fact that the tab formed on the second part of the retaining means allows greater pressure to be applied to the retaining means using the extraction tool when removing or installing the built-in device from the vehicle's mounting space, without deforming the retaining means. The retaining means, which is engaged when installed in the vehicle's mounting space, disengages, and the built-in device can be easily removed from the vehicle's mounting space in a direction opposite to the direction of installation.
[0039] Another advantage lies in the fact that, by means of the extraction tool, the retaining means is subjected to controlled pressure by the tab towards the base plane, against the outer face of the housing of the built-in appliance. For this purpose, the third part, i.e., the free end, of the retaining means is subjected to pressure in its longitudinal extension towards the mounting direction towards the base plane on the housing, which prevents deformation of the retaining means. The force exerted by the extraction tool on the tab and therefore on the retaining means is further transmitted to the housing by the second part of the retaining means, which is integral with the base plane of the retaining means and the housing of the built-in appliance.This ensures that the restraint does not deform uncontrollably at an undetermined point in the second and third parts of the restraint, and that the forces introduced into the restraint are concentrated in a targeted manner on the first part of the restraint.
[0040] According to an advantageous embodiment of the invention, the retaining element further comprises a second retaining means, the first retaining means and the second retaining means having identical structures and being arranged symmetrically with respect to each other.
[0041] One advantage lies in the fact that the recessed device provides a tight and secure fit within the vehicle's mounting space. This protects the recessed device from uncontrolled sliding within the mounting space, for example, in the event of an accident. Furthermore, the recessed device is prevented from tipping within the mounting space after installation when the retaining element or the first and second retaining means are engaged, for example, with the mounting means positioned within the vehicle's mounting space.
[0042] Furthermore, an advantage lies in the fact that the force exerted on the first and second restraint means, arranged symmetrically with respect to each other, during During disassembly or assembly, the force is transmitted and distributed evenly between the two retaining means, then onto the base plate of the retaining element, and finally onto the housing of the built-in appliance, so that the first and second retaining means do not deform. If deformation of the first or second retaining means nevertheless occurs, it is concentrated respectively in the first part of the retaining element or in the first bend between the base plate of the retaining element and the first connecting part of the respective retaining means.
[0043] The same applies to the pressure forces exerted on the relevant retaining means in the mounted state. One advantage lies in the fact that after the built-in device is mounted in the mounting space of the motor vehicle, the pressure forces acting on the first and second retaining means are distributed evenly over the housing of the built-in device, thus ensuring a secure fit and retention of the built-in device.
[0044] According to an advantageous embodiment of the invention, the retaining element has, parallel to said at least one retaining means and in a direction opposite to the direction of assembly, a tab connecting to the base plate.
[0045] One advantage lies in the fact that the retaining element can be easily and quickly mounted using the tab formed on the base plate, by inserting and snapping it into the outer face of the built-in appliance housing, within a receiving element, and that it can be removed when replacing a defective retaining element. Furthermore, the tab ensures that the retaining element sits flat against the outer face of the housing when mounted.
[0046] Another advantage lies in the fact that the forces acting on the retaining element, for example, the pressure forces exerted by the extraction tool during removal, are transmitted to the housing of the built-in appliance via the tab formed on the retaining element. Furthermore, the tab on the retaining element provides stable support for the retaining element against the outer face of the housing of the built-in appliance, thus preventing any tilting or slippage. Since the retaining means rests flat on the outer face of the housing and is connected to the housing wall, the retaining means is not moved uncontrollably or even deformed when the built-in appliance is removed from the installation space. This has the advantage that the built-in appliance does not catch or jam when removed from the installation space or from the mounting means located within the installation space.
[0047] According to an advantageous embodiment of the invention, the retaining element has, parallel to said at least one retaining means and in a direction opposite the mounting direction, at least one rib connecting to the base plate and equipped with a connecting flange.
[0048] One advantage lies in the fact that the retaining element has a larger bearing surface on the housing of the built-in appliance thanks to the rib, and that the forces acting on the retaining element are absorbed and distributed particularly effectively across the housing of the built-in appliance. Furthermore, the retaining element thus benefits from a secure fit against the housing wall.
[0049] Another advantage is that the retaining element can be connected to a front face of the built-in device by means of the connecting flange attached to the rib, so that the retaining element, when the built-in device is removed from the mounting space of the motor vehicle in a direction opposite to the direction of mounting, has a tight and secure fit and is not removed from the receiving element.
[0050] According to an advantageous embodiment of the invention, the retaining element is made of metal.
[0051] One advantage lies in the fact that a metal retaining element is robust against applied forces and is easily formed and bent. This is particularly advantageous when pressure forces are exerted, for example, on the retaining element during assembly or disassembly using the extraction tool. Furthermore, metal exhibits high material strength. For example, compared to a plastic retaining element, a metal retaining element exhibits slower material fatigue and aging. Another advantage is that a metal retaining element can be quickly and economically shaped into any desired form. In addition, a metal retaining element allows for sharp bending edges, which are particularly suitable for targeted force absorption and deformation at a desired location on the retaining element.
[0052] According to an advantageous embodiment of the invention, the retaining element is made in the form of a cut and folded piece.
[0053] One advantage lies in the fact that the retaining element, as a cut and bent component, can be custom-made according to the specifications and requirements of specific technical specifications. Another advantage lies in the fact that cut and bent parts can be manufactured quickly, accurately, economically, and with energy savings. Furthermore, cut and bent parts offer great flexibility in the shaping and design of the part to be produced and can be manufactured rapidly in large quantities.
[0054] Furthermore, the retaining means formed on the retaining element can be manufactured in almost any embodiment, particularly with regard to the angular zones formed and their radii on the retaining means. In the case of a cut and bent part, sharp bend edges can be particularly well produced.
[0055] According to an advantageous embodiment of the invention, the retention means for the retention element is designed to be elastically flexible in its longitudinal extension, perpendicular to the base plane.
[0056] One advantage lies in the fact that the retaining means can be elastically deformed to a small extent under the effect of applied forces, for example, under the effect of pressure forces exerted by the extraction tool. No direct plastic deformation or change in the shape of the retaining means occurs when forces are exerted on it by the extraction tool.
[0057] During elastic deformation, the retaining means returns to its initial shape once the force exerted on it is removed. One advantage of this is that the retaining means, under the effect of applied forces, for example, pressure forces, does not immediately lose its shape and therefore retains its original initial form. This ensures that the retaining means fulfills its function as a retaining element and that the recessed device, in its mounted state, is securely clipped into the mounting space of the motor vehicle.
[0058] Another advantage lies in the fact that, in the preferred case, when the retaining means deforms in the first part, preferably the first bend between the base plate and the first part, the third part of the retaining means, i.e. the free end exposed, returns to its initial shape, thus ensuring that the built-in device snaps securely into the mounting space.
[0059] The above features and advantages may also be valid for the system described below.
[0060] According to a second aspect of the present invention, a system is provided comprising a first retaining element and a built-in device, the built-in device having a parallelepiped-shaped housing and the housing having, on an external face, on two opposite sides of the housing, the first retaining element and a second retaining element corresponding to the first retaining element, the two retaining elements being designed to hold the built-in device in a mounting space of a motor vehicle.
[0061] One advantage lies in the fact that the built-in device is securely held in the vehicle's mounting space by means of the first retaining element and the opposing second retaining element, and is protected against unauthorized removal. In the snapped-in position, the snap-in lug of the first and second retaining elements exerts pressure against the surface of the recess in the mounting means installed in the vehicle's mounting space. automobile, thus maintaining the built-in device reliably in the mounting space of the motor vehicle.
[0062] According to an advantageous embodiment of the invention, the respective retaining element is held on the housing of the built-in device by complementarity of form and / or by complementarity of force.
[0063] In the preferred case, the respective retaining element is connected by complementary shape to a receiving element formed respectively on the outer face, on two opposite sides of the housing. Alternatively or further, the respective retaining element can be screwed by complementary force, via the front face of the housing, to a front panel disposed on the front face of the housing, and thus be retained.
[0064] One advantage lies in the fact that a retaining element connected to the housing can be easily replaced in the case of a connection based on complementary shapes or complementary forces, without damaging the housing. If the retaining element is damaged during the installation or removal of the built-in appliance, it can be replaced quickly, without having to replace the entire housing with the retaining element.
[0065] Another advantage lies in the fact that, in the case of a force-complementary connection, the tensile or compressive forces acting on the retaining element or the retaining means formed on it during assembly or disassembly are transmitted to the housing. Furthermore, the retaining means thus always ensures a tight fit on the housing of the built-in appliance.
[0066] The retaining element according to the invention finds its use, for example, in a motor vehicle, preferably for mounting a tachograph unit in a heavy goods vehicle. Consequently, the system according to the invention is preferably used in a motor vehicle, particularly a heavy goods vehicle, in an installed state.
[0067] Advantageous developments of the invention also emerge from the features of the following description and figures.
[0068] For a better understanding of the principles of the present invention, embodiments of the invention will subsequently be explained in more detail with reference to the figures. The same reference numerals are used in the figures for identical elements or elements having the same effect and will not necessarily be described again for each figure. It will be understood that the invention is not limited to the embodiments shown and that the features described may also be combined or modified.
[0069] Among the figures which provide a schematic illustration in the form of sketches:
[0070] [Fig-1] [Fig. 1] represents a perspective view of a retaining element for a built-in appliance,
[0071] [Fig.2] [Fig.2] represents a right-side view of a means for retaining the retaining element shown in [Fig.1],
[0072] [Fig.3] [Fig.3] shows a right-side view of a built-in appliance with a retaining element mounted on the housing of a built-in appliance,
[0073] [Fig.4] [Fig.4] shows a perspective view of a built-in appliance with the fixing element mounted on the housing of a built-in appliance,
[0074] [Fig.5] [Fig.5] represents a system comprising a built-in device and a fixing element to be mounted on it.
[0075] Figure 1 shows in perspective an example of the configuration of the retaining element 100 in the unmounted state with the housing 300, the retaining element 100 being designed symmetrically (axis of symmetry 400) along a tab 130 in the mounting direction X. The retaining element 100 has a base plate 103 having an upper face 101 and a lower face 102 arranged parallel to it, the lower face 102 of the retaining element 100, in the mounted state, resting flat on an outer face of the housing of the built-in appliance, as shown in Figure 3, and being securely connected to the housing 300 of the built-in appliance 200. The lower face 102 of the base plate 103 here defines the base plane of the retaining element and extends in the XZ plane.
[0076] A first retaining means 110 and a second retaining means 140 are connected to the base plate 103, in a direction opposite to the mounting direction X in which the built-in device 200 is mounted in the motor vehicle, the base plate 103 being made in one piece with the first retaining means 110 and the second retaining means 140. The first retaining means 110 and the second retaining means 140 each comprise several parts. In the preferred case, the first part 111, 141 of the retaining means 110, 140, which connects to the base plate 103 in a direction opposite to the mounting direction X of the built-in device 200, in the mounting space of the motor vehicle, is a fixed part, and is securely connected to the base plate, the third part 113, 143, which is a free end, being movable and able to be guided on the housing 300 of the built-in device 200.
[0077] The first retaining means 110, which connects to the base plate 103, and the second retaining means 140 extend here respectively in a direction opposite to the mounting direction X of the mounting device 200, within the mounting space of the motor vehicle, and protrude in their longitudinal extension in a direction opposite to the mounting direction X away from the base plane of the retaining element 100 towards the upper face 101 of the retaining element 100.
[0078] In one embodiment, the first retaining means 110 has, in its longitudinal extension, between the first part 111 and the third part 113, a second part 112, the second part 112 having on the outer contour a first snap-in lug 119 and a second snap-in lug 121 and the first snap-in lug 119 being arranged parallel to the second snap-in lug 121 on the retaining means 110. The two snap-in lugs 119, 121 are here respectively placed at 90° in the longitudinal extension of the retaining means 110, opposite the base plane. Each of the two snap-in lugs 119, 121 respectively has a step 120, 122, each of the two steps in turn having two individual steps respectively.The steps 120, 122 are designed so that the retaining element 100 can snap into the snap-in lugs 119, 121 formed on the first retaining means 110, or the steps 120, 122 formed on the respective snap-in lugs, with a corresponding recess in the mounting means, not shown here.
[0079] The second retaining means 140 has the same structure and function as the first retaining means 110 described previously, and the snap-on lugs formed on the retaining means.
[0080] In its longitudinal extension, the retaining means 110 is bent between the base plate 103 and the third portion 113 of the retaining means 110. Since the retaining means 110 has a free end at the third portion 113, the retaining means 110 is designed to be elastic in its longitudinal extension. The retaining means 110 can thus be released, in the snapped position, from the mounting means, which is not shown in the vehicle mounting space.
[0081] The first retaining means 110 further has, in its longitudinal extension, in the mounting direction X and in a direction opposite to the base plane, on the second part 112 of the retaining means 110, a tab 123 deflected between the two snap-in lugs 119, 121, by means of which the retaining means 110 is released from the mounting means during disassembly. For this purpose, an extraction tool exerts pressure on the tab 123, and the first retaining means 110, with the two snap-in lugs 119, 121, is released from the corresponding recess, not shown, in the mounting means.
[0082] Figure 1 further illustrates an example of a configuration for a first rib 174 and a second rib 184 connecting to the base plate 103 in a direction opposite to the mounting direction X, with a first connecting flange 170 and a second connecting flange 180 connecting respectively to the respective rib. The first rib 174 is equipped with the first connecting flange 170 and the second rib 184 with the second connecting flange 180 have identical structures and are arranged symmetrically with respect to each other on the base plate 305. The first rib 174, to which the first connecting flange 170 is connected, is arranged centrally and parallel between the tab 130 and the first retaining means 110. The second tab 184 with the second connecting flange 180 is arranged centrally and parallel between the tab 130 and the second retaining means 140.
[0083] The two connecting flanges 170, 180 are arranged in such a way that they serve, when mounting the retaining element 100, as illustrated in figures 3 and 4, on the outer face of a housing 300 of a built-in device 200 and for the connection to a front panel 210 mounted on the front face of the housing 305.
[0084] In one embodiment, the first connecting flange 170 has a recess 171, which allows the retaining element 100 to be connected to the housing 300 and to the front panel 210 mounted on the front face of the housing 305, as illustrated in [Fig. 4]. A mounting means 500 (not shown), for example a screw, is used for this purpose. The flange 170 also has a second recess 172 which serves to guide the extraction tool (not shown here). As shown in Figures 3 and 4, the extraction tool can be guided through the through recess 211 formed in the front panel, and then through the corresponding recess 311 in the front of the housing. The extraction tool then continues to be guided along the outer face of the housing to the retaining means 110 of the retaining element 100.The extraction tool is guided between the two snap-in lugs 119, 121 formed on the second part 112 of the retaining means 110 and exerts pressure on the tab 123, thus releasing the retaining means 110 from the mounting means (not shown). Furthermore, the connecting flange 170 has a third recess 173 which serves to center the retaining element 100 by means of a tenon 310 formed on the housing 300, as illustrated in [Fig. 3].
[0085] The second flange 180 has a structure and function equivalent to those of the first flange 170.
[0086] Furthermore, [Fig. 1] represents a tab 130 having a lug 131 formed in the direction of the base plane, the tab 130 connecting to the base plate 103 in a direction opposite to the mounting direction X and the tab 130 being formed parallel between the first retaining means 110 and the second retaining means 140. The retaining element 100 can be inserted and thus fixed in a receiving element 320 by means of the tab 300, as illustrated in Figures 3 and 4, in a direction opposite to the mounting direction X on the outer face of the housing 300. For this purpose, the lug 131 formed on the tab 130 snaps into the housing 300 of the built-in appliance 200.
[0087] The retaining element 100 has an axis of symmetry 400, so that the first retaining means 110 and the second retaining means 140 formed on the retaining element 100, as well as the first rib 174 and the second rib 184 having the first flange 170 and the second flange 180 which connect to it respectively, are made symmetrically with respect to each other on the retaining element 300.
[0088] Figure 2 illustrates, by way of example, a right-hand view of the second restraint 140 of the restraint 100 shown in Figure 1. As illustrated in this view, the restraint 100 has a base plate 103 having an upper face 101 and a lower face 102 extending parallel to each other. The first portion 141 of the second restraint 140 connects to the base plate 103 in a direction opposite to the mounting direction X in which the built-in device 200 is mounted in the motor vehicle. The first part 141 of the second restraint means 140 connects here to the base plate 103 by forming a first angle a between the base plane defined by the base plate 103 and the first part 141, thus forming a first bend 144 oriented opposite to the base plane in the direction of the upper face 101.Furthermore, the restraint means 140 has, in its longitudinal extension, in a direction opposite to the mounting direction X, between the base plate 103 of the restraint element 100 and a third part 143 of the restraint means 140, a second bend 145, oriented towards the base plane, between the first part 141 and a second part 142 which connects to it of the restraint means 140, as well as a third bend 146, oriented towards the base plane, between the second part 142 and the third part 143 which connects to it of the restraint means 140.
[0089] In this embodiment of [Fig. 2] shown by way of example, the first bend 144 has an acute angle α of 13°, the first bend 144 being formed as a sharp bend edge. The second bend 145, between an extension of the first part 141 and the second part 142 of the retaining means 110, also has an acute angle α2 of 14° and is furthermore also formed as a sharp bend edge. The third bend 146, between an extension of the second part 142 and the third part 143, has an angle α3 of 34° with a radius r3 of 5 mm. The first part 141 of the restraint means 140 thus has a lower angle α with respect to the third part 143, so that the first part 141 is oriented more flat with respect to the third part 143. Thanks to the radius r3 formed between the third part 143 and the second part 142 which connects to it, the third part 143 is elastic with respect to the forces exerted.
[0090] The second part 142, arranged between the first part 141 and the third part 143, has a slope of 1° in its longitudinal extension towards the base plane and in a direction opposite to the mounting direction X. As illustrated on the [Fig.1], the second part 142 further presents, in its longitudinal extension oriented opposite to the base plane, a ratcheting lug 151, a step 152 being formed on the ratcheting lug.
[0091] As shown in [Fig.2], the retaining means 140, in its longitudinal extension in the mounting direction X, is securely connected to the base plate 103 at the level of its first part 141 and is free to move at the level of the third part 143.
[0092] The third part 143 of the retaining means 140 has, in the direction of the base plane and in the mounting direction X, a rounded r4 having a radius of 0.3 mm, so that the free end of the third part 143, in the mounted state on the housing 300 of the built-in device, can be guided during disassembly or assembly, without the retaining means 140 deforming at the level of the third part 143. Thanks to the rounded r4 formed at the free end of the third part 143, having said radius, a sliding movement is ensured on the housing, without the free end penetrating the material of the housing.
[0093] If the second retaining means 140 is deformed by the extraction tool during disassembly or assembly, the sharp folding edges 144, 145 give way first and begin to deform plastically, which makes it possible to obtain a targeted deformation in the area of the first part 141, while the third part 143 of the retaining means 140 exhibits an elastic spring effect due to the large angle a3 as well as the radius r3 with respect to the second part 142 which connects to it.
[0094] Furthermore, [Fig.2] illustrates the rib 184 which connects to the base plate 103 in a direction opposite to the mounting direction X, with the connecting flange 180 which connects to it.
[0095] Figure 3 illustrates the retaining element described in Figures 1 and 2 in its mounted state on the right side 303 of the housing 300 of the built-in appliance 200. The built-in appliance 200 is further shown in Figure 3 after the mounting of a front panel 210 onto a front face 305 of the housing 300 of the built-in appliance 200. The front panel 210 of the built-in appliance 200 closes the front face 305 of the housing 300 and is equipped with various functional elements that will not be described in further detail here. When the front panel 210 is not mounted on the housing 300, the front face 305 of the housing 300 allows, for example, the insertion of electronic components such as printed circuit boards inside the housing 300.
[0096] On [Fig.3], the housing 300 of the built-in device 200 has a parallelepiped outer contour, an upper face 301, a lower face 302, a right side 303 and a front face 305 of the housing 300 being visible.
[0097] Through recesses 211, 212 are formed in the front panel 210 of the built-in appliance 300, which serve for dismantling the built-in appliance 200 out of a mounting space of a motor vehicle. For this purpose, an extraction tool, not shown, for example in the form of a metal wire, is inserted through the through recesses 211, 212, and the built-in device 200 is thus freed from a mounting means, not shown, disposed in the mounting space of the motor vehicle.
[0098] The housing 300 has on its outer face a receiving element 320, the receiving element 320 being formed parallel to the mounting direction X on the outer face of the housing 300. In one embodiment, the tab 130 of the retaining element 100 is inserted and held in the receiving element 320 formed on the right outer face 303 of the housing 300, in a direction opposite to the mounting direction X.
[0099] Figure 4 provides further clarification and illustrates the retaining element 100 described in Figure 2 mounted on the housing 300 of the built-in appliance 200 in a perspective view. The retaining element 100 is here mounted on the right side 303 of the housing 300.
[0100] The housing 300 has, on its front face 305, at two opposite corners, two recesses through which the retaining element 100 can be further connected by means of the first connecting flange 170 and the second connecting flange 180 to the front panel 210 mounted on the front face 305 of the housing 300. For this purpose, as shown in Figures 3 and 4, a commercially available mounting means 500, for example a screw, is used. The retaining element 100 is thus protected against being pulled out of the receiving element 320 of the housing 300 in the mounting direction X. The lower face of the retaining element 100 rests flat on the outer face of the housing 300.
[0101] The housing 300 further has on its front face 305 two respective tenons 310, 312. By means of the tenons 310, 312, the respective first connecting flange 170 and second connecting flange 180 are held and centered during assembly with the housing 300, so that the retaining element 300 is positioned parallel to the receiving element 320 formed on the housing 300.
[0102] The tenon can, for example, be made in one piece with the housing during an injection molding process. Corresponding to the through recesses 211, 212 illustrated in [Fig.3] and formed in the front panel 210 of the built-in device 200, the housing 300 has on its front face 305 and on the two opposite sides, namely the left side 304 and the right side 303, a respective recess 311, 313 which serves to guide an extraction tool not shown. As illustrated in [Fig. 3], an extraction tool (not shown) is guided for this purpose through the through recesses 211, 212 in the front panel, and then through the recess 311, 313 on the front face 305 of the housing 300. The recesses 311, 313 and the tenons 310, 312 formed on the left side 213 and the right side 214 of the case 200 are arranged here symmetrically.
[0103] The same principle applies to the retaining means 300, not shown here, mounted on the left side 304 of the housing 300.
[0104] Figure 5 illustrates the system 10 comprising a retaining element 100 and a flush-mounted device 200 in the unmounted state. By means of the retaining element 300 mounted on the housing 300, on the left side 304 and on the right side 303 of the flush-mounted device 200 and the retaining means 110, 140 formed respectively on the retaining element 100, the flush-mounted device 200 is fixed and held in the mounting space of a motor vehicle.
[0105] Overall, the example illustrates how the invention makes it possible to easily implement a retaining element for the housing of a built-in appliance, so that the retaining means formed on the retaining element are not deformed and damaged during the removal of the built-in appliance. The examples further illustrate a system comprising this retaining element and a built-in appliance intended to be installed in a mounting space of a motor vehicle.
[0106] Legends
[0107] 10 System
[0108] 100 Retaining element
[0109] 101 Upper face
[0110] 102 Lower face [YES] 103 Base plate
[0112] 110 First means of restraint
[0113] 111 Part One
[0114] 112 Part Two
[0115] 113 Part Three
[0116] 114 First bend
[0117] 115 Second elbow
[0118] 116 Third elbow
[0119] 119 First locking lug
[0120] 120 Step
[0121] 121 Second locking lug
[0122] 122 Step
[0123] 123 Paw
[0124] 130 Tongue
[0125] 131 Paw
[0126] 140 Second means of restraint
[0127] 141 Part One
[0128] 142 Part Two
[0129] 143 Part Three
[0130] 144 First bend
[0131] 145 Second bend
[0132] 146 Third elbow
[0133] 149 First locking lug
[0134] 150 Step
[0135] 151 Second locking lug
[0136] 152 Step
[0137] 153 Paw
[0138] 170 First connecting flange
[0139] 171 Obviously
[0140] 172 Obviously
[0141] 173 Obviously
[0142] 174 First rib
[0143] 180 Second connecting flange
[0144] 181 Obviously
[0145] 182 Obviously
[0146] 183 Obviously
[0147] 184 Second rib
[0148] 200 Built-in appliance
[0149] 210 Front panel
[0150] 211 Obviously through
[0151] 212 Obviously through
[0152] 300 Case
[0153] 301 Top face
[0154] 302 Lower face
[0155] 303 Right side
[0156] 304 Left side
[0157] 305 Front view
[0158] 310 Tenons
[0159] 311 Obviously
[0160] 312 Tenons
[0161] 313 Obviously
[0162] 320 Receiving element
[0163] 400 Axis of symmetry
[0164] 500 Mounting means
[0165] X Assembly Direction
[0166]
[0167]
[0168]
[0169]
[0170]
[0171]
[0172]
[0173]
[0174]
[0175] Y Direction relative to the base plane t Material thickness r Radius r2 Radius r3 Radius r4 Radius a Angle a2 Angle a3 Angle a4 Angle
Claims
Demands
1. Retaining element (100) for a built-in appliance (200) intended to be mounted in a motor vehicle, the retaining element (100) having a base plate (103) and a retaining means (110), the base plate (103) being formed as a single unit with the retaining means (110), the retaining means (110) comprising a plurality of parts, a first part (111) of the retaining means (110) connecting to the base plate (103) by forming a first bend (114) oriented opposite to the base plane, in a direction opposite to the mounting direction (X) in which the built-in appliance (200) is mounted in the motor vehicle, forming a first angle (a) between a base plane defined by the base plate (103) and the first part (111), characterized in that the retaining means (110), in its longitudinal extension, in a direction opposite to the mounting direction (X),between the base plate (103) of the retaining element (100) and a third part (113) of the retaining means (110), has a second elbow (115), oriented towards the base plane, between the first part (111) and a second part (112) which connects to it of the retaining means (110) and a third elbow (116), oriented towards the base plane, between the second part (112) and the third part (113) which connects to it of the retaining means (110).
2. Retaining element (100) according to claim 1, characterized in that the first bend (114) has an angular range between 10° and 16°, preferably an angle (a) of 13°.
3. Retaining element (100) according to any one of the preceding claims 1 and 2, characterized in that the second bend (115) has, between an extension of the first part (111) and the second part (112), an angular range between 11° and 17°, preferably an angle (a2) of 14°.
4. Retaining element (100) according to any one of the preceding claims 1 to 3, characterized in that the third bend (116) has, between an extension of the second part (112) and the third part (113), an angular range between 32° and 37°, preferably an angle (a3) of 34°.
5. Retaining element (100) according to any one of the preceding claims 1 to 4, characterized in that the second part (112) has, in its longitudinal extension, a slope of between 0.5° and 2°, preferably a slope of 1°, in the direction of the base plane and in a direction opposite to the mounting direction (X).
6. Retaining element (100) according to any one of the preceding claims 1 to 5, characterized in that a radius (r) of between 3 mm and 5.5 mm, preferably a radius (r) of 5 mm, is present between the second part (112) and the third part (113) which connects to it, at the level of the third bend (116).
7. Retaining element (100) according to any one of the preceding claims 1 to 6, characterized in that the retaining means (110) has, in its longitudinal extension in the direction of the base plane and in the mounting direction (X), on the third part (113) of the retaining means (110), a rounded edge (r2), the rounded edge (r2) having a radius between 0.3 mm and at most half the thickness of material (t) of the third part (113) of the retaining means (110), preferably a rounded edge (r2) having a radius of 0.3 mm.
8. Retaining element (100) according to any one of the preceding claims 1 to 7, characterized in that the retaining means (110) has, in its longitudinal extension oriented opposite to the base plane, at least one first snap-in lug (119) on a longitudinal side of the second part (112) of the retaining means (110).
9. Retaining element (100) according to claim 8, characterized in that the retaining means (110) has a second snap-in lug (121) on a longitudinal side of the second part (112) of the retaining means (110), the first snap-in lug (119) being formed parallel to the second snap-in lug (121).
10. Retaining element (100) according to any one of the preceding claims 8 and 9, characterized in that at least one snap-in lug (119, 121) of the retaining means (110) has at least one step (120, 122).
11. Retaining element (100) according to any one of the preceding claims 1 to 10, characterized in that the retaining means (110) has, in its longitudinal extension oriented in the mounting direction (X) and opposite the base plane, a tab (123) on the second part (112) of the retaining means (110).
12. Retaining element (100) according to any one of the preceding claims 1 to 11, characterized in that the retaining element (100) further comprises a second retaining means (140), the first retaining means (110) and the second retaining means (140) having identical structures and being arranged symmetrically (400) with respect to each other.
13. Retaining element (100) according to any one of the preceding claims 1 to 12, characterized in that the retaining element (100) has, parallel to said at least one retaining means (110, 140) and in a direction opposite to the mounting direction (X), a tab (130) connecting to the base plate (103).
14. Retaining element (100) according to any one of the preceding claims 1 to 13, characterized in that the retaining element (100) has, parallel to said at least one retaining means (110, 140) and in a direction opposite to the mounting direction (X), at least one rib (174, 184) connecting to the base plate (103) and having a connecting flange (170, 180).
15. Retaining element (100) according to any one of the preceding claims 1 to 14, characterized in that the retaining element (100) is made of metal.
16. Retaining element (100) according to any one of the preceding claims 1 to 15, characterized in that the retaining element (100) is made in the form of a cut and folded piece.
17. Retaining element (100) according to any one of the preceding claims 1 to 16, characterized in that the retaining means (110, 140) of the retaining element (100) is designed to be elastically flexible in its longitudinal extension, perpendicular to the base plane.
18. System (10) comprising a first retaining element (100) according to any one of the preceding claims 1 to 17 and a built-in device (200), the built-in device (200) comprising a parallelepiped-shaped housing (300), the housing (300) having, on an outer face, on two opposite sides of the housing (300), the first retaining element (100) and a second retaining element corresponding to the first retaining element (100), the two retaining elements (100) being designed to hold the built-in device (200) in a mounting space of a motor vehicle.
19. System (10) according to claim 18, characterized in that the respective retaining element (100) is held on the housing (300) of the built-in device (200) by complementarity of form and / or by complementarity of force.