Airbag Module Retaining Part Fastening via Interlocking Connecting Elements
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing methods for fastening gas bag modules in vehicle occupant restraint systems, such as side airbags, are time-consuming and costly due to the need for screw fastening and the use of additional fastening elements like welded or riveted nuts.
Innovation Solution
A device featuring first and second connecting elements that protrude from the edges of openings in the holding and connecting parts, allowing for a simple, screw-free attachment by inserting the elements through each other's openings, providing secure positioning and preventing displacement or rattling noises.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Strength
If screw fastening with welded or riveted nuts is used to attach the holding device to the backrest, then the connection strength is improved, but the installation cycle time increases and additional costs arise
Solution Approach 1:
The connecting part is divided into two separate connecting elements: a first connecting element integrated into the holding part and a second connecting element integrated into the vehicle structure component. These elements work together to provide secure fastening without requiring additional fastening components, thus reducing installation time while maintaining connection strength.
Solution Approach 2:
The connecting elements are directly formed as integral parts of the holding part and vehicle structure component respectively, merging the fastening function into the structural components themselves. This eliminates the need for separate welded or riveted nuts, reducing both installation time and additional costs while maintaining adequate connection strength.
2Reliability
If screw fastening with additional fastening elements is used, then the connection reliability is improved, but the device complexity and manufacturing costs increase
Solution Approach 1:
The fastening function is merged into the structural components themselves through integrally formed connecting elements. The first connecting element is formed as part of the holding part and the second connecting element is formed as part of the vehicle structure component, eliminating the need for separate fastening elements and reducing device complexity while maintaining connection reliability.
Solution Approach 2:
The connecting elements serve multiple functions: they provide mechanical interlocking for secure fastening, act as positioning elements during assembly, and are formed as integral parts of the structural components. This multi-functionality reduces the need for additional specialized fastening components, simplifying the overall system.
3Strength
If complex welding or screwing processes are used for attachment, then the connection strength is improved, but the manufacturing cost and process complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The attachment system is segmented into two simple forming operations: forming the first connecting element from the holding part and forming the second connecting element from the vehicle structure component. This avoids complex welding or screwing processes while achieving adequate attachment strength through the interlocking geometry of the connecting elements.
Solution Approach 2:
The connecting elements are formed with specific geometric parameters (protruding shapes that fit into corresponding recesses) that enable secure attachment through simple forming processes. The parameters of the connecting elements are designed to provide adequate mechanical interlocking and attachment strength without requiring complex joining processes.
Data Source
Figure 1A~2
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Figure 6
AI summary
The invention relates to devices for attaching a retaining part (1) of an air bag module of a vehicle occupant restraint system to a connecting part (2) of a vehicle structure pursuant to the preambles. According to one embodiment variant, the retaining part (1) comprises at least one first connecting element (3), which projects from an edge of an opening (7) in the retaining part (1), wherein the first connecting element (3) is used to connect the retaining part (1) to the connecting part (2) of the vehicle structure. The connecting part (2) comprises at least one second connecting element (4), which projects from an edge of an opening (7') in the connecting part (2), wherein the second connecting part (4) is used to connect the connecting part (2) to the retaining part (1). In a state in which the retaining part (1) is connected to the connecting part (2), the first connecting element (3) of the retaining part (1) penetrates the opening (7) of the connecting part (2) and the second connecting element (4) of the connecting part (2) penetrates the opening (7) of the retaining part (1). Another embodiment variant achieves a clamping of the retaining part (1) in a conical opening (7) of the connecting part (2). According to another embodiment, a retaining part comprising a hook (17) and detent is provided. According to a further embodiment variant, a clamping of the retaining part (1) with the connecting part (2) is achieved by means of connecting elements (30) of the retaining part (1) which are pre-embossed in a thread-like manner and segments (21) on the connecting part (2), wherein said elements and segments are clamped to each other by means of a rotational motion.