Blind Assembly Fastener System

Abstract

To provide a fastener system to form a sealed blind connection connecting a first panel and a second panel.SOLUTION: Disclosed are systems and methods for coupling a first panel to a second panel via a fastening system. The fastening system comprises a fastener and a doghouse structure. The fastener includes a head assembly coupled to a collar. The collar is configured to pass through and to retain the second panel via an opening formed in the second panel. The doghouse structure defines a chamber that is configured to receive and secure the head assembly. The doghouse structure is positioned on the first panel and is configured to pass at least partially through the opening.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 1a

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] [Cross reference] This patent application claims the benefit under 35 U.S.C. §119(e) to U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 63 / 022,612, filed May 11, 2020, entitled "Blind Assembly, Close-Panel, Doghouse Interface Fastener System," the contents of which are incorporated herein by reference. [Background technology]

[0002] Automotive parts require fastening techniques that are easy to manufacture and assemble. Furthermore, the fastening techniques must be particularly reliable and efficient. Blind, close-panel assembly is a situation that focuses on fastening between panels (such as automotive panels or other parts) that are fastened together while attempting to keep those same panels positioned very close to each other.

[0003] Typical fastening solutions that enable this type of close-positioning assembly include magnets, adhesive tape, and mechanical fasteners. For example, metal fasteners can be used to create blind joints between panels. Traditionally, simple metal fasteners can be accommodated within openings (e.g., windows or holes) formed in the primary panel and configured to engage blade structures extending from the underside of the secondary panel. Existing metal fasteners suffer from the drawback that their abrasive nature often wears through the paint or corrosion-resistant coatings of the primary panel (e.g., the vehicle's sheet metal frame), thereby promoting corrosion. Additionally, metal fasteners tend to buzz, squeak, and rattle, a condition commonly referred to as "BSR."

[0004] In an attempt to reduce BSR and prevent corrosion, plastic fasteners can be used instead of metal fasteners. However, such plastic fasteners can increase the spacing between panels and may require a moderately high insertion force. In some instances, fasteners are fabricated using a combination of metal and plastic components to reduce wear and avoid BSR. However, such fasteners are typically larger and can be more difficult to manufacture. Furthermore, while many sizes and performance levels of fasteners are available, many fastener types do not utilize blade structures for blind part-in assembly (PIA) procedures.

[0005] It would therefore be highly desirable to have a fastener assembly with improved assembly that allows panels to be positioned very close together while still providing a reliable and tight fastening. Summary of the Invention

[0006] The present disclosure generally relates to a fastening system for forming a blind joint between panels, such as automotive panels, substantially as illustrated by and described in connection with at least one of the drawings and as more fully set forth in the claims.

[0007] These and other objects, features, and advantages of the devices, systems, and methods described herein will become apparent from the following description of specific examples illustrated in the accompanying drawings, in which like or similar reference characters refer to like or similar structure. The drawings are not necessarily to scale, emphasis instead being placed upon illustrating the principles of the devices, systems, and methods described herein. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0008] [Figure 1a]FIG. 1 is a side view of an exemplary fastening system for forming a blind joint between panels according to one aspect of the present disclosure. [Figure 1b] FIG. 1 is a side view of an exemplary fastening system for forming a blind joint between panels according to one aspect of the present disclosure. [Figure 1c] FIG. 1 is a side view of an exemplary fastening system for forming a blind joint between panels according to one aspect of the present disclosure. [Figure 1d] FIG. 1 is a side view of an exemplary fastening system for forming a blind joint between panels according to one aspect of the present disclosure. [Figure 2a] FIG. 1D is a perspective assembly view of the pass-through doghouse-based fastening system of FIG. 1D according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 2b] FIG. 2b is a partially assembled perspective view of the through dog-house based fastening system of FIG. 2a. [Figure 2c] FIG. 2b is an assembled perspective view of the through dog-house based fastening system of FIG. 2a. [Figure 3a] FIG. 1 illustrates a push pin fastener used with a through dog-house based fastening system. [Figure 3b] FIG. 1 illustrates a pin and grommet (P&G) fastener used with a through dog-house based fastening system. [Figure 3c] FIG. 1 illustrates a box-prong fastener used with a through dog-house based fastening system. [Figure 3d] 10A-10C illustrate a specialized fastener for use with a through dog-house based fastening system. [Figure 4a] 1A-1C illustrate an exemplary through dog-house based fastening system configured with ribs, according to one aspect of the present disclosure. [Figure 4b] 1A-1C illustrate an exemplary through dog-house based fastening system configured with ribs, according to one aspect of the present disclosure. [Figure 5a]1A-1C illustrate an exemplary through dog-house based fastening system configured with ribs and wings according to one aspect of the present disclosure. [Figure 5b] 1A-1C illustrate an exemplary through dog-house based fastening system configured with ribs and wings according to one aspect of the present disclosure. [Figure 6a] FIG. 1 illustrates an exemplary through-dog-house based fastening system configured in accordance with another aspect of the present disclosure. [Figure 6b] FIG. 1 illustrates an exemplary through-dog-house based fastening system configured in accordance with another aspect of the present disclosure. [Figure 6c] FIG. 1 illustrates an exemplary through-dog-house based fastening system configured in accordance with another aspect of the present disclosure. [Figure 6d] FIG. 1 illustrates an exemplary through-dog-house based fastening system configured in accordance with another aspect of the present disclosure. [Figure 7] FIG. 3 is a flow diagram depicting an exemplary method for connecting a first panel to a second panel using the fastener of FIGS. 2a-2c. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0009] It should be understood that items referred to in the singular include the plural of that item and vice versa, unless expressly stated otherwise or clear from the description. Grammatical conjunctions are intended to represent any and all disjunctive and conjunctive combinations of joined phrases, sentences, words, and the like, unless expressly stated otherwise or clear from the context. The recitation of ranges of values ​​herein is not intended to be limiting and refers individually to any and all values ​​falling within and / or including that range, unless otherwise indicated herein, and each separate value falling within such range is incorporated into the specification as if it were individually listed herein. In the following description, it is understood that terms such as "first," "second," "top," "bottom," "side," "before," "after," etc. are words of convenience and are not to be construed as limiting terms. For example, while in some instances a first side may be adjacent to or proximate to a second side, the terms "first side" and "second side" do not imply any particular order in which the sides are ordered.

[0010] Terms such as "about," "approximately," and "substantially," when accompanied by numerical values, are to be interpreted as indicating a deviation that would be understood by one of ordinary skill in the art to function satisfactorily for the intended purpose. Ranges of values ​​and / or numerical values ​​are provided herein as examples only and do not constitute limitations on the scope of the present disclosure. The use of any and all examples or exemplary language (e.g., "such as," etc.) provided herein is intended merely to better highlight the disclosed examples and does not pose a limitation on the scope of the present disclosure. The terms "e.g., " and "for example" are intended to introduce a list of one or more non-limiting examples, specific examples, or illustrations. No language in the specification should be construed as indicating any non-claimed element as essential to the practice of the disclosed examples.

[0011] The term "and / or" means any one or more of the items in the list connected by "and / or." As an example, "x and / or y" means any element of the three-element set {(x), (y), (x,y)}. In other words, "x and / or y" means "one or both of x and y." As another example, "x, y and / or z" means any element of the seven-element set {(x), (y), (z), (x,y), (x,z), (y,z), (x,y,z)}. In other words, "x, y and / or z" means "one or more of x, y and z."

[0012] A fastener can be used to form a blind joint between a first panel and a second panel, such as an automotive panel. In one example, the fastener forms a blind joint between the first panel and the second panel. The fastener includes a head assembly and a retention feature extending outward from the fastener at an end opposite the head assembly. The fastener is configured to attach the first panel adjacent to the second panel. The first panel has a dog-house structure, and the second panel has an opening formed therethrough. The opening is disposed around the dog-house structure, and the head assembly is disposed within the dog-house structure to form the blind joint. In some examples, the dog-house structure forms a chamber that receives and secures the head assembly. The dog-house structure can be configured to pass at least partially through the opening. The fastener can be a W-type fastener, a push-pin fastener, and / or a pin-and-grommet (P&G) fastener. In some examples, the fastener includes one or more ribs that support the dog-house structure and prevent overtravel. The one or more ribs can be positioned at the interface between the dog-house structure and the first panel. In some examples, the fastener includes a spring-formed wing portion coupled to the head assembly and absorbing movement between the first panel and the second panel. In some examples, the fastener further includes a seal portion enclosing the dog-house structure between the first panel and the second panel. The retention feature can be configured to engage the second panel via a catch portion. For example, the retention feature can include a return arm. The return arm is resiliently coupled to an end opposite the head assembly via a collar portion and is configured to flex as the collar portion is inserted through the opening. The catch portion can be configured to engage the second panel at a location adjacent to the dog-house structure.

[0013] In another example, a fastening system includes a first panel having a first surface and a second surface; a dog-house structure formed on the second surface, the dog-house structure forming a chamber; a second panel having an opening; a head assembly; and a fastener having a retention feature extending outward from the fastener at an end opposite the head assembly, the chamber configured to receive the head assembly, the retention feature configured to pass through and retain the second panel through the opening, the dog-house structure formed to at least partially pass through the opening. The first surface can be an A-surface, and the second surface can be a B-surface. In some examples, the fastener includes the retention feature that engages with the second panel via a catch portion. In some examples, the fastener includes a spring-formed wing portion that absorbs movement between the first panel and the second panel.

[0014] In yet another example, a method for forming a blind joint between a first panel and a second panel via a dog-house structure and a fastener having a head assembly and a neck includes sliding the head assembly across a face of the first panel into a chamber of the dog-house structure, inserting at least a portion of the neck into an opening formed in the second panel, and inserting at least a portion of the dog-house structure through the opening. In some examples, the neck engages the second panel via a retention feature. In some examples, the retention feature includes a return arm that is resiliently coupled to a collar coupled to the neck and that is adapted to flex as the collar is inserted through the opening.

[0015] 1a-1d show side views of exemplary fastening systems 100a, 100b, 100c, and 100d that form a blind joint between a first panel 102 and a second panel 104. The first panel 102 and the second panel 104 can be, for example, automotive panels. Depending on the application, the first panel 102 and the second panel 104 can be made of, for example, a metal (or metal alloy), a synthetic or semi-synthetic polymer (e.g., plastics such as acrylonitrile butadiene styrene (ABS) and polyvinyl chloride (PVC)), a composite material (e.g., fiberglass), or a combination thereof. In one example, the first panel 102 is a secondary panel for an automobile, and the second panel 104 is a primary panel for an automobile. In the automotive industry, examples of the first panel 102 include, but are not limited to, door trim panels, moldings, trim pieces, and other substrates (used on interior or exterior surfaces).

[0016] The first panel 102 can have an A-side 102a and a B-side 102b (illustrated as the bottom side). The A-side 102a, also referred to as the Class A surface, is typically the side that is visible after assembly and, for this reason, is more aesthetically pleasing (e.g., textured, painted, or otherwise decorated) and typically does not include attachments and / or associated features. Conversely, the B-side 102b, also referred to as the Class B surface, is typically the side that is not visible after assembly and typically includes various attachments and / or associated features.

[0017] The first panel 102 may include, have, or be connected to attachments and / or associated features, such as one or more tower sections 108 and doghouse structure 106. Depending on the type of material, the attachments and / or associated features may be formed on the B-side 102b during molding or plying of the first panel 102, or may be attached after fabrication (e.g., using adhesives or mechanical fasteners). After assembly, the second panel 104 is at least partially covered by the first panel 102. The second panel 104 may be a structural component of the vehicle, such as a door, a pillar (e.g., A-pillar, B-pillar, C-pillar, etc.), a dashboard component (e.g., crossmember, bracket, frame, etc.), a seat frame, a center console, a fender, sheet metal framing, etc.

[0018] FIG. 1a illustrates a clip-based fastening system 100a connecting a first panel 102 to a second panel 104. As shown, the first panel 102 can include one or more towers 108 protruding from side B 102b. Each tower 108 (sometimes referred to as a bezel or protrusion) can be configured, for example, as a blade-like or flat tab. To form a blind joint between the first panel 102 and the second panel 104, the fasteners 112 and towers 108 are inserted into openings 110 formed in or on the second panel 104. In some examples, the fasteners 112 can be pre-installed in either the towers 108 or the openings 110 to form a part-in-assembly (PIA). The towers 108 of the first panel 102 are inserted into the channels formed by the fasteners 112, effectively locking the fasteners 112 in place within the openings 110, thereby securing the first and second panels 102, 104 together. The clip-based fastening system 100a eliminates rib placement variations and allows for a relatively close assembled spacing (D1) between the first and second panels 102, 104. The clip-based fastening system 100a provides a blind PIA solution for positioning the second panel 104 adjacent to the first panel 102, as the towers 108 can pass through the openings 110 in the second panel 104 to side B. The length of the fasteners 112 and the length of the towers 108 together determine the protrusion spacing (P1) on side B.

[0019] FIG. 1b illustrates a dog-house based fastening system 100b connecting a first panel 102 to a second panel 104. As shown, the first panel 102 may include one or more dog-house structures 106 protruding from side B 102b. The dog-house structures 106 allow the first panel 102 to be used with a wide variety of fasteners 112, such as W-type fasteners, push pin fasteners, etc. For example, the various different fasteners 112 may be configured with a common head assembly sized and shaped to engage with the dog-house structures 106, thereby allowing the fasteners 112 to be interchangeable with one another.

[0020] The fasteners 112 are coupled to the dog-house structure 106 and engage the second panel 104 at least partially through the openings 110. As shown, the dog-house structure 106 increases the assembled spacing (D2) between the first panel 102 and the second panel 104. As such, the dog-house-based fastening system 100b can introduce a barrier to achieve close-panel blind PIA fastening because the dog-house structure 106 occupies the space between the first panel 102 and the second panel 104. As shown, the projection spacing (P2) through the B-side of the second panel 104 is determined by the length of the fasteners 112. Therefore, shorter fasteners 112 can be employed to reduce the projection spacing (P2).

[0021] FIG. 1c illustrates a second dog-house-based fastening system 100c for coupling a first panel 102 to a second panel 104. As described in connection with FIG. 1b, the dog-house structure 106 can result in a large post-assembly spacing (D3). To reduce the post-assembly spacing, the second panel 104 can be shaped using a recessed panel 114 to accommodate the dog-house structure 106. By using the recessed panel 114 in conjunction with the dog-house structure 106, the first panel 102 and the second panel 104 can be positioned closer together, achieving a smaller post-assembly spacing (D3). However, the recessed panel 114 must be sized to accommodate the dog-house structure 106. In some cases, a large recessed panel 114 can adversely affect the overall assembly performance and / or appearance of the second panel 104. Additionally, the recessed panel 114 increases the protrusion spacing (P3) through the B-side of the second panel 104, thereby reducing the usable space on the B-side of the second panel 104.

[0022] 1d illustrates a through-dog-house based fastening system 100d for joining a first panel 102 to a second panel 104 while minimizing the assembled spacing (D4) between the first panel 102 and the second panel 104 and the protruding spacing (P4) through the B-side of the second panel 104. The through-dog-house based fastening system 100d uses a smaller dog-house structure 106 formed to pass at least partially through an opening 110 in the second panel 104, thereby achieving a small assembled spacing (D4) equivalent to the assembled spacing (D3) of FIG. 1c without the need for a recessed panel 114.

[0023] 2a-2c illustrate an exemplary through-dog-house based fastening system 100d. Specifically, FIG. 2a illustrates a perspective assembly view of the exemplary through-dog-house based fastening system 100d of FIG. 1d, and FIGS. 2b and 2c illustrate a partially assembled perspective view and an assembled perspective view thereof, respectively.

[0024] While blind joints will be primarily described, it will be understood that the fastening system can be adapted for use with structures other than the illustrated first and second panels 102, 104, which do not require the described blind joints. Thus, the fastening system is not limited to blind joints only. Furthermore, while only a single dog-house structure 106 and a single opening 110 are shown in the example, it should be understood that a given first panel 102 can include multiple dog-house structures 106 and a second panel 104 can include multiple openings 110, depending on the number of fastener points used between the first and second panels 102, 104. In use, the head assembly 210 slides into the dog-house structure 106, as indicated by the first arrow 202, to form the PIA. Once in place, the fastener 112 can be inserted into the opening 110 in the second panel 104, as indicated by the second arrow 204.

[0025] The fastener 112 generally comprises a head assembly 210, a neck portion 212, a collar portion 214, and one or more retaining features 216. The head assembly 210 engages with the dog-house structure 106 of the first panel 102. The neck portion 212, which couples the head assembly 210 to the collar portion 214, is typically narrower than the head assembly 210 and the collar portion 214. The collar portion 214 is configured to enter and engage (or otherwise retain) the second panel 104, for example, through the opening 110. As can be appreciated, a portion of the neck portion 212 can also pass through the opening 110. The collar portion 214 can be secured within the opening 110 via one or more retaining features 216, which can be outwardly biased legs coupled to the collar portion 214. In some examples, the collar portion 214 can be omitted, in which case the retaining features 216 can be directly coupled to the neck portion 212. The retention feature 216 can include a return arm 216a resiliently coupled to the collar portion 214, which flexes as the end of the fastener 112 is inserted into the opening 110 in the second panel 104. A catch 216b (e.g., a ledge, lip, etc.) can be coupled to the tip of the return arm 216a and engage with the second panel 104 (e.g., at the periphery of the opening 110). The retention feature 216 is relatively rigid against outward forces and, as such, locks the collar portion 214 (or neck portion 212) in place within the second panel 104 upon passing through the opening 110. Additionally, the fastener 112 can be configured to engage with one or more features of the second panel 104.

[0026] The fastener 112 can be made in a variety of sizes depending on the application. The illustrated fastener 112 can be described as a "W-shaped" fastener because it generally resembles a "W" when viewed from the side, as best shown in FIGS. 1b-1d. The W-shaped fastener provides a lead-in feature for locating the aperture 110. While the fastener 112 is generally described and illustrated as a W-shaped fastener, the fastener 112 can employ other types of fasteners for use with the through-dog-house based fastening system 100d, as discussed in connection with FIGS. 3a-3d.

[0027] The opening 110 may be generally rectangular and may have a size and shape complementary to the fastener 112 so that the fastener 112 can be inserted and retained therein. However, other shapes of the opening 110 are also possible. Thus, the opening 110 may be rectangular, a rounded rectangle (e.g., a stadium), circular (FIGS. 6a-6d), oval, or any other suitable shape.

[0028] As shown, the second panel 104 is sized and shaped to have a dog-house structure 106. The dog-house structure 106 serves as a receptacle for the head assembly 210 of the fastener 112. The head assembly 210 of the fastener 112 is preferably inserted into and retained within a chamber 218. As shown, the dog-house structure 106 is comprised of a pair of dog-house sidewalls 220 that form the chamber 218 therebetween. The dog-house sidewalls 220 may include one or more features, such as interference features 222, shaped to enhance engagement with the head assembly 210. In some examples, the interference features 222 may exhibit a soft click when the fastener 112 is secured within the chamber 218. The dog-house structure 106 provides a clear path from one or more insertion openings to the chamber 218. In the illustrated example, the fastener 112 can slide into the chamber 218 of the dog-house structure 106 through one of two insertion openings. For example, the fastener 112 can slide in the direction indicated by arrow 202, or in the opposite direction. While it is contemplated that the dog-house structure 106 can be molded when the first panel 102 is molded, in some examples they can be made separately and joined together (e.g., using adhesive, mechanical fasteners, etc.).

[0029] It is contemplated that the dog-house structure 106 may be shaped and modified to suit a particular application. For example, while two opposing dog-house sidewalls 220 are shown, in some instances the dog-house structure 106 may further include dog-house end walls configured to bridge the gap between a pair of dog-house sidewalls 220, thereby walling off three of the four sides of the chamber 218. In this example, the fastener 112 may only slide into the chamber 218 of the dog-house structure 106 through a single insertion opening, with movement restricted on three sides.

[0030] As will become apparent, it may be useful to first insert a fastener 112 into the dog-house structure 106 of the first panel 102 (as indicated by first arrow 202) to form a PIA, and then assemble the first panel 102 and the second panel 104 by inserting the fastener 112 of the PIA into the opening 110 of the second panel 104 (as indicated by second arrow 204). In some examples, to assemble the through-dog-house based fastening system 100d, the head assembly 210 of the fastener 112 is slid laterally across the face of the first panel 102 into the chamber 218 until the fastener 112 stops (e.g., against a wall) or is otherwise aligned between the dog-house sidewalls 220. In some examples, the fastener 112 is held in place by an interference feature 222, which may exhibit a soft click when the fastener 112 is secured within the chamber 218. The now combined PIA component (FIG. 2b) with the first panel 102 and fasteners 112 can be shipped to a customer (e.g., an original equipment manufacturer (OEM)), who can then assemble the PIA component to a second panel (e.g., a vehicle panel) via all of the combined fasteners 112, as shown in FIG. 2c.

[0031] The dog-house structure 106 can position and locate the head assembly 210 of the fastener 112 in a fixed manner, or, if desired, can provide the fastener 112 with some linear degree of freedom (e.g., float) to move within the chamber 218. A small dog-house may limit the positional float of the head assembly 210 within the chamber 218, but the positional freedom requirement can be achieved through the opening 110. Thus, the through-dog-house based fastening system 100d allows the dog-house structure 106 to directly interface with the opening 110, allowing the fastener 112, such as a W-type fastener, to be part of the datum or positioning solution.

[0032] The opening 110 can be dimensioned to provide a desired amount of longitudinal movement 208a and / or lateral movement 208b. In some examples, the through-dog-house based fastening system 100d can be configured to accommodate two assembly tolerances or float (e.g., for thermal growth) in the longitudinal direction (length) of the opening 110. The longitudinal tolerance can be, for example, about ±1 mm to ±5 mm, or about ±3 mm. In other examples, a four-way version of the through-dog-house based fastening system 100d is contemplated, with lateral (width) and longitudinal tolerances. The longitudinal tolerance can be, for example, about ±1 mm to ±3 mm, or about ±1 mm. In some examples, the lateral tolerance is smaller than the longitudinal tolerance, resulting in an asymmetric tolerance or float solution (e.g., the longitudinal tolerance can be ±3 mm and the lateral tolerance can be ±1 mm). For example, as best shown in FIG. 2c, the opening 110 may have a travel gap 206 extending along its longitudinal axis to allow longitudinal movement 208a. The amount of lateral tolerance depends on the type of fastener 112 used. For example, the width of the opening 110 cannot be wider than the width of the retention feature 216 when expanded, because the catch 216b must engage a portion of the opening 110. In some examples, the opening 110 can be dimensioned to provide minimal longitudinal movement 208a and / or lateral movement 208b, with an assembly gap of, for example, about ±0.25 mm.

[0033] Those skilled in the art will appreciate that the principles of the through dog-house based fastening system 100d can be used with various types of fasteners 112, so long as the head assembly 210 engages the dog-house structure 106.

[0034] The ends of the fastener 112 (e.g., neck portion 212 and / or collar portion 214) can be configured as any desired type of fastener 112. FIGS. 3a-3d respectively show a push pin fastener 112a, a pin-and-grommet (P&G) fastener 112b, a box-prong fastener 112c, and a specialty fastener 112d (e.g., a CenterLok™ fastener available from Delta™). As shown in FIG. 3a, the push pin fastener 112a (sometimes referred to as a tree, pine tree, Christmas tree, etc.) includes multiple barbs or teeth along its length. Referring to FIG. 3b, the P&G fastener 112b is a reusable, two-piece fastener with a low insertion value. The P&G fastener 112b can be a single-position fastener or a multi-position fastener. Each of the aforementioned fasteners can include a head assembly 210 that engages with the dog-house structure 106 and can be used in place of W-type fasteners to fasten components and panels together in close proximity, while still using the dog-house structure 106. In some examples, as shown in FIG. 3c, the through-the-dog-house based fastening system 100d can include a seal 302 positioned between the first panel 102 and the second panel 104. For example, the seal 302 can be used when it is desirable to mitigate dirt, dust, and / or moisture from passing through the opening 110. The seal 302 can be embodied as a ring (e.g., annular) and can be made of a foam material, a thermoplastic, a rubber, or the like. For example, as shown, the seal 302 can be configured to surround the dog-house structure 106 between the first panel 102 and the second panel 104. In some examples, the through-the-dog-house based fastening system 100d can include additional features, such as ribs and wings.

[0035] 4a and 4b illustrate an exemplary through-dog-house-based fastening system 100d configured with ribs 402. When assembled, the ribs 402 are located at the interface between the dog-house structure 106 and the first panel 102, between the first panel 102 and the second panel 104. The ribs 402 function as supports to strengthen and support the dog-house structure 106 (e.g., the dog-house sidewalls 220), and also provide over-travel control, if desired or necessary. Thus, in some examples, the fastener 112 includes one or more ribs 402 that support the dog-house structure 106 and prevent over-travel.

[0036] 5a and 5b illustrate an exemplary through-dog-house based fastening system 100d having a rib 402 and wings 502. The flexible wings 502 help prevent over-travel and mitigate BSR. When assembled, the rib 402 and wings 502 are located between the first panel 102 and the second panel 104. As shown, the wings 502 are coupled to the head assembly 210 (e.g., near the retention feature 216) and, when assembled, are biased against the second panel 104, effectively acting as a spring between the first panel 102 and the second panel 104, absorbing movement between the first and second panels.

[0037] While the dog-house structure 106 is illustrated as generally rectangular, other shapes are contemplated, including other quadrilateral shapes (e.g., square) and rounded shapes (e.g., circle and oval). For example, FIGS. 6a-6d illustrate an exemplary through-dog-house-based fastening system having a generally circular dog-house structure 602 and fasteners 112 (again illustrated as W-shaped fasteners). Similar to the through-dog-house-based fastening system of FIGS. 2a-2c, the dog-house structure 602 includes a pair of dog-house sidewalls 220. However, the dog-house sidewalls 220 are formed with a generally circular perimeter.

[0038] 7 is a flow diagram illustrating an exemplary method 700 for connecting a first panel 102 to a second panel 104 using a through-dog-house based fastening system having a dog-house structure 106 and a fastener 112. The fastener 112 has a head assembly 210 and a neck portion 212. In step 702, the head assembly 210 slides across the face of the first panel 102 into a chamber 218 of the dog-house structure 106. In step 704, at least a portion of the neck portion 212 and / or collar portion 214 passes through an opening 110 formed on the second panel 104. The neck portion 212 and / or collar portion 214 engages with the second panel 104 via a retention feature 216. In some examples, the retaining feature 216 includes a return arm 216a resiliently coupled to the collar portion 214, the return arm 216a being coupled to the collar portion 214 and flexing when the collar portion 214 is inserted through the opening 110. As mentioned above, in some examples, the retaining feature 216 is coupled to the neck portion 212 and the collar portion 214 is omitted. In step 706, at least a portion of the dog-house structure 106 is inserted through the opening 110.

[0039] Although the present method and / or system has been described with reference to certain specific embodiments, those skilled in the art will recognize that various modifications and equivalents may be substituted without departing from the scope of the present method and / or system. In addition, many modifications may be made to adapt a particular situation or material to the teachings of the present disclosure without departing from the scope of the present disclosure. For example, blocks and / or components of the disclosed examples may be combined, divided, rearranged, and / or otherwise modified. Therefore, the present method and / or system is not limited to the particular embodiments disclosed. Instead, the present method and / or system includes all embodiments falling within the scope of the appended claims, both literally and under the doctrine of equivalents. Some aspects of the invention are described below. [Aspect 1] A fastener forming a blind joint between a first panel and a second panel, a head assembly; a retention feature extending outwardly from the fastener at an end opposite the head assembly; the fastener is configured to attach the first panel adjacent to the second panel, the first panel having a dog-house configuration and the second panel having an opening formed therethrough; The opening is disposed around the periphery of the dog-house structure, and the head assembly is disposed within the dog-house structure to form the blind joint. [Aspect 2] 2. The fastener of claim 1, wherein the dog-house structure forms a chamber that receives and secures the head assembly. [Aspect 3] 3. The fastener of claim 2, wherein the dog-house structure is formed to pass at least partially through the opening. [Aspect 4] 2. The fastener of claim 1, wherein the fastener is a W-type fastener. [Aspect 5] 2. The fastener of claim 1, wherein the fastener is a push-pin fastener or a pin-and-grommet (P&G) fastener. [Aspect 6] 10. The fastener of claim 1, wherein the fastener comprises one or more ribs that support the dog-house structure and prevent over-travel. [Aspect 7] 7. The fastener of claim 6, wherein the one or more ribs are positioned at an interface between the dog-house structure and the first panel. [Aspect 8] The fastener of claim 1, wherein the fastener comprises a wing portion coupled to the head assembly and configured as a spring to absorb movement between the first panel and the second panel. [Aspect 9] 10. The fastener of claim 1, further comprising a seal that encloses the dog-house structure between the first panel and the second panel. [Aspect 10] 10. The fastener of claim 1, wherein the retention feature engages the second panel via a catch portion. [Aspect 11] 11. The fastener of claim 10, wherein the retention feature includes a return arm that is resiliently coupled to the end opposite the head assembly via a collar portion and that is adapted to flex as the collar portion is inserted through the opening. [Aspect 12] 11. The fastener of claim 10, wherein the catch portion engages the second panel at a location adjacent the dog-house structure. [Aspect 13] In the fastening system, a first panel having a first surface and a second surface; a dog-house structure formed on the second surface, the dog-house structure forming a chamber; a second panel having an opening; a head assembly and a fastener having a retention feature extending outwardly from the fastener at an end opposite the head assembly; the chamber is configured to receive the head assembly, and the retention feature is configured to pass through and retain the second panel through the opening; The dog-house structure is configured with a fastening system that passes at least partially through the opening. [Aspect 14] 14. The fastening system of claim 13, wherein the first surface is an A surface and the second surface is a B surface. [Aspect 15] 14. The fastening system of claim 13, wherein the fastener comprises a retention feature that engages the second panel via a catch portion. [Aspect 16] 14. The fastening system of claim 13, wherein the fastener is a W-type fastener. [Aspect 17]

[0033] Aspect 14. The fastening system of aspect 13, wherein the fastener comprises a wing portion formed as a spring to absorb movement between the first panel and the second panel. [Aspect 18] A dog-house structure and a method of forming a blind joint between a first panel and a second panel with a fastener having a head assembly and a neck portion, comprising: sliding the head assembly across the face of the first panel and into a chamber of the dog-house structure; inserting at least a portion of the neck portion through an opening formed in the second panel; and inserting at least a portion of the dog-house structure through the opening. [Aspect 19] 19. The method of claim 18, wherein the neck portion engages the second panel via a retention feature. [Aspect 20] 20. The method of claim 19, wherein the retention feature includes a return arm that is resiliently connected to a collar portion that is connected to the neck portion and that is configured to flex as the collar portion is inserted through the opening. [Explanation of symbols]

[0040] 100a fastening system 100b fastening system 100c fastening system 100d fastening system 102 First Panel 102a A side 102b Side B 104 Second Panel 106 Doghouse Structure 108 Tower section 110 Aperture 112 Fasteners 112a Pin fastener 112b Pin-Grommet (P&G) Fasteners 112c Box Prong Fastener 112d Special fasteners 114 Recessed Panel 202 First Arrow 204 Second Arrow 206 Moving Gap 208a Move 208b Move 210 Head assembly 212 Neck 214 Color Section 216 Retention feature 216a Arm 216b Catch part 218 Chamber 220 Doghouse side wall 222 Interference Features 302 Seal part 402 Ribs 502 Wing 602 Doghouse Structure

Claims

1. A fastener forming a blind joint between a first panel and a second panel, comprising: a head assembly; a retention feature extending outwardly from the fastener at an end opposite the head assembly; the fastener is configured to attach the first panel adjacent to the second panel, the first panel having a dog-house configuration and the second panel having an opening formed therethrough; the opening is disposed around the periphery of the dog-house structure when assembled, and the head assembly is disposed within the dog-house structure to form the blind joint; the dog-house structure and head assembly are configured to pass at least partially through the opening; The fastener wherein the retention feature includes a return arm that is resiliently connected to the end opposite the head assembly via a collar portion and that is adapted to flex as the collar portion passes through the opening.

2. A fastener as described in claim 1, wherein the doghouse structure forms a chamber that receives and secures the head assembly.

3. A fastener as described in claim 1, wherein the fastener is a W-type fastener.

4. A fastener as described in claim 1, wherein the fastener is a push pin fastener or a pin-and-grommet (P&G) fastener.

5. A fastener as described in claim 1, wherein the fastener has one or more ribs that support the doghouse structure and prevent overtravel.

6. A fastener as described in claim 5, wherein the one or more ribs are positioned at the interface between the doghouse structure and the first panel.

7. A fastener as described in claim 1, wherein the fastener has a wing portion that is coupled to the head assembly and is formed as a spring that absorbs movement between the first panel and the second panel.

8. A fastener as described in claim 1, further comprising a sealing portion surrounding the doghouse structure between the first panel and the second panel.

9. A fastener as described in claim 1, wherein the retaining feature engages with the second panel via a catch portion.

10. A fastener as described in Claim 9, wherein the catch portion engages with the second panel at a location adjacent to the doghouse structure.

11. In the fastening system, a first panel having a first surface and a second surface; a dog-house structure formed on the second surface, the dog-house structure forming a chamber; a second panel having an opening; a head assembly and a fastener having a retention feature extending outwardly from the fastener at an end opposite the head assembly; the chamber is configured to receive the head assembly, and the retention feature is configured to pass through and retain the second panel through the opening; the dog-house structure and the head assembly are configured to pass at least partially through the opening; The fastening system wherein the retention feature includes a return arm that is resiliently connected to the end opposite the head assembly via a collar portion and that is adapted to flex as the collar portion passes through the opening.

12. A fastening system as described in claim 11, wherein the first surface is an A surface and the second surface is a B surface.

13. A fastening system as described in claim 11, wherein the fastener has a retention feature that engages with the second panel via a catch portion.

14. A fastening system as described in claim 11, wherein the fastener is a W-type fastener.

15. A fastening system as described in claim 11, wherein the fastener has wing portions formed as springs that absorb movement between the first panel and the second panel.

16. In the fastening system, a first panel having a first surface and a second surface; a dog-house structure formed on the second surface, the dog-house structure forming a chamber; a second panel having an opening corresponding to a periphery of the dog-house structure; a head assembly; a fastener having a retaining feature extending outwardly from the fastener at an end opposite the head assembly; the chamber is configured to receive the head assembly, and the retention feature is configured to pass through and retain the second panel through the opening; the dog-house structure is configured to pass at least partially through the opening; The fastening system wherein the retention feature includes a return arm that is resiliently connected to the end opposite the head assembly via a collar portion and that is adapted to flex as the collar portion passes through the opening.

17. A fastening system as described in claim 16, wherein the dimensions of the opening are determined to provide a desired amount of longitudinal or lateral movement.

18. A fastening system as described in claim 16, wherein the dimensions of the opening are determined to provide minimal longitudinal or lateral movement.

19. The fastening system described in claim 18, wherein the minimum movement is ±0.25 mm.

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