Fastening piece

Abstract

The present invention relates to a fastener (10), particularly a nut, comprising a first arm (100) and a second arm (200) arranged opposite each other and connected by an intermediate portion (150). The first arm (100) has a through hole (124), and the second arm (200) has a sleeve (220) having an opening (224). The fastener (10) is adapted to receive a retaining pin (40) through the through hole (124) and the opening (224). The first arm has a socket (120) disposed at the periphery of the through hole (124) and projecting towards the second arm (200). (Fig. 1)

Description

Title of the invention: Fastening piece Scope of the invention

[0001] The present invention relates to fastening devices, and more particularly to a clip for securing components without crushing and / or deforming plastic supports during tightening. Previous art

[0002] It is known that fastening devices, particularly nuts, are commonly used in various industries to secure components together. A nut with two arms and a general U-shape is also known for fixing a part placed between the two arms to a support using a screw.

[0003] This type of traditional nut often fails to prevent crushing and / or deformation of the plastic part during the tightening process, leading to damage and eventual assembly failure. These unresolved technical problems underscore the urgent need for an improved fastening device that addresses these challenges. Description of the invention

[0004] The present invention relates to fasteners for attaching a mounting bracket, such as a trim piece, to an assembly support, without crushing and / or deforming the mounting bracket during tightening. The mounting bracket is often made of fragile material. One object of the present invention is to provide the fasteners, particularly nuts, for this purpose.

[0005] According to one aspect of the present invention, a fastener, particularly a nut, comprises a first arm and a second arm arranged opposite each other and connected by an intermediate portion. The first arm has a through hole, and the second arm includes a socket with an opening. The fastener is adapted to receive a retaining pin through the through hole and the opening. The first arm has a collar located at the periphery of the through hole and projecting towards the second arm.

[0006] The presence of the collar, also called a hose clamp, advantageously provides an anti-creep effect, which can prevent the plastic supports from being crushed during the clamping process. This anti-creep effect can be achieved by ensuring metal-to-metal contact during clamping. This feature allows for a more efficient and secure assembly process, reducing the risk of damage to the plastic support.

[0007] In one embodiment, the bead is a chamfered bead, which can further facilitate the insertion and assembly of the fastener, making the assembly process simpler.

[0008] In one embodiment, the socket is adapted to receive a threaded fixing pin, ensuring a secure screw connection with the fixing part.

[0009] In one embodiment, the socket has an internal thread.

[0010] In one embodiment, the fastening part comprises a pallet serving support towards a mounting bracket, thus improving the ergonomics of the assembly process.

[0011] In one embodiment, the second arm has a central tab supporting the socket and two lateral arms connected to the free end of the second arm. The two lateral arms extend towards the first arm and are integrated into the intermediate part. This provides structural support and flexibility to the fastener.

[0012] In one embodiment, the palette is an integral part of the central tab.

[0013] In one embodiment, the free end of the second branch extends into moving away from the first branch.

[0014] According to another aspect of the present invention, the invention relates to an assembly which comprises at least one fixing piece according to the present invention and a mudguard.

[0015] According to another aspect of the present invention, the invention relates to a vehicle which comprises an assembly having at least one fastening part according to the present invention and a mudguard. Brief description of the drawings

[0016] The invention can be better understood by referring to the following description and the accompanying drawings, which illustrate embodiments of the invention. Among the drawings:

[0017] [Fig. 1] illustrates a fixing piece with a socket for receiving a fixing pin, according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0018] [Fig.2] represents a side view of a part according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0019] [Fig.3] shows a bottom view of a fastening part according to a mode of realization of the present invention.

[0020] [Fig.4] shows a top view of a fastening part according to a mode of realization of the present invention.

[0021] [Fig. 5] provides a perspective view of a fastening part in use, mounted on a support according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0022] [Fig.6] shows a perspective view of a fastener that secures a fitting to a mounting bracket.

[0023] [Fig. 7] illustrates a cross-sectional view of a fastening assembly, showing the design of the fastening piece to prevent crushing of the plastic support during the clamping process, according to an embodiment of the present invention. Detailed description

[0024] The embodiments of the present invention are described in detail, including technical aspects, structural features, objectives achieved, and effects, with reference to the accompanying drawings. More specifically, the terms used in the embodiments of the present invention serve only to describe the purpose of a particular embodiment, but do not limit disclosure.

[0025] In the following description, the terms "include" or "have" may represent the existence of a feature, number, step, operation, component, part or combination thereof described in this disclosure, and may not exclude the existence or addition of another feature, number, step, operation, component, part or combination thereof.

[0026] The terms "first" or "second" are used to explain various components, and the components are not limited to the terms "first" and "second." The terms "first" and "second" are used solely to distinguish one component from another. For example, a first component may be referred to as a second component without departing from the scope of this disclosure.

[0027] With reference to [Fig. 1], the fastening piece 10 may comprise a first arm 100 and a second arm 200 arranged opposite each other and connected by an intermediate part 150. The first arm 100 may have a through hole 124, and the second arm 200 may have a socket 220 with an opening 224. The fastening piece 10 is adapted to receive a fixing pin 40 through the through hole 124 and the opening 222.

[0028] The fixing piece 10 is advantageously tightened to any suitable clamping means, such as a threaded screw or the screw and bolt system, which will be detailed later.

[0029] According to an advantageous embodiment, the first branch 100 may include a collar 120, also known as a bead, arranged around the periphery of the passage hole 124 and projecting towards the second branch 200.

[0030] Advantageously, this fastening piece 10 can be used to secure a component, for example a plastic one, to an assembly support. During the tightening process, the presence of the shank provides contact between the two arms, thus transferring the tightening torque directly between the two arms and preventing deformation of the plastic component.

[0031] In one embodiment, the fastening piece is made of metal.

[0032] Advantageously, this allows metal-to-metal contact during tightening.

[0033] In one embodiment, the sleeve 220 on the second arm 200 of the fixing piece 10 can be adapted to receive a threaded fixing pin 40. The sleeve 220 may advantageously have an internal thread which cooperates with the threaded fixing pin 40.

[0034] In one embodiment, the fastener 10 may include a pallet 240 serving as a support for a mounting bracket. Advantageously, this improves the ergonomics of the assembly process, making it easier for the operator to position the fastener 10. The pallet 240 can provide a flat surface against which the operator can push, thus facilitating the assembly process. In the illustrated example, the operator can push the pallet 240 of the clip 10 against a mounting bracket (not shown) located between the two arms 100, 200, so that the clip 10 is positioned straddling the mounting bracket.

[0035] In one embodiment, as illustrated in [Fig. 1], the second branch 200 is divided into a central tongue 210 and two lateral arms 230, which are all connected to the free end of the second branch 200. The central tongue 210 is located between the two lateral arms 230. These lateral arms 230 extend towards the first branch 100 by integrating the intermediate part 150, providing the fixing piece 10 with structural support and flexibility.

[0036] The central tab 210 supports the sleeve 220, providing structural support to the sleeve 220 and ensuring its correct positioning and stability. Advantageously, the central tab 210 is adapted to withstand the forces exerted during the tightening process, thus contributing to the overall durability and reliability of the fastener 10.

[0037] The side arms 230 deform plastically, allowing the fixing piece 10 to adapt to various mounting conditions, such as the thickness of the mounting support.

[0038] In an advantageous embodiment, the fastening piece 10 may include a paddle 240 integrated into the central tab 210. For example, the paddle 240 is positioned at the free end of the central tab 210 and substantially perpendicular to the main part of the central tab 210. This paddle 240 can provide a flat surface serving as a support for assembly, thus improving the ergonomics of the assembly process. The paddle 240 provides a comfortable and secure grip for the operator during assembly, facilitating insertion.

[0039] With reference to [Fig. 2], a detailed side view of the fastener 10 is shown. The fastener 10 comprises a first arm 100 and a second arm 200, which are connected by an intermediate part 150, forming a general U-shape.

[0040] In one embodiment, a collar 120, also known as a bead, is present. Advantageously, the bead 120 has a notch 122, such that the bead 120 is chamfered. Advantageously, the notch 122 is located on the side of the free end of the first arm 100. Thus, the bead 120 has a slope that facilitates the insertion of the clip 10 astride the support. This will be detailed later.

[0041] In an advantageous embodiment, the free end 260 of the second branch 200 extends away from the first branch 100, providing additional space for the insertion of the fixing piece 10 onto the mounting support 20.

[0042] In one embodiment, the collar 120 is chamfered as shown in [Fig. 2]. This chamfer facilitates the assembly of the clip 10 onto the mounting bracket by reducing the required assembly force, which is particularly advantageous during manual assembly. The chamfered collar 120 can also contribute to the anti-creep effect of the fastener 10, ensuring secure metal-to-metal contact during the tightening process and preventing crushing or deformation of the fragile mounting bracket, such as plastic.

[0043] With reference to [Fig. 3], a bottom view of the fastener 10 is shown, providing a detailed perspective of the first arm 100. The first arm 100 is clearly visible, having a hole 124 for a pin or bolt. In one embodiment, the hole 124 is provided for a fixing pin.

[0044] Around the central hole 124, the collar 120, also known as the bead, is present. The bead 120 is arranged around the periphery of the through hole 124 and protrudes towards the second arm 200. In some embodiments, the bead 120 facilitates the insertion of the retaining pin into the socket by passing through the through hole 124.

[0045] With reference to [Fig. 4], a top view of the fastening piece 10 is shown, providing a detailed perspective of the central sleeve 220, the central tab 210, the side arms 230, and the pallet 240. The central sleeve 220, located within the second arm 200, is designed to be continuous with the socket to receive a pin. The central sleeve 220 is supported by the central tab 210, which can provide structural support to the sleeve 220, ensuring its correct positioning and stability.

[0046] On each side of the central tab 210, there is a lateral arm 230 that extends towards the first branch 100, incorporating the intermediate portion 150. Advantageously, the intermediate portion 150 is plastically deformable. These lateral arms 230 thus provide structural support and flexibility to the fastener 10.

[0047] In some embodiments, the side arms 230 are designed to flex or deform plastically, thus allowing the fixing piece 10 to adapt to various mounting conditions, such as variations in the thickness of the mounting support.

[0048] In addition, a pallet 240 is visible on the right side of the fastener 10, serving as a support surface to aid the assembly process. The pallet 240 is substantially perpendicular to the central tab 210.

[0049] With reference to [Fig. 5], the fastener 10 is shown in a practical application, pre-mounted on a support structure 20, such as a mudguard. The support structure may have several mounting points. The mounting points are located substantially at the edge of the structure, such as a mudguard, which advantageously allows for the straddle mounting of the clip described above. The presence of multiple mounting locations suggests that this component can be securely attached to the vehicle by the clips 10. The mudguard 20 can be made of plastic without fear of being deformed or crushed by the clip 10 during mounting on the vehicle. The mounting locations are provided with holes for receiving a retaining pin.

[0050] The fixing piece 10 is positioned astride the edge of the mudguard 20, where the first arm 100 comes into contact with a relatively flat surface of the mudguard 20 and will come into contact with another flat surface of the assembly support (not shown).

[0051] Referring to [Fig. 6], the fastener 10 is used to attach a mounting bracket 20 to an assembly bracket 30. By means of a screw 40, the entire assembly of the fastener 10 and the mounting bracket 20 is securely attached to the assembly bracket 30, providing a robust and reliable connection capable of withstanding various mechanical stresses. This can be achieved without compromising the integrity of the surrounding material, such as a plastic mounting bracket or a mudguard. The features of the fastener 10, including the shank and the sleeve, ensure metal-to-metal contact during tightening, thus transferring the tightening torque directly to the second arm and preventing deformation of the plastic bracket.

[0052] The fact that the clip 10 can be pre-mounted on the mounting bracket 20 makes assembly easier.

[0053] With reference to [Fig.7], a cross-sectional view of a fastening assembly is shown, comprising a fastening piece 10 and a screwing member 40.

[0054] In the illustrated embodiment, the screwing member 40 comprises a support head 42 and a rod 44 having an optional smooth section 48 close to the support head 42 and a threaded section 46.

[0055]

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[0059]

[0060]

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[0062] During the assembly of the components using the clip 10 according to the present invention, the clip 10 is first pre-mounted on a mounting support 20, such as a mudguard. Then, the entire assembly of the clip 10 and the mounting support 20 is superimposed on an assembly support 30, such as a vehicle panel, with the first arm 100 positioned against or near the assembly support 30. Both the mounting support 20 and the assembly support 30 are provided with an opening for the axial passage of the rod 44. Next, the rod 44 is inserted into the holes of the elements to be assembled, from the assembly support 30, then into the through hole 124, then through the mounting support 20, and finally into the sleeve 220. The axial insertion of the rod 44 into the fixing piece 10 causes the intermediate part 150 to bend so that the socket comes into contact with the second arm 200, more precisely in the opening 224 defined by the sleeve 220. This thus transfers the tightening torque directly to the first arm 100 and prevents deformation of the plastic mounting support 20. Advantageously, the sleeve 220 has an internal thread, and the intermediate portion 150 is plastically deformable. At the end of the insertion of the screw 40, the support head 42 comes to rest against the assembly support 30. The elasticity of the intermediate portion 150 ensures assembly tension and automatically engages the sleeve 220 with the threads of the threaded section 46. This increases the torque resistance of the clip 10. In one embodiment, the screwing element 40 is equipped with an anti-loosening function known to a person skilled in the art. In one embodiment, a washer 50 is advantageously placed between the bearing head and the assembly support 30. Advantageously, the presence of a washer can improve load distribution, protect contact surfaces, reduce loosening and compensate for imperfections, thus contributing to the stability and durability of the assembly. In an advantageous embodiment, the clip 10 according to the present invention is made of metal. In an advantageous embodiment, the staple 10 according to the present invention is detachable and reusable. LIST OF REFERENCE SIGNS 10 Nut 100 First branch / lower range 120 Yoke 122 Slope 124 Through hole 150 Brace / Intermediate part 200 Second arm 210 Tab 220 Cylinder / Bucket / Barrel 224 Opening 230 Side arm 240 Pad 260 Free end of second arm 20 Mudguard / Mounting bracket 30 Sheet metal / Assembly bracket 40 Screw / Screwing part / Fixing pin 42 Support head 44 Rod 46 Threaded section 48 Smooth section 50 Washer

Claims

Demands

1. Fastener (10), particularly a nut, comprising a first arm (100) and a second arm (200) arranged opposite each other and connected by an intermediate part (150), the first arm (100) having a through hole (124), the second arm (200) having a shaft (220) having an opening (222), the fastener (10) being adapted to receive a fixing pin (40) through the through hole (124) and the opening (222), in which the first arm has a shank (120) disposed at the periphery of the through hole (124) and projecting towards the second arm (200).

2. Fastening piece (10) according to claim 1, wherein the bead is a chamfered bead.

3. Fastening piece (10) according to claim 1 or 2, in which a barrel (220) is adapted to receive a threaded fixing screw (40).

4. Fastening piece (10) according to claim 3, in which the barrel (220) has an internal thread.

5. A fastening piece (10) according to any one of the preceding claims, comprising a pallet serving as a support towards a mounting bracket.

6. Fastening piece (10) according to any one of the preceding claims, the second arm (200) has a central tab (210) supporting the shaft (220) and two lateral arms (230) connected to the free end of the second arm (200), the two lateral arms (230) extend towards the first arm (100) and are integrated into the intermediate part (150).

7. Fastening piece (10) according to claim 6, wherein the pallet (240) is an integral part of the central tab (210).

8. Fastening piece (10) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the free end of the second arm extends away from the first arm (100).

9. Assembly, comprising at least one fastening piece (10) according to one of the preceding claims and a mudguard.

10. Vehicle, comprising an assembly according to claim 9.

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