Holder for attaching covering material to structure

Abstract

A retainer for attaching a sheet to a structure includes a fastening portion, a first engagement feature, and a second engagement feature. The fastening portion can engage, for example, but not limited to, an edge of the sheet of covering material. The first engagement feature can engage with the structure, and the second engagement feature can engage with the structure. In various embodiments, the first engagement feature engages with the structure at least in a temporary retention configuration of the retainer relative to the structure, and the second engagement feature engages with the structure at least in a full engagement configuration of the retainer relative to the structure.

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] This application claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 63 / 428,958, filed November 30, 2022, entitled "Holder for Attaching Coating Material to a Structure," the entire contents of which are incorporated herein by reference.

[0002] The present application relates to a seat fastener for securing an edge of a covering material, such as, but not limited to, a trim cover, to a structure, such as, but not limited to, a seat cushion or seat frame for a vehicle seat. [Background technology]

[0003] The sheet retainer can be used to secure an edge of a covering material to a structure and / or another covering material. By way of example, seats for use in automobiles, boats, trains, and / or schools or offices, and / or furniture such as sofas or beds, may include covering material that forms a seat surface, back surface, headrest surface, armrest surface, etc., by covering cushioning material supported on a frame. Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0004] Existing sheet retainers can be difficult for installers to assemble into a structure and may require tools, such as a hammer, to assemble them. Thus, the tooling required for existing retainers increases installation time and poses a safety risk to the installer (e.g., due to tool misuse). [Means for solving the problem]

[0005] The terms "invention," "the present invention," "this invention," and "the claimed invention" as used in this patent are intended to broadly encompass this patent and all of the claims set forth below. References incorporating these terms should be understood as not limiting the subject matter described herein or the scope of the claims set forth below. The embodiments of the invention included in this patent are defined by the claims set forth below, not by this Summary of the Invention. This Summary is a high-level overview of various embodiments of the invention and introduces some of the concepts that are more fully described in the Detailed Description section set forth below. This Summary is not intended to identify key or essential features of the claimed subject matter, nor is it intended to be used alone to determine the scope of the claimed subject matter. The subject matter should be understood by reference to appropriate portions of the entire patent specification, some or all of the drawings, and each claim.

[0006] According to an embodiment, a retainer for attaching a covering material to a structure includes a fastening portion, a first engagement feature, and a second engagement feature. The fastening portion is capable of engaging an edge of a sheet. The first engagement feature and the second engagement feature are capable of engaging the structure. In some embodiments, the second engagement feature is located between the first engagement feature and the fastening portion. In various embodiments, the first engagement feature and the second engagement feature are configured to clamp a portion of the structure.

[0007] According to various embodiments, the retainer for the structure includes a fastener configured to engage an edge of the sheet and a first engagement feature to engage the structure to the structure at least in the temporary retention configuration of the retainer, and the retainer also includes a second engagement feature for engaging the structure to at least in the full engagement configuration of the retainer to the structure.

[0008] In some embodiments, the retainer for the structure includes a configuration that is secured to the structure by clamping the structure between first and second engagement features of the retainer.

[0009] In various embodiments, the retainer of the structure includes a first engagement feature configured to hook onto the structure to provide a temporary retention function.

[0010] In some embodiments, the retainer of the structure includes a second engagement feature having a protrusion that abuts the end of the frame in a fully engaged configuration.

[0011] In some embodiments, the retainer of the structure includes a second engagement feature configured to engage the frame in a fully engaged configuration and to allow a predetermined amount of the retainer to be inserted into the structure.

[0012] In various embodiments, the retainer of the structure includes a first engagement feature that engages a protrusion on the structure and a second engagement feature that surrounds an edge of the structure in a fully engaged configuration. Such engagement can reduce and / or eliminate rattle of the retainer relative to the structure when fully assembled.

[0013] In some embodiments, the retainer of the structure includes a first engagement feature that engages the structure in both the temporary retention configuration and the fully engaged configuration, and the retainer also includes a second engagement feature that engages the frame in the fully engaged configuration.

[0014] In various embodiments, the retainer of the structure includes a first engagement feature that includes a hook or U-shaped engagement feature and a second engagement feature that includes a hook or protruding engagement feature.

[0015] In some embodiments, the retainer of the structure includes a first engagement feature and a second engagement feature, and at least the first engagement feature is resiliently deformable.

[0016] In one embodiment, a method for attaching a sheet to a structure using a retainer includes supporting an edge of the sheet on a fixed portion of the retainer. The method includes inserting a first engagement feature of the retainer into a groove defined by the structure to place the retainer in a temporary retention configuration. The method may include rotating the retainer relative to the frame and applying a force that presses the retainer further into the groove to engage a second engagement feature of the retainer with the frame to a full engagement configuration.

[0017] Various implementations described in this disclosure may include additional systems, methods, features, and advantages that may not necessarily be explicitly disclosed herein, but will be apparent to those skilled in the art upon review of the following detailed description and accompanying drawings. It is intended that all such systems, methods, features, and advantages be included within this disclosure and protected by the accompanying claims. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0018] The features and components of the following drawings are depicted to emphasize the general principles of the present disclosure, and corresponding features and components throughout the drawings may be designated with matching reference numerals to ensure consistency and clarity. [Figure 1] 1 is a diagram of a seat shown with covering material attached to a structure and the structure being a seat back frame according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 2] 1 is a diagram of a retainer showing a fastening element for attaching a covering material to a structure, the structure being a seat back frame, according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. [Figure 3] 3 is a view of the retainer, covering material, and seat back frame taken along line 3-3 of FIG. 2. [Figure 4] FIG. 3 is a perspective view of the holder of FIG. 2. [Figure 5] FIG. 3 is a side view of the holder of FIG. 2. [Figure 6]3(a)-(c) illustrate steps for engaging a retainer with the seat frame of FIG. 2 to attach a covering material to the seat frame, according to an embodiment. [Figure 7] 1 is a diagram of a retainer showing fastening elements for attaching covering material to a structure, the structure being a seat back frame, according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 8] 1 is a diagram of a retainer showing fastening elements for attaching covering material to a structure, the structure being a seat back frame, according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 9] 1 is a diagram of a retainer showing fastening elements for attaching covering material to a structure, the structure being a seat back frame, according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 10] 1 is a diagram of a retainer shown with a fastening element engaged to a structure, the structure being a seat back frame, according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 11] 1(a)-(b) are views of a retainer shown with a fixing element and a structure that is a seat back frame, according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 12] FIG. 12(a) illustrates steps for attaching a coating material to a structure by engaging a retainer with the structure, according to an embodiment. [Figure 13] 10(a)-10(c) illustrate steps for engaging a retainer with a structure to attach a coating material to the structure, according to an embodiment. [Figure 14] 1 is a diagram of a retainer shown with a fixing element and a structure that is a seat back frame according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 15] 10(a)-(b) are views of a retainer shown with a fastening element engaged to a structure, the structure being a seat back frame, according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 16] 1(a)-(b) are views of a retainer shown with a fastening element engaged to a structure, the structure being a seat back frame, according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0019] Described herein are retainers for attaching covering material to a frame or structure. While the retainers described below are discussed as attaching covering material to a seat back frame, they are by no means limited thereto. Rather, embodiments of the retainers described herein can be used to attach covering material to a variety of frames or structures as desired. As such, the term "frame" as used herein can refer to a variety of structures and is not intended to be limited to the frames illustrated herein. Rather, the frame can be any structure, including, but not limited to, various rigid structures, formed boards, molded pans, rigid backings, extruded beams or tubes, molded profiles, combinations thereof, and various other structures to which covering material can be attached. Furthermore, while the drawings illustrate a seat back frame, the retainers can be attached to other seating components, such as, for example, but not limited to, a seat cushion. Alternatively, the retainers can be used in other non-seating applications for attaching covering material to a structure.

[0020] The retainers described herein generally include an edge of the covering material, a first engagement feature, and a fastening portion for supporting the second engagement feature. In certain embodiments, the retainers described herein are tool-free to install, meaning that a separate tool, such as a hammer (as previously required), is not needed or required to assemble the retainer to the seat back frame. Such tool-free installation reduces assembly time compared to conventional methods and improves worker safety (e.g., eliminating the risk of injury from a separate tool). The retainers described herein can be assembled by hand and are ergonomically designed, which improves manufacturing efficiency compared to conventional methods.

[0021] In some embodiments, the retainers described herein can optionally support the retainer and covering material on the seat back frame in an intermediate or temporary retention configuration in which the retainer is partially engaged with the seat back frame. The temporary retention configuration can support the weight of the covering material while aligning the retainer along the length of the seat back frame, thereby facilitating assembly of the retainer to the seat back frame. As a non-limiting example, an operator can position the retainer in the temporary retention configuration along the length of the seat back frame and then ensure it is positioned and / or aligned as desired before moving the retainer to the fully engaged position.

[0022] In some embodiments, the retainers described herein can be optionally moved from a temporary retention configuration to a fully engaged configuration by rotating the retainer, thereby improving ease of insertion of the retainer into the seat back frame. Optionally, rotating the retainer from the temporary retention configuration to the fully engaged configuration can allow the retainer to be inserted into the seat back frame with less insertion force compared to conventional methods. Additionally or alternatively, the retainers described herein can include an elastically deformable portion, thereby allowing the retainer to be inserted into the seat back frame with less insertion force.

[0023] The retainers described herein can improve engagement with the seat back frame in a fully engaged configuration, which can provide a more secure connection between the retainer and the seat back frame and / or can also provide an improved (e.g., uniform) appearance. By way of non-limiting example, the retainers described herein can minimize rattle between the retainer and the seat back frame by clamping a portion of the seat back frame and / or by contacting at least two different portions of the seat back frame.

[0024] Various other benefits and advantages may be realized from the systems and methods provided herein, and the above advantages should not be considered limiting.

[0025] 1 shows an example of a structure having a covering material 104. In the illustrated embodiment, the structure is a seat 100 having a seat back 102. As mentioned above, in other embodiments, the covering material 104 can be attached to other structures as desired.

[0026] The seat 100 may include one or more covering materials 104, and one or more edges of at least one of the covering materials 104 may be connected to the frame of the seat back 102 in the seam region 106 using one or more retainers (described in more detail below) (see, for example, the seat back frame 208 shown in FIGS. 2 and 3). The covering materials 104 connected to the frame via one or more retainers may be various types of covering materials and / or combinations of covering materials as desired and should not be considered limiting. In the illustrated embodiment, the seat 100 includes two covering materials 104A-104B, with the covering material 104A attached to the seat back frame using one or more retainers. The particular seat 100 shown in FIG. 1 should not be considered limiting, and the covering materials 104 may form a portion of furniture and / or other substrates to form a portion of a seat in a moving body such as a vehicle, aircraft, train, watercraft, etc., as desired.

[0027] 2-6(c) illustrate a portion of a seam region 206 of a seat 200 according to an embodiment. The seat 200 is similar to the seat 100 and includes covering material 204A-204B, and the covering material 204A can be attached to a seat back frame 208 of the seat 200 using one or more retainers 218. In FIGS. 2-6(c), the retainers 218 directly engage the seat back frame 208 to connect the covering material 204A to the seat back frame 208. However, in other embodiments, the retainers 218 can engage holders located within the seat back frame 208 (see, e.g., FIGS. 11(a)-11(b), 12(a)-12(d), and 14).

[0028] 2 and 3, for example, the seat back frame 208 defines a groove 210. As described in more detail below, a retainer 218 is insertable into the groove 210 to engage the seat back frame 208 and connect the covering material 204 to the seat back frame 208. Optionally, one or more protrusions 212 may extend into the groove 210. If included, the protrusions 212 may extend from the first groove wall 214 and / or the second groove wall 216. In the embodiment of FIGS. 2-6(c), at least one protrusion 212 extends from the first groove wall 214.

[0029] 4 and 5, the retainer 218 generally includes a fastening portion 220, a first engagement feature 232, and a second engagement feature 234. In some embodiments, the retainer 218 is a monolithic or integrally formed component, although this is not required in other embodiments. The retainer 218 can be constructed from a variety of suitable materials and by a variety of suitable forming techniques as desired. By way of non-limiting example, the retainer 218 can be formed by extrusion, injection molding, and / or other suitable techniques or combinations of techniques as desired. Optionally, at least a portion of the retainer 218 (e.g., the first engagement feature 232) is made of an elastically deformable material, thereby allowing that portion of the retainer 218 to be selectively deformable or compressible during assembly to the seat back frame 208.

[0030] The fastening portion 220 optionally includes an end 226 of the retainer 218. As shown in FIGS. 4 and 5, for example, the fastening portion 220 includes a surface 228 to which the edge of the sheet of covering material 204A can be secured via various suitable mechanisms or techniques. As a non-limiting example, the covering material 204A can be sewn to the surface 228. The fastening portion 220 can have various shapes or profiles as desired. Optionally, and as shown in FIG. 5, the fastening portion 220 can include a shaping feature, such as, but not limited to, a notch 230, to allow the shape of the fastening portion 220 to be adjusted as desired. In the embodiment of FIGS. 2-6(c), the shaping feature 230 can bend the fastening portion 220 from an unbent configuration (see, e.g., FIGS. 4 and 5) to a bent configuration (see, e.g., FIGS. 2, 3, and 6(a)-6(c)). Optionally, fastening portions 220 extending in at least two directions (e.g., as in the bent configurations of Figures 2, 3, and 6(a)-6(c)) can improve the appearance of covering material 204A in seam region 206.

[0031] In various embodiments, the first engagement feature 232 optionally includes an end 236 opposite the end 226 of the retainer 218. Optionally, the second engagement feature 234 is between the first engagement feature 232 and the fastening portion 220, although this is not the case in other embodiments (see, for example, FIG. 9). Optionally, the second engagement feature 234 is provided along the retainer 218 to allow a predetermined amount of the retainer 218 to be inserted into the seat back frame 208 in a fully engaged configuration (described below), resulting in a more uniform appearance of the covering material 204A.

[0032] The engagement features 232, 234 can be various suitable features or structures suitable for engagement with the seat back frame 208, such as, but not limited to, the protrusion 212 of the seat back frame 208 and / or the end 215 of the first groove wall 214. In the example shown in FIGS. 2-6(c), the first engagement feature 232 is a hook feature 233 and the second engagement feature 234 is a protrusion 235. Other non-limiting embodiments of the first engagement feature 232 and / or the second engagement feature 234 include U-shaped features, T-shaped features, hook features of other profiles or shapes, protrusions of other profiles or shapes, etc. In some embodiments, as shown in FIGS. 2-10 and 12(a)-12(d), the engagement features 232, 234 can be on and / or extend from the same side of the retainer 218. In other embodiments, and as shown in Figures 11(a)-11(b) and 13(a)-16(b), the engagement features 232, 234 may be on and / or extend from both sides of the retainer 218.

[0033] The first engagement feature 232 and the second engagement feature 234 can engage different portions of the seat back frame 208 in a fully engaged configuration (see, e.g., FIG. 6(c) ) to attach the retainer 218 to the seat back frame 208. Optionally, as shown in FIG. 6(c) , in the fully engaged configuration, a portion of the seat back frame 208 is sandwiched and / or held between the first engagement feature 232 and the second engagement feature 234. As a non-limiting example, the protrusion 212 and the end 215 of the first groove wall 214 are sandwiched and / or surrounded by the first and second engagement features 232, 234. Such a sandwiching engagement can improve the connection between the retainer 218 and the seat back frame 208 and can reduce and / or eliminate rattle of the retainer 218 relative to the seat back frame 208 when fully assembled. In other embodiments, the first and second engagement features 232, 234 do not need to clamp the seat back frame 208 to attach the retainer to the seat back frame (see, for example, Figures 10, 11(a)-11(b), 12(a)-12(d), and 14).

[0034] Referring to FIG. 6(a), the first engagement feature 232 can optionally place the retainer 218 in a temporary engagement configuration relative to the seat back frame 208. Optionally, in the temporary engagement configuration, the first engagement feature 232 may engage a portion of the frame that the second engagement feature 234 engages in the full engagement configuration. As a non-limiting example, in FIG. 6(a), the first engagement feature 232 engages the end 215 of the first channel wall 214 in the temporary engagement configuration. In other embodiments, the first engagement feature 232 may engage other portions of the seat back frame 208 in the temporary engagement configuration (see, for example, FIGS. 11(a)-11(b) and 12(a)-12(d)).

[0035] In the temporary engagement configuration, the retainer 218 may engage the seat back frame 208 while supporting the weight of the covering material 204A. Such a configuration may facilitate assembly by allowing an operator to temporarily place (e.g., ensure alignment, etc.) the covering material 204A on the seat back frame 208 without having to support the covering material 204A and / or fully engage the retainer 218 with the seat back frame 208. In various embodiments, starting with the temporary engagement configuration may improve ease of insertion of the retainer 218 into the seat back frame 208 (e.g., reduce the required insertion force). As a non-limiting example, and with reference to Figures 6(a)-6(c), the retainer 218 can be rotated (indicated by arrow 238) from a temporary engagement position prior to application of an insertion force (indicated by arrow 240) to move the retainer 218 to a fully engaged configuration (shown in Figure 6(c)) such that both the first engagement feature 232 and the second engagement feature 234 engage the seat back frame 208.

[0036] 7 illustrates another example of a retainer 718, according to an embodiment, showing a fully engaged configuration with respect to a seat back frame 208. Retainer 718 is similar to retainer 218, except that first engagement feature 232 is a hook feature 733 with a different profile, and second engagement feature 234 is a hook feature 735. Retainer 718 engages two portions of frame 208 within the areas circled in red and blue. Similar to retainer 218, retainer 718 clamps frame 208 in a fully engaged configuration.

[0037] FIG. 8 illustrates another example of a retainer 818, according to an embodiment, showing a fully engaged configuration with respect to a seat back frame 208. Retainer 818 is similar to retainer 718 in that the first engagement feature 232 is a hook feature 733. Compared to retainer 718, the second engagement feature 234 of retainer 818 is a hook feature 835 with a different profile. Retainer 818 engages two portions of frame 208 within the areas surrounded by the red and blue circles. Similar to retainers 218 and 718, retainer 818 clamps frame 208 in a fully engaged configuration. In one embodiment, retainer 818 with hook feature 835 allows retainer 818 to accommodate various frame thicknesses (indicated by arrow 831 in FIG. 8 ). In other words, retainer 818 may be used to attach various types of covering materials, which may or may not have different thicknesses. In some embodiments, the hook feature 835 can optionally bend at least partially horizontally to accommodate various frame thicknesses.

[0038] FIG. 9 illustrates another example of a retainer 918, according to an embodiment, showing a fully engaged configuration for a seat back frame 208. For the retainer 218, the second engagement feature 234 of the retainer 918 extends from the fastening portion 220 and further extends from a hook feature 935. The first engagement feature 232 of the retainer 918 is the hook portion 733. The retainer 918 engages two portions of the frame 208 within the areas circled in red and blue. Similar to retainers 218, 718, and 918, the retainer 818 clamps the frame 208 in a fully engaged configuration. Similar to retainer 818, the retainer 918 can accommodate multiple frame thicknesses. Additionally, the hook feature 935 allows the retainer 918 to accommodate various frame heights (i.e., the vertical distance between the portion of the frame 208 circled in red and the portion of the frame 208 circled in blue). Such accommodation is indicated by arrow 931 in Figure 9. In some embodiments, hook feature 935 may optionally be at least partially vertically flexible to accommodate various frame heights.

[0039] 10 illustrates another example of a retainer 1018, according to an embodiment. The retainer 1018 is shown in a fully engaged configuration with a seat back frame 1008. The seat back frame 1008 is similar to the seat back frame 208, except that the seat back frame 1008 has a protrusion 212 extending from the second channel wall 216. The retainer 1018 is similar to the retainer 218, except that the retainer 1018 includes an optional secondary engagement feature 1048. If included, the secondary engagement feature 1048 may optionally engage with the protrusion 212 extending from the second channel wall 216. In this embodiment, the retainer 1018 may have at least three contact points between the retainer 1018 and the seat back frame 1008 (e.g., contact between the first engagement feature 232 and the seat back frame 1008, contact between the second engagement feature 234 and the seat back frame 1008, and contact between the protrusion 212 and the retainer 1018), which can further improve the engagement between the retainer 1018 and the seat back frame 1008.

[0040] 11(a)-11(b) illustrate another example of a retainer 1118 according to an embodiment. In FIG. 11(b), the retainer 1118 is shown in a fully engaged configuration with the seat back frame 1008. The retainer 1118 is similar to the retainer 218, except that the profile of the fastening portion 220 of the retainer 1118 is different, the first engagement feature 232 of the retainer 1118 has a hook feature 1133 facing in the opposite direction to that of the retainer 218, and the second engagement feature 234 is a hook feature 1135. In the example of FIGS. 11(a)-11(b), the opposing hook feature 1133, like the first engagement feature 232, can engage with the protrusion 212 of the second groove wall 216. 11(a)-11(b), a portion of the retainer 1118, such as, for example, but not limited to, the first engagement feature 232, may be resiliently deformable such that the portion of the retainer 1118 is selectively movable between a compressed configuration (FIG. 11(a)) and an uncompressed configuration (FIG. 11(b)). If included, the resiliently deformable portion of the retainer 1118 can facilitate engagement between the retainer 1118 and the seat back frame 1008.

[0041] 12(a) to 12(d) show another example of a retainer 1218 according to an embodiment. Compared to the retainer 218 that directly engages with the seat back frame 208, the retainer 1218 engages with a holder 1242 located within the seat back frame 208. The retainer 1218 is similar to the retainer 218 except that the fixing portion 220 extends in one direction. Furthermore, compared to the retainer 218, the hook function portion 1233 serving as the first engagement function portion 232 extends from the outermost range of the protrusion portion 1235 serving as the second engagement function portion 234.

[0042] The holder 1242 generally includes a receiving area 1244 defined at least in part by holder extensions 1246, 1248. Optionally, the holder extensions 1246, 1248 may include features, such as, but not limited to, curved surfaces, that facilitate movement of the retainer 1218 relative to the holder 1242 during assembly. Optionally, the holder 1242 may include a fastening portion 1250 for attaching a covering material, such as covering material 204B. The particular shapes of the holder 1242, receiving area 1244, extensions 1246, 1248, and / or fastening portion 1250 should not be considered limiting to this disclosure. The holder 1242 can be attached or secured to the seat back frame 208 using various techniques or mechanisms, as desired.

[0043] A method of assembling the retainer 1218 to the seat back frame 208 may include positioning the retainer 1218 in a temporary retention configuration by partially inserting the retainer 1218 into the receiving area 1244, thereby engaging the first engagement feature 232 with the holder extension 1246 ( FIG. 12( b)). To move the retainer 1218 from the temporary retention configuration to the fully engaged configuration, the method may include optionally rotating the retainer 1218, thereby engaging the first engagement feature 232 with the holder extension 1248 and engaging the second engagement feature 234 with the holder extension 1246, as shown in FIG. 12( c). The method may include applying an insertion force (represented by arrow 1240 in FIG. 12( c)) to the retainer 1218 to move the retainer 1218 to the fully engaged configuration as shown in FIG. 12( d). In one embodiment, in the fully engaged configuration, the engagement features 232 , 234 are both at least partially within the receiving area 1244 and / or such that the engagement features 232 , 234 engage the holder extensions 1246 , 1248 within the receiving area 1244 .

[0044] FIGS. 13(a)-13(c) show another example of a retainer 1318 according to an embodiment. Similar to the retainer 1218, the retainer 1318 engages with a holder 1342 located within the seat back frame. The retainer 1318 is similar to the retainer 218, except that the fastening portion 220 extends in one direction. Furthermore, for the retainer 218, the first engagement feature 232 is a protrusion 1333 extending in a first direction, and the second engagement feature 234 is a second protrusion 1335 extending in a direction opposite the first direction, with the engagement features 232 and 234 cooperating to form the T-shaped retainer 1318. As shown in FIGS. 13(a)-13(c), the profile of the protrusion 1333 may be different from the profile of the protrusion 1335, but in other embodiments, they may not be different. In some embodiments, the profile of the protrusions 1335 may facilitate rotation of the retainer 1318 relative to the holder 1342 .

[0045] Holder 1342 is similar to holder 1242 except that holder 1342 includes holder extensions 1346, 1348 and receiving area 1344 that have a different shape and / or profile than holder 1242.

[0046] 13(a)-13(c), a method of assembling the retainer 1318 to the holder 1342 includes partially inserting the retainer 1318 into the receiving area 1344, thereby causing the first engagement feature 232 to engage the holder extension 1346 (FIG. 13(a)). To move the retainer 1318 to a fully engaged configuration, the method may include optionally rotating the retainer 1318 (represented by arrow 1338) such that the first engagement feature 232 continues to engage the holder extension 1346 and the second engagement feature 234 engages the holder extension 1348, as shown in FIG. 13(b). In some embodiments, at least a portion of the protrusion 1335 (e.g., a tip of the protrusion 1335) may be flexible and / or resiliently deformable to allow the protrusion 1335 to flex appropriately, thereby facilitating insertion of the second engagement feature 234 into the receiving area 1344. The method may include further rotating the retainer 1318 and applying an insertion force to the retainer 1318 to move the retainer 1318 to a fully engaged configuration as shown in FIG. 13( c). In some embodiments, in the fully engaged configuration, the engagement features 232, 234 are both at least partially within the receiving area 1344 and / or whereby the engagement features 232, 234 engage the holder extensions 1346, 1348 within the receiving area 1344.

[0047] 14 shows another example of a retainer 1418 and holder 1442, according to an embodiment. Retainer 1418 is similar to retainer 1318, except that first engagement feature 232 is hook feature 1433 and second engagement feature 234 is hook feature 1435. Holder 1442 is similar to holder 1342, except that holder 1442 includes hook features such as holder extensions 1446, 1448.

[0048] 15(a)-15(b) illustrate another example of a retainer 1518 with a seat back frame 1008 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. 15(a) illustrates the retainer 1518 in a fully engaged configuration, and FIG. 15(b) illustrates the retainer 1518 in a temporary retaining configuration. The retainer 1518 is similar to the retainer 1318 in that the first engagement feature 232 is a protrusion 1533 extending in a first direction. The protrusion 1533 as the first engagement feature 232 has a different profile than the protrusion 1333. In some embodiments, the extension 1537 of the protrusion 1533 allows the retainer 1518 to accommodate frames with various groove depths (i.e., the distance from the bottom of the protrusion 212 to the base 211 of the groove 210). 15(b), an extension 1537 facilitates positioning the retainer 1518 in the temporary retention configuration. Similar to the retainer 1118, the retainer 1518 includes a hook feature 1135 as the second engagement feature 234, extending in the opposite direction from the first engagement feature 232.

[0049] 16(a)-16(b) illustrate another example of a retainer 1618 shown with the seat back frame 1008, according to an embodiment. FIG. 16(a) illustrates the retainer 1518 in a fully engaged configuration, and FIG. 16(b) illustrates the retainer 1518 in a temporary retained configuration. The retainer 1618 is similar to the retainer 1518 in that the second engagement feature 234 is a hook feature 1135. Unlike the retainer 1518, the retainer 1618 includes a hook feature 1633 as the first engagement feature 232, extending in the opposite direction from the second engagement feature 234. Similar to the retainer 1118, the hook feature 1633 of the retainer 1618 may be elastically deformable and movable between a compressed configuration and an uncompressed configuration. If included, the resiliently deformable hook feature 1633 can facilitate engagement between the retainer 1618 and the seat back frame 1008. Optionally, an extension 1637 on the hook feature 1633 can facilitate initial engagement of the hook feature 1633 with the frame 1008 and guidance into the groove 210 of the retainer 1618. As shown in FIG. 16(b), in various embodiments, the extension 1637 can further facilitate positioning the retainer 1618 in the temporary retention configuration.

[0050] The following collection of exemplary embodiments, including at least those explicitly recited as "exemplary," provides additional descriptions of examples of various embodiments based on the concepts described herein. These examples are not intended to be mutually exclusive, exhaustive, or limiting. Furthermore, the disclosure herein is not limited to these examples, but rather includes all modifications and variations within the scope of the issued claims and their equivalents.

[0051] Example 1 A retainer for attaching a sheet to a structure, comprising: a fixing portion configured to engage with an edge of the sheet; a first engagement feature for engaging with the structure; and a second engagement feature located between the first engagement feature and the fixing portion, the second engagement feature for engaging with the structure, wherein the first engagement feature and the second engagement feature are configured to clamp a portion of the structure.

[0052] Example 2 A retainer of any preceding or subsequent example, or combination thereof, wherein the first engagement feature is configured to hook onto the structure to provide a temporary retention function, and is configured to engage the structure in a fully engaged configuration by inserting a predetermined amount of the retainer into the structure.

[0053] Example 3 The retainer of any preceding or subsequent example, or combination thereof, wherein the second engagement feature comprises a protrusion configured to abut an end of the structure in a fully engaged configuration.

[0054] Example 4 A retainer in a preceding or subsequent example, or a combination thereof, where the first engagement feature comprises a first hook and an extension extending from the first hook, and the second engagement feature comprises a second hook, the first hook and the second hook facing in opposite directions from each other.

[0055] Example 5 The retainer of any preceding or subsequent example, or combination thereof, wherein the first engagement feature includes a first hook, T-shaped feature, or U-shaped engagement feature, and the second engagement feature includes a second hook, T-shaped feature, or protrusion engagement feature.

[0056] Example 6 The retainer of any preceding or subsequent example, or combination thereof, wherein the first engagement feature includes a first hook and the second engagement feature includes a second hook.

[0057] Example 7 A retainer of a preceding or subsequent example, or a combination thereof, in which the shape or profile of a first hook is different from the shape or profile of a second hook.

[0058] Example 8 The retainer of the preceding or subsequent example, or a combination thereof, wherein at least a first engagement feature is resiliently deformable.

[0059] Example 9 The retainer of any preceding or subsequent example, or a combination thereof, wherein the fixed portion includes a shaping feature whereby the shape of the solid portion is adjustable.

[0060] Example 10 The retainer of the preceding or subsequent example, or a combination thereof, wherein the securing portion defines a first end of the retainer and the first engagement feature has a second end of the retainer opposite the first end.

[0061] Example 11 The retainer in the preceding or following instance or combination thereof, wherein the second engagement feature extends from the fastening portion.

[0062] Example 12 The retainer of the preceding or subsequent example, or a combination thereof, wherein the retainer further includes an auxiliary engagement feature for engaging the structure, the auxiliary engagement feature being located between the first engagement feature and the second engagement feature.

[0063] Example 13 A retainer for attaching a sheet to a structure, the retainer comprising: a fastening portion configured to engage an edge of the sheet; a first engagement feature for engaging the structure so that the retainer is in at least a temporary retention configuration with respect to the structure; and a second engagement feature for engaging the structure so that the retainer is in at least a full engagement configuration with respect to the structure.

[0064] Example 14 A retainer of the preceding or subsequent example, or a combination thereof, in which the securing portion comprises a first end of the retainer, the first engagement feature comprises a second end of the retainer opposite the first end, and the second engagement feature is located between the first end and the second end.

[0065] Example 15 The retainer of any preceding or subsequent example, or combination thereof, wherein the first engagement feature and the second engagement feature are configured to engage the structure on opposite sides of the retainer.

[0066] Example 16 The retainer of any preceding or subsequent example, or combination thereof, wherein the first engagement feature comprises a hook or U-shaped engagement feature and the second engagement feature comprises a hook or protrusion engagement feature.

[0067] Example 17 The retainer of the preceding or subsequent example, or a combination thereof, wherein at least a first engagement feature is resiliently deformable.

[0068] Example 18 A seat comprising the retainer, structure, and seat of any preceding or subsequent example or combination thereof, wherein a first engagement feature is configured to engage a protrusion of the structure and a second engagement feature is configured to surround an edge of the structure in a fully engaged configuration.

[0069] Example 19 A method for attaching a sheet to a structure using a retainer, the method comprising: supporting an edge of the sheet on a fixing portion of the retainer; inserting a first engagement feature of the retainer into a receiving area defined by the structure, thereby placing the retainer in a temporary holding configuration; and rotating the retainer relative to the structure to apply a force that presses the retainer further into the receiving area, thereby engaging a second engagement feature of the retainer with the structure in a full-engagement configuration.

[0070] Example 20 The method of any preceding or subsequent example or combination of examples, wherein in a fully engaged configuration, the first engagement feature and the second engagement feature are both at least partially within the receiving area.

[0071] The various aspects, embodiments, implementations, or features described in the embodiments may be used separately or in any combination. It is understood that various elements of the concepts from the figures may be combined without departing from the spirit or scope of the invention.

[0072] The use of the terms "a," "an," and "the" and similar reference words in the context of describing the present invention (particularly in the context of the claims below) are intended to include both the singular and the plural unless otherwise indicated herein or clearly contradicted by context. Directional statements such as "top," "bottom," "upper," "lower," "left," "right," "front," "rear," and the like are intended to refer to the orientation in which the components or directions are shown and described in the figure(s) to which reference is made. The terms "comprise," "have," "include," and "includes" are intended to be open-ended terms (i.e., meaning "including, for example, but not limited to") unless otherwise indicated. The recitation of ranges of values ​​herein is merely intended to serve as a shorthand method of individually referencing each individual value falling within the range, or a gradient thereof, and each individual value is incorporated herein as if set forth individually herein. All methods described herein can be performed in any suitable order unless otherwise indicated herein or clearly contradicted by context. Any examples provided herein, or the use of exemplary language (e.g., "such as"), are intended merely to more clearly illustrate embodiments of the invention and do not limit the scope of the invention unless otherwise stated. No language in the specification should be construed as indicating any non-claimed element as essential to the practice of the invention.

[0073] As used herein, the term "substantially" refers to the complete or near-complete extent or degree of an action, property, quality, state, structure, item, or result. For example, "substantially" enclosing an object means that the object is completely enclosed or nearly completely enclosed. The precise tolerance for deviation from absolute completeness may depend on the particular context. However, near completeness would produce the same overall result as if absolute and complete completeness were achieved.

[0074] Preferred embodiments of the present invention are described herein, including the best mode known to the inventors for carrying out the invention. While the invention is susceptible to various modifications and alternative constructions, specific illustrative embodiments thereof have been shown in the drawings and have been described above in detail. Modifications of these preferred embodiments, which fall within the spirit of the invention, will be apparent to those skilled in the art upon reading the foregoing description. The inventors expect that such modifications will be adopted by those skilled in the art as appropriate, and the inventors intend to practice the invention otherwise than as specifically described herein. Therefore, it is not intended to limit the invention to the particular forms disclosed; on the contrary, the invention is to be understood as including all modifications and equivalents of the subject matter recited in the claims appended hereto as permitted by applicable law. Moreover, unless otherwise indicated herein or otherwise clearly contradicted by context, all combinations of the above-described elements in all possible variations thereof are encompassed by the present invention.

[0075] In the foregoing description, for purposes of explanation, specific nomenclature was used to provide a thorough understanding of the described embodiments. However, it will be apparent to those skilled in the art that specific details are not required to practice the described embodiments. Thus, the foregoing descriptions of specific embodiments have been presented for purposes of illustration and description. They are not intended to be exhaustive or to limit the described embodiments to the precise forms disclosed. It will be apparent to those skilled in the art that numerous modifications and variations are possible in light of the above teachings.

Claims

1. A holder for attaching a sheet to a structure, a fastener configured to engage an edge of the sheet; a first engagement feature for engaging the structure; a second engagement feature located between the first engagement feature and the fixing part, the second engagement feature being for engaging with the structure; Equipped with The first and second engagement features are configured to clamp a portion of the structure.

2. 2. The retainer of claim 1, wherein the first engagement feature is configured to hook onto the structure to provide a temporary retention function, and is configured to engage the structure in a fully engaged configuration by inserting a predetermined amount of the retainer into the structure.

3. The retainer of claim 1 , wherein the second engagement feature comprises a protrusion configured to abut an end of the structure in a fully engaged configuration.

4. 2. The retainer of claim 1, wherein the first engagement feature comprises a first hook and an extension extending from the first hook, and the second engagement feature comprises a second hook, the first hook and the second hook facing in opposite directions.

5. 2. The retainer of claim 1, wherein the first engagement feature comprises a first hook, T-shaped feature, or U-shaped engagement feature, and the second engagement feature comprises a second hook, T-shaped feature, or protruding engagement feature.

6. The retainer of claim 5 , wherein the first engagement feature comprises the first hook and the second engagement feature comprises the second hook.

7. The retainer of claim 6 , wherein the shape or profile of the first hook is different from the shape or profile of the second hook.

8. The retainer of claim 1 , wherein at least the first engagement feature is resiliently deformable.

9. The retainer of claim 1 , wherein the fastening portion comprises a shaping feature, whereby the shape of the fastening portion is adjustable.

10. The retainer of claim 1 , wherein the securing portion defines a first end of the retainer and the first engagement feature comprises a second end of the retainer opposite the first end.

11. The retainer of claim 1 , wherein the second engagement feature extends from the fastening portion.

12. 10. The retainer of claim 1, wherein the retainer further comprises a secondary engagement feature for engaging the structure, the secondary engagement feature being located between the first engagement feature and the second engagement feature.

13. A holder for attaching a sheet to a structure, a fastener configured to engage an edge of the sheet; a first engagement feature for engaging the structure such that the retainer is in at least a temporary retaining configuration with the structure; a second engagement feature for engaging the structure such that the retainer is in at least a fully engaged configuration with the structure.

14. 14. The retainer of claim 13, wherein the securing portion comprises a first end of the retainer, the first engagement feature comprises a second end of the retainer opposite the first end, and the second engagement feature is located between the first end and the second end.

15. The retainer of claim 13 , wherein the first and second engagement features are configured to engage a structure on opposite sides of the retainer.

16. The retainer of claim 13 , wherein the first engagement feature comprises a hook or U-shaped engagement feature and the second engagement feature comprises a hook or protruding engagement feature.

17. The retainer of claim 13 , wherein at least the first engagement feature is resiliently deformable.

18. 14. A seat comprising the retainer of claim 13, the structure, and the seat, wherein the first engagement feature is configured to engage a protrusion on the structure and the second engagement feature is configured to surround an edge of the structure in the fully engaged configuration.

19. 1. A method for attaching a sheet to a structure using a retainer, comprising: supporting an edge of the sheet on a fixing portion of the holder; inserting a first engagement feature of the retainer into a receiving area defined by the structure, thereby placing the retainer in a temporary retention configuration; rotating the retainer relative to the structure and applying a force that pushes the retainer further into the receiving area to engage a second engagement feature of the retainer with the structure in a fully engaged configuration.

20. 20. The method of claim 19, wherein in the fully engaged configuration, the first engagement feature and the second engagement feature are both at least partially within the receiving area.

Images