Casting Clips

Abstract

The clip secures the component to the body portion. The body portion is made from a die cast material and has a surface feature. The clip can include a first engagement feature configured to engage the component to secure the clip to the component and a second engagement feature configured to engage the surface feature of the body portion. When the component is disengaged from the first engagement feature of the clip, the clip remains engaged with the surface feature.

Description

[Technical field]

[0001] [CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS] This application claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Application No. 63 / 267,769, filed February 9, 2022, the entire disclosure of which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety.

[0002] This application relates generally to clips, and more specifically to clips for securing a component (e.g., trim, lines, etc.) to a die-cast material or casting. The die-cast material or casting can form a body portion with surface features configured to engage with the clip. The clip can releasably couple the component to the body portion. [Background technology]

[0003] Generally described, various vehicles, such as electric vehicles, internal combustion engine vehicles, hybrid vehicles, etc., may be constructed with die cast body sections. The die cast body sections may be formed on a large scale as "mega castings" more efficiently than traditional methods of welding together multiple stamped or extruded body details to form larger body sections. Traditional manufacturing processes require a significant amount of post-weld processing to add, for example, laser cut slots and machined holes. Thus, there is a need for a robust attachment system and method for subsequent attachment of components to large scale die cast components that does not require expensive and time-consuming machining of slots and holes. Summary of the Invention

[0004] One aspect relates to an embodiment of a cast clip configured to engage with a surface feature of a die cast body portion or casting. For example, one aspect relates to a clip for securing a component to a body portion. The body portion comprises a die cast material and a surface feature. The clip comprises a first engagement feature configured to engage the component to secure the clip to the component and a second engagement feature configured to engage with the surface feature of the body portion or casting. When the component is disengaged from the first engagement feature of the clip, the clip remains engaged with the surface feature of the casting.

[0005] In a variation of the above embodiment, the component comprises a polymer.

[0006] In a variation of the above embodiment, the die casting material is aluminum.

[0007] In a variation of the above aspect, the body portion is of a vehicle.

[0008] In a variation of the above embodiment, the clip is cylindrical.

[0009] In a variation of the above embodiment, the clip is ribbed.

[0010] In a variation of the above embodiment, the clip is of the inverted trim type.

[0011] In a variation of the above aspect, the clip includes an insert, an overmold, and a base.

[0012] In a variation of the above aspect, the insert comprises steel.

[0013] In a variation of the above embodiment, the overmold comprises polypropylene with 20% glass fiber (PP-GF20).

[0014] In a variation of the above embodiment, the base comprises polyoxymethylene (POM).

[0015] In a variation of the above embodiment, when the component is disengaged from the first engagement feature, the insert, overmold, and base remain engaged with the surface features.

[0016] In a variation of the above embodiment, the clip is ribbed.

[0017] In a variation of the above aspect, the clip comprises a component clip, a holder, and a clamp.

[0018] In a variation of the above aspect, the component clip comprises steel.

[0019] In a variation of the above embodiment, the holder comprises polyoxymethylene (POM).

[0020] In a variation of the above embodiment, the clamp comprises polyoxymethylene (POM).

[0021] In a variation of the above embodiment, the component clip remains engaged with the surface features when the holder and clamp are removed together as a subassembly.

[0022] In a variation of the above embodiment, the clip is of the inverted trim type.

[0023] In a variation of the above aspect, the clip comprises metal.

[0024] Variations of the above embodiment further include spurs or teeth.

[0025] In a variation of the above embodiment, when the component is disengaged from the first engagement feature, the clip remains engaged with the surface feature.

[0026] In a variation of the above aspect, the component includes a housing sized and shaped to receive the clip.

[0027] One aspect relates to a method of reusing a clip, the method including engaging the clip with a component by applying an insertion force and engaging the component and the clip as a subassembly with a surface feature with an installation force, the disassembly force between the clip and the surface feature being greater than the disassembly force between the component and the clip.

[0028] In a variation of the above aspect, the component includes a housing and the clip engages the housing.

[0029] A variation of the above aspect further includes removing the component from the surface feature while the clip remains engaged with the surface feature.

[0030] A variation of the above embodiment further includes reattaching the component to the clip while the clip remains engaged with the surface features.

[0031] A variation of the above embodiment is where the component is a panel of the vehicle and the surface feature is on a body portion of the vehicle.

[0032] In a variation of the above aspect, the body portion comprises a die cast material.

[0033] One aspect relates to a clip for securing a component to a body, the clip comprising a first engagement mechanism configured to engage the component to secure the clip to the component and a second engagement mechanism configured to engage the body, where a disassembly force between the clip and the component is less than a disassembly force between the clip and the body.

[0034] In a variation of the above embodiment, the first engagement structure comprises the size and shape of a clip.

[0035] In a variation of the above embodiment, the second engagement structure comprises one or more spurs.

[0036] In a variation of the above aspect, the clip comprises metal.

[0037] In a variation of the above aspect, the body comprises a die cast material.

[0038] In a variation of the above aspect, the component is a panel of a vehicle.

[0039] In a variation of the above aspect, the body is part of a vehicle. [Brief description of the drawings]

[0040] The present invention will be described with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which like reference numerals refer to like elements and in which:

[0041] [Figure 1] FIG. 1 is an exemplary diagram of a vehicle comprising one or more die-cast components or body portions forming a rear bottom and employing a mounting system for securing components to the rear bottom, according to one embodiment.

[0042] [Diagram 2] Similar to Figure 1, except that vehicle components have been removed to expose the rear bottom.

[0043] [Diagram 3] FIG. 13 is a rear bottom view showing multiple surface features for engaging with an embodiment of a cast clip.

[0044] [Figure 4] Similar to FIG. 3 except that the casting clip is shown engaging surface features of the casting.

[0045] [Diagram 5] FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a first embodiment of a cast clip.

[0046] [Figure 6] FIG. 6 is an exploded view of the cast clip of FIG. 5.

[0047] [Figure 7A] 6 is a perspective view of the assembly process of the cast clip of FIG. 5. [Figure 7B] 6 is a perspective view of the assembly process of the cast clip of FIG. 5.

[0048] [Figure 8] 6 includes an illustration of a process for installing the clip of FIG. 5 onto the rear bottom surface feature.

[0049] [Figure 9A] FIG. 9 shows the wheelhouse liner locked into the cast clip of FIG. 8. [Figure 9B] FIG. 9 shows the wheelhouse liner locked into the cast clip of FIG. 8.

[0050] [Figure 10A] 9 illustrates the wheelhouse liner being unlocked and removed from the cast clips of FIG. 8. [Figure 10B] 9 illustrates the wheelhouse liner being unlocked and removed from the cast clips of FIG. 8.

[0051] [Figure 11] 6 includes a drawing view of the cast clip of FIG. 5 .

[0052] [Figure 12] FIG. 13 is a perspective view of a second embodiment of a cast clip.

[0053] [Figure 13] FIG. 13 is an exploded view of the clip of FIG. 12 showing the holder, clamp, and component clip.

[0054] [Figure 14] 13 includes an illustration of a process for installing the casting clip of FIG. 12 onto a body portion or surface feature of a casting.

[0055] [Figure 15A] Similar to FIG. 14, except that the holder and clamp are removed from the surface features of the casting and the component clips remain engaged with the surface features. [Figure 15B] Similar to FIG. 14, except that the holder and clamp are removed from the surface features of the casting and the component clips remain engaged with the surface features.

[0056] [Figure 16] 13 includes a drawing view of the cast clip of FIG. 12;

[0057] [Figure 17] 17 includes a drawing view of the clamp of FIG.

[0058] [Figure 18] 17 includes a drawing view of the holder of FIG. 16;

[0059] [Figure 19] 17 includes a drawing view of the component clip of FIG. 16;

[0060] [Figure 20] 11 includes a view of a third embodiment of a cast clip.

[0061] [Figure 21] 23 includes a view of a surface feature configured to engage with the molded clip of FIGS. 20 and 22. FIG.

[0062] [Figure 22] 11 includes a view of a fourth embodiment of the cast clip.

[0063] [Figure 23] 23 includes a view of a surface feature configured to engage with the molded clip of FIGS. 20 and 22. FIG.

[0064] [Figure 24] 23 shows step 1 for inserting the cast clip of FIGS. 20 and 22 into a component housing.

[0065] [Diagram 25]1 shows step 2 where a cast clip is installed on the component before the component is assembled into the casting or body part.

[0066] [Figure 26] Shown in step 3 is the housing being aligned over the surface features prior to lowering the component onto the casting or body part.

[0067] [Figure 27] 1 shows step 4 after the component has been removed from the casting leaving the component clips installed on the surface features. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

[0068] Generally described, one or more aspects of the present disclosure relate to a clip, and more particularly, to a clip for securing a component to a casting made from a die-cast material. The die-cast material can form a casting or body portion with surface features configured to engage with the cast clip. The cast clip can releasably couple the component to the casting or body portion. In certain embodiments, the cast clip eliminates the process of machining slots into the cast body features, thereby saving cycle time in manufacturing. In certain embodiments, the cast clip is maintainable and reusable. In certain embodiments, the cast clip comprises one or more components.

[0069] In certain embodiments, the cast clip comprises a first engagement feature configured to engage the component to secure the clip to the component, in certain embodiments, the cast clip further comprises a second engagement feature configured to engage a surface feature of the body portion or the casting and to remain engaged with the surface feature when the component is disengaged from the second engagement feature of the cast clip.

[0070] In certain embodiments, the cast clip can be used to attach the polymer component to an aluminum die cast body. In certain embodiments, the vehicle structure requires fewer post-processing machining operations. In certain embodiments, the cast clip can be applied to the dry side of the body as well as the wet side of the body with an additional seal. The cast clip can be employed on exterior and applicable automotive parts that need to be attached to the vehicle structure. The use of certain embodiments of the clip can eliminate the need to machine features on the cast body portion and provide maintainable and reusable tactile feedback for installation and maintenance.

[0071] Certain embodiments of the cast clips can eliminate complex manufacturing and installation processes, reducing associated part count and costs increasing the manufacturing output of the body structure. For example, the use of existing clips requires machined holes in the casting. Cast clip embodiments disclosed herein can reduce or eliminate the machined holes. Certain embodiments of the clips reduce tolerance stack-up errors and increase part alignment accuracy by employing modeled features compared to machined features. In certain embodiments, the cast clips are secured to surface features (e.g., ribs and posts) of the casting or body part.

[0072] One embodiment may be a cylindrical casting clip. In a particular embodiment, the casting clip has three components. In a particular embodiment, the components include an insert, an overmold, and a base. In a particular embodiment, the insert is made of high performance spring steel. In a particular embodiment, the overmold is made of a polymer (e.g., a synthetic polymer including polypropylene with 20% glass fiber (PP-GF20)). In a particular embodiment, the base is made of a polymer (e.g., polyoxymethylene (POM)). In a particular embodiment, the wheelhouse liner can be removed from the cylindrical casting clip by pinching together the snap fits of the casting clip. In a particular embodiment, the cylindrical casting clip engages the outer surface of the cylindrical die-cast column. In a particular embodiment, the installation of the cylindrical casting clip is confirmed by an audible sound, such as a click. In a particular embodiment, the cylindrical casting clip can be employed depending on whether a high pulling force extracts the part from the position. In a particular embodiment, the cylindrical casting clip is employed as a high tolerance joining clip for hard and soft trim components that may require a relatively high retention force.

[0073] Another embodiment can be a ribbed cast clip. In certain embodiments, the cast clip has three components. In certain embodiments, the components include a steel clip, a holder, and a clamp. In certain embodiments, the clip is made from high performance spring steel. In certain embodiments, the holder is made from POM. In certain embodiments, the clamp is made from POM. In certain embodiments, the ribbed cast clip can be removed from the casting or body part by pulling on the holder to separate the holder and clamp from the component clip for reuse. In certain embodiments, the ribbed cast clip engages with an outer surface of a die cast rib on the casting or body part. In certain embodiments, the installation of the ribbed cast clip is confirmed with an audible sound, such as a click. In certain embodiments, the ribbed cast clip can be employed depending on whether high tensile forces extract the part from the position. In certain embodiments, the ribbed cast clip is employed as a cable routing clip to align certain HVAC tubes as needed.

[0074] Another embodiment of the clip can include an inverted trim casting clip having a single metal part with teeth or spars. In certain embodiments, the inverted trim casting clip is pre-installed on the trim panel (e.g., component) and remains on the casting after initial trim installation. For example, in certain embodiments, the inverted trim casting clip is installed at the supplier level directly on the trim panel eliminating the installation process for typical assembly line association. This can eliminate the need to install extra fasteners on the casting or body part. In certain embodiments, when the component is removed, the clip remains on the casting or body part, which allows the product to be removed without damaging the clip (i.e., the clip retains its functionality). In certain embodiments, the inverted trim casting clip can be employed depending on whether high tensile forces will extract the part from the position. In certain embodiments, the inverted trim casting clip is employed when the mating features on the polymer trim component are designed as floating reference surfaces to accommodate tolerances.

[0075] 1 is an exemplary diagram of a vehicle 10 including one or more die cast components. In certain embodiments, the die cast components may form a rear bottom 12 of the vehicle 10. In certain embodiments, the vehicle 10 employs a mounting system for securing components to the rear bottom 12. Of course, the mounting system disclosed herein is not limited to use with the rear bottom 12, but instead may be employed with any die cast components. Additionally, although the description is provided in the automotive context, the mounting system is not limited to use in the automotive industry, but instead may be used in any industry.

[0076] FIG. 2 is similar to FIG. 1, except that components of the vehicle 10 have been removed to expose the rear bottom 12. The exemplary vehicle 10 may include multiple large die-cast aluminum rear body pieces (e.g., inner wheel wells, frame rails, and strut towers). In certain embodiments, the rear body pieces may be joined together with joining / bolting brackets to form the rear bottom 12. In certain embodiments, a large die-cast piece or "mega-casting" is formed in a high pressure press and may replace approximately 50 traditional stampings, extrusions, and castings of the same part.

[0077] 3 is a diagram of the rear bottom 12 showing a number of surface features 16 for engaging one or more clips 18, 20. Traditionally, the surface features (e.g., holes) require machining which requires a lot of cycle time. In contrast, as disclosed herein, the mounting system does not require machined holes and can eliminate most machined holes which saves cycle time in manufacturing.

[0078] Figure 4 is similar to Figure 3, except that embodiments of clips 18, 20 are shown engaged with surface features 16. For example, clip 18 may be a cylindrical cast clip. In certain embodiments, cylindrical cast clip 18 may be removed by pinching a snap fit of cast clip 18. In certain embodiments, surface features 16 for engaging cylindrical cast clip 18 are in the form of an exterior surface of a cylindrical die cast post.

[0079] For example, the clip 20 may be a rib-type cast clip. In certain embodiments, the surface features 16 of the rib-type cast clip 20 are in the form of an exterior surface of a rib.

[0080] FIG. 5 is a perspective view of a first embodiment of a cast clip 18. As shown in FIG. FIG. 6 is an exploded view of the cast clip 18 of FIG. 5. In certain embodiments, the cast clip 18 has three components. Of course, the cast clip 18 can have fewer or more than three components. In certain embodiments, the components include an insert 22, an overmold 24, and a base 26. In certain embodiments, the insert 22 is made from high performance spring steel. In certain embodiments, the overmold 24 is made from a polymer (e.g., a synthetic polymer including polypropylene with 20% glass fiber (PP-GF20)). In certain embodiments, the base 26 is made from a polymer (e.g., polyoxymethylene (POM)). Of course, the listed materials are merely exemplary and could be any other material instead.

[0081] In certain embodiments, the cast clip 18 can be removed by pinching the snap fit 25 of the cast clip 18. In certain embodiments, the cast clip 18 captures the exterior surface of the cylindrical die cast post 16. In certain embodiments, the installation of the cast clip 18 is confirmed with an audible click. In certain embodiments, the cast clip 18 can be employed depending on whether a high pulling force will extract the part from the position. In certain embodiments, the cast clip 18 is employed as a high tolerance joining clip for hard and soft trims that may require a relatively high retention force.

[0082] In certain embodiments, the cast clip 18 includes a first engagement feature 42 (e.g., a snap fit) configured to engage a component (e.g., wheelhouse liner 28) to secure the cast clip 18 to the component. In certain embodiments, the cast clip 18 further includes a second engagement feature 44 configured to engage surface features 16 of the casting or body portion and remain engaged with the surface features 16 when the component is disengaged from the first engagement feature 42 of the cast clip 18.

[0083] 7A and 7B are perspective views of an assembly process of the cast clip 18 of FIG. 5. In certain embodiments, the overmold 24 is placed on the base 26. In certain embodiments, the poke yoke feature 27 can help orient the overmold 24 on the base 26. For example, in certain embodiments, the poke yoke feature 27 comprises a lip 29 on the base 26 and a bar 21 of the overmold 24. In certain embodiments, the fingers 23 of the insert 22 pass through hard points on the base 26 and are held to the top surface of the base 26 when assembled. In certain embodiments, a plastic snap fit 25 restrains the overmold 24 from dislodging from the base 26. The cast clip 18 shown in FIG. 7B is assembled and ready to be placed on the surface feature 16 of the casting or body portion 14.

[0084] 8 includes an illustration of a process for installing the cast clip 18 of FIG. 5 onto the surface feature 16 (e.g., a post) of the casting or body portion 14. In certain embodiments, the contact surface 33 of the cast clip 18 lands on the top surface 35 of the surface feature 16 (e.g., a post). In certain embodiments, the overmold 24 is pressed down past the snap fit 25 on the base 26 until it is locked. In certain embodiments, when the overmold 24 is locked onto the base 26, the fingers 23 of the insert 22 bite into the post of the surface feature 16.

[0085] Figures 9A and 9B show a component (e.g., wheelhouse liner 28) locked into the cast clip 18 of Figure 8. In Figure 9A, the wheelhouse liner 28 is pressed into the cast clip 18. In Figure 9B, the wheelhouse liner 28 is locked into place on the cast clip 18.

[0086] Figures 10A and 10B show the wheelhouse liner 28 being unlocked from the clip 18 of Figure 8. In Figure 10A, the first engagement feature 42 (e.g., a snap fit) of the clip 18 is pinched together. In Figure 10B, the wheelhouse liner 28 is removed from the cast clip 18 by sliding past the first engagement feature 42 (e.g., a snap fit). Figure 11 includes a drawing view of the cast clip 18 of Figure 5.

[0087] 12 is a perspective view of a second embodiment of the cast clip 20. In certain embodiments, the clip 20 includes a first engagement feature 42 (e.g., a snap fit) configured to engage a component (e.g., a line) to secure the cast clip 20 to the component. In certain embodiments, the cast clip 20 further includes a second engagement feature 44 configured to engage and remain engaged with the surface features 16 of the casting or body portion 14.

[0088] 13 is an exploded view of the cast clip 20 of FIG. 12. In a particular embodiment, the cast clip 20 has three components. Of course, the cast clip 20 can have fewer or more than three components. In a particular embodiment, the components include a component clip 30, a holder 32, and a clamp 34. In a particular embodiment, the component clip 30 is made from high performance spring steel. In a particular embodiment, the holder 32 is made from POM. In a particular embodiment, the clamp 34 is made from POM. Of course, the listed materials are merely exemplary and can be any other material instead.

[0089] In certain embodiments, the rib-type cast clip 20 can be removed by pulling on the holder 32 to separate it from the component clip 30 for reuse. In certain embodiments, the rib-type cast clip 20 captures the exterior surface of the surface features 16 (e.g., die cast ribs) of the casting or body portion 14. In certain embodiments, installation of the rib-type cast clip 20 is confirmed with an audible sound, such as a click. In certain embodiments, the rib-type cast clip 20 can be employed depending on whether high pulling forces will extract the part from position. In certain embodiments, the rib-type cast clip 20 is employed as a cable routing clip to align certain tubes (e.g., HVAC, brakes, etc.) as needed.

[0090] In certain embodiments, the snap fit 37 of the clamp 34 is held by the hole 35 in the holder 32. In certain embodiments, the connection between the clamp 34 and the holder 32 is not serviceable. In certain embodiments, the snap fit 33 of the component clip 30 is secured by the window 31 in the holder 32. In certain embodiments, the connection between the component clip 30 and the holder 32 is not serviceable. In certain embodiments, the clamp 34 can be rotated to facilitate line routing (e.g., brake lines).

[0091] FIG. 14 includes a diagram of a process moving from left to right for installation of the cast clip 20 of FIG. 12 onto the surface features 16 of the casting or body portion 14. In certain embodiments, the cast clip 20 is pre-assembled with the component clip 30, the holder 32, and the clamp 34. In certain embodiments, the cast clip 20 is pre-assembled onto a line or pipe (e.g., HVAC, brakes, etc.). In certain embodiments, the component clip 30 is pressed onto the surface features 14 (e.g., ribs). In certain embodiments, a pull-in and snap fit 33 guides the surface features 14 into the cast clip 20. In certain embodiments, the spurs 39 of the component clip 30 bite into the surface features 14. In certain embodiments, the surface features 14 (e.g., ribs) push the component clip 30 features past hard points on the holder 32 to generate a clicking sound. In certain embodiments, a stop on the holder 32 then stops further engagement with the surface features 14.

[0092] 15A and 15B are similar to FIG. 14, except that the holder 32 and clamp 34 are removed from the surface feature 14, leaving behind the component clip 30. For example, as shown in FIG. 15A, a user pulls the holder 32 in a direction away from the surface feature 14, removing the holder 32 and clamp 34 as a subassembly. Once removed, the component clip 30 remains on the surface feature 14 and is available for the same or another holder 32 and clamp 34 subassembly to be attached to the component clip 30. FIG. 16 includes a drawing view of the cast clip 20 of FIG. 12. FIG. 17 includes a drawing view of the clamp 34 of FIG. 16. FIG. 18 includes a drawing view of the holder 32 of FIG. 16. FIG. 19 includes a detailed drawing view of the component clip 30 of FIG. 16.

[0093] 20 includes an illustration of a third embodiment of a cast clip 36 in the form of an inverted trim cast clip 36. In certain embodiments, the inverted trim cast clip 36 is pre-installed in a housing 38 (e.g., a trim panel) and remains on the body portion or casting 14 after initial trim installation. For example, in certain embodiments, the cast clip 36 is installed at the supplier level directly on the trim panel or component 40 eliminating the installation process for typical assembly line associations. This can eliminate the need for extra fasteners to be attached to the casting or body portion 14.

[0094] In certain embodiments, upon removal of the component 40 from the casting or body portion 14, the cast clip 36 remains on the surface features 16 of the casting or body portion 14, allowing the component 40 to be removed without damaging the cast clip 36. The cast clip 36 can retain its functionality over multiple uses. In certain embodiments, the cast clip 36 can be employed depending on whether high tensile forces will extract the part from its position. In certain embodiments, the cast clip 36 is employed when mating features on a polymer trim component (e.g., housing 38) are designed as a floating reference surface to accommodate tolerances.

[0095] FIG. 21 includes an illustration of a surface feature 16 configured to engage with a cast clip 36, 46. The illustrated surface feature 16 includes three legs 48. In certain embodiments, the cast clip 36 includes a first engagement feature 42 configured to engage a component (e.g., the housing 38) to secure the clip 36 to the component 38. In certain embodiments, the first engagement feature 42 includes a contour of the cast clip 36. For example, the contour can have a generally triangular shape. In certain embodiments, the first engagement feature 42 includes a lower groove 43. For example, the lower groove 43 can be configured to engage with the component 38. In the illustrated embodiment, the cast clip 36 includes two grooves 43.

[0096] In certain embodiments, the clip 36 further comprises a second engagement feature 44 configured to engage a surface feature 16 (e.g., a rib) of the casting or body portion 14 and remain engaged with the surface feature 16 when the component (e.g., the housing 38 of the component 40) is disengaged from the first engagement feature 42 of the cast clip 36. In certain embodiments, the second engagement feature 44 comprises one or more spars 41 configured to engage with the surface feature 16. In certain embodiments, the cast clip 36 comprises six spars 41. In the illustrated embodiment, three spars 41 extend inwardly from each side of the cast clip 36. Of course, the cast clip 36 is not limited to having six spars 41 and can instead have any number of spars 41.

[0097] 22 includes an illustration of a fourth embodiment of a cast clip 46 in the form of an inverted trim cast clip 46. In certain embodiments, the inverted trim cast clip 46 is pre-installed on the housing 38 (e.g., a trim panel) and remains on the body portion or casting 14 after initial trim installation. For example, in certain embodiments, the cast clip 46 is installed at the supplier level directly on the trim panel or component 40 eliminating the installation process for typical assembly line associations. This can eliminate the need for extra fasteners to be attached to the casting or body portion 14.

[0098] In certain embodiments, upon removal of the component 40 from the casting or body portion 14, the cast clip 46 remains on the surface features 16 of the casting or body portion 14, allowing the component 40 to be removed without damaging the cast clip 46. The cast clip 46 can retain its functionality over multiple uses. In certain embodiments, the cast clip 46 can be employed depending on whether high tensile forces will extract the part from its position. In certain embodiments, the cast clip 46 is employed when mating features on a polymer trim component (e.g., housing 38) are designed as a floating reference surface to accommodate tolerances.

[0099] 23 includes an illustration of a surface feature 16 configured to engage with a molded clip 36, 46. The illustrated surface feature 16 includes two legs 48. In a particular embodiment, the molded clip 46 includes a first engagement feature 42 configured to engage a component (e.g., housing 38) to secure the clip 46 to the component 38. In certain embodiments, the first engagement feature 42 comprises a contour of the cast clip 46. For example, the contour can have a generally triangular shape. In certain embodiments, the first engagement feature 42 comprises a lower groove 43. For example, the lower groove 43 can be configured to engage with the component 38. In the illustrated embodiment, the cast clip 46 comprises two grooves 43. In certain embodiments, the first engagement feature 42 can be sized and shaped to provide a desired insertion force (see, e.g., FIG. 24). In certain embodiments, the insertion force can be 20 N. In certain embodiments, the maximum insertion force can be 60 N.

[0100] In certain embodiments, the clip 46 further comprises a second engagement feature 44 configured to engage a surface feature 16 (e.g., a rib) of the casting or body portion 14 and remain engaged with the surface feature 16 when the component (e.g., the housing 38 of the component 40) is disengaged from the first engagement feature 42 of the cast clip 46. In certain embodiments, the second engagement feature 44 comprises one or more spars 41 configured to engage the surface feature 16. In certain embodiments, the cast clip 46 comprises six spars 41. In the illustrated embodiment, three spars 41 extend inwardly from each side of the cast clip 46. Of course, the cast clip 46 is not limited to having six spars 41, but can instead have any number of spars 41. In certain embodiments, the one or more spars 41 can be sized and shaped to provide a desired installation and / or disassembly force (see, e.g., FIG. 26 and FIG. 27). In certain embodiments, the installation force can be 60 N. In certain embodiments, the maximum installation force can be 75 N. In certain embodiments, the disintegration force can be 110 N. In certain embodiments, the maximum disintegration force can be 150 N.

[0101] 24 illustrates step 1 for inserting the cast clip 36, 46 into a housing 38 (e.g., housing 38 of component 40). In certain embodiments, the cast clip 36, 46 is a metal component having a spar 41. In certain embodiments, a surface 45 of the housing 38 constrains the cast clip 36, 46 from moving in the z-direction. In certain embodiments, a surface 47 of the housing 38 constrains the cast clip 36, 46 from moving in the y-direction.

[0102] FIG. 25 shows step 2 where the component 40 has clips 36, 46 installed in the housing 38 prior to subsequent assembly of the component 40 into the casting or body portion 14. FIG. Component 40 is shown, step 3, being aligned above surface features 16 prior to being lowered onto casting 14. FIG. 27 shows step 4 after the component 40 has been removed from the casting 14, leaving the clips 36, 46 installed on the surface features 16.

[0103] The foregoing disclosure is not intended to limit the disclosure to the exact form or specific field of use disclosed. Thus, various alternative embodiments and / or modifications to the disclosure, whether expressly described or implied herein, are possible in light of the disclosure. Although embodiments of the disclosure have been described in this manner, those skilled in the art will recognize that changes can be made in form and detail without departing from the scope of the disclosure. Thus, the disclosure is limited only by the scope of the claims.

[0104] In the above specification, the present disclosure has been described with reference to certain embodiments. However, as will be appreciated by those skilled in the art, the various embodiments disclosed herein can be modified or otherwise implemented in various other ways without departing from the spirit and scope of the present disclosure. Thus, this description should be considered as illustrative and is for the purpose of teaching those skilled in the art how to make and use the various embodiments. It should be understood that the forms of the disclosure shown and described herein should be construed as representative embodiments. Equivalent elements, materials, processes, or steps may be substituted for those typically shown and described herein. Furthermore, certain features of the present disclosure can be utilized independently of the use of other features, all as will become apparent to those skilled in the art after having the benefit of this description of the present disclosure. The terms "including," "comprising," "incorporating," "consisting of," "have," "is," and the like, used to describe and claim the present disclosure, are intended to be construed in a non-exclusive manner, i.e., to allow for the presence of items, components, or elements not expressly described. References to the singular are also to be construed as relating to the plural.

[0105] Furthermore, the various embodiments disclosed herein should be construed in an exemplary and explanatory sense, and should not be construed as limiting the present disclosure in any way. All joint references (e.g., attached, affixed, coupled, connected, etc.) are used only to aid the reader in understanding the present disclosure, and do not pose any limitations with respect to the placement, orientation, or use of the systems and / or methods disclosed herein in particular. Thus, any reference to a joint should be interpreted broadly. Moreover, such a reference to a joint does not necessarily mean that two elements are directly connected to each other. Furthermore, without limitation, all numerical terms such as "first", "second", "third", "primary", "secondary", "primary", or any other conventional and / or numerical terms should also be interpreted only as identifiers to aid the reader in understanding the various elements, embodiments, variations and / or modifications of the present disclosure, and in particular may not pose any limitations with respect to the order or preference of any element, embodiment, variation and / or modification to or over another element, embodiment, variation and / or modification.

[0106] It will also be understood that, as may be useful depending on the particular application, one or more of the elements shown in the drawings / figures may be implemented in a more separated or integrated manner, or may be removed or rendered inoperative in certain cases.

Claims

1. 1. A clip for securing a component to a body portion, the body portion comprising a die cast material and a surface feature, the clip comprising: a first engagement mechanism configured to engage the component to secure the clip to the component; a second engagement feature configured to engage the surface feature of the body portion and to remain engaged with the surface feature when the component is disengaged from the first engagement feature of the clip; A clip.

2. The clip of claim 1 , wherein the component comprises a polymer.

3. The clip of claim 1 , wherein said die cast material is aluminum.

4. The clip of claim 1 , wherein the body portion is of a vehicle.

5. The clip of claim 1 , wherein the clip is cylindrical.

6. The clip of claim 5 , wherein the clip comprises an insert, an overmold, and a base.

7. The clip of claim 6 , wherein the insert comprises steel.

8. The clip of claim 6, wherein the overmold comprises polypropylene with 20% glass fiber (PP-GF20).

9. The clip of claim 6 , wherein the base comprises polyoxymethylene (POM).

10. The clip of claim 6 , wherein the insert, the overmold, and the base remain engaged with the surface features when the component is disengaged from the first engagement feature.

11. The clip according to any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein the clip is ribbed.

12. The clip of claim 11 , wherein the clip comprises a component clip, a holder, and a clamp.

13. The clip of claim 12 , wherein the component clip comprises steel.

14. The clip of claim 12 , wherein the holder comprises polyoxymethylene (POM).

15. The clip of claim 12 , wherein the clamp comprises polyoxymethylene (POM).

16. The clip of claim 12 , wherein the component clip remains engaged with the surface feature when the holder and the clamp are removed together as a subassembly.

17. The clip according to any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein the clip is of the inverted trim type.

18. The clip of claim 17 , wherein the clip comprises a metal.

19. The clip of claim 17 further comprising teeth / spurs.

20. The clip of claim 17 , wherein the clip remains engaged with the surface feature when the component is disengaged from the first engagement feature.

21. The clip of claim 20 , wherein the component comprises a housing sized and shaped to receive the clip.

22. 1. A method for reusing a clip, comprising: engaging the clip with a component by applying an insertion force; engaging the component and the clip as a subassembly with a surface feature with an installation force, the separation force between the clip and the surface feature being greater than the separation force between the component and the clip; A method comprising:

23. The method of claim 22 , wherein the component comprises a housing, and the clip engages the housing.

24. The method of claim 22 further comprising removing the component from the surface feature while the clip remains engaged with the surface feature.

25. The method of claim 24, further comprising the step of reattaching the component to the clip while the clip is engaged with the surface features.

26. 23. The method of claim 22, wherein the component is a panel of a vehicle and the surface feature is on a body portion of the vehicle.

27. The method of claim 26 , wherein the body portion comprises a die cast material.

28. A clip for fastening a component to a body, comprising: a first engagement mechanism configured to engage the component to secure the clip to the component; a second engagement mechanism configured to engage the body, wherein a disassembly force between the clip and the component is less than a disassembly force between the clip and the body; and A clip.

29. The clip of claim 28 , wherein the first engagement structure comprises a size and shape of the clip.

30. 30. The clip of claim 28, wherein the second engagement structure comprises the one or more spurs.

31. The clip of claim 28 , wherein the clip comprises a metal.

32. 30. The clip of claim 28, wherein the body comprises a die cast material.

33. 30. The clip of claim 28, wherein the component is a panel of a vehicle.

34. 34. The clip of claim 33, wherein the body is a portion of a vehicle.

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