Quick fastener, a connection between two components with the quick fastener, and a connection method and a production method therefor

Abstract

The invention relates to a quick fastener comprising a hollow screw having an external thread on a radial outer side, a through-channel which is tapered adjacent to the second axial end by a circumferential inner radial collar, a bayonet screw having a shaft which passes through the through-channel of the hollow screw, a head which is arranged at the end of the shaft and has a drive feature, at least two locking pieces which are arranged at a distance from the head, extend radially from the shaft and are arranged uniformly around the shaft, and a blocking collar which is arranged axially between the head and locking pieces, extends radially beyond the shaft and has a plurality of rotation-inhibiting contact surfaces, and a multi-functional disc with a central opening and a plurality of securing pieces projecting into the opening.

Description

[0001] Applicant: Böllhoff Verbindungstechnik GmbH

[0002] Our reference: M-15623 PCT DE

[0003] October 16, 2025

[0004] Quick fastener, a connection between two components using the quick fastener, as well as a connection and manufacturing process for it

[0005] 1. Area of ​​the

[0006] The present invention relates to a quick-release fastener for joining two components. It further relates to a connection between a first component and the quick-release fastener as an intermediate in a connection to be made, as well as to a connection of two components using the quick-release fastener. The present invention also discloses a method for joining two components using the quick-release fastener and a manufacturing method for the quick-release fastener.

[0007] CN 11 758 84 75 A and CN 22 0929 860 each describe connecting tolerance compensation elements with up to eight individual components. These designs are not only complex to manufacture but also prone to failure during installation and maintenance. Particularly in the case of overloading, there is a risk that one or more of these numerous components will fail, thus jeopardizing the entire connection.

[0008] DE 10 2016 207 868 B4 describes an assembly module for connecting multiple components. The assembly module is permanently or detachably connected to a vehicle structure via a mounting element. The associated process is time-consuming, as it involves either a threaded or a riveted connection. A hollow screw is rotatably mounted on the mounting element, allowing a component to be axially offset when screwed onto the hollow screw. This enables the required gap dimensions between the components to be joined to be adjusted. In EP 3 720 735 B1, the assembly module is attached to a blind rivet nut previously inserted into the vehicle body. The fastening screw engages in an opening with play in the hollow screw to provide lateral tolerance compensation.Here too, the high provisioning effort lies in the large number of individual parts of the assembly module and the fastening of the assembly module to a load-bearing vehicle structure via the blind rivet nut.

[0009] Although the adjustment element described in EP 4 293 241 Al consists of only a small number of parts, its installation is more complex. This is because a blind rivet nut or a weld nut in a pre-made opening serves as the attachment point in the vehicle structure. Creating the threaded connection is time-consuming and requires sufficient accessibility. Furthermore, lateral tolerance compensation between the attachment and the vehicle structure can only be adjusted via the fastening screw, which again necessitates a time-consuming loosening and tightening of the mounting module.

[0010] EP 4 414 567 A1 describes an adjusting element comprising a hollow screw, a nut element arranged within the screw, and a connecting bolt that can be joined to the nut element. The connecting bolt and the nut element compensate for lateral tolerances before the connection is tightened. The hollow screw compensates for axial tolerances by rotating within a component opening. The head of the connecting bolt provides a bayonet connection to the other component. Installation of the adjusting element requires access from multiple sides, as the screw-in direction of the hollow screw into the first component is opposite to the fastening direction of the bayonet connection of the connecting bolt head.

[0011] In view of the prior art discussed above, the object of the present invention is therefore to provide an alternative design of an adjusting element which is rational in its construction and installation.

[0012] 3. Summary of the invention

[0013] The above problem is solved by the subject matter of independent claims 1, 8, 10 and 13. Advantageous embodiments and further developments will become apparent from the following description, the drawings and the appended claims.

[0014] The present invention discloses a quick-release fastener with which a first and a second component can be fastened to one another at a distance from each other, which has the following features: a hollow screw with a first and a second axial end and an external thread on a radial outer surface, a through-channel which is tapered adjacent to the second axial end by a circumferential inner radial collar, a bayonet screw with a shank which passes through the through-channel of the hollow screw, a head arranged at the end of the shank which has a drive means and a support surface extending radially beyond the shank, at least two locking lugs arranged at a distance from the head which extend radially from the shank and are arranged evenly around the shank, and a locking collar which is arranged axially between the head and the locking lugs.extends radially beyond the shaft and has a plurality of rotation-resistant contact surfaces, a multifunctional disc with a central opening and a plurality of mounting ribs projecting radially into the opening.

[0015] The quick-release fastener according to the invention is characterized by a minimalist design, preferably consisting of only three components. These components are the hollow screw, the bayonet screw arranged within the hollow screw, and the multifunctional washer connecting the two components. The multifunctional washer thus creates a pre-assembly of the quick-release fastener, enabling it, according to a preferred embodiment of the invention, to be pre-installed in an opening of a first component for subsequent connection to a second component. For pre-installation, the hollow screw is preferably screwed into the opening of the first component.

[0016] The limited number of parts (three components) reduces the effort required for manufacturing and assembling the quick-release fastener. This reduction in effort is particularly facilitated by the multifunctional washer. The mounting lugs projecting into the opening of the multifunctional washer ensure a preliminary attachment of the quick-release fastener components to one another, even before a connection has been established between the first and second components. Furthermore, the multifunctional washer forms a safety latch for a keyhole in the second component, which, according to various preferred embodiments of the present invention, can be released either non-destructively or destructively.

[0017] According to a preferred embodiment of the present invention, the bayonet screw is formed in one piece, the at least two locking lugs each have a circumferentially identically oriented ramp, and the blocking collar is designed as a polygon, preferably a hexagon.

[0018] The preferred bayonet screw extends in one piece through the through-channel of the hollow screw. This one-piece design, like that of the other components of the adjusting element, offers the advantage that the individual components can be produced by die casting or other common methods for manufacturing plastic parts. Furthermore, apart from the occasional reworking of one component, no assembly of more than these three components is required to provide the quick-release fastener. The bayonet screw is preferably divided into three functional areas that serve to hold the components together and to secure the two components to each other. The support surface extending radially over the shaft preferably supports an axial connection with the hollow screw. This also preferably allows for adjustment of axial tolerances between the two components.

[0019] The at least two locking lugs engage in a suitably shaped keyhole in the second component to connect the first component to the second component via the hollow screw and the bayonet screw. Preferably positioned between the head and the locking lugs is the locking collar, which interacts with a suitably shaped multifunctional washer, preferably in a form-fit manner. The form-fit, which is also preferably achieved between the multifunctional washer and the bayonet screw, ensures that the bayonet screw is secured against rotation in the connection between the two components, thus preventing unintentional loosening of the connection.

[0020] It is also preferred that the end of the bayonet screw facing away from the head is designed to taper in a frustoconical shape, in which two or three evenly distributed locking lugs are provided and the ramp transitions into a contact surface.

[0021] According to a preferred embodiment of the quick fastener, the multifunctional disc has in the opening a plurality of radially inwardly projecting pre-fixing arms and locking arms, which are arranged alternately in the circumferential direction.

[0022] According to a preferred embodiment of the multifunctional disc, a plurality of spring bars project radially inward into its central opening. These spring bars preferably provide a loose detent for the bayonet screw, so that it is loosely connected to the multifunctional disc and the hollow screw. Since the circumference of the multifunctional disc and the head or collar of the bayonet screw is larger than the diameter of an opening in the through-channel of the hollow screw, the bayonet screw is held securely in place within the through-channel by the multifunctional disc. Due to their function, these spring bars can also be described as pre-fixing arms, which are preferably attached to the multifunctional disc only on one side.

[0023] Adjacent to the pre-fixing arms, locking arms project radially into the central opening of the multifunctional disc. Based on a preferred rotation of the bayonet screw in the opening of the multifunctional disc, at least one of the locking arms preferably comes into contact with the locking collar to prevent further relative rotation between the bayonet screw and the multifunctional disc. Preferably, the locking arm of the quick-release fastener has a block-like reinforced locking section at a free end, which provides a radially inner contact surface against an axial locking step.

[0024] To reinforce the preferred positive locking mechanism between the bayonet screw and the multi-function disc, the radially inwardly projecting locking arms are reinforced in a block-like fashion. Based on this reinforcement, the positive locking mechanism is more resistant to higher torques and thus to potential loosening of the connection between the two components.

[0025] According to a further preferred embodiment of the quick fastener, the one-piece bayonet screw has at least two locking lugs, each with a truncated pyramid-shaped axial projection towards the head, and the locking collar comprises two contact surfaces connected by a radius and at least one radial projection as an anti-rotation feature.

[0026] According to the invention, the multifunctional disc preferably has at least two radially inwardly projecting locking ribs in the opening with locking projections that protrude axially on at least one side.

[0027] According to a preferred embodiment of the bayonet screw, its radial locking lugs are each equipped with an axial projection towards the head. The shape of the axial projection is preferably adapted to engage in a recess, groove, or notch of the multifunctional disc. Preferably, the interlocking or complementary shape of the axial projections and the recesses of the multifunctional disc is designed such that the interlocking positive connection of both parts is releasable, in particular non-destructively releasable.

[0028] The present invention also discloses a connection between a first component and the quick-release fastener according to one of the preceding embodiments, the hollow screw of which is adjustably screwed into a component opening.

[0029] Since the design of the preferred three interacting components allows the adjusting element to be assembled in a preparatory state, the adjusting element is preferably connected to the first component via the hollow screw. In this way, part of the installation of the adjusting element or part of the connection between the first and second components is carried out without the second component needing to be present at the same time as the first. This preferably divides the connection process into a preparatory phase and a connection phase, which simplifies and allows for the scheduling and organization of the installation of the adjusting element and / or the connection of the first and second components.Furthermore, the present invention discloses a connection between a first component and a second component with the quick-release fastener according to one of the above embodiments, in which the hollow screw is arranged in a component opening of the first component and the bayonet screw is locked in a keyhole of the second component.

[0030] The present invention further discloses a joining method of a first and a second component with the quick-release fastener according to one of the above embodiments, comprising the following steps: screwing the hollow screw into a component opening of the first component and pre-fixing the bayonet screws with the multi-functional washer in the hollow screw or providing the first component with the quick-release fastener pre-installed in the component opening, arranging the second component with a keyhole opposite the first component with quick-release fastener such that the bayonet screw is aligned with the keyhole, inserting and locking the bayonet screw in the keyhole of the second component, so that the first and the second component are connected to each other by force and form locking.

[0031] Preferably, the joining method includes the further step of adjusting radial tolerances with the bayonet screw and the hollow screw before locking.

[0032] The joining method also preferably includes the further step of adjusting axial tolerances between the first and second components by turning the hollow screw.

[0033] The present invention further discloses a manufacturing method for the quick-release fastener 1; 1' according to one of the embodiments described above. The manufacturing method comprises the following steps: injection molding of the hollow screw 10 and the bayonet screw 30; 30', preferably with a thermoplastic material (S1), injection molding of the multifunctional washer 50; 50', preferably with an elastomeric material (S2), and pre-fixing the hollow screw 10, the multifunctional washer 50; 50' and the bayonet screw 30; 30' to one another (S3).

[0034] 4. Summary of the drawings

[0035] The present invention is explained in more detail with reference to the accompanying drawings. These show:

[0036] Figure 1 shows a perspective exploded view of a first preferred embodiment of the quick fastener according to the invention, Figure 2 shows the first preferred embodiment of the quick fastener in an assembled state,

[0037] Figure 3 shows another perspective exploded view of the first preferred embodiment of the quick fastener according to Figure 1,

[0038] Figure 4 shows an enlarged view of a preferred embodiment of the bayonet screw,

[0039] Figure 5 shows a partially perspective sectional view of a preferred embodiment of the hollow screw,

[0040] Figure 6 shows an enlarged view of a preferred embodiment of the multifunction disc,

[0041] Figure 7 shows an enlarged view of the multifunction disc according to Figure 6.

[0042] Figure 8 shows an enlarged view of the assembled quick-release fastener according to a preferred embodiment, seen from the tip of the bayonet screw.

[0043] Figure 9 shows a preferred view of the tip of the bayonet screw inserted into a keyhole of the second component.

[0044] Figure 10 shows a perspective view of the preferred tip of the bayonet screw when fastened in the keyhole of the second component.

[0045] Figure 11 shows a perspective exploded view of another preferred embodiment of the quick fastener according to the invention.

[0046] Figure 12 shows a perspective view of the quick-release fastener from Figure 11.

[0047] Figure 13 shows another perspective view of the quick fastener according to Figure 11 in an exploded view,

[0048] Figure 14 shows a preferred embodiment of the keyhole in the second component,

[0049] Figure 15 shows a perspective side view of the second preferred embodiment of the quick fastener without a multi-function disc, and Figure 16 shows an enlarged side view of the kinematic quick fastener according to the second preferred embodiment with a multi-function disc.

[0050] Figure 17 shows a further illustration of the preferred embodiment of the quick fastener according to Figure 16,

[0051] Figure 18 shows an enlarged view of the bayonet screw according to the quick-release fastener from Figure 17.

[0052] Figure 19 shows an enlarged view of the hollow screw preferred according to the invention,

[0053] Figure 20 shows a partial sectional view of the hollow screw according to Figure 19.

[0054] Figure 21 shows an enlarged view of the multi-functional disc according to the preferred embodiment of the quick fastener from Figure 16.

[0055] Figure 22 shows an enlarged view of the multifunction disc according to Figure 21 from a different side,

[0056] Figure 23 shows a preferred view of the tip of the bayonet screw inserted into the keyhole of the second component.

[0057] Figure 24 shows a preferred view of the tip of the bayonet screw fastened in the keyhole of the second component.

[0058] Figure 25 shows an exploded view of the quick fastener preferred according to the invention and of the components A, B to be joined together.

[0059] Figure 26 shows a preferred intermediate state of the joining method of the two components A, B using the quick fastener, in which the hollow screw is attached to the first component.

[0060] Figure 27 shows a preferred final stage of the joining method of the two components A, B using the quick-release fastener, in which the components are fastened at a distance from each other; Figure 28 shows a perspective exploded view of a further preferred embodiment of the quick-release fastener according to the invention.

[0061] Figure 29 shows another perspective exploded view of the preferred embodiment from Figure 28.

[0062] Figure 30 shows a top view of the preferred embodiment of the hollow screw according to Figure 28.

[0063] Figure 31 shows a perspective exploded view of the preferred quick fastener according to Figure 28 in combination with the components A, B to be joined together.

[0064] Figure 32 shows a preferred final stage of the joining method of the two components A, B using the further preferred quick-release fastener, in which the components are fastened at a distance from each other and the distance is adjustable by an adjusting element.

[0065] Figure 33 shows an enlarged view of the further preferred hollow screw according to the invention in combination with the bayonet screw and the multi-function washer,

[0066] Figure 34 shows a further enlarged view of the preferred hollow screw according to Figure 33 in combination with the bayonet screw and the multi-function washer.

[0067] Figure 35 shows a flowchart of a preferred embodiment of the joining method of the two components A, B using the quick-release fastener preferred according to the invention and

[0068] Figure 36 shows a flowchart of a preferred embodiment of the manufacturing process of the preferred quick fastener according to the invention.

[0069] 5 , Detailed description of preferred embodiments of the present invention

[0070] The present invention discloses a quick-release fastener 1; 1' with which a first component A and a second component B can be fastened together. Preferably, the quick-release fastener 1; 1' is designed in three parts and consists of only three components. These three components are a hollow screw 10, which can be screwed into a first component opening 01 of the first component A, a bayonet screw 30; 30', which passes through a through-channel 12 of the hollow screw 10, and a multi-functional washer 50; 50' with a central opening 55; 55', into which the bayonet screw 30; 30' engages. The quick-release fastener 1; T with its components is shown in Figures 1-3, 11-13 and 28 to 34 according to different preferred embodiments of the present invention. Figures 25-27 and 31, 32 show the joining of the two components A, B with the preferred three-part quick fastener 1; 1', 1" which is described in greater detail below.

[0071] The hollow screw 10 of the two preferred embodiments of the quick-release fastener 1; 1' is preferably identical in construction and is shown in perspective in Figure 19 and in sectional views in Figures 5 and 20. A hollow cylindrical structure of the hollow screw 30; 30' provides the through-channel 12 running parallel to the central longitudinal axis. This extends between a first axial end 14 and a second axial end 16 of the hollow screw 10; 10'. The through-channel 12 is traversed by the bayonet screw 30; 30', specifically by a shank 32 of the bayonet screw 30; 30'.

[0072] The through-channel 12 of the hollow screw 10 has an inner diameter large enough to completely accommodate the head 34 of the bayonet screw 30; 30'. Accordingly, in a manufactured connection between the two components A and B, the head 34 is fully immersed in the through-channel 12 of the hollow screw 10. When using an axially shorter version of the hollow screw 10, it is also preferred if the head 34 of the bayonet screw 30; 30' protrudes at the first axial end 14 of the hollow screw 10.

[0073] The hollow screw 10 is preferably screwed into a first component opening 01 of the first component A. For this purpose, the hollow cylindrical hollow screw 10 has an external thread 18 on a radial outer surface. According to various preferred embodiments of the present invention, the external thread 18 is matched to the first component A, in particular to the component material. If the first component is made of plastic, such as a vehicle light or an add-on part in vehicle construction, a self-tapping or self-tapping thread is preferably used as the external thread 18. Likewise, it is preferred to use standard threads as the external thread 18.

[0074] To rotate the hollow screw 10, a drive feature 20, preferably a hexagon, is provided at the second axial end 16. Additionally, an internally enclosed drive feature 22 is preferably arranged on a radial inner wall of the through-channel 12. The drive features 20 and 22 are preferably used to install the hollow screw 10 in the first component opening 01 and / or to rotate the hollow screw 10 in the installed state within the first component opening 01. By rotating the hollow screw 10 within the first component opening 01, tolerances between the first component A and the second component B can be compensated for or distances can be adjusted.

[0075] Within the through-channel 12, adjacent to the second axial end 16, a circumferential inner radial collar 24 is arranged, which widens the through-channel 12. The radial collar 24 forms an axial bearing surface for the bayonet screw 30; 30', so that it can be supported against it to create a connection between components A and B.

[0076] The bayonet screw 30; 30' is shown in greater detail in Figures 4 and 18. The head 34 is arranged at a first axial end of the shaft 32. The head 34 has an axial support surface 36 which, in the installed state, rests against the radial collar 24 and has an outer diameter that is larger than the inner diameter of the opening of the through-channel 12 at the second axial end 16.

[0077] According to various preferred embodiments of the head 34, it has a sufficiently large radial extension to be able to support itself on the radial collar 24 with a head underside facing the second axial end of the bayonet screw 30; 30'.

[0078] According to a further preferred embodiment of the present invention, the head 34 has a circumferential collar 36, which is radially larger than the head 34, faces the tip 38 and provides a contact surface on the radial collar 24.

[0079] Furthermore, the head 34 has a known drive feature, such as preferably a hexagon, a Torx opening or the like, to be able to transmit a torque to the bayonet screw 30; 30'.

[0080] As can be seen in Figures 5 and 20, the radial collar 24 preferably has at least one circumferential sealing rib 26 projecting axially from each of its axial sides. It is also preferred to arrange one or more sealing ribs 26 on only one axial side of the radial collar 24. In the connection formed between the first component A and the second component B, the sealing ribs 26 engage the support surface 36 of the bayonet screw 30; 30' and / or the multifunctional washer 50 described in more detail below. The sealing ribs 26 contribute to sealing the passage channel 12 against the ingress of moisture, dust, or other unwanted materials.

[0081] The bayonet screw 30; 30' preferably has a frustoconical tip 38 at the second axial end facing away from the head, which facilitates the insertion of the bayonet screw 30; 30' into the through-opening of the radial collar 24, into a central opening of the multifunctional disc 50 and into the second component opening O2 as a fastening opening in the second component B.

[0082] Adjacent to the preferred frustoconical tip 38, at least two locking lugs 40 extending radially from the shaft 32 are arranged. The second axial end of the shaft 32 preferably engages in a keyhole O2 of the second component B. The keyhole O2 preferably has, in addition to a central opening for the frustoconical tip 38 of the bayonet screw 30; 30', radial protrusions or cutouts 92, which are arranged complementary to the respective position of the locking lugs 40. Thus, the locking lugs 40 and the keyhole O2 interact in a known manner. First, the locking lugs 40 are inserted axially through the cutouts 92 into the keyhole O2. Then, by rotating the bayonet screw 30; 30' around the shaft 32 the locking lugs 40 behind the second component B outside the cutouts 92 of the keyhole 90 are frictionally clamped.

[0083] To achieve the above function, the locking lugs 40 of the first preferred embodiment of the present invention are shaped as shown in Figure 4. The preferred three locking lugs 40 are identically shaped and arranged uniformly around the shaft 32. It is also preferred to use only two locking lugs 40 or even four locking lugs 40'. Corresponding to the number of locking lugs 40, the keyhole 90 then has a corresponding number of cutouts 92.

[0084] An inclined ramp 42 leads to a contact surface 44, which, after the two components A and B are joined, engages the second component B and presses it against the intermediate multifunctional disc 50; 50'. The multifunctional disc 50 is arranged between the second component B and the hollow screw 10 (see Figure 27).

[0085] In the axial direction of the shaft 32, a locking collar 46 is arranged between the head 34 and the locking lugs 40 (see Figure 4). The locking collar 46 projects radially beyond a radial outer surface of the shaft 32. On its radial outer surface, it has a plurality of retaining surfaces 47 which interact with at least one contact surface 66 of the multifunctional disc 50; 50'. According to a preferred embodiment of the present invention, the contact surfaces 66 preferably engage the retaining surface 47 to form a rotationally fixed connection between the bayonet screw 30; 30' and the multifunctional disc 50; 50'.

[0086] The rotationally fixed connection preferred according to the invention between the bayonet screw 30; 30' and the multifunctional disc 50; 50' has the advantage that the multifunctional disc 50; 50' follows the stationary rotation or the rotation establishing the connection between components A, B. At the end of the rotation of the bayonet screw 30; 30', it locks or clamps itself behind the keyhole, i.e., on the side of component B facing away from the adjusting element 1; 1', with the locking lugs 40, at least one locking arm 54 of the multifunctional disc 50 engages in one of the cutouts 92 of the keyhole 90. According to the preferred embodiment of the keyhole 90 in the second component B shown in Figure 14, three evenly distributed cutouts 92 are provided. These are distributed around the central opening of the keyhole 90 at approximate angular intervals of 120° around the central axis of the keyhole 90.

[0087] The number of locking lugs 40 on the bayonet screw 30; 30' are adapted in number and arrangement to the keyhole 90 and the cutouts 92 in order to be inserted into them and twisted to lock them.

[0088] In this context, it is preferred to provide only two opposing cutouts 92 or four equally spaced cutouts. The bayonet screw 30; 30' must be adapted accordingly to the shape of the keyhole 90 and the number of cutouts 92.

[0089] A preferred embodiment of the multi-function disc 50 is shown in Figures 6 and 7. The multi-function disc 50 has a central opening 55. The size of the central opening 55 is adapted to the diameter of the shaft 32 of the bayonet screw 30 so that the end of the shaft 32 opposite the head, with the locking lugs 40, can be inserted into the central opening 55.

[0090] A plurality of fastening lugs 54; 56 project radially inwards into the central opening 55. These are preferably formed by a plurality of resilient pre-fixing lugs 56 and a plurality of detent lugs 54. The pre-fixing lugs 56 and the detent lugs 54 are preferably arranged alternately along the circumference of the central opening 55.

[0091] The pre-fixing lugs 56 are resiliently designed so that they preferably bend radially outwards to allow the adjacent locking lugs 40 to pass through when the frustoconical tip 38 is inserted. Preferably, the bayonet screw 30 and the multi-function disc 50 are aligned with each other such that when the frustoconical tip 38 is inserted into the opening 55, the locking lugs 40 meet the pre-fixing arms 56. Upon insertion into the opening 55, the locking lugs 40 resiliently push the pre-fixing arms 56 radially outwards, so that after passing the locking lugs 40, they can spring back radially inwards to their initial position. In their initial position, the pre-fixing arms 56 hold the bayonet screw 30 securely in the opening 55.Since the bayonet screw 30 has previously been inserted into the through channel 12 of the hollow screw 10, a captive connection of the only three components of the quick fastener 1 with hollow screw 10, bayonet screw 30 and multi-function washer 50 is created.

[0092] To support the retention of the pre-fixing lugs 56 on the shaft 32 of the bayonet screw 30, the pre-fixing lugs 56 are preferably bent in the insertion direction RE. The insertion direction RE is represented by the corresponding symbols in Figures 6 and 7. The multi-functional washer 50 preferably has an annular contact surface 58 to be supported against the axial end 16 of the hollow screw 10. Opposite the contact surface 58, a ridge-shaped support structure 60 is provided, which, in conjunction with the second component B, bears against it.

[0093] Preferably, a sealing rib 62 is located axially projecting from the system structure 60 and circumferentially around the central opening 55.

[0094] Preferably, a plurality of locking tabs 54 are arranged between the pre-fixing ribs 56. The number and arrangement of the pre-fixing ribs 56 and the locking tabs 54 as fastening ribs in the central opening 55 are not strictly necessary, but are preferred and advantageous according to the invention. The functions of the multi-function disc 50 can preferably also be achieved with only one pre-fixing rib 56 and one locking tab 54 projecting into the opening 55.

[0095] The locking lug 54 is preferably more robust than the pre-fixing lug 56. This means that the locking lug 54 is largely rigidly arranged in the opening 55 and preferably cannot be bent out of the plane of the multifunctional disc 50. Furthermore, the locking lug 54 is firmly connected to the multifunctional disc 50 to withstand shear forces applied by any torque around the central axis of the multifunctional disc 50. Preferably, the fastening base of the locking lug 54 is wider in the circumferential direction of the multifunctional disc 50 than the free end of the locking lug 54 projecting into the opening 55.

[0096] At its free end, the locking rib 54 preferably has a block-like reinforced locking section 64. The locking section 64 preferably has a greater thickness parallel to the central axis of the multifunction disc 50. Thus, the locking section 64 preferably projects beyond the plane defined by the multifunction disc 50 in the direction of the sealing rib 62 or, more generally, in the direction away from the contact surface 58, in order to preferably engage in a cutout 92 of the keyhole 90 (see below).

[0097] The locking lug 56 also has a support and retaining surface 64 at its free end, which is directed radially inwards into the opening 55. The multifunctional disc 50 is supported against the retaining surfaces 47; 48 of the locking collar 46 by means of the support and retaining surface 64. Since a preferred plurality of locking lugs 54 with their respective end-mounted support and retaining surfaces 66 simultaneously engage the locking collar 46, which is arranged circumferentially around the shaft 32 of the bayonet screw 30, the multifunctional disc 50 is rotationally fixed to the bayonet screw 30. This rotationally fixed connection creates a functional interaction between the bayonet screw 30 and the multifunctional disc 50 when the bayonet screw 30 is fastened in the keyhole 90 of the second component B.Provided that the hollow screw 10 is connected to the first component A, the multi-function washer 50 and the bayonet screw 30 establish a reliable and durable connection to the second component B simply by turning the bayonet screw 30. After the truncated cone-shaped tip 38 and the locking lugs 40 are inserted into and through the keyhole 90, turning the bayonet screw 30 in the fastening direction RB (see Figures 3, 4, 8, 10) clamps the locking lugs 40 on the side of the second component B facing away from the quick-release fastener 1. At the end of this insertion of the pre-assembly consisting of the hollow screw 10, bayonet screw 30 and multi-function washer 50 into the keyhole 90, the locking lugs 40 are aligned (see Figures 8 and 9) with the pre-fixing lugs 56 and with the cutouts 92 of the keyhole 90.The pre-fixing ridges 56 initially secure the hold of the bayonet screw 30 on the hollow screw 10 (see Figure 8, in which component B is not shown).

[0098] After insertion into the keyhole 90, the bayonet screw 30 is turned in the fastening direction RB. The locking washer 50 rotates along with the bayonet screw 30, as both are rotationally fixed to each other via the contact surface 47 of the locking collar 46 and the support and retaining surface 66 of the detent 54.

[0099] During rotation of the bayonet screw 30, the locking lugs 40, guided by the ramps 42, slide onto the second component B until the contact surfaces 44 engage the second component B. As the bayonet screw 30 rotates, the locking lugs 40 and simultaneously the pre-fixing arms 56 are laterally rotated out of the cutouts 92 of the keyhole 90. As the multifunction disc 50 rotates with the bayonet screw 30, the block-like detent sections 64 of the detent lugs 54 are moved into the cutouts 92, as can be seen in Figure 10. During this rotation, the block-like detent sections 64 snap into the cutouts 92, forming a rotationally fixed connection between the multifunction disc 50 and the second component B.

[0100] Since the multi-function disc 50 is also rotationally fixed to the bayonet screw 30, this construction results in a rotationally fixed connection between component A at the hollow screw 10, bayonet screw 30, second component B and multi-function disc 50, which cannot be released without destruction.

[0101] The hollow screw 10 and the bayonet screw 30 are frictionally connected by the radial collar 24 being held between the head 34 of the bayonet screw 30 and the multi-function washer 50. This connection allows the hollow screw 10 to rotate about its longitudinal axis, thus compensating for tolerances between the first component A and the second component B.

[0102] To adjust radial or lateral tolerances between the hollow screw 10 and the bayonet screw 30, and thus between the first component A and the second component B, it is also preferred to displace the hollow screw 10 laterally with respect to its longitudinal axis before the bayonet screw 30 is frictionally engaged with the radial collar 24. Once the lateral tolerances have been compensated for or adjusted appropriately, the bayonet screw 30 is frictionally engaged with the radial collar 24 as described above.

[0103] According to a further preferred embodiment of the present invention, the bayonet screw 30' and the multifunctional disc 50' are constructed differently, as shown in Figures 11-25. In contrast to the previously described construction of the bayonet screw 30, the locking collar 46' has several retaining surfaces 47' for the multifunctional disc 50'. An adjustment surface 45, curved in its course, is provided between two adjacent retaining surfaces 47'. The curved adjustment surface 45 thus connects two adjacent retaining surfaces 47'. Furthermore, it can be seen from Figures 13 and 18 that the retaining surface 47' only abuts the curved adjustment surface 45 on one side. The edge on the opposite side provides anti-rotation protection. The curved adjustment surface 45 ensures that when the bayonet screw 30' is turned, the holding surface 47' of the locking collar 46 comes into contact with the support and holding surface 66' of the multifunction disc 50'.Since, instead of a separating sharp edge 49 as in the bayonet screw 30, the curved and connecting adjusting surface 45 is arranged between the adjacent holding surfaces 47', the adjusting element 1' can be detached again without damage after the connection has been made, as will be clearly shown in the following description.

[0104] The multifunctional disc 50' preferably has no pre-fixing arms 56 in a further embodiment.

[0105] The locking lugs 54' have, in addition to the radially inwardly oriented support and retaining surface 66', a notch-shaped locking structure 68 in the direction away from the contact surface 58. Preferably, the notch-shaped locking structure 68 is symmetrically designed and allows a cam-like locking lug 40' to be engaged and disengaged.

[0106] The cam-like locking lug 40' is preferably formed by two insertion ramps 43 arranged opposite each other and inclined towards each other. The insertion ramps 43 converge in the cam-like contact surface 44'. In the locked state of the quick-release fastener 1', the cam-like projection thus engages in the notch-shaped detent structure 68 of the multifunctional disc 50'.

[0107] In a pre-assembled state, the bayonet screw 30' is attached to the hollow screw 10 by means of the multi-function washer 50'. To achieve the pre-assembled state, the frustoconical tip 38 of the bayonet screw 30' is inserted through the central opening 55 of the multi-function washer 50'. The locking lugs 40' are aligned with the spaces between the detent lugs 54' to allow them to pass through the multi-function washer 50'. Once the locking lugs 40' have passed through the multi-function washer 50', rotating the bayonet screw 30' about its longitudinal axis engages the cam-like locking lugs 40 in a detented position within the notched detent structure 68.

[0108] Since the insertion ramps 43 of the cam-like locking lugs 40' are arranged on both sides, the preferred cam-like locking lug 40' can be engaged with and released from the notched detent structure 68 in both possible directions of rotation of the bayonet screw 30' (see Figures 16 and 17).

[0109] To attach the quick-release fastener 1' to the keyhole 90 of the second component B, the bayonet screw 30' is inserted into the keyhole 90, engaging with the multi-function disc 50' (see Figure 23). This causes the cam-like locking lugs 40' to engage the cutouts 92 of the keyhole 90. The multi-function disc 50' is then rotated in any direction to lock the bayonet screw 30' in the keyhole 90. This rotating action disengages the cam-like locking lugs 40' from the notched detent structure 68 and brings them into contact with the component areas 94 located between the cutouts 92 of the keyhole 90 (see Figure 24).

[0110] At this point, the notched locking structures 68 protrude through the cutouts 92 of the keyhole 90 and preferably project from the side of the second component B facing away from the hollow screw 10. Through this engagement, the notched locking structures 68 establish a rotationally fixed connection between the quick-release fastener 1' and the second component B.

[0111] To release the quick-release fastener 1', the cam-shaped locking lugs 40' are rotated back into engagement with the notched detent structure 68. This rotation of the bayonet screw 30' releases the quick-release fastener 1' from the keyhole 90 without damage. During the rotation of the bayonet screw 30', the curved adjustment surface 45 slides along the support and retaining surface 66' without forcing the multi-function disc 50' to follow the rotation of the bayonet screw 30'.

[0112] Preferably the multifunctional disc 50' comprises a sealing rib 62 circumferential around the central opening 55, which, in contact with the second component B, supports a seal of the connection of components A, B.

[0113] Figures 28-34 illustrate another preferred embodiment of the inventive tendon fastener 1''. The quick-release fastener 1; 1' is preferably characterized by a reduced requirement for axial installation space. This means that by receiving the head 34 of the bayonet screw 30 in the hollow cylindrical interior of the hollow screw 10, the head 34 does not protrude beyond the hollow screw 10, thus freeing up installation space. This preferred reduction in axial space comes at the expense of the required lateral installation space of the hollow screw 10. This is because the component opening Ol in component A must be adapted to the outer diameter of the external thread 18 and the associated sufficiently large internal receiving space for the head 34.

[0114] The preferred embodiment of the quick-release fastener 1” shown in Figures 28-34 is characterized by a reduced requirement for lateral installation space. This allows the quick-release fastener 1” to be installed in components A, B with smaller lateral dimensions compared to components A, B for the quick-release fastener 1; 1'. Furthermore, the reduced dimensions of the quick-release fastener 1” with respect to lateral or radial dimensions, compared to the quick-release fastener 1; 1', are advantageous when only a smaller fastening area is available in component A, for example, a curved or angled area.

[0115] Apart from the different dimensions of the quick-release fasteners 1; 1' and 1'', the essential design features and the associated technical functions and effects are identical. Therefore, for an understanding of the design features of the quick-release fastener 1", please refer to the description above. Differences in the design are discussed below.

[0116] The hollow screw 10” ​​has a through channel 12 with an inner diameter that is smaller than the outer diameter of the head 34” of the bayonet screw 30”. Thus, in the installed state, the head 34” of the bayonet screw 30” is supported against the first axial end 14 of the hollow screw 10”, specifically against the entrance opening of the hollow cylindrical shaft.

[0117] To minimize the overall height of the head 34”, a drive element 35 is recessed into the interior of the head 34”. Therefore, a recess or bore 37 is preferably provided in the head 34”, the radial inner surface of which provides a positive fit with an inserted tool in order to transmit torque. Thus, an internal hexagon socket or a socket, the design of which is known, is preferably provided in the recess 37.

[0118] The head 34” is preferably designed similarly to a disc, such that the bore 37 with the drive element 35” extends at least partially into the shank 32” of the bayonet screw 30”. This saves on overall height, which would be required, for example, for a hexagonal head 34. The disc-shaped head 34” also offers, in combination with a preferred sealing lip 13” at the first axial end 14” of the hollow screw 10”, the preferred possibility of sealing the interior of the hollow screw 10” ​​from the outside. Since the sealing lip 13” preferably extends completely around the first axial end 14”, the ingress of moisture and / or dirt into the interior of the hollow screw 10” ​​is reduced or even prevented.

[0119] To screw in and / or adjust the hollow screw 10”, a suitable tool engages the available drive means 22; 24”, 23” and rotates the hollow screw 10; 10’; 10” about its longitudinal axis. The multi-function disc 50'' has the same design and functional features as the multi-function disc 50 shown, for example, in Figures 21 and 22. There, the detent lugs 54’ with the notch-shaped detent structure 68 are provided to lock the locking lugs 40.

[0120] The drive element 23” can be seen in greater detail in the axial top view of the hollow screw 10” ​​in Figure 30. The drive element 23” consists of a toothed section, in particular an involute toothed section, into which an adjusting tool 70 engages. The adjusting tool 70 preferably has a first drive element 72, preferably a polygon, at a first axial end or on its radial outer side. The drive element 72 preferably serves to rotate the adjusting tool 70 about its longitudinal axis.

[0121] A toothed section 74, preferably a further involute toothed section, is provided at a second axial end of the adjusting tool 70. This section is shaped to engage with the drive element 23”. By rotating the adjusting tool 70 and thus the hollow screw 10” ​​via the drive element 23” in the first component A, the hollow screw 10” ​​is rotated in the first component opening 01 in component A or displaced in the axial longitudinal direction.

[0122] To engage the drive element 23” of the hollow screw 10” ​​and the teeth 74 of the adjusting tool 70, an adjusting opening S1 is provided on the first component A adjacent to the first component opening 01. Preferably, the adjusting tool 70 is inserted into the adjusting opening S1 with the teeth 74 leading, bringing the drive element 23” of the hollow screw 10” ​​and the teeth 74 of the adjusting tool 70 into engagement. Rotating the adjusting tool 70 transmits a torque to the hollow screw 10” ​​and rotates it. This rotation preferably results in an adjustment of the distance T between the first component A and the second component B (see Figures 27 and 34).

[0123] The adjusting opening S1 is particularly suitable when the drive means 22” and 23” of the hollow screw 10 are not accessible or only accessible with considerable effort. The present invention also discloses a joining method for a first component A and a second component B with the quick-release fastener 1; 1' according to one of the above embodiments. The joining method comprises the following steps: screwing (step A) the hollow screw 10 into a component opening 01 of the first component A and pre-fixing (step C) the bayonet screws 30; 30' with the multi-functional washer 50; 50' in the hollow screw 10. Alternatively, it is also preferred to provide the first component A with the quick-release fastener 1; 1' pre-installed in the component opening 01 (step B).Subsequently, the second component B, equipped with the keyhole 90, is positioned opposite the first component A with quick-release fastener 1; 1' (step C) such that the bayonet screw 30; 30' is correctly aligned with the keyhole 90. Once this is done, the bayonet screw 30; 30' is inserted into the keyhole 90 of the second component B and locked in place by turning (step D), so that the first A and the second component B are connected to each other by force and form.

[0124] The first component A is held by the hollow screw 10 and is axially displaceable at its external thread 18 by turning the hollow screw 10 via the drive features 20, 22. The second component B is frictionally clamped to the radial collar 24 by means of the bayonet screw 30; 30' and the multi-function washer 50; 50'. To set defined tolerances between the first A and the second component B, it is preferred to rotate the hollow screw 10 about its longitudinal axis (step E) so that component A is displaced axially along the hollow screw 10. In this context, it is preferred to release the frictional connection between the radial collar 24 and the bayonet screw 30; 30' before turning the hollow screw 10, in order to be able to rotate the hollow screw 10 alone relative to the first component A.

[0125] According to a further preferred embodiment of the joining method, the frictional connection between radial collar 24 and bayonet screw 30; 30' is loosened to allow the bayonet screw 30; 30' to be radially displaced relative to radial collar 24. For this purpose, the inner diameter of an inlet opening into the through-channel 12 at the second axial end 16 of the hollow screw 10 is larger than the outer diameter of the shank 32 of the bayonet screw 30; 30'. Once the connection between bayonet screw 30; 30' and hollow screw 10 is loosened, tolerances are adjusted by radially displacing the bayonet screw 30; 30' and hollow screw 10 relative to each other. The bayonet screw 30; 30' is then frictionally reattached to the radial collar 24.

[0126] The individual components of the quick-release fastener 1; 1, preferably only three components, are manufactured using a known injection molding process. Preferably, the hollow screw 10 and the bayonet screw 30; 30' are made of a dimensionally stable thermoplastic. The multifunctional washer 50; 50 is preferably injection molded from an elastomer. After injection molding, the bayonet screw 30; 30' is inserted into the through-channel 12 and pre-fixed there by means of the multifunctional washer 50; 50' by clipping it onto the frustoconical tip 38 with locking lugs 40; 40'.

[0127] It is also preferred to pre-fix the bayonet screw 30; 30' to the hollow screw 10 only after the latter has been screwed into the opening 01 of the first component A.

[0128] The present invention further discloses a manufacturing method for the quick-release fastener 1; 1' according to one of the embodiments described above. The manufacturing method comprises the following steps: injection molding of the hollow screw 10 and the bayonet screw 30; 30', preferably with a thermoplastic material (S1), injection molding of the multifunctional washer 50; 50', preferably with an elastomeric material (S2), and pre-fixing the hollow screw 10, the multifunctional washer 50; 50' and the bayonet screw 30; 30' to one another (S3).

[0129] 6. List of reference symbols

[0130] 1; T; 1" quick fastener

[0131] 10, 10', 10" hollow screw

[0132] 12, 12" through channel

[0133] 14; 16 axial ends of the hollow screw

[0134] 18 external threads

[0135] 20; 22; 23 Drive feature

[0136] 24 radial collars

[0137] 26 sealing ribs

[0138] 30; 30' bayonet screw

[0139] 32 shaft

[0140] 34 heads

[0141] 35; 35', 35" propulsion means

[0142] 36 support surface

[0143] 37, 37" recess, bore

[0144] 38 frustoconical tips

[0145] 40; 40' locking bars

[0146] 42 Ramp

[0147] 43 entry ramps

[0148] 44 building plots

[0149] 45 adjustment area

[0150] 46; 46' Blocking collar 47, 48 Holding surfaces of the blocking collar

[0151] 49 sharp edge

[0152] 50; 50' Multifunctional disc

[0153] 54; 54' Resting Footbridge

[0154] 55 central opening

[0155] 56 Pre-fixing bridge

[0156] 58 ring-shaped contact surfaces

[0157] 60 pier-shaped plant structure

[0158] 62 sealing ribs

[0159] 64 block-like rest section

[0160] 66; 66' Support and holding surface

[0161] 67 axially projecting detent projections

[0162] 68 notched grid structure

[0163] 70 adjusting tools

[0164] 72 propulsion devices

[0165] 74 gear teeth

[0166] 90 Keyhole in the second component B

[0167] 92 Cutout in the keyhole 90

[0168] 94 component areas between the cutouts 92 of the keyhole 90

[0169] A; B components

[0170] 01 First component opening in component A,

[0171] O2 second component opening in component B, preferably a keyhole 90

[0172] RB Mounting direction

[0173] RE Direction of insertion

[0174] Si opening

[0175] T Distance between components A, B

Claims

Patent claims 1. A quick-release fastener (1; 1') with which a first (A) and a second component (B) can be fastened to each other at a distance from each other, having the following features: a. a hollow screw (10) with al. a first (14) and a second axial end (16) and an external thread ( 18) on a radial outer side, a2. a through channel (12) which is tapered adjacent to the second axial end (16) by a circumferential inner radial collar (24), b. a bayonet screw (30; 30') with b. a shank (32) which passes through the through channel (12) of the hollow screw (10), b2. a head (34) arranged at the end of the shank (32) which has a drive means and a support surface (36) extending radially beyond the shank, b3. at least two locking lugs (40) spaced apart from the head (34), which extend radially from the shank (32) and are arranged uniformly around the shank (32), and b4. a blocking collar (46) which is arranged axially between the head (34) and the locking lugs (40), extends radially beyond the shaft (32) and has a plurality of rotation-resistant contact surfaces (47, 48), c.a multifunctional disc (50; 50') with a central opening (55) and a plurality of mounting webs (54; 56) projecting radially into the opening (55).

2. The quick-release fastener (1; 1') according to claim 1, in which the bayonet screw (30; 31) is formed in one piece, the at least two locking lugs (40) each have a circumferentially oriented ramp (42) and the locking collar (46) is formed as a polygon, preferably a hexagon. - 23 - 3. The quick-release fastener (1; 1') according to claim 2, in which an end (38) of the bayonet screw (30; 30') facing away from the head is designed to taper in a frustoconical shape, two or three evenly distributed locking lugs (40) are provided and the ramp (42) transitions into a contact surface (44).

4. The quick fastener (1; 1') according to at least one of the preceding claims, in which the fastening ribs of the multifunctional disc (50) in the opening (55) are each designed as a plurality of radially inwardly projecting pre-fixing ribs (56) and locking ribs (54) which are arranged alternately in the circumferential direction of the opening (55).

5. The quick fastener (1; 1') according to claim 4, in which the locking bar (54) has a block-like reinforced locking section (64) at a free end, which provides a radially inner contact surface (66) on an axial locking step.

6. The quick fastener (1; 1') according to claim 1, in which the bayonet screw (30) is formed in one piece, which has at least two locking lugs (40') each with a truncated pyramid-shaped axial projection towards the head (34), and the locking collar (46') comprises two contact surfaces (47') connected via a rounding (45) and at least one radial elevation, preferably an edge, as an anti-rotation device.

7. The quick-release fastener (1; 1'; 1”) according to claim 1 or 6, in which the through channel (12) of the hollow screw (10) is adapted to the head (34; 34') such that the head (34) is received in the through channel (12) or that the head (34”) is supported on a first axial end (14”) of the hollow screw (10”) outside the through channel (12).

8. The quick fastener (1') according to claim 1 or 6, in which the fastening webs of the multifunctional disc (50') in the opening (55) are formed as at least two radially inwardly projecting locking webs (54') with locking projections (67) projecting axially on at least one side.

9. The quick fastener (1; 1'; 1”) according to one of the preceding claims, in which the hollow screw (10”) has a circumferential toothing on a radial outer surface, by means of which the hollow screw (10”) is rotatably adjustable in a first component opening of the first component A in the direction of a longitudinal axis.

10. A connection consisting of a first component (A) and the quick fastener (1; 1') according to one of the preceding claims, the hollow screw (10) of which is adjustably screwed into a component opening (01).

11. A connection consisting of a first component (A) and a second component (B) with the quick-release fastener (1; T) according to one of claims 1-7, in which the hollow screw (10) is arranged in a component opening (01) of the first component (A) and the bayonet screw (30; 30') is locked in a keyhole (90) of the second component (B).

12. A joining method of a first (A) and a second component (B) with the quick fastener (1; 1') according to any one of the preceding claims 1-9, comprising the following steps: A. Screwing the hollow screw (10) into a component opening (01) of the first component (A) (Sl) and pre-fixing (S2) the bayonet screws (30; 30') with the multi-function washer (50; 50') in the hollow screw (10) or providing the first component (A) with the quick fastener (1; 1') pre-installed in the component opening (01) (S3), B. Arranging (S4) the second component (B) with a keyhole (90) opposite the first component (A) with quick fastener (1; 1') such that the bayonet screw (30; 30') is aligned with the keyhole (90), C. Insert (S5) and lock (S7) the bayonet screw (30; 30') in the keyhole (90) of the second component (B) so that the first (A) and the second component (B) are connected to each other by force and form locking.

13. The joining method according to claim 12, with the further step of: Adjusting (S6) radial tolerances with the bayonet screw (30; 30') and the hollow screw (10) before locking.

14. The joining method according to claim 12 or 13, comprising the further step of: Adjusting (S8) axial tolerances between the first (A) and the second component (B) by turning the hollow screw (10).

15. A manufacturing method of a quick fastener (1; 1') according to any one of the preceding claims 1-9, comprising the following steps: a. Injection molding of the hollow screw (10) and the bayonet screw (30; 30'), preferably with a thermoplastic material (Sl), b. Injection molding of the multi-function disc (50; 50'), preferably with an elastomeric plastic (S2), and c. Pre-fixing the hollow screw (10), the multi-function disc (50; 50') and the bayonet screw (30; 30') to each other (S3). - 26 -

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