Clip, assembly and method

Abstract

In the present invention, a total leg offset distance (602) between the central axis (202) of a barb (250) on a first leg (200) and the central axis (302) of a barb (350) on a second leg (300), as measured in the X-axis direction of a clip (100), is equal to or less than the secondary width (237, 337) of either the barb (250) on the first leg (200) or the barb (350) on the second leg (300) in the X-axis direction.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present disclosure relates to clips, assemblies, and methods. More particularly, the present disclosure relates to clips, assemblies, and methods for vehicle interiors.

Background Art

[0002] Vehicle driver and passenger seats may include a covered surface or an interior surface. The seat can have a base that can serve as a cushion and can incorporate an interior cover. While there are vehicles that do not require separate bases and interior covers, many vehicles include both for comfort, aesthetics, and / or other reasons. Manufacturers generally use multiple fasteners to secure an interior cover, such as fabric, leather, or other materials, in a fixed position around the base. There are also fastening methods that involve embedding wires or other fasteners inside a foam cushion, but in this case, the number of parts increases, the overall design becomes complex, and the types of materials available for forming the base body may be limited. Depending on the base using other materials and manufacturing methods, new assembly methods and even new fasteners may be required.

Summary of the Invention

Means for Solving the Problems

[0003] It should be understood that this summary is not intended to describe an extensive overview of the present disclosure. This summary is illustrative and not restrictive, and is not intended to identify key or important elements of the present disclosure or to delineate its scope. The sole purpose of this summary is to illustrate and exemplify certain concepts of the present disclosure as an introduction to the following complete and extensive detailed description.

[0004] In one aspect, disclosed is a clip for fixing a cover to a base, the clip comprising a chuck defining a suspender holding cavity, the suspender holding cavity being dimensioned and configured to receive a suspender attached to the cover, a first leg extending from the chuck and having a first barb, the first barb extending outwardly relative to a central axis of the clip, a second leg extending from the chuck and having a second barb, the second barb extending outwardly relative to the central axis of the clip, wherein a total leg offset distance between a center line of the barb of the first leg and a center line of the barb of the second leg, measured in the X-axis direction of the clip, is equal to or less than a secondary width of either the barb of the first leg or the barb of the second leg in the X-axis direction.

[0005] In a further aspect, disclosed is a clip for fixing a cover to a base, the clip comprising a chuck defining a suspender holding cavity, the suspender holding cavity being dimensioned and configured to receive a suspender attached to the cover, a first leg extending from the chuck and having a first barb, the first barb extending outwardly relative to a central axis of the clip, the first barb extending from a portion of the first leg extending from the chuck and defining an inner barb shoulder angled relative to the portion of the first leg, a second leg extending from the chuck and having a second barb, the second barb extending outwardly relative to a central axis of the clip, the second barb extending from a portion of the second leg extending from the chuck and defining an inner barb shoulder angled relative to the portion of the second leg, wherein tip portions of each of the first barb of the first leg and the second barb of the second leg extend beyond corresponding inner barb shoulders in the Z-axis direction of the clip.

[0006] In yet another aspect, disclosed is a method comprising inserting a clip for securing an interior cover within a hole defined within a base, the clip being a chuck defining a suspender retaining cavity dimensioned and configured to receive a suspender attached to the cover, a first leg extending from the chuck and comprising a first barb, the first barb extending outwardly relative to a central axis of the clip, a second leg extending from the chuck and comprising a second barb, the second barb extending outwardly relative to a central axis of the clip, wherein a distance between a centerline of the barb of the first leg and a centerline of the barb of the second leg in an X-axis direction of the clip is less than or equal to a thickness of either the barb of the first leg or the barb of the second leg in the X-axis direction; and pushing the clip into the hole defined within the base without applying a moment that promotes rotation of the clip about an X-axis of the clip or an anti-moment that prevents rotation of the clip about a Z-axis of the clip.

[0007] The various implementations described in this disclosure may include additional systems, methods, features, and advantages that are not necessarily explicitly disclosed herein but will be apparent to those skilled in the art upon examination of the following detailed description and the accompanying drawings. All such systems, methods, features, and advantages are intended to be included within this disclosure and protected by the accompanying claims. The features and advantages of such implementations can be realized and obtained by the systems, methods, and features particularly pointed out in the appended claims. These and other features will become more fully apparent from the following description and the appended claims, or may be learned by the practice of the exemplary implementations as set forth below.

[0008] The accompanying drawings, which are incorporated in and constitute a part of this specification, illustrate some aspects of the present disclosure and, together with the description, serve to explain the various principles of the present disclosure. The drawings are not necessarily drawn to scale. Throughout the drawings, corresponding functional parts and components can be denoted by the same reference characters for consistency and clarity.

Brief Description of the Drawings

[0009]

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Best Mode for Carrying Out the Invention

[0010] This disclosure can be more easily understood by referring to the following detailed description, examples, drawings, and claims, as well as the description before and after them. However, before disclosing and describing the present device, system, and / or method, it should be understood that the disclosure is not limited to the specific device, system, and / or method disclosed, as it may vary in various ways unless otherwise specifically specified. It should also be understood that the terms used in this specification are for the purpose of describing specific aspects and are not intended to be limiting.

[0011] The following description is provided as a teaching enabling the device, system, and / or method of the present invention in the currently known best mode. For this reason, those skilled in the relevant technical fields will recognize and understand that they can make many modifications to the various aspects described herein while obtaining the beneficial results of this disclosure. It will also be apparent that some of the desired advantages of this disclosure can be obtained by selecting some of the functional parts of this disclosure without using other functional parts. Therefore, those skilled in the art will recognize that many modifications and adaptations to this disclosure are possible and may even be desirable in certain situations, and that they are part of this disclosure. Therefore, the following description is provided as an illustration of the principles of this disclosure and is not intended to be limiting.

[0012] As used herein, the singular forms "a", "an" and "the" are to be construed to include the plural referents unless the context clearly dictates otherwise. Thus, for example, reference to a quantity of one particular element can include two or more such elements unless the context indicates otherwise. Also, any elements described herein can refer to a first such element, a second such element, etc. (e.g., even if only "widget" is referenced, a first widget and a second widget).

[0013] Ranges can be expressed herein as from "about" a particular value and / or to "about" another particular value. When such a range is expressed, in another aspect, it includes from a particular value and / or to another particular value. Similarly, when values are expressed as approximations, by use of the antecedent "about" or "substantially" it will be understood that a particular value results in another aspect. It will be further understood that the endpoints of each range are significant both in relation to the other endpoint and independently of the other endpoint.

[0014] For the purposes of this disclosure, a material property or dimension that is about X or substantially X on a particular measurement scale is within a range between a value that is X plus the industry-standard upper tolerance for a specified measurement and a value that is X minus the industry-standard lower tolerance for a specified measurement. Since tolerances vary depending on the material, the process, and the type, the tolerance for a particular measurement of a particular component can be within the range of tolerances.

[0015] As used herein, the terms "any" or "optionally" mean that the event or circumstance following can or cannot occur, and that the description includes instances where the event or circumstance occurs and instances where it does not.

[0016] As used herein, the word "or" means any one member of a particular list and also includes any combination of members of that list. As used herein, the expression "at least one of A and B" means "only A, only B, or both A and B", and the expression "one of A and B" means "A or B".

[0017] As used herein, unless otherwise indicated in the context, the term "monolithic" in the description of a component means that the component is formed as a single component composed of a single material without joints or seams.

[0018] Components that can be used to implement the disclosed methods and systems are disclosed. If such components are disclosed herein and combinations, subsets, interactions, groups, etc. of these components are disclosed, specific references to each of these individual and collective combinations and permutations may not be explicitly disclosed, but for all methods and systems, each is to be understood as being specifically contemplated and described herein. This applies to all aspects of the present application, including but not limited to the steps of the disclosed methods. Thus, if there are various additional steps that are executable, it is understood that each of these additional steps is executable in any particular aspect or combination of aspects of the disclosed method.

[0019] Hereinafter, the cover fastening clip 100 will be described based on the X - Y - Z coordinate axes shown in the figures. The X - axis direction may also be referred to as the left - right or horizontal direction. For example, as shown in FIG. 1, the X - axis direction coincides with the extending direction of the suspender 700 (shown in FIG. 7) disposed within the suspender holding cavity 138 (shown in FIG. 1) of the clip 100 (shown in FIG. 1).

[0020] The Y - axis direction is a direction orthogonal to the X - axis direction (left - right direction) and the Z - axis direction (up - down direction), and may also be referred to as the front - rear direction. A surface parallel to the front - rear direction of the structure may also be referred to as a side surface.

[0021] The up-down direction is the Z-axis direction orthogonal to the X-axis direction and the Y-axis direction, and generally coincides with the height direction of the clip 100. For example, the direction in which the suspender 700 can be inserted into the gap 168 (shown in FIG. 1) of the clip 100 and locked to the clip 100 may be referred to as the Z-axis direction. Also, the up-down direction can be made to coincide with the direction perpendicular to the surface of the cover 1090 (shown in FIG. 10) stretched over the base 1010 (shown in FIG. 10).

[0022] In one aspect, a cover fastening clip and related methods, systems, devices, and various apparatuses are disclosed herein. In one aspect, the clip can include a chuck and a pair of legs.

[0023] FIG. 1A and FIG. 1B are, respectively, an upper perspective view and a bottom perspective view of a clip 100 according to one aspect of the present disclosure. As shown in the upper perspective view of FIG. 1, the clip 100 can include a chuck 120, a first leg 200, and a second leg 300. The clip 100, more specifically, the chuck 120, can define a front end or a first end 105 and a rear end or a second end 106 (shown in FIG. 1B). The clip 100, more specifically, the chuck 120, can further define a central axis 101 into which the suspender 700 (shown in FIG. 7) can be inserted.

[0024] The chuck 120 can include a chuck base 140, a pair of chuck walls 150a, 150b extending from the chuck base 140, and a pair of holding flanges 160a, 160b extending from the respective chuck walls 150a, 150b. The chuck 120 can define a suspender holding cavity 138 and can define an inner surface 121. In some embodiments, as shown in the figure, tabs 712a, 712b can extend from the inner surface 121 of the chuck 120. The tabs 712a, 712b can extend in the Y-axis direction of the clip 100. The holding flange 160a and the holding flange 160b can define a gap 168 therebetween, which can be configured to receive the suspender 700.

[0025] The first leg 200 extends from the chuck 120 and can define a proximal end 203 proximate to the chuck 120 and a distal end 204 located distally from the chuck 120. More specifically, the first leg 200 can include a first portion 210 extending from the chuck 120 and a second portion 220 extending from and joined to the first portion 210. Both the first portion 210 and the second portion 220 can form the main part of the first leg 200. In some embodiments, as shown in the figure, either the first portion 210 or the second portion 220 may be linear along the X-axis direction when viewed from the end of the clip 100. More specifically, the first portion 210 can be tapered such that the portion proximate to the chuck 120 is wider than the portion located distally from the chuck 120. In some embodiments, either the first portion 210 or the second portion 220 may be curved along the X-axis direction when viewed from the end of the clip 100. The first leg 200 can include a third portion 230 extending from the main part of the first leg 200, more specifically, from the second portion 220 of the first leg 200 and from the distal end 204 of the first leg 200. The third portion 230 can include a return 250 that can extend outwardly with respect to the central axis 101 of the clip 100. In some embodiments, when viewed along at least one direction, i.e., at least along the X-axis direction, the return 250 can be tapered from a base 252, where the base 252 can extend from the second portion 220 of the first leg 200 to a tip 254. In some embodiments, when viewed similarly, the return 250 can define a constant thickness from the base 252 to the tip 254. The return 250 of the first leg 200 can define an end face 255 at the tip 254, and that portion may be rounded or flat. The first leg 200 can define a front end or a first end 205 and a rear end or a second end 206 (shown in FIG. 3). The first legs 200 may be parallel to each other and can further define an inner surface 221 and an outer surface 222 that may extend in the X-axis direction of the clip 100.Each of the inner surface 221 and the outer surface 222 may terminate at a distal end 204 that can be the outermost of the first leg 200 along the Z-axis direction.

[0026] The second leg 300 extends from the chuck 120 and can define a proximal end 303 close to the chuck 120 and a distal end 304 located distally from the chuck 120. More specifically, the second leg 300 can include a first portion 310 extending from the chuck 120 and a second portion 320 extending from the first portion 310 and joined to the first portion 310. Both the first portion 310 and the second portion 320 can form the main part of the second leg 300. In some embodiments, as shown in the figure, either the first portion 310 or the second portion 320 can be linear along the X-axis direction when viewed from the end of the clip 100. More specifically, the first portion 310 can be tapered such that the portion close to the chuck 120 is wider than the portion located distally from the chuck 120. In some embodiments, either the first portion 310 or the second portion 320 may be curved along the X-axis direction when viewed from the end of the clip 100. The second leg 300 can include a third portion 330 extending from the main part of the second leg 300, more specifically, from the second portion 320 of the second leg 300, and from the distal end 304 of the second leg 300. The third portion 230 can include a return 350 that can extend outwardly from the central axis 101 of the clip 100.

[0027] In some embodiments, the return 350 can be tapered from the base 352, at least in one direction such as forward, i.e., when viewed along at least the X-axis direction. Here, the base 352 can extend from the second portion 320 of the second leg 300 to the tip 354. In some embodiments, when viewed similarly, the return 350 can define a constant thickness from the base 352 to the tip 354. The return 350 of the second leg 300 can define an end face 355 at the tip 354, and that portion can be rounded or flat. The second leg 300 can define a front or first end 305 and a rear or second end 306 (shown in FIG. 4). The second legs 300 can be parallel to each other and can further define an inner surface 321 (shown in FIG. 1B) and an outer surface 322 that can extend in the X-axis direction of the clip 100. Each of the inner surface 321 and the outer surface 322 can terminate at a distal end 304 that can be the outermost portion of the second leg 300 along the Z-axis direction.

[0028] The second portion 220, and more generally, the main portion of the first leg 200, can define a recess 240. The recess 240 can be defined at the first end 205 of the first leg 200. In some embodiments, the end of the first leg 200 in which the recess 240 is defined (e.g., the first end 205) can face the end of the second leg 300 in which the recess 340 is defined. In some embodiments, the recess 240 and the recess 340 can face in opposite X-axis directions. The recess 240 can define a first portion 242 that can be angled with respect to the inner surface 221, more specifically, can be angled 90 degrees with respect to the inner surface 221. The recess 240 can further define a second portion 244 that can be angled with respect to the first portion 242. The angle between the first portion 242 and the second portion 244 can be greater than 90 degrees and less than 180 degrees.

[0029] The first leg 200, more specifically, either the second portion 220 or the third portion 230 proximate to the distal end 204, and / or the intersection between the second portion 220 and the third portion 230, can define a tool engagement shoulder 232 (shown in FIG. 1B). The tool engagement shoulder 232 can include one or more surfaces such as, but not limited to, a flat surface or a curved surface with which a tool 1200 (shown in FIG. 12) can engage. In some embodiments, the tool engagement shoulder 232 may be aligned with or parallel to the central axis 101 of the clip 100. In some embodiments, the tool engagement shoulder 232 can be angled with respect to the central axis 101 of the clip 100.

[0030] Similarly, the second leg 300, more specifically, either the second portion 320 or the third portion 330 proximate to the distal end 304, and / or the intersection between the second portion 320 and the third portion 330, can define a tool engagement shoulder 332 (shown in FIG. 1A). The tool engagement shoulder 332 can include one or more surfaces such as, but not limited to, a flat surface or a curved surface with which a tool 1200 (shown in FIG. 12) can engage. In some embodiments, the tool engagement shoulder 332 may be aligned with or parallel to the central axis 101 of the clip 100. In some embodiments, the tool engagement shoulder 332 can be angled with respect to the central axis 101 of the clip 100. In some embodiments, the tool engagement shoulders 232, 332 or their orientations can be mirror images of each other with respect to the central axis 101. The tool engagement shoulder 232 of the first leg 200 and the tool engagement shoulder 332 of the second leg 300 can be configured to engage the tool 1200 simultaneously during removal from the base 1010 (e.g., a foam cushion) of the clip 100, and thus be accessible by the tool 1200 during such removal.

[0031] As shown in FIG. 1B, the second portion 320, and more generally, the major portion of the second leg 300 of the clip 100, can define a recess 340. The recess 340 can be defined at the second end 306 of the second leg 300. More specifically, as described above, the end (e.g., the second end 306) of the second leg 300 at which the recess 340 is defined can face the end of the first leg 200 at which the recess 240 is defined. The recess 340 can define a first portion 342 that can be angled with respect to the inner surface 321, more specifically, can be angled 90 degrees with respect to the inner surface 321. The recess 340 can further define a second portion 344 that can be angled with respect to the first portion 342. The angle between the first portion 342 and the second portion 344 can be greater than 90 degrees and less than 180 degrees. In some embodiments, as shown in the figure, the recess 340 of the second leg 300 and similarly, the recess 240 of the first leg 200 can be defined by a flat surface across a cross-section or functional portion. In some embodiments, the recess 340 of the second leg 300 and similarly, the recess 240 of the first leg 200 can be defined at least in part by a curved surface.

[0032] FIG. 2 is an end view or front view of the clip 100. The chuck walls 150a, 150b can be angled with respect to the chuck base 140 of the chuck 120. To conform to the shape of the suspender 700 (shown in FIG. 7), the angled inclined portions 151a, 151b of the chuck walls 150a, 150b can be angled with respect to the central axis 101, and the vertical portions 152a, 152b of the chuck walls 150a, 150b can be parallel to the central axis 101. As clearly shown in FIG. 2, the first leg 200 can extend from the angled inclined portion 151a of the chuck wall 150a, and the second leg 300 can extend from the angled inclined portion 151b of the chuck wall 150b.

[0033] Since the first portion 210 of the first leg 200 can define an outer radius R210 and / or an inner radius (not shown but can be referenced), it is possible to easily bend the second portion 220 with respect to the first portion 210. The first portion 210 can extend from the chuck wall 150a, or from the chuck base 140, or from the intersection of the chuck wall 150a and the chuck base 140. The second portion 220 may be linear or may include a linear portion extending downward from the first portion 210. At the location where the first portion 210 is attached to the chuck 120, the center line 216 of the first portion 210 can be angled with respect to the adjacent surface of the chuck 120. The second portion 220 of the first leg 200 can be angled with respect to the first portion 210 of the first leg 200. More specifically, the center line 226 of the second portion 220 can be angled by a leg angle 227 with respect to the central axis 101 and can be angled by a leg angle 228 with respect to the outer surface of the chuck base 140. The reference line 256 of the return 250, which can be defined by a part of the outer surface 222 that defines the return 250, can be angled by an angle 257 with respect to the central axis 101, by an angle 258 with respect to the horizontal direction or the Y-axis direction, and by an angle 259 with respect to the center line 226 of the second portion 220. Each of the referenced angles including the leg angles 227, 228 and the angles 257, 258, 259, particularly the leg angle 228, may be an acute angle, i.e., an angle less than 90 degrees.

[0034] Similarly, since the first portion 310 of the second leg 300 can define an outer radius R310 and / or an inner radius (not shown but reference numerals are not attached), it is possible to make it easier to bend the second portion 320 with respect to the first portion 310. The first portion 310 can extend from the chuck wall 150b, or from the chuck base 140, or from the intersection of the chuck wall 150b and the chuck base 140. The second portion 320 can be linear or can include a linear portion that extends downward from the first portion 310. At the location where the first portion 310 is attached to the chuck 120, the center line 316 of the first portion 310 can be angled with respect to the adjacent surface of the chuck 120. The second portion 320 of the second leg 300 can be angled with respect to the first portion 310 of the second leg 300. More specifically, the center line 326 of the second portion 320 can be angled by a leg angle 327 with respect to the central axis 101 and can be angled by a leg angle 328 with respect to the outer surface of the chuck base 140. The reference line 356 of the return 350, which can be defined by a part of the outer surface 322 that defines the return 350, can be angled by a return angle 357 with respect to the central axis 101, by a return angle 358 with respect to the horizontal direction or the Y-axis direction, and by a return angle 359 with respect to the center line 326 of the second portion 320. Each of the referenced angles including the leg angles 327, 328 and the return angles 357, 358, 359, particularly the leg angle 328, can be an acute angle. The reference lines 256, 356 can be defined by the tangent to the corresponding inner return shoulder 954 closest to their respective tips 254, 354, but do not include the tips 254, 354 themselves when viewed along the X-axis direction.

[0035] The leg corner 328 may be equal to the leg corner 228. In some embodiments, the return angles 258, 358 may specifically form at least 20 degrees. In various embodiments, the return angles 258, 358 may form another non-zero angle. In some embodiments, as described above, each of the aforementioned angles is described with reference to the center line or other reference line of various structural elements as pointed out. In other embodiments, the same can be said for the angles measured with respect to any opposing surface of the structural element.

[0036] The leg thickness 309 of the second leg 300 may be equivalent to the leg thickness 209 of the first leg 200. Further, to increase rigidity and strength, or for other reasons, a part of either or both of the legs 200, 300 can define different leg thicknesses 209, 309, or the respective leg thicknesses of the legs 200, 300 can be made different in other ways. For example, the thickness 239 measured along a direction in the Y-Z plane extending between the inner surface 221 and the outer surface 222 can be made larger than the leg thickness 209. Similarly, the thickness 339 measured along a direction in the Y-Z plane extending between the inner surface 321 and the outer surface 322 can be made larger than the leg thickness 309.

[0037] Figure 3 is a first side view of the clip 100, and Figure 4 is a second side view of the clip 100. The first leg 200 can define a primary width 207 measured from the first end 205 to the second end 206. The third portion 230 of the first leg 200 can similarly define a secondary width 237 measured from the first end 205 to the second end 206. As shown in the figure, the secondary width 237 can be wider or larger than the primary width 207 of the first leg 200. In some embodiments, as shown in the figure, the secondary width 237 of the third portion 230 of the first leg 200 can be made smaller than the width 127 of the chuck 120. In other embodiments, the secondary width 237 can be made more than half of the width 127. Also, as shown in the figure, the width 127 of the chuck 120 can be equal to or larger than the primary width 207 of the second portion 220 of the first leg 200.

[0038] As shown in FIG. 4, the second leg 300 can define a primary width 307 measured from the first end 305 to the second end 306. The third portion 330 of the second leg 300 can similarly define a secondary width 337 measured from the first end 305 to the second end 306. As shown in the figure, the secondary width 337 can be wider or larger than the primary width 307 of the second leg 300. In some embodiments, as shown in the figure, the secondary width 337 of the third portion 330 of the second leg 300 can be smaller than the width 127 of the chuck 120. In other embodiments, the secondary width 337 can be at least half of the width 127. Also, as shown in the figure, the width 127 of the chuck 120 can be equal to or larger than the primary width 307 of the second portion 320 of the second leg 300.

[0039] As shown in the figure, the first leg 200 and the second leg 300 can be at least partially offset from each other in the X-axis direction. As described with respect to the description of the center lines 201, 301 and center lines 202, 302 of FIGS. 5 and 6, the legs 200, 300 or a part thereof can be offset from each other in the X-axis direction by being located in different Y-Z planes. The legs 200, 300 can define respective center lines 201, 301 proximate to the chuck 120. The legs 200, 300, more specifically, the third portions 230, 330 can define respective center lines 202, 302 at the distal ends 204, 304 (shown in FIG. 1A). Depending on the shape of each leg as viewed along the Y-axis direction in FIGS. 3 and 4, as shown in the figure, the legs 200, 300, more specifically, the second portions 220, 320 thereof, can extend in opposite X-axis directions angled with respect to the central axis 101 such that the center lines 201, 301 of the legs 200, 300 are aligned with the central axis 101 of the clip 100 at the chuck 120 but are offset from each other at the distal ends, i.e., the distal ends 204, 304. More specifically, as shown in the figure, a part of the legs 200, 300 or their center lines can be offset by an amount greater than the total leg offset distance 602.

[0040] FIG. 5 is a top view of the clip 100, and FIG. 6 is a bottom view of the clip 100. As shown in the figures, the center line 201 of the first leg 200 and the center line 301 of the second leg 300 intersect the central axis 101 of the clip 100 and can define the center line of the chuck 120. Also as shown in the figures, the center line 202 of the third portion 230, more specifically, the return 250 of the first leg 200, can be offset in the X-axis direction from the central axis 101 of the clip 100. Similarly, the center line 302 of the third portion 330, more specifically, the return 350 of the second leg 300, can be offset in the X-axis direction from the central axis 101 of the clip 100. As shown in the figures, the center lines 202, 302 can be offset in opposite directions (e.g., on the opposite sides of the center lines 201, 302). Further, in some embodiments, the as-viewed clip 100 can have rotational symmetry such that when the first leg 200 is rotated about the central axis 101, ignoring at least any draft angle, it matches the shape, position, and orientation of the second leg 300. In some embodiments, at least a portion of the clip 100 can have, or exhibit, plane symmetry with respect to a plane equidistant from a symmetric structure, such as, but not limited to, the legs 200, 300 near the location where it is attached to the chuck 120. Such a plane can intersect the central axis 101. In some embodiments, at least a portion of the clip 100 can have, or exhibit, point symmetry with respect to a point equidistant from a symmetric structure, such as, but not limited to, the returns 250, 350. Such a point can be present on the central axis 101. As shown in the various figures including FIGS. 5 and 6, the clip 100 can define a tapered or draft surface in one or more of the X-axis, Y-axis, or Z-axis (shown in FIG. 1) directions to facilitate manufacturing, such as by the injection molding process of the clip 100, which can be further facilitated by the incorporation of a draft angle.

[0041] As shown in FIG. 6, the total leg offset distance 602 measured in the X-axis direction of the clip 100 between the center line 202 of the bend 250 of the first leg 200 and the center line 302 of the bend 350 of the second leg 300 can be made equal to or less than the secondary widths 237, 337 of the respective legs 200, 300 in the X-axis direction. In some embodiments, also as shown in the figure, the respective leg offset distances 620, 630 can be less than half of either of the secondary widths 237, 337 of the respective legs 200, 300 in the X-axis direction. More specifically, the total leg offset distance 602 and the leg offset distances 620, 630 can be minimized and even further reduced to reduce the tendency of the clip 100 to rotate during assembly onto the base 1010 (shown in FIG. 10). In some embodiments, the total leg offset distance 602 can be less than half of either of the secondary widths 237, 337. In some embodiments, each of the first leg 200 and the second leg 300 is configured to increase the total leg offset distance 602 when the first leg 200 and the second leg 300 come into contact with each other and rub against each other and move in the Y-axis direction. By reducing the above-described offset distances, for example, within the illustrated range, the clip 100 can be more easily installed in the hole 1080 provided in the base 1010 without applying a reverse moment to prevent rotation of the clip 100 about the insertion direction of the clip 100. In some of the previously considered designs, a reverse moment is required or may even be insufficient to prevent such rotation of the clip 100 during assembly.

[0042] The first portions 242, 342 of the respective recesses 240, 340 of the legs 200, 300 may be parallel to each other, and optionally, may be offset from each other by a gap 640 in the X-axis direction. Similarly, the second portions 244, 344 of the respective recesses 240, 340 of the legs 200, 300 may be parallel to each other. By either the parallel arrangement of the first portions 242, 342 and the gap 640, or by realizing both functions, the initial force required to rub the legs 200, 300 against each other in a nested arrangement (e.g., as shown in FIG. 9) can be made as small as the force required to simply bend the legs 200, 300. In other words, even if the legs 200, 300 are crossed, at least initially, there is no need to create additional resistance to bend the legs 200, 300. As soon as the legs 200, 300 come into contact with each other, more specifically, when the first leg 200 contacts the second portion 344 of the second leg 300 and the second leg 300 contacts the second portion 244 of the first leg 200, the force can be increased to prevent the legs 200, 300 from being bent too much, or to promote the legs 200, 300 from bouncing back to their original positions after being bent, or for other reasons. More specifically, the lengths and angles of the first portions 242, 342 or the second portions 244, 344 of the respective recesses 240, 340 can be adjusted to enable almost maximum bending or resistance against the bending of the legs 200, 300.

[0043] FIG. 7 is a partial cross-sectional end view of the clip 100 with the suspender 700 assembled thereto. The suspender 700 is a suspender that can be obtained, for example, as part of an EZ-CLIP (registered trademark) fastening product of YKK Corporation, and may be attached to an interior cover, although not limited thereto. The chuck 120 of the clip 100 can be bent or deformed between a state where it is not bent or flexed (shown) and a state where it is bent or flexed (not shown). This bending may occur due to an outward force applied by the suspender 700 to the holding flanges 160a, 160b of the chuck 120 when assembling the suspender 700 to the clip 100. More specifically, the clip 100 can open the gap 168 (shown in FIG. 1) or increase the dimension of the gap 168 to allow passage and insertion of the suspender 700. The tapered body 710 of the suspender 700 and the side surfaces defined thereby can be pressed against the holding flanges 160a, 160b, particularly against the innermost edges that can be chamfered or rounded. As shown in the figure, the body 710 of the suspender 700 can be received within the suspender holding cavity 138 and, once so received, can be maintained in contact with the holding flanges 160a, 160b by the chuck base 140 of the chuck 120. The flange 720 of the suspender 700 can facilitate insertion of the suspender 700 into the chuck 120 by providing a surface on either side of the tape 790 of the suspender 700 that allows an assembler or other user of the clip 100 to more easily push the suspender 700 into the clip 100. The installation or assembly direction of the suspender 700 can be aligned with the central axis 101 of the clip 100.

[0044] Again, as shown in the figure, the tabs 712a, 712b can extend from the inner surface 121 of the chuck 120. The tabs 712a, 712b can be dimensioned or configured to engage any one of the plurality of recesses 810a, 810b of the suspender 700, thereby fixing the lateral position (i.e., the X-axis direction shown in FIG. 1) of the suspender 700 relative to the clip 100.

[0045] Each of the tip portions 254, 354 of the respective bends 250, 350 of the respective legs 200, 300 can define an upward projection 750, such as a "nail" or claw (and, more generally, a fixing functional portion), for tension or withdrawal strength (i.e., the resistance to the clip 100 being pulled out from the base 1010 shown in FIG. 10). Each projection 750 of the bends 250, 350 can define an inner or first side surface 751 and an outer or second side surface 752. More specifically, in some embodiments, the first side surface 751 and the second side surface 752 can extend from or beyond the reference lines 256, 356. In some embodiments, the tip portions 254, 354 of the first bend 250 of the first leg 200 and the second bend 350 of the second leg 300 can extend beyond the corresponding inner bend shoulders 954 in the Z-axis direction of the clip 100. In some embodiments, the projection 750 and the tip orientation angle 770 defined thereby can be angled with respect to the remaining portions of the corresponding bends 250, 350 and / or the reference lines 256, 356.

[0046] In some embodiments, in either or both of the non-flexed and flexed states of legs 200, 300, the tangents to each of the first side surface 751 and the second side surface 752 of the clip with respect to the Y-axis direction can be angled at respective surface orientation angles 771, 772 each of which is 90 degrees or less. On the other hand, the center line of the protrusion 750 or the bisector of the two tangents can define a tip orientation angle 770 that is 90 degrees or more. By defining the surfaces 751, 752 in this way, friction increases along the surfaces of the tips 254, 354, and more specifically, the surface of the base 1010 that the protrusion 750 contacts, making it less likely to slip easily and improving the pull-out strength.

[0047] Friction is generally a function of the forces acting between two surfaces in contact with each other and the characteristics of those surfaces and the connection, and can be captured or characterized by the coefficient of friction. As disclosed herein, due to the sharp shape and orientation of each protrusion 750 of the tips 254, 354, the forces that act to pull out the clip 100 can each act on a relatively small area defined by the surface of the protrusion 750 that contacts the base 1010. More specifically, the pull-out force can be concentrated instead of being distributed over a large area, so it increases with the protrusion 750 and thus decreases with the tips 254, 354 where the protrusion 750 is smaller or absent. The shape of the protrusion 750 can of course also increase the coefficient of friction. Each protrusion 750 defines each tip 254, 354 as a radial structure, but the actual clip 100 may be much smaller than shown enlarged in the figure (for example, each protrusion 750 may have a width and height of less than 1 millimeter), and manufacturability can be facilitated by incorporating the radial structure. Thus, as disclosed herein, the tips 254, 354 can define a relatively small area on which any pull-out force is applied.

[0048] FIG. 8 is a side view of an assembly of clip 100 and suspender 700 with the suspender locked in the X-axis, Y-axis (shown in FIG. 7), and Z-axis directions inside the suspender holding cavity 138 (shown in FIG. 7) of chuck 120. Since any one of the plurality of recesses 810a, 810b (810a shown in FIG. 7) can be engaged with tabs 712a, 712b (both shown in FIG. 7), the lateral position of suspender 700 in clip 100 can be set as desired. As soon as suspender 700 is inserted into chuck 120 of clip 100, suspender 700 can be "locked" or fixed in that position relative to clip 100.

[0049] FIG. 9 is an end view showing clip 100 of FIGS. 1A and 1B in a state where its two legs 200, 300 are bent inward in the Y-axis direction with respect to each other, i.e., in a bent state. When clip 100 changes from an unbent state to a bent state due to the force applied to clip 100 during installation or removal, clip 100 can pass through hole 1080 (shown in FIG. 10) or a part of it in the base 1010 (shown in FIG. 10) by the bending of legs 200, 300 toward each other. The first leg 200 and the second leg 300 can be configured to bend evenly when clip 100 is installed. The first portions 210, 310 of the respective legs 200, 300 can function as hinge points where the second portions 220, 320 and other portions can rotate, and in the process, the corresponding leg angles 228, 328 can decrease. The overall width 910 of clip 100 measured by legs 200, 300 can be reduced by pushing clip 100 into hole 1080 or by bending legs 200, 300 toward each other.

[0050] A portion 950 of each of the outer surfaces 222, 322 of the respective legs 200, 300 can be angled by an angle 970 that is acute with respect to the central axis 101, thus facilitating the insertion of the clip 100 into the hole 1080. Further, the distal ends 204, 304 of the respective legs 200, 300 can define respective radii R204, R304, which can facilitate the insertion of the clip 100 into the hole 1080. The outer return shoulder 952 can extend from the tool engagement shoulders 232, 332 (232 shown in FIG. 1B, 332 shown in FIG. 1A) and can be angled with respect to the tool engagement shoulders 232, 332. Similarly, the inner return shoulder 954 can extend from the respective second portions 220, 320 of the respective legs 200, 300 and can be angled with respect to the second portions 220, 320. The outer return shoulder 952 of each leg 200, 300 can stop the movement of the tool 1200 (shown in FIG. 12) relative to the clip 100 along the central axis 101 during removal of the clip 100, so that the tool 1200 remains securely engaged with the tool engagement shoulders 232, 332. In some embodiments, each of the return shoulders 952, 954 of the respective legs 200, 300 can be angled with respect to the central axis 101.

[0051] FIG. 10 is an end view of an assembly 1000 including a clip 100 and a cover 1090 assembled to a base 1010, taken along line 10-10 of FIG. 11. The clip 100, and more specifically legs 200, 300, are shown in a bent state to more clearly show the structure of the base 1010 and to reflect the shape of the clip as it passes through the intermediate portion 1082 of the hole 1080. However, after installation of the clip 100, the clip 100 returns to its non-bent position, causing some deformation of the hole 1080 and enabling the clip 100 to be more securely fixed in place. The base 1010 can be, without limitation, for example, a cushion such as a seat surface cushion (not shown) of a vehicle seat or a backrest cushion of a vehicle seat after the clip 100 is installed on the base 1010, or it can include the same. The base 1010 can include a body that defines a lower or first surface 1011 and an upper or second surface 1012, and further defines one or more holes 1080 extending from the lower surface 1011 to the upper surface 1012. In some embodiments, as shown in the figure, the intermediate portion 1082 of each hole 1080 defined in the base 1010 can have a smaller width or diameter than the upper portion or first portion 1084 of the same hole 1080 defined in the upper surface 1012, or the lower portion or second portion 1086 of the same hole 1080 defined in the lower surface 1011. In various embodiments, the hole 1080 can be square or circular or other shapes to correspond to one shape or another of the clip 100. In some embodiments, as shown in the figure, the first portion 1084 can be a groove extending between a plurality of holes 1080, enabling the extended length of the suspender 700 to be received therein. Any portion of the hole 1080, such as the two sides of the illustrated first portion 1084, is inclined, i.e., angled with respect to the central axis 1001, such that the lower end of the first portion 1084 can be at least one dimension smaller than the upper end of the first portion 1084.

[0052] A step or variation in width or diameter between the intermediate portion 1082 and at least the first portion 1084 of the hole 1080 can provide or define a step surface or shoulder surface 1083. A step or variation in width or diameter between the intermediate portion 1082 and at least the second portion 1086 of the hole 1080 can provide or define a shoulder surface 1088, on which the return bends 250, 350 of the respective legs 200, 300 of the clip 100 can catch and hold, and the position of the clip 100 can be actively maintained after assembly. More specifically, the shoulder surface 1088 can include or define a raised portion 1089 that can specifically engage with the tip portions 254, 354 of the return bends 250, 350 to further suppress movement. Without limitation, for example, a force that pushes down on the clip 100 and / or the upper part of the suspender 700 and / or the cover 1090 by a tool or an operator's finger can push the clip 100 out through the hole 1080. The central axis 101 of the clip 100 can be aligned with the central axis 1001 of the base 1010 at any point during the assembly process, and even throughout the assembly process.

[0053] The plurality of clips 100 can be attached to the suspender 700 at a desired position before the clip 100 or the plurality of clips 100 are installed on the base 1010. The suspender 700 can be fixed to the cover 1090 using, without limitation, for example, one or more sewing joints, thereby defining one or more seams 1095. The cover 1090 can be a sheet cover and can be made of any one of a number of flexible materials, without limitation, for example, natural or synthetic fabric or leather. The cover 1090 can define an inner surface 1091 that can face the base 1010 and an outer surface 1092 that can face away from the base 1010 or in the opposite direction of the base 1010. The cover 1090 can be formed from or defined by individual panels 1094a, 1094b and can be used to cover the base 1010.

[0054] In particular, when the clip 100 is fastened to the cover 1090 by assembling the suspender 700 in another way (not shown, but in other holes spaced from the illustrated hole 1080), the cover 1090 can be pinned or strongly tensioned against the upper surface 1012 and any other surface of the base 1010 as desired. In the finally assembled state of the assembly 1000, the base 1010 can be positioned at least partially between the cover 1090 and the returns 250, 350 of the clip 100. More specifically, the clip central axis 101 can be aligned with the central axis 1001, and the legs 200, 300 of the clip 100 can be pressed against the inner surface of the base 1010, such as the shoulder surface 1088 at the middle portion 1082 of the hole 1080. As shown in the figure, the returns 250, 350 can prevent the upward movement of the clip 100 even when a load acts on the tensioned cover 1090. The presence and extension of the suspender 700 in the X-axis direction on one side of the hole 1080, more specifically in the middle portion 1082, can prevent the clip 100 from moving downward through the hole 1080 and beyond the shoulder surface 1083 defined by the hole 1080. In some embodiments, the resistance to the insertion of the clip 100 into the base 1010 can be overcome by the deformable nature of the base 1010 and by the continued use of the installation tool and / or additional pressure applied by the operator to the clip 100.

[0055] In some embodiments, as shown in the figures, either or both of the clip 100 and the base 1010 can define a monolithic component. In some embodiments, the base 1010 can specifically include two or more layers or components sandwiched together. In some embodiments, the base 1010 or a portion thereof can be formed from a deformable material (e.g., a foam, whether soft or hard). In some embodiments, the base 1010 or a portion thereof can be formed from a rigid or stiff material such as, but not limited to, metal, plastic, or a composite material, such as, but not limited to, a formed, extruded, stamped, and / or machined material. A portion of the body that defines the bottom surface 1011 can function as a backplate and can provide advantages such as, but not limited to, providing greater rigidity to the base 1010 or making it more difficult for the clip 100 to be pulled through the hole 1080. In some embodiments, when at least the base 1010 consists of multiple layers or parts, each part can be formed from a deformable material or each part can be formed from a rigid or stiff material. The second portion 1086 of the hole 1080 can form a "blind" pocket (not shown and invisible when facing the bottom surface 1011) instead of a through-hole that completely passes through the base 101O.

[0056] Figure 11 is an upper perspective view of an assembly 1000 according to another embodiment of the present disclosure. More specifically, Figure 11 shows the clip 100 and the base 1010 after the clip 100 in Figure 10 is installed on the base 1010, with the chuck 120 extending over the shoulder surface 1083. The first portion 1084 of the hole 1080, shown as a groove, is shown wider and shallower than the first portion 1084 of the hole 1080 in Figure 10.

[0057] FIG. 12 is an upper perspective view of a tool 1200, which can be a plier, more specifically, a vent nose plier as shown. The tool 1200 can include a handle 1210 and a jaw 1220. The tip portion 1224 of each jaw 1220 is angled with respect to the base portion 1222 of each jaw 1220, so that the tool 1200 can be pressed against the lower surface 1011 of the base 1010 without the hand of the operator of the tool 1200 contacting the lower surface 1011, making it easy to place the tool 1200 under the returns 250, 350 of the clip 100.

[0058] FIG. 13 is a bottom perspective view of an assembly 1000 showing the tool 1200 in the process of removing the clip 100 from the base 1010. As shown in the figure, the tip portion 1224 of each of the jaws 1220 of the tool 1200 is positioned with respect to the legs 200, 300, more specifically, with respect to the tool engagement shoulders 232, 332 (232 shown in FIG. 1B, 332 shown in FIG. 1A), and by inward movement 1310 of either or both of the returns 250, 350, the handle 1210 (shown in FIG. 12) can be gripped and pulled together until the returns 250, 350 approach close enough to pass through the holes 1080, and particularly the intermediate portion 1082 thereof.

[0059] In various aspects, the length of either or both of the legs 200, 300 measured from its attachment point on the chuck 120 can be increased or decreased to increase or decrease the amount of flexion of the legs 200, 300, or the thickness of the base 1010 (shown in FIG. 10), or more specifically, the intermediate portion 1082 (shown in FIG. 10) of the hole 1080 (shown in FIG. 10) in a taller (or thicker) or shorter (or thinner) base 1010 to make it easier to use the clip 100. Generally, the variables affecting the flexibility of each of the legs 200, 300 can include its length, leg thickness 209, 309, and primary width 207, 307.

[0060] Although not explicitly shown, the assembly 1000 (shown in FIG. 10) can include any of a plurality of aspects of the clip 100 that is positioned relative to a portion of the hole 1080 defined in the lower surface 1011 (shown in FIG. 10) or the base 1010 (shown in FIG. 10). In various aspects, any number of clips 100 can be installed through the base 1010 to secure the cover 1090 (shown in FIG. 10). In some aspects, a number of clips 100 can be defined. In other aspects, the spacing between adjacent clips 100 in the X-axis and Y-axis directions can be defined. The more clips 100 there are and the smaller the spacing between adjacent clips 100, the more the appearance can be improved in some aspects. In some aspects, without limitation, for example, the spacing between clips 100 can be set to a minimum of about 5 millimeters or at least the full width of the clip 100 in the X-axis direction. In some aspects, the spacing between clips can be about 100 millimeters. In some aspects, any physically possible spacing can be used.

[0061] The clip 100 can be made of any one of a number of deformable materials that can elastically deform to the extent described, including, without limitation, for example, artificial polymers. An example of an artificial polymer is polyoxymethylene (POM). The clip 100 can be formed by an injection molding process, but can also be manufactured by other processes, including, without limitation, for example, an extrusion molding process and / or a machining process. The base 1010 itself can be made from any desired material using various processes, which can be a significant advantage in that the clip 100 does not depend on the material of the base 1010 and can provide its own anchoring function.

[0062] FIG. 14 is a front perspective view of assembly 1000 including base 1010 or at least a portion thereof. Base 1010 is illustratively configured as a vehicle seat cushion according to yet another aspect of the present disclosure. As shown in the figure, base 1010 can define a plurality of holes 1080, each set of which can define corresponding grooves for holding a suspender 700 (shown in FIG. 10) and a plurality of intermediate portions 1082 for receiving clips 100. The holes 1080 can be oriented as desired at the base, including intersections of surfaces and other locations where it is beneficial to hold cover 1090 (shown in FIG. 10) tightly or snugly to base 1010. For example, the holes 1080 can include holes 1080a, 1080b, 1080c.

[0063] FIG. 15 is a rear view of the assembly of FIG. 14 including base 1010. As shown in the figure, base 1010 can include a plurality of reinforcing rings 1510. Each of the reinforcing rings 1510 can be of another shape that can receive a flanged bushing, band, annulus, washer, plate, grommet, or clip 100 (shown in FIG. 16). The reinforcing rings 1510 can be formed from a solid material, for example, through an injection molding process, or can be formed in a solid material. In this case, various shapes can be used for the reinforcing rings 1510. In some aspects, whether by pressing or forming, the reinforcing rings 1510 can include a wire or other cross member extending across the reinforcing rings 1510 to assist in fixing or preventing rotation of the clips 100. In some aspects, the reinforcing rings 1510 can define a recess on the axial outer surface of the reinforcing rings 1510, in which case, returners 250, 350 can be received within the recess.

[0064] As shown in the figure, the panel 1520 can be disposed between the reinforcing ring 1510 and the base 1010 and can itself be formed into any desired shape. The panel 1520, which can be an installation panel or a backup panel, can include or be formed from any non-woven fabric, woven fabric, or knitted scrim fabric. As shown in the figure, a single panel 1520 can extend under and between a plurality of, or as desired, the entire reinforcing rings 1510. At the same time, by limiting the dimensions of the panel 1520, the use of the panel 1520 can be minimized. For example, the panel 1520 can extend only a limited distance from the ends or the center of each reinforcing ring 1510 and can also extend between adjacent reinforcing rings 1510 as desired. In some embodiments, the panel 1520 can reduce or eliminate noise, such as a creaking noise that might be audible when a vehicle end user sits on a seat including the base 1010. Such noise can arise, for example, from contact between the surface of the base 1010 and a structure (not shown) that supports the base 1010 without sandwiching the panel 1520 therebetween. In some embodiments, the panel 1520 can reinforce the base 1010 so that over time, during installation of the reinforcing ring 1510 or during use of an assembled product such as the assembly 1000 (shown in FIG. 10), the reinforcing ring 1510 does not pull out or deform the surface of the base 1010.

[0065] In some embodiments, panel 1520 or reinforcement ring 1510, or both panel 1520 and reinforcement ring 1510, can be assembled in a predetermined position before or during the formation of base 1010. By way of non-limiting example, for instance, panel 1520 or reinforcement ring 1510 can be placed within a mold used to form base 1010, can be formed as part of base 1010 during the molding process, can be assembled simultaneously, and can further be fixed to base 1010. More specifically, reinforcement ring 1510 can, by way of non-limiting example, contain a magnetic material such as iron, for example, so that it can be attracted to the inner surface of the mold during the molding process. In some embodiments, panel 1520 or reinforcement ring 1510, or both panel 1520 and reinforcement ring 1510, can be assembled in a predetermined position after the formation of base 1010. By way of non-limiting example, for instance, panel 1520 can be positioned or fixed relative to base 1010 after its molding. However, in some embodiments, it may be advantageous to pre-form hole 1680 in base 1010 (shown in FIG. 16) or a hole in panel 1520 (not shown) or both hole 1680 in base 1010 and the hole in panel 1520 to facilitate positioning of panel 1520 and to readily receive reinforcement ring 1510 without further cutting or molding of base 1010. Reinforcement ring 1510 can be assembled to base 1010 by one or more of a variety of methods, such as, by way of non-limiting example, using friction or an adhesive between reinforcement ring 1510 and base 1010, or can be molded in a predetermined position on base 1010 by an overmolding process or the like.

[0066] FIG. 16 is a detailed view of clip 100 according to another aspect of the present disclosure, showing a state in which it is installed on base 1010 (shown in FIG. 14) through one of a plurality of reinforcing rings 1510 taken from detail 16 of FIG. 15. As shown in the figure, central axis 101 can be substantially aligned with axis 1601 of reinforcing ring 1510. The inner diameter 1660 of any or each of the plurality of reinforcing rings 1510 can be dimensioned large enough for respective returns 250, 350 of legs 200, 300 to pass through during installation and small enough to engage the same returns 250, 350 after installation. More specifically, inner diameter 1660 can be larger than the total width 910 (shown in FIG. 9) of the portions of legs 200, 300 of clip 100 when the clip, more specifically legs 200, 300, are in a bent position. At the same time, inner diameter 1660 can be smaller than the total width 910 of the portions of legs 200, 300 of clip 100 when the clip, more specifically legs 200, 300, are in a non-bent or final engagement position after installation. The outer diameter 1670 of any or each of the plurality of reinforcing rings 1510 can be larger than the total width 910 of the portions of legs 200, 300 of clip 100 in any position or state including the non-bent or final engagement position after installation.

[0067] FIG. 17 is a side perspective view showing clip 100 installed through reinforcing ring 1510. As shown in the figure, while respective returns 250, 350 of legs 200, 300 are engaged with reinforcing ring 1510, respective tip portions 254, 354 of returns 250, 350 can contact outer surface 1511 of reinforcing ring 1510. Also, as shown in the figure, bore 1780 of reinforcing ring 1510 may be or may define hole 1080b including intermediate portion 1082b. In FIG. 17, there may appear to be a slight interference between legs 200, 300 of clip 100 and reinforcing ring 1510, but such interference need not exist in all or any manner.

[0068] In some embodiments, the hole 1080, its middle portion 1082, the hole (not shown) defined in the panel 1520 for receiving the reinforcing ring 1510, or the bore 1780 may be circular in shape. In other embodiments, the hole 1080, its middle portion 1082, the hole defined in the panel 1520 for receiving the reinforcing ring 1510, or the bore 1780 may be rectangular in shape, or more generally, may define a polygonal shape. In some embodiments, the hole 1080, its middle portion 1082, the hole defined in the panel 3620 for receiving the reinforcing ring 1510, or the bore 1780 may be of another shape. The hole 1080, its middle portion 1082, the hole defined in the panel 1520 for receiving the reinforcing ring 1510, or the bore 1780 can be cut, for example, using a die-cutting process from their respective bases 1010, panels 1520, or reinforcing rings 1510, or can be integrally formed during the fabrication of their respective bases 1010, panels 1520, or reinforcing rings 1510, without limitation.

[0069] As discussed in International Publication No. WO2020 / 245670, published December 10, 2020, and incorporated herein by reference, the cover 1090 (shown in FIG. 10) having the suspender 700 (shown in FIG. 10) and the clip 100 can be assembled to the base 1010 with a simple tool configured to press against the seam 1095 (shown in FIG. 10). This force is then applied to the suspender 700 and the clip 100, acting to engage the clip 100 to the base 1010.

[0070] The assembly method can include obtaining a base 1010 that can define a first surface 1011 and a second surface 1012, and a plurality of holes 1080 extending from the first surface 1011 to the second surface 1012. This method can include inserting a clip 100 into the holes 1080 defined in the base 1010 and engaging the clip in a lockable manner with the holes 1080. Inserting the clip 100 into the holes 1080 defined in the base 1010 can include aligning the central axis 101 of the clip 100 with the central axis 1001 of the holes 1080 defined in the base 1010. This method can include installing the clip 100 manually or by machine. In some embodiments, engaging the clip 100 in a lockable manner with the holes 1080 can include each of the first return 250 of the first leg 200 and the second return 350 of the second leg 300 engaging the base 1010 by being proximate to or in contact with the first surface 1011 of the base 1010. More specifically, this method can include each of the first return 250 of the first leg 200 and the second return 350 of the second leg 300, more specifically, the tip portions 254, 354 engaging the raised portion 1089 of the base 1010. In some embodiments, engaging the clip in a lockable manner can include contacting the surface of the base 1010 with the tip portions 254, 354 of each of the first return 250 of the first leg 200 and the second return 350 of the second leg 300. More specifically, the tip portions 254, 354 of each of the first return 250 of the first leg 200 and the second return 350 of the second leg 300 can extend beyond the corresponding inner return shoulder 954 in the Z-axis direction. This method can further include pushing the seam 1095 of the cover 1090 that constitutes the clip 100 so as to be fully engaged with the base 1010. In some embodiments, engaging the clip 100 with the base 1010 can include pushing the clip 100 from the outer surface 1092 of the cover 1090 with an assembly tool.In some embodiments, engaging the clip 100 with the base 1010 can include pushing the clip 100 directly or indirectly by hand or by machine through the cover 1090. In some embodiments, inserting the clip 100 into the hole 1080 can include increasing the total leg offset distance 602 when the first leg 200 and the second leg 300 contact each other and slide past each other in the Y-axis direction. During assembly, the clip 100 can be configured not to rotate upon insertion into the base 1010 if there is no counter moment to prevent rotation of the clip 100 about the clip insertion direction, e.g., the Z-axis direction. Using one or more of the structures disclosed herein, such rotation can be prevented and the clip insertion force can be fully applied without rotating the clip 100 to push the clip 100 into the hole 1080. In some embodiments, the advantages of non-rotation of the clip 100 during installation can include a lower clip installation force, less stress on the clip 100 during installation, and very easy alignment of the clip and maintenance of its alignment within the hole 1080 of the base.

[0071] This method can include assembling the clip 100 to the suspender 700 (shown in FIG. 7) before assembling the clip 100 to the base 1010. This method can include reducing the overall width 910 of the clip 100 in the legs 200, 300 by pushing down the upper portion of the clip 100 in a direction angled with respect to the overall width 910. This method can include removing the clip 100 from mating components such as, but not limited to, the base 1010 using a tool 1200. In some embodiments, the method of removing the clip 100 with the tool 1200 can further include engaging the tool 1200 with each of a tool engagement shoulder 232 of the first leg 200 and a tool engagement shoulder 332 of the second leg 300 of the clip 100. This method can further include bending the first leg 200 and the second leg 300 towards each other with the tool 1200. In some embodiments, the method can further include pushing down on the clip 100 at the top (i.e., in the negative Z-axis direction) while bending the first leg 200 and the second leg 300 towards each other with the tool 1200.

[0072] Next, a modified example of the clip 100 with reduced vertical dimensions of the first leg 200 and the second leg 300 will be described to correspond to a case where an intermediate portion 1082 (see FIG. 10) formed between a pair of upper and lower shoulder surfaces 1083, 1088 of the base 1010 is thin in the vertical direction (Z-axis direction) (see FIG. 26). Note that the intermediate portion 1082 may also be referred to as a form.

[0073] Figures 18A and 18B are, respectively, an upper perspective view and a bottom perspective view of the clip 100 according to a modification of the present disclosure. FIG. 19 is an end view or a front view of the clip 100 according to the modification. FIG. 20 is a first side view of the clip 100 according to the modification. FIG. 21 is a second side view of the clip 100 according to the modification. FIG. 22 is a top view of the clip 100 according to the modification. FIG. 23 is a bottom view of the clip 100 according to the modification. FIG. 24 is a partial cross-sectional end view of the clip 100 according to the modification with the suspender 700 assembled thereto. FIG. 25 is an end view showing the clip 100 according to the modification in a state where its two legs 200, 300 are bent inward in the Y-axis direction with respect to each other, that is, in a bent state. FIG. 26 is an end view of an assembly 1000 including the clip 100 according to the modification and a cover 1090 assembled to the base 1010, and is a cross-sectional view corresponding to FIG. 10.

[0074] As described above, the clip 100 of this modification is for the case where the intermediate portion 1082 of the base 1010, also called a form, is thin (see FIG. 26). Compared with the clip 100 described with reference to FIGS. 1A to 10, the first leg 200 and the second leg 300 are shorter in the vertical direction (Z-axis direction). More specifically, as shown in FIG. 19, among the first leg 200 and the second leg 300, the vertical dimension L from the distal ends 204, 304 to the lower surface 140a of the chuck base 140 of the chuck 120 is short. Since other configurations of the clip 100 of this modification are substantially the same as those of the clip 100 described with reference to FIGS. 1A to 10, the same reference numerals are given to the same parts to omit or simplify the description thereof.

[0075] The chuck 120 of the clip 100 of this modification includes a chuck base 140 that extends planar in the X and Y directions, a pair of chuck walls 150a, 150b that extend from the chuck base 140, and a pair of holding flanges 160a, 160b that extend from the respective chuck walls 150a, 150b.

[0076] The pair of chuck walls 150a and 150b are connected to both ends of the chuck base 140 in the front-rear direction (Y-axis direction), and include inclined portions 151a and 151b that incline upward as they go in the front-rear direction, and vertical portions 152a and 152b that are connected to the upper end portions of the inclined portions 151a and 151b and extend upward in parallel with the central axis line 101.

[0077] In the clip 100 described with reference to FIGS. 1A to 10, the first leg 200 and the second leg 300 were connected to the inclined portions 151a and 151b and extended downward. In contrast, in the clip 100 of this modified example, the first leg 200 and the second leg 300 are connected to the vertical portions 152a and 152b, extend in the front-rear direction, and then extend downward.

[0078] The proximal ends 203 and 303 of the first leg 200 and the second leg 300 are connected to the lower end positions of the vertical portions 152a and 152b on the outer surface 122 of the chuck 120. In the illustrated example, the connection points of the first leg 200 and the second leg 300 with the chuck 120 are at positions above the upper surface 140b of the chuck base 140 and at positions where the tabs 712a and 712b overlap in the vertical direction. Note that the connection points of the first leg 200 and the second leg 300 with the chuck 120 are not particularly limited as long as they are above the upper surface 140b of the chuck base 140, and may be connected to the vertical central portion or the upper portion of the vertical portions 152a and 152b on the outer surface 122 of the chuck 120.

[0079] The first portions 210, 310 include longitudinal extensions 212, 312 extending in the longitudinal direction from the chuck 120, and hanging portions 213, 313 extending downward from the longitudinal ends of the longitudinal extensions 212, 312, and are substantially L-shaped when viewed from the X-axis direction. The inner surfaces of the first portions 210, 310 of the first leg 200 and the second leg 300 include groove portions 211, 311 recessed upward so as to be separated from the chuck 120 in the longitudinal direction (Y-axis direction). In the illustrated example, the groove portions 211, 311 are substantially semi-circular when viewed from the X-axis direction, but their shapes are not particularly limited. The proximal ends of the groove portions 211, 311 connected to the chuck 120 are smoothly connected to the outer surfaces of the inclined portions 151a, 151b of the chuck walls 150a, 150b.

[0080] In this modification, since the first leg 200 and the second leg 300 are short, they have high bending rigidity, and when passing the clip 100 through the hole 1080 (see FIG. 26) of the base 1010, there is a risk that it is difficult to bend the two legs 200, 300 inward in the Y-axis direction with respect to each other. However, as described above, since the groove portions 211, 311 are provided on the inner surfaces of the proximal ends 203, 303 of the legs 200, 300, the amount of bending of the legs 200, 300 can be increased. Therefore, the clip 100 can be passed through the hole 1080 (see FIG. 26) of the base 1010, and the assembly can be performed without problems. Further, since the proximal ends 203, 303 of the first leg 200 and the second leg 300 are connected to the vertical portions 152a, 152b of the outer surface 122 of the chuck 120, compared with the case of connecting to the inclined portions 151a, 151b, the curvature of the groove portions 211, 311 can be increased, and the amount of bending of the legs 200, 300 can be increased. Furthermore, since the proximal ends 203, 303 of the first leg 200 and the second leg 300 are connected to the vertical portions 152a, 152b of the outer surface 122 of the chuck 120, compared with the case of connecting to the inclined portions 151a, 151b, the vertical dimension (Z-axis direction) of the entire clip 100 can be reduced, and it can be made more compact.

[0081] Although not shown, the clip 100 of this modified example may also be provided with tool engagement shoulders 232 and 332 (see FIGS. 1A and 1B).

[0082] Also, the first leg 200 and the second leg 300 of the clip 100 of this modified example can each define recesses 240 and 340. The recesses 240 and 340 can be defined at the first ends 205 and 305 of the first leg 200 and the second leg 300, respectively. The end of the first leg 200 where the recess 240 is defined (e.g., the first end 205) can face the end of the second leg 300 where the recess 340 is defined. In some embodiments, the recess 240 and the recess 340 can face each other in the opposite X-axis direction. The recesses 240 and 340 can be angled with respect to the inner surfaces 221 and 321. The recesses 240 and 340 of the clip 100 described in FIGS. 1A to 10 had two portions (the first portions 242 and 342 and the second portions 244 and 344) with different inclination angles, but the recesses 240 and 340 of this modified example are constituted by only one portion. The recesses 240 and 340 of this modified example may be parallel to each other. With the parallel arrangement of the recesses 240 and 340, for example, as shown in FIG. 25, the initial force required to rub the legs 200 and 300 against each other in a nested arrangement can be made as small as the force required to simply bend the legs 200 and 300. In other words, even when the legs 200 and 300 are crossed, at least initially, there is no need to create additional resistance to bend the legs 200 and 300.

[0083] Note that, in general, conditional terms such as "can", "did", "might", "may" are not intended to convey that one aspect includes a particular functional part, element and / or step while another does not, unless specifically stated or understood within the context in which they are used. Thus, such conditional terms generally do not imply that a functional part, element and / or step is required in any way for one or more particular aspects, or that one or more particular aspects necessarily include logic for determining whether these functional parts, elements and / or steps should be included in or performed by any particular aspect, regardless of the presence or absence of user input or instructions.

[0084] It should be emphasized that the above-described aspects are merely implementable implementation forms described only for a clear understanding of the principles of the present disclosure. Any process description or block in a flow diagram should be understood as representing a module, segment, or portion of code that includes one or more executable instructions for performing a particular logical function or step in a process, and alternative implementation forms that contain no functionality or may not be executed are also included, and depending on the relevant functions, it will be understood by a person of ordinary skill in the technical field of the present disclosure that they may be executed in an order different from the order of display or description, including substantially simultaneously or in reverse order. Many changes and modifications can be made to the above-described aspects (s) without substantially departing from the spirit and principles of the present disclosure. Furthermore, the scope of the present disclosure shall cover any combination and sub-combination of all the elements, functional parts, and aspects described above. All such modifications and variations are included within the scope of the present disclosure, and all possible claims for individual aspects or combinations of elements or steps are supported by the present disclosure.

[0085] This application is based on U.S. Patent Application No. 17 / 675,638, filed on February 18, 2022, the content of which is incorporated herein by reference.

Description of the reference numerals

[0086] 100 clips 101 Center axis 105a, 105b zipper wall 160a, 160b Retaining flange 120 Chuck 138 Suspender Retention Cavity 140 Chuck base 140a Bottom side 140b top surface 150a, 150b zipper wall 151a, 151b Slope section 152a, 152b vertical part 200 First Leg 300 Second Leg 203, 303 proximal end 204, 304 distal end 207, 307 primary width 237, 337 secondary width 210, 242, 310, 342, 1084 First part 211, 311 groove 212, 312 Anteroposterior extension part 213, 313 hanging part 220, 244, 320, 344, 1086 Second part 230, 330 Third part 232, 332 Tool engagement shoulder 240, 340 recess 250 First Barb 350 Second Barrel 252, 352, 1010 base 254, 354 Tip 256, 356 Reference baseline 316 Center line 700 suspenders 750 protrusion 751 First Aspect 752 Second Aspect 952 Outside turn shoulder 954 Inner shoulder 1000 Assemblies 1001 Central axis 1011 First surface 1012 Second surface 1080 Hole 1082 Intermediate part 1083, 1088 Shoulder surface 1089 Raised part 1090 Cover 1200 Tool 1510 Reinforcing ring

Claims

1. A clip (100) for fixing a cover (1090) to a base (1010), a chuck (120) defining a suspender holding cavity (138), the suspender holding cavity (138) being dimensioned and configured to receive a suspender (700) attached to the cover (1090), the chuck (120), a first leg (200) comprising a first main portion (210, 220) extending from the chuck (120) and a first return (250) connected to the first main portion (210, 220), the first return (250) extending outwardly with respect to the central axis of the clip (100) and the first main portion (210, 220), the first leg (200), a second leg (300) comprising a second main portion (310, 320) extending from the chuck (120) and a second return (350) connected to the second main portion (310, 320), the second return (350) extending outwardly with respect to the central axis of the clip (100) and the second main portion (310, 320), the second leg (300), comprising, the total leg offset distance (602) between the center line (202) of the return (250) of the first leg (200) and the center line (302) of the return (350) of the second leg (300), measured in the X-axis direction of the clip (100), is less than or equal to the secondary width (237, 337) of either the return (250) of the first leg (200) or the return (350) of the second leg (300) in the X-axis direction, the clip (100) is fixed to the base (1010) by the surfaces of the first return (250) and the second return (350) on the chuck (120) side engaging the base (1010), clip (100).

2. Each of the first leg (200) and the second leg (300) defines a tool engaging shoulder (232, 332) proximate to the respective distal ends (204, 304) of the first leg (200) and the second leg, when the first leg (200) and the second leg (300) are in an unbent state, the tool engaging shoulder (232) of the first leg (200) and the tool engaging shoulder (332) of the second leg (300) are substantially parallel to each other, The tool engagement shoulders (232) of the first leg (200) and the tool engagement shoulders (332) of the second leg (300) engage the tool (1200) simultaneously during removal, and are thus configured to be brought together by the tool (1200) during the removal, the clip (100) according to claim 1.

3. At least a part of the first leg (200) and at least a part of the second leg (300) are point-symmetrical, At least a part of the first leg (200) and at least a part of the second leg (300) are plane-symmetrical, the clip (100) according to claim 1.

4. The first leg (200) defines a recess (240) at an end portion (205) of the first leg (200), the second leg (300) defines a recess (340) at an end portion (305) of the second leg (300), and the recess (240) of the first leg (200) and the recess (340) of the second leg (300) face opposite sides in the X-axis direction, the clip (100) according to claim 1.

5. Each of the recesses (240, 340) of the first leg (200) and the second leg (300) defines a first portion (242, 342) and a second portion (244, 344), and the second portion (244, 344) is angled with respect to the first portion (242, 342), The first portions (242, 342) of the recesses (240, 340) of the first leg (200) and the second leg (300) are parallel to each other, The second portions (244, 344) of the recesses (240, 340) of the first leg (200) and the second leg (300) are parallel to each other, the clip (100) according to claim 4.

6. Each of the first leg (200) and the second leg (300) is configured to increase the total leg offset distance when the first leg (200) and the second leg (300) come into contact with each other in the Y-axis direction and move past each other while rubbing against each other, the clip (100) according to claim 1.

7. The first leg (200) and the second leg (300) overlap in the X-axis direction, but can rub against each other when the first leg (200) and the second leg (300) are in a bent state, and thus at least partially overlap in the Y-axis direction, the clip (100) according to claim 1.

8. The clip (100) according to claim 1, which is rotationally symmetric about the central axis. **Claim 9** A suspender (700), The clip (100) according to claim 1, and An assembly in which the clip (100) is fixed to the suspender (700).

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