DE202016102805U1 - Restraints for vehicle floor covers - Google Patents

Abstract

An apparatus for securing a vehicle floor covering to the carpet in the footwell of a vehicle, the apparatus comprising: a body having a first side, a second side opposite the first side, and an axis defined to be perpendicular to the first and second sides ; a plurality of protrusions extending from the first side, each protrusion spaced from adjacent protrusions, the protrusions forming a two-dimensional array; the projections being formed in linear rows and each having a vertical side aligned with the axis, the vertical sides being coplanar in any row, the rows being a first row and a second row parallel to and adjacent to the first row wherein the vertical sides in the first row are aligned so as to face the vertical sides in the second row; and a fastener extending from the second side along the axis opposite the protrusions, wherein the fastener is dimensioned to be received in a grommet of a vehicle floor cover.

Description

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

In most conventional vehicles, such as automobiles, trucks and SUVs, the occupant's footwell is carpeted. Often the vehicle manufacturers offer floor mats to protect this footwell. Also in the automotive aftermarket floor covers are offered to protect the footwell. Vehicle floor cover, including floor mats and shells, are preferably provided with locating and securing aids so that they remain in place in the vehicle footwell.

In order to improve the placement and stability of vehicle floor coverings and ultimately provide a secure foot feel to vehicle occupants, vehicle manufacturers (often referred to as OEMs) typically attach restraint posts or other structures in the vehicle floor space. Often, the floor mats have respective openings dimensioned so that the retention posts can be received therethrough. However, the design and application of the retention posts varies from manufacturer to manufacturer and possibly even model to model and from seat to seat. The differences in OEM mat retention systems make the provision of aftermarket floor mats and shells more expensive and less universal for these models. In many cases, the OEM provide floor pad restraints for the driver's side, but none for the passenger's side and none for all other seating positions.

Thus, there is a need for a vehicle floor cover retainer that is usable to secure a vehicle floor mat when there is no retention post and other footwell device or structure that is easy for the consumer to use.

Many OEM studs have a limited diameter stem that terminates in an enlarged head. The sizes of the retention posts vary depending on the vehicle make and model. In addition, a hole in a floor cover does not always provide the secure fit desired for a floor cover. To more securely and securely engage the retention post and floor cover, a grommet may be used. A grommet that fits multiple retention posts would be useful in numerous vehicle makes and models.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

According to one aspect of the invention, there is provided an apparatus for securing a vehicle floor covering to the carpet in the footwell of a vehicle. The device includes a body having first and second sides and an axis perpendicular to the first and second sides. Projections extend from the first, lower side, the projections being arranged in linear rows forming a two-dimensional arrangement. Each projection has a vertical side which is in line with the axis, the vertical sides being coplanar in any row. The vertical sides in a first row face the vertical sides in a second row. From the second, upper side extends a fastener which is dimensioned so that it can be received in a spout.

According to another aspect of the invention, a system is provided for releasably attaching a vehicle floor cover to the carpet in the footwell of a vehicle. The carpet attachment member has a body having a first side and a second side. Perpendicular to the first and second side is an axis. From the first side, projections extend parallel to this axis. From the second side extends integrally formed with the body fastener upwards. An upper spout or cap receives the fastener and thereby attaches the vehicle floor cover to the carpet.

In yet another aspect of the invention, a system is provided for releasably attaching a vehicle floor cover to the carpet in the footwell of a vehicle. The carpet attachment member has a body having a first side and a second side. Perpendicular to the first and second side is an axis. From the first side, projections extend parallel to this axis. From the second side extends integrally formed with the body fastener upwards. At the attachment means of the attachment member, a lower spout is attached with a fastening means of the lower spout. An upper grommet receives the fastener of the lower grommet and thereby attaches the vehicle floor cover to the carpet.

According to yet another aspect of the invention, there is provided a method of manufacturing a device for attaching a vehicle floor covering to the carpet of a footwell. The steps include providing a mold having a top and a core side. A plane separates the top from the core side. A top mold cavity shapes the second side of the device. Several spaced parallel Ejector rods slide in channels of the core body in alignment with the axis. An upper surface of a core body and upper surfaces of the ejector rods form a first side of the device. Each ejector rod has at least one vertical side, and along the vertical side are spaced mandrel cavities.

To mold the device, the ejector rods are arranged to be coplanar with the upper surface of the core body. The top of the mold is closed, and a polymer is injected into the closed mold. When the mold is opened, the ejector bars are moved from their coplanar position to a position where the top surfaces of the ejector bars are above the top surface of the core body, thereby ejecting the molded device.

In an alternative embodiment, the ejector rods are replaced by a cylindrical ejector sleeve which may be coaxial with an axis of the retainer. Each of the projections or spines has a vertical side which is arranged on the outer and / or inner surface of the ejector sleeve. In this embodiment, the projections or spikes may be arranged in one or two ring arrangements.

According to another aspect of the invention, there is provided an apparatus for securing a vehicle floor covering to the carpet in the footwell of a vehicle. The device includes a body having first and second sides and protrusions extending from the first side. The protrusions are in linear rows that form a two-dimensional array. From the second side extends a fastener which is dimensioned so that it can be received in a grommet.

A significant advantage of the aforementioned device is that it can be placed anywhere in the footwell to accommodate foot covers with holes at various positions. A further advantage is that the device (s) according to the invention can or can be provided for those floor coverings for which the vehicle manufacturer has not provided restraint devices in the vehicle footwell. This may for example be the case when the vehicle manufacturer has not provided such restraints for any seating position or when the vehicle manufacturer has provided restraint devices only for the front driver's footwell. Devices of the present invention are also useful for attaching a mat to a vehicle floor in the second or third row of seats, or to attach a cargo space liner to the floor of a vehicle cargo area.

In yet another aspect of the invention, a system for attaching a ground cover to a vehicle footwell includes a lower spout and an upper spout. The lower spout is formed about an axis and has a bottom cover retention flange extending radially outwardly from the outer surface of an upwardly projecting outer side wall. The outer sidewall extends upwardly to a hinge plane which may be coextensive with the top of the outer sidewall. The top or hinge plane of the lower spout may include an annulus extending radially inwardly from the outer side wall to an inner end of the hinge plane. A plurality of fingers have respective upper ends connected to the inner end of the annulus and extending downwardly to respective lower finger ends. Each finger has a bead near its lower end that extends radially inward from a more general inner sidewall surface of the finger. This bead, in combination with the other fingers, is adapted to be press-fitted to a vehicle foot restraining post head of a different type. An upper spout is provided which is secured to an outer surface of the outer side wall of the lower spout. The system further includes a fastening device that is adapted to be mounted on a vehicle footwell. An upwardly projecting retaining post of the fastening device is adapted to engage with the fingers of the lower spout. A lower surface of the fastening device may include a plurality of downwardly extending protrusions that engage a footwell carpet surface, or may include an adhesive layer that is adapted to be secured to a carpetless surface of the vehicle footwell.

According to another aspect of the invention, a system for attaching a vehicle floor cover to a vehicle footwell includes a lower grommet and an upper grommet. The lower spout has an outer side wall formed about an axis. From the outer surface of the outer side wall, a bottom cover retaining flange extends radially outward. The outer sidewall extends axially upwardly from the retention flange to an upper level of the lower grommet. The outer side wall has an inner surface. A plurality of fingers integrally formed with the outer sidewall are spaced radially inwardly from the inner surface of the outer sidewall and angularly spaced from one another. Each finger has a lower end that is axially and axially from the upper level of the outer sidewall is spaced down. Each finger has a bead located near its lower end. Each bead has an innermost boundary and an inclined surface extending upwardly and outwardly from the innermost boundary of the bead to a generally inner sidewall surface of the finger. This inclined surface is adapted to be press-fitted to the enlarged heads of each different retaining post type. An upper spout is adapted to be attached to the outer surface of the outer side wall of the lower spout. The system further includes a fastening device for attachment to the footwell of the vehicle. A retention post projects upwardly from the fixture body and is adapted to engage the fingers of the lower spout. The attachment device may include a plurality of protrusions extending downwardly from a lower surface of its body to engage a carpet surface of the vehicle foot space, or may include an adhesive layer adapted to be attached to a smooth surface of the vehicle foot space be.

In any of the foregoing embodiments, the lower spout may be further provided with a plurality of spaced vertical ribs. These ribs are angularly spaced around the axis and aligned with the same; each vertical rib is located between adjacent fingers. The fingers have inner sidewall surfaces corresponding to an imaginary cylinder whose diameter is preselected to be larger than the largest post-head type the spout is intended to receive. The vertical ribs each extend radially inwardly from the inner surface of the outer side wall of the lower spout to the imaginary cylinder. These ribs resist lateral movement of the spout relative to the retention post after the spout has been snapped over the post.

Alternatively or additionally, each finger of the lower spout may be provided with a reinforcing rib which is aligned with the axis and extends from an inner surface of the outer side wall of the lower spout to an outer surface of the finger. An angular extent of the reinforcing rib with respect to the axis is much smaller than an angular extent of the finger for the reinforcement of which it is provided, and is for example a quarter of the angular extent of the actual finger or less.

A significant technical advantage of one embodiment of the invention is that the inclined plane of each finger bead provides a substantial area from which various points can be press-fitted to various enlarged post head structures. This in turn makes the grommet with bottom covers usable for many vehicle makes and models. By providing a single grommet for many types of vehicles, the overall manufacturing, tooling, research and development costs for vehicle floor mats and shells adapted to the grommets are reduced.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

Further aspects of the invention and their advantages can be found in the following detailed description, in which the same reference numerals are used for similar components. Show it:

1A a perspective view of the top of a device according to an embodiment of the invention;

1B a perspective view of the bottom of in 1A illustrated device;

1C a detail of the bottom of the 1B illustrated device;

2 a detailed isometric exploded view of a restraint system for a vehicle floor covering using the in 1A and 1B pictured device;

3 a cross-sectional view through a mounted vehicle floor cover, a device and an upper spout;

4 a detailed isometric exploded view of a second embodiment of a vehicle floor covering restraint system using another device according to the invention;

5 a cross-sectional view through a mounted vehicle floor cover, a device, an upper spout and a lower spout, as in 4 displayed;

6A a plan view of a vehicle floor covering according to an embodiment of the invention;

6B a soffit of a 6A pictured vehicle floor cover;

7A a perspective view of a third embodiment of a device according to the invention;

7B a cross-sectional view of a restraint system for a vehicle floor cover using the in 7A illustrated embodiment;

8th a perspective view of a vehicle footwell of a driver's side with OEM restraint devices according to the prior art;

9 a perspective view of a vehicle footwell a driver's side with an installed vehicle floor cover;

10 a perspective view of a passenger vehicle side footwell without OEM restraint devices and in the prior art;

11 4 is a perspective view of a passenger's side vehicle footwell having a vehicle floor covering formed using the in-vehicle seat cover shown in FIG 1A and 1B installed device is installed;

12 a schematic block diagram showing the steps in a first manufacturing process according to the invention;

13 a perspective view of a mold used for the manufacture of the device with ejector rods in a first position;

14 a perspective view of the mold core with ejector rods in a second position;

15 a perspective view of the mold core with the ejector rods in a second position, wherein mandrel cavities are visible;

16 a top perspective view of another embodiment of the bottom cover restraint device in a representation of its attachment to a thermoformed bottom cover;

17 a sectional view through a vertical axis of in 16 after a bottom cover has been thermoformed thereon;

18 a top perspective view of a bottom cover, with the in 16 equipped device shown, wherein the retaining device is shown in a hidden line;

19 a perspective bottom view of an embodiment of in 16 illustrated device;

20 Fig. 12 is a perspective view showing the mounting of a retainer with a vacuum mold before a process of thermoforming a floor covering;

21 a perspective detail 20 in the plan view showing the receiving structure of the mold retaining device;

22 a perspective bottom view of an alternative embodiment of the invention, which is characterized by ring arrangements of projections, which also represents a contact print of a cylindrical ejector.

23 an exploded isometric view of a portion of a vehicle floor cover, a lower nozzle, a Fahrzeugfußraumrückhaltebolzens and a retention cap (or upper spout);

24 an isometric top view of the in 23 illustrated lower spout;

25 an isometric view of the in 24 illustrated lower spout;

26 a side sectional view of the lower spout and the upper spout 23 in a plane containing a spout axis in the assembled state;

27 a sectional view of in 23 - 26 3, in a plane including the spout axis, shown in attaching the vehicle floor cover to a first retaining post of a vehicle floor covering;

27A one of the illustration in 27 similar simplified sectional view of 23 - 26 shown embodiment, shown in attaching a vehicle floor cover to a second retaining post of a vehicle floor covering;

27B one of the illustration in 27A similar simplified sectional view of 23 - 26 shown embodiment, shown in attaching a vehicle floor cover to a third retaining post of a vehicle floor covering;

27C one of the illustration in 27A and 27B similar simplified sectional view of 23 - 26 1, shown in attaching a vehicle floor cover to a fourth retaining post of a vehicle floor covering;

28 an isometric top view of another embodiment of the lower spout;

29 an isometric top view of the aforementioned embodiment of the lower spout, which is snapped over a retaining post of a vehicle floor covering;

30 an isometric bottom view of another embodiment of the lower spout;

31 a vertical sectional view through the axis X of another embodiment of the invention, which is shown in a mounted with a bottom cover condition and engaged with a carpet in engagement;

32 a vertical sectional view through the axis X of another embodiment of the lower spout;

33 an isometric bottom view of another embodiment of the lower spout;

34 a vertical sectional view through the axis X of another embodiment of the invention, which is shown in a mounted state with a bottom cover and with a smooth surface in the footwell of a vehicle engaged;

35 an isometric bottom view of another embodiment of a fastening device;

36 an isometric bottom view of another embodiment of a lower spout for use with the invention;

37 a soffit of in 36 illustrated lower spout and

38 a side view of in 36 and 37 shown lower grommet, shown in a possible position that they could take during the installation of the grommet and an attached ground cover to a vehicle floor post.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

1A and 1B show a first embodiment of a generally with 100 marked device. The body 101 The device may be formed of nylon or other suitable connection. The device 100 has a first lower side 112 and a second upper side 102 on. Perpendicular to the first and second page ( 112 . 102 ) is an axis X. The body 101 is thin and flat and, in this illustrated embodiment, shown as a generally circular disk. Other embodiments may be a body 101 have a different shape, for example, a square, rectangular, hexagonal or any other form that ensures economically acceptable results.

From the first page 112 many projections extend 106 parallel to the device axis X down. In this embodiment, the projections 106 in linear rows 108 arranged. In the illustrated embodiment, the projections 106 a triangular bottom and are pyramidal. The projections 106 in the illustrated embodiment are thorns. Other embodiments may include protrusions of other shapes and / or include other shapes of bottoms, such as substantially circular or rectangular pyramids. The projections 106 engage in the carpet of the floor space (s. 3 and 802 in 8th ), which prevents the device 100 and move the ground cover attached to it. In addition, the device 100 Positionable anywhere in the footwell, where the entire device 100 can be accommodated in a substantially flat area. In other words, an arrangement on the footwell floor (s. 802 in 8th ) in a substantially flat area favorable, while an arrangement on the footwell floor 802 at the transition to the footwell walls 804 . 806 . 808 . 814 ( 8th ) is less favorable depending on the strength of the curved transitions. Thanks to the possibility of the device 100 To place anywhere on the footwell, almost all vehicle floor covers are compatible with the device and can be releasably attached to the footwell using this device.

Each of the tabs 106 in this illustrated embodiment has a flat vertical side 110 on, which is aligned with the axis X. projections 106 in other embodiments, also no vertical side 110 exhibit. In every linear series 108 are the vertical sides 110 the projections 106 in the row in question 108 coplanar. At the bottom of the device 112 there are at least a first row 114 and a second row 116 , The vertical sides 110 in the first row 114 are aligned so that they are vertical sides 110 the second row 116 are opposite. In the 1B illustrated embodiment shows more than two rows, in which case the pattern is repeated. Alternative embodiments may have a different number of rows. As shown, the vertical sides 110 the end rows, such as the leftmost row in this view 108 , no corresponding opposite row on. In the illustrated embodiment, the shape, number and arrangement of the projections 106 chosen so as to achieve economically acceptable, stable attachment to the floor covering arrangement, and depending on the carpet density and thickness provided. Other embodiments may include changes that provide an economically acceptable, stable attachment to the ground cover assembly. Because the projections 106 be pressed into the vehicle floor carpet, their size, number and length should be such that they can withstand the greatest shearing force that can be exerted by the foot of a user on the mat or shell.

1A - 1C show an embodiment in which the projections 106 over about 0.1 to 0.3 inches (0.25-0.76 cm) from the lower side 112 extend. In alternative embodiments, the projections 106 have other lengths. In the illustrated embodiment, the rows are 108 . 114 . 116 about 12 millimeters apart. In alternative embodiments, the rows 108 . 114 . 116 be closer to each other or further apart and do not have to be equidistant. In every row 108 . 114 . 116 are the tabs 106 by about 9.6 millimeters from adjacent protrusions 106 spaced. In alternative embodiments, the projections may 106 closer to or farther from adjacent protrusions 106 in the same row 108 . 114 . 116 are located and need not be evenly spaced. In the illustrated embodiment, the projections 106 a triangular bottom, with each leg of the bottom being about 2.5 millimeters wide. Alternative embodiments with protrusions 106 with triangular bottoms may have triangular soils with larger or smaller widths. The triangular bottoms of each projection have concavely curved transitions 118 on which the bottom of the projection on the first page 112 on the first page 112 and on other pages 120 the projections meets. The curved transitions 118 provide additional reinforcement against shear forces, ie forces acting perpendicular to the axis X forces.

From the relatively smooth second upper side 102 extends a fastener or button 104 up. The fastener 104 is sized so that it comes from a spout or cap 202 ( 2 ) respectively. 406 ( 4 ) can be recorded. In the illustrated embodiment, the attachment means 104 an outwardly projecting convex circular ring 105 on, who snaps into a spout (s. 202 in 2 and 406 in 4 ). In the illustrated embodiment, the attachment means 104 substantially cylindrical and formed about the axis X around. The ring 105 gets off the page 102 moved upwards. This creates a "mushroom" fastener 104 where a stem of the same is a smaller diameter than one through the ring 105 having a defined head.

2 shows a vehicle floor cover 204 between the fastening device 100 and the cap or upper spout 202 is attached. The mat or shell 204 has an upper surface 206 and a lower surface 208 on. From the upper surface 206 a hole extends 210 to the lower surface 208 , The hole 210 is suitable, the fastener 104 or a carpet mounting floor unit (s. 412 in 4 ). An upper spout or cap 202 snaps on the fastener 104 or alternatively on a carpet mounting floor unit 412 ( 4 ) to the vehicle floor cover 204 to attach to the vehicle carpet. The vehicle floor cover 204 may be a mat, a three-dimensional floor pan or any other vehicle floor covering for use in the footwell of a vehicle. After the vehicle floor cover 204 at the device 100 was attached and after the device 100 was pressed into the carpet pile, remains the vehicle floor cover 204 in the vehicle footwell in place.

3 shows a cross-sectional view of the fastening means 104 connected spout or cap 202 , The spout 202 has an upper section 304 on, extending radially over the circular ring 105 of the fastener 104 and over the entire hole 210 extends. Although the illustrated grommet 202 is a closed cap, the spout can 202 alternatively an upper section 304 which is open. The upper section 304 the spout 202 has a bottom surface 306 on. The vehicle floor cover is between the lower surface of the grommet 306 and the upper surface 102 the fastening device 100 edged.

In use, the fastener 104 in the hole 210 the vehicle floor cover 204 introduced. The spout 202 has a radially inwardly extending engagement ridge 302 on top of the circular ring 105 of the fastener 104 snaps. The engagement bar 302 extends from the downwardly depending, substantially cylindrical side wall 308 , The cylindrical side wall 308 forms an opening 310 made out of the fastener 104 receives. If the spout 202 on the fastener 104 is attached, is the vehicle floor cover 204 between the lower surface 306 the spout 202 and the second page 102 the device 100 positioned. The device is arranged on the carpet in the vehicle footwell and engages in the carpet pile 312 , The projections 106 extend through the carpet pile 312 However, they are dimensioned so that they do not extend through the back of the carpet 314 of the carpet 310 extend in the vehicle footwell. Accordingly, the bottom cover is secured in the vehicle footwell.

4 is an exploded view that shows how the vehicle floor cover 204 between a fastening device 400 , a lower one spout 406 and the upper spout or cap 202 is attached. The floor cover or mat 204 has an upper surface 206 and a lower surface 208 on. From the upper surface 206 a hole extends 210 to the lower surface 208 , The hole 210 is suitable, an upwardly projecting fastener 408 the lower spout, the part of a carpet attachment ground unit 412 is to record. In this embodiment, the carpet mounting floor unit includes 412 the lower spout 406 and the fastening device 400 , The lower spout 406 is suitable, the upwardly projecting fasteners and the upwardly projecting button 402 the fastening device 400 take. The fastener 402 resembles in its form the fastener 202 but may be smaller in diameter. The lower spout 406 snaps on the fastener 402 up and out with the help of the circular ring 404 the fastener securely attached. An upper spout 202 occurs in connection with the carpet mounting floor unit 412 by putting on the fastener 408 the lower spout snaps. The upper spout 202 is over a radially outwardly extending circular ring 410 on the fastener 408 the lower grommet securely on the lower spout 406 appropriate. In the illustrated embodiment, the vehicle floor cover 204 however, a mat, the vehicle floor covering may also be a three-dimensional floor pan or any other vehicle floor covering for use in the footwell of a vehicle.

5 shows a cross-sectional view of the lower spout 406 and the fastener 402 connected grommet 202 , The spout 202 has an upper section 304 on, extending radially over the circular ring 404 of the fastener 408 the lower spout and, in this illustrated embodiment, the bottom cover hole 210 completely covered. The upper section 304 the spout 202 has a bottom surface 306 on.

In use, a lower spout 406 on the fastener 402 snapped. The lower spout has an inner wall 506 on, at its upper end with an outer wall 507 the lower spout is connected. The inner wall 506 the lower spout terminates at its lower end with a radially inwardly extending engagement ridge 502 , Due to the vertical displacement of the engagement ridge 502 from the upper end of the inner wall 506 This can bend away from the device axis and towards this. The engagement bar 502 can thereby over the circular ring 404 of the fastener 402 grab. The fastener 408 the lower spout gets into the hole 210 the vehicle floor cover 204 introduced. The fastener 408 the lower spout has a circular ring 410 on, over which the engaging ridge 302 the upper spout 202 snaps.

Alternatively, the upper spout 202 so with the lower spout 406 mounted that ground cover 204 positioned between them. Subsequently, the fastening device 400 on the lower spout 406 snapped. This assembly sequence allows the restraint 400 attached to a previously provided with a spout mat set, as would be the case with an on-site retrofit.

The vehicle floor cover 204 will be between the bottom surface 306 the spout 202 and the upper side 504 the lower spout 406 positioned. The fastening device 400 has downwardly extending projections or thorns 508 similar to the spikes described above 106 are. Furthermore, the projections extend 508 as described above, through the carpet pile 312 However, they are dimensioned so that they do not extend through the back of the carpet 314 of the carpet 310 extend in the vehicle footwell.

Retaining devices according to the invention can be supplied to the consumer in a state in which the projections or thorns 106 are pressed into blocks of cardboard, meltblown polystyrene or the like. These protection blocks prevent the user from injuring his hand and thorns 106 . 508 to be damaged. The blocks (not shown) are removed immediately prior to attachment of the mat or tray in the vehicle footwell.

6A and 6B show a representative vehicle floor cover 204 In this case, a mat together with the upper spout 202 and the device 100 is attached. 6A shows the upper surface 206 the vehicle floor cover 204 , with the upper spout 202 is visible. 6B shows the bottom surface 208 the vehicle floor cover 204 , where the lower surface 112 the device 100 is visible.

7A shows an alternative embodiment 700 the device, wherein the projections or thorns 706 do not have a vertical side aligned with the axis. This second embodiment of the device is usable in embodiments in which the upper spout 202 on the knob or fastener 104 attached, as in 7B is shown. It is also usable in embodiments in which the lower grommet is attached to the attachment means (not shown), and usable with embodiments in which the upwardly protruding device button is thermoformed to the bottom cover (see FIG. 17 and 18 ). When using the in 7A and 7B illustrated embodiment, the device 700 be aligned so that the projections 706 towards the front of the vehicle and from the seat base 804 . 1004 ( 8th and 10 ) are angled away.

7B shows a cross-sectional view of the with the fastener or button 104 the device 700 connected upper spout 202 , The spout 202 has an upper section 304 on, extending radially over the circular ring 105 of the fastener 104 extends. The upper section 304 the spout 202 has a bottom surface 306 on. The vehicle floor cover is between the lower surface of the grommet 306 and the fastening device 700 edged. The projections 706 extend through the carpet pile 312 However, they are dimensioned so that they do not extend through the back of the carpet 314 of the carpet 310 extend in the vehicle footwell. Unsecured floor mats or shells tend to be pushed forward by a user's foot, causing them to wrinkle or wander up the bulkhead of the vehicle. If, on the other hand, they are installed so that the projections 706 forward towards the in 7B turned arrow hold the tabs 706 this forward-acting shear force stood still further into the carpet pile.

8th shows a conventional OEM footwell 800 a driver's side, before it is placed in a floor mat or shell. Usually the soil is 802 of the footwell 800 designed with a carpet. The floor 802 of the footwell 800 may be surrounded by other footwell surfaces to form a generally concave shape. These surrounding footwell surfaces can be a rear side or a back side 804 that the transition from the ground 802 to a seat base (not shown) forms; an inside page 806 that is between the ground 802 and a transmission tunnel or a center console is arranged; a splashboard 808 which is a forward continuation of the soil 802 which generally inclines upwards and forwards and in front of the accelerator and brake pedals 810 and 812 lies, and an outside page 814 between the footwell floor 802 and a doorstep 816 is arranged include.

Especially on the driver's side, vehicle manufacturers equip the floor space 800 nowadays usually (but not always) with one or two hold-down or restraint devices to fix the vehicle floor cover and prevent it from shifting and the gas pedal 810 and / or the brake pedal 812 with special needs. In this illustrated embodiment, there are two OEM restraints 818A and 818B taking the form of posts with enlarged heads 820 exhibit. In the illustrated embodiment, the OEM posts 818A and B are guided completely through the respective holes in the OEM floor mat (not shown).

9 shows one in the vehicle footwell 800 a driver's side installed vehicle floor shell 204 , The OEM restraints 818A and B were completely through the holes 210 in the bottom shell 204 guided. Two upper spouts 202 are installed to the mat 204 at the restraints 818A and B to attach.

10 shows a vehicle footwell 1000 a passenger side. As with the driver side footwell, the ground can 1002 of the footwell 1000 be surrounded by other Fußraumflächen to form a generally concave shape. These surrounding footwell surfaces can be a rear side or rear side 1004 that the transition from the ground 1002 to a seat base (not shown) forms; an inside page 1006 that is between the ground 1002 and a transmission tunnel or a center console is arranged; a splashboard 1008 which is a forward continuation of the soil 1002 which generally inclines upwards and forwards, and an outboard side 1010 between the footwell floor 1002 and a doorstep 1016 is arranged include. It should be noted that in the illustrated model in the footwell 1000 the passenger side no OEM restraints are available. Retainers provided by the manufacturer may also be absent in the second or third row foot rests and / or in a carpeted trunk area to the rear of the last passenger row.

11 shows one in the vehicle footwell 1000 a passenger side installed vehicle floor shell 204 a passenger side. The upper spouts 202 are on respective fasteners 104 of fastening devices 100 (not visible in this view). In 8th - 11 For example, the driver side footwell is positioned on the left side of the vehicle, and the passenger side footwell is positioned on the right side of the vehicle. This would be the case in North American and Continental European vehicles. For countries with vehicles where the driver's side is on the right side (eg UK, Australia and Japan), the relative positions of the driver's side and the passenger's side are reversed.

12 to 15 provide an overview of a method for manufacturing a device 100 for fastening a vehicle floor cover 204 on the carpet of a vehicle footwell after the present invention. In step 1202 becomes an injection mold 1300 provided ( 13 ). Form 1300 has a top 1302 and a core page 1304 on; a plane P separates the top 1302 from the core page 1304 , In step 1204 becomes the top 1302 defined the mold cavity. The top mold cavity 1302 forms the second upper side 102 the device 100 in the plane P and a fastener or a button 104 that is from the second page 102 extends upwards along an axis X.

In step 1206 becomes the core 1304 the form 1300 so defined that he is a core body 1306 and a plurality of spaced apart parallel ejector bars 1308 includes, each of the ejector rods 1308 within respective channels 1310 of the core body 1306 , which are aligned with the axis, is displaceable. In step 1208 become the upper surface 1312 of the core body 1306 and upper surfaces of the ejector bars 1318 Are defined. Each of the ejector bars 1308 has at least one vertical side 1316 (Step 1210 ), and most ejector bars have two such sides 1316 on, the mandrel cavities 1502 mounting. As in 16 is shown extends along each vertical side 1316 a plurality of spaced mandrel cavities 1502 from the top surface of the plane P down (step 1212 ). In some embodiments, such as in 15 illustrated embodiment, at least the inner of the ejector rods 1308 on a first and an opposite vertical second side mandrel cavities 1502 exhibit. The spaced mandrel cavities 1502 ends in respective peaks or points. In some embodiments, the tips in each row may be provided with a ventilation duct 1402 be connected (step 1213 ), which allows the escape of gas and ensures that the tips of the mandrel cavities 1502 be completely filled with polymer.

In step 1214 , if the device 100 is shaped, the ejector rods 1308 positioned so that the top surfaces 1318 the ejector rods with the upper surface of the core body 1312 coplanar are, as in 13 is shown. In step 1216 becomes the top 1302 the form 1300 on the core 1304 closed.

After the mold is closed, polymer is injected into the closed mold to the first side 112 , the second page 102 , the fastening means or the button 104 and the thorns 106 train (step 1218 ). In step 1219 is discharged via the ventilation ducts gas. Subsequently, in step 1220 form 1300 open. The next step ( 1222 ) is the ejector rods 1308 from the first position where the top surface 1318 the ejector rods with the upper surface of the core body 1312 Coplanar is, in a second position, in which the upper surfaces of the ejector rods 1318 over the upper surface of the core body 1312 are as in 14 shown is to advance. In step 1224 becomes the device 100 from the device form 1300 ejected.

16 - 21 show an embodiment of the invention, in which the generally with 1603 characterized retaining device in the course of their production directly to a ground cover 1604 is attached. The device has a thin, flat bottom 1605 with an outer boundary 1606 on. A plurality of protrusions or thorns 1610 extends as described above from a lower surface 1612 of the soil 1605 downward. A button 1614 extends from an upper surface 1616 of the soil 1605 up.

The device 1603 is during a process of thermoforming the bottom cover 1604 of a flat blank of thermoplastic material having a substantially uniform thickness on the bottom cover 1604 (which may be a floor mat or floor pan) attached. A height of the button 1614 from its upper surface 1618 to the upper surface 1616 the bottom must be at least twice and preferably at least three times the thickness of the thermoforming of the bottom cover 1604 used to allow the blank during the thermoforming of the outer side wall surface 1620 of the button 1614 equivalent.

The button 1614 is shaped so that the outer side wall surface 1620 at or near its upper surface 1618 issued radially outward, creating a flared section 1626 is created, and then relatively narrowed, the more its connection with the upper surface 1616 approaching the ground. In the illustrated embodiment, the button is 1614 designed so that it is radially symmetrical about an axis Z around, but it can also be designed differently. A right radius from the button area narrowing 1624 to the axis Z substantially less than a right radius of the issued section 1626 to the axis Z.

Optionally, a plurality of through holes 1628 be formed, extending from the upper surface 1616 to the lower surface 1612 of the soil 1605 extend. The through holes 1628 should be positioned so that they are close to the junction of the outer sidewall surface 1620 and the upper surface 1616 of the soil. The through holes 1628 are from the downward protrusions 1610 positioned radially inward. In a further embodiment (not shown) can through holes 1628 with the help of a second set of through holes through the button side panel 1629 be connected.

The through holes 1628 are associated with a partial vacuum source. One way to do this is in 19 shown. In the lower area 1612 is a ring channel 1632 designed to be with all of the through holes 1628 communicates and acts as a common vacuum supply line.

Before the thermoforming process, as in 20 is shown, a previously injection-molded retaining device 1603 in the device receiving structure 1700 placed in an upper side of a vacuum mattress 1704 is formed, positioned. The recording structure 1700 is in 21 shown in more detail. The structure 1700 has a disc-like recess 1712 with an outer boundary that is shaped to be the outer boundary 1606 of the device floor 1605 takes up tight. The depth of the recess 1712 is chosen to be the same thickness as the fixture bottom 1605 so that the upper surface 1616 the device 1603 flush with the local upper surface of the vacuum mold 1704 concludes.

A plurality of parallel, spaced free space slots 1713 is arranged radially inward from the recess boundary. The open space slots 1713 each take a row or part of a row of thorns 1610 on. In the middle of the structure 1700 is an upright alignment post 1711 placed in the interior of the device button 1614 fits and captures a device 1603 with the recording structure 1700 facilitated. Because the free space slots 1713 especially with angled surfaces 1715 ends, which may be formed so that they become angled surfaces of the thorns 1610 They can fit the device at both ends of a row 1603 to the thermoausformed mat or shell and thus to the vehicle footwell, for which the mat or shell is provided to align. This could be particularly important when, for example, beveled spikes or protrusions are used, as in 7A and 7B are shown. For devices with bevelled spikes 706 (see, for example 7A ) could be the end faces 1715 be chamfered in a corresponding manner.

The structure 1700 further includes one or more vacuum source lines 1722 which in use are connected to a vacuum source. The vacuum lines 1722 can with an annular vacuum channel 1632 ( 19 ) and thus with through holes 1628 keep in touch.

In use becomes a device 1603 to each device receiving structure 1700 in the shape 1704 customized; In one embodiment, there are two such structures 1700 , which are made for a form for a floor cover of a passenger side. Nevertheless, devices can 1603 also be provided for mats or shells that are in a first row on the driver's side, or for mats or shells for the second or third row, or for the cargo area and wherever OEM restraints are missing in corresponding foot well / cargo area areas. A blank of thermoplastic material is heated to soften and into the mold 1704 sucked. The at the exits of the through holes 1628 provided partial vacuum brings the soft thermoplastic material in close agreement with the outer side wall surface 1620 of the device button 1614 , Because the area 1620 is undercut, the device becomes 1603 directly on the cover 1604 attached without the need for a spout or cap, creating no hole in the cover 1604 needs to be provided. This avoids any problems associated with escaping liquid from the top of the mat or tray on the carpet to be protected by the same.

22 shows an alternative embodiment, in which the straight rows of spikes or protrusions through an outer ring assembly 2200 of spikes or protrusions and an inner ring assembly 2202 thorns or protrusions are replaced. Each of the thorns 2200 has a vertical side 2204 on the radially inward to the center of the device 2206 is turned. Each of the thorns 2202 has a vertical side 2208 on that in relation to the middle of the device 2206 turned radially outward. Each of the vertical sides 2208 corresponds to a cylindrical inner wall of an ejector, of which an impression with 2210 is marked. Each of the vertical sides 2204 corresponds in the same way to a cylindrical outer wall of the ejector sleeve. The use of the ejector sleeve walls for the partial definition of the mandrel cavities allows a precise definition of the mandrels or protrusions 2200 . 2202 , The annular mandrel assembly 2200 . 2202 is usable with devices that are attached to an upper spout or cap ( 3 ), Devices that are attached to a lower spout ( 5 ), or devices which are attached to a mat by a thermoforming process ( 17 ).

In a further embodiment of the invention, a grommet is provided which engages with any of a variety of vehicle floor retention posts. As 23 can be seen, spouts invention have two components: a Restraining grommet or lower grommet 2306 and an upper spout or cap 2308 , A retaining grommet or lower grommet 2306 is with a retaining post or bolt 2302 a vehicle floor space, a portion of a vehicle floor covering 2304 and an upper spout or cap 2308 arranged axially aligned. The retaining bolt 2302 The vehicle floor cover protrudes through the OEM vehicle carpet 2311 and is formed around an axis X around. The axis X is conventionally vertical, but may also be oblique to the vertical in some vehicle foot wells. The bolt or post 2302 can have an extensive floor 2309 which, in use, is below the OEM carpet layer 2311 is arranged.

The function of the vehicle floor cover 2304 This is the OEM carpet or surface 2311 to protect and provide the vehicle owner with an easy way to keep the vehicle foot well clean; the owner (or user or caregiver) removes the vehicle floor cover, cleans it and restores it in the footwell. The vehicle floor cover 2304 , which may be a floor mat or a floor pan, has a bottom cover retaining hole 2310 in, in which the lower spout 2306 protruding from below. Often there are two laterally spaced bolts or posts and bottom cover retention holes 2310 conventionally located near the rear outboard and the rear inboard corners of the footwell and the floorcover, of which in 23 and 27 - 27C However, only a representative example is shown.

The lower spout 2306 may be integrally molded from a polymeric material such as nylon or other suitable material. The lower spout 2306 comes with an enlarged head 2312 the vehicle floor cover retaining bolt or post 2302 engaged. The vehicle floor cover retaining bolt 2302 can the shape of in 23 or having a variety of other shapes depending on the make and model of the vehicle; four of these forms are in 27 - 27C and are explained below. In the illustrated embodiment, the lower spout extends 2306 through the bottom cover retention hole 2310 , and an upper spout or cap 2308 gets on the lower spout 2306 attached by snapping over the outer side wall of the lower grommet.

The upper spout 2308 extends in the illustrated embodiments through most or all of the retaining holes 2310 down, as described below. The upper spout 2308 may be integrally molded from a polymeric material, such as nylon, or other suitable material. In the illustrated embodiment, the upper spout 2308 a solid top or cap 2314 on that the bottom cover hole 2310 and the lower spout 2306 completely covered. Alternative embodiments of the upper spout 2308 may have an open top or a partially open top.

As 24 can be seen, has the lower spout 2306 an outer sidewall 2402 with an outer surface 2404 on. From the outside surface 2404 the outer sidewall 2402 the lower spout extends annular engagement ridge 2420 which may be orthogonal to the axis X, radially outward. A bottom cover retaining flange 2406 extends from the outer surface 2404 the outer sidewall 2402 radially outward and is from the engagement bar 2420 spaced down. The outer side wall 2402 extends from the retaining flange 2406 upwards at least up to an upper level or hinge level 2407 which is orthogonal to the axis X. In the illustrated embodiments, the outer sidewall 2402 the lower spout their upper end in level 2407 In other embodiments, the outer sidewall may be 2402 but also above the hinge level 2407 continue. In use and in this embodiment, the outer sidewall extends 2402 completely through the hole 2310 in a vehicle floor cover 2304 , as in 23 and 27 - 27C is shown.

A radially inwardly extending annular space 2410 is in the hinge plane 2407 arranged and formed in the illustrated embodiment so that it is perpendicular to the axis X. The annulus 2410 extends from the inner surface 2502 (S. 25 ) of the outer side wall 2402 to an inner annulus end 2411 , A plurality of angularly spaced fingers 2408 is disposed about the axis X and through the respective upper finger ends 2414 with the inner end 2411 of the annulus 2410 connected. In this illustrated embodiment, there are six fingers 2408 however, other embodiments may use more or fewer fingers 2408 exhibit, and the fingers 2408 may differ from the width shown in terms of the angular width (with respect to the axis X). Although in the illustrated embodiment the angular width of the fingers is uniform, this need not always be the case and some fingers 2408 may have different angular widths than others.

Every finger 2408 extends from its upper end 2414 axially down to a lower end 2412 , Every finger 2408 has an inner side wall surface 2418 which is approximately aligned with the axis X and an imaginary straight Cylinder (not shown) may correspond to the axis X around. Every finger 2408 bends under pressure to the outside, while behind the enlarged head 2312 of the retaining post 2302 engages (s. 27 ). In this embodiment, this diffraction occurs mostly in the region of the hinge plane 2407 on, near the point where the top end 2414 of the finger 2408 and the inner end 2411 of the annulus 2410 meet.

Every finger 2408 has a bead 2416 on, which is near the bottom 2412 of the finger 2408 located. The bead 2416 extends from the general inner side wall surface 2418 of the finger 2408 radially inward. The bead 2416 has an inclined surface 2422 on, extending from the inner sidewall surface 2418 of the finger 2408 axially downwardly and radially inwardly to an innermost boundary 2426 the bead 2416 extends. A lower inclined surface 2424 the bead 2416 can be different from the innermost limit 2426 the bead 2416 down and out to the bottom 2412 of the finger 2408 extend. The inclined surfaces 2422 . 2424 may, as shown, be frusto-conical or, alternatively, may correspond to or be flat with other surfaces of revolution about the axis X. The distance between the inner side wall surface 2418 and the innermost boundary 2426 the bead 2416 can range from 1 mm to 1.75 mm, measured along a radius that is perpendicular to the X axis. In the illustrated embodiment, the innermost boundary extends 2426 the bead 2416 from the inner side wall surface 2418 about 1.25 mm radially inward. The lower and the upper inclined surface 2424 . 2422 lie at angles with respect to the axis X. The angle of the upper inclined surface 2422 can be in the range of 30 to 60 degrees. In some embodiments, the angle of the inclined surface 2422 forty-five degrees. The angle of the final inclined surface 2424 can range from 120 to 160 degrees and be chosen to be 150 degrees.

The bead 2416 is suitable with a vehicle floor cover retaining post or bolt 2302 to get in touch (s. 23 and 27 - 27C ). The bead 2416 is shaped to fit with vehicle floor cover retaining bolts 2302 different sizes and shapes can be engaged, as with reference to 27 - 27C is explained. In alternative embodiments, the bead 2416 have a different shape than that shown.

As 25 it can be seen, lies the outer side wall surface 2504 every finger 2408 opposite the inner side wall surface 2418 of the finger 2408 , The area 2504 is from the area 2502 spaced. The inner surface 2502 the outer sidewall 2402 extends from the bottom cover retaining flange 2406 to the annulus 2410 ,

26 shows a section of the lower spout 2306 essentially along a plane including the axis X when at the upper spout or cap 2308 is appropriate. The upper spout 2308 has a downwardly extending side wall 2602 on, of which an annular rib or a ring-shaped latch 2604 extends radially inward. The annular rib 2604 the upper spout 2308 snaps over the engagement bar 2420 the lower spout 2306 , In this way, the upper spout 2308 on the lower spout 2306 secured. Alternative embodiments may have other features for attaching the upper spout 2308 on the lower spout 2306 , such as latching means with other than the illustrated forms, pressure and rotational arrangements or thread having.

Every finger 2408 space must be available for diffraction. Therefore, the radial distance (the term "radial" as used herein means a direction perpendicular to the axis X) should be between the innermost boundary 2426 the bead 2416 and the general inner side wall surface 2418 of the finger 2408 less than or as large as the radial spacing between the inner surface 2502 the outer sidewall 2402 and the outer side wall surface 2504 of the finger 2408 be. This spacing is then large enough to allow the complete outer radial movement of the bead 2416 to allow them behind the retaining post head 2312 attacks. The radial strength of the bead 2416 from the innermost boundary 2426 to the general inner side wall surface 2418 of the finger 2408 can be selected from the range of 1 to 3 mm. In some embodiments, the thickness of the bead 2416 1.25 mm.

In the illustrated embodiment, each finger 2408 two sections on: one in the hinge plane 2407 arranged first radial section 2606 and a second, downwardly extending axial portion 2608 , The first paragraph 2606 extends in the hinge plane 2407 radially inward until it connects to the second section 2608 ,

The second section 2608 depends on the inner end of the first section 2606 downward. Alternatively, the fingers can 2408 be formed so that they without any intermediate radial finger portion of the annulus 2410 hang directly down.

27 - 27C show the lower spout 2306 and the upper spout 2308 for fastening a vehicle floor cover 2304 at any one of several differently shaped ones Road restraint bolts 2302 , As 5 it can be seen, the retaining pin 2302 an enlarged head 2312 on the top of the bolt 2302 equivalent. The head 2312 has a retaining bolt head wall 2702 up and owns in the in 27 embodiment shown an inclined transition wall 2704 , The head sits on top of a stalk 2706 whose diameter is smaller than the retaining bolt head wall 2702 is.

The finger 2408 the lower spout 2306 stand with the retaining bolt 2302 engaged. As described above, the bead 2416 of the finger 2408 an upper inclined surface 2422 and a lower inclined surface 2424 on. In the illustrated embodiment, the upper inclined surface 2422 the bead 2416 smaller than the lower inclined surface 2424 the bead 2416 , Alternative embodiments may be fingers 2408 with beads 2416 have the other shapes and upper inclined surfaces 2422 and lower inclined surfaces 2424 with other lengths or angles than those in 27 - 27C illustrated bead 2416 exhibit. The upper inclined surfaces 2422 are still large enough to have extended contact surfaces with the faces of different post heads 2312 to offer. The inclined surfaces 2422 in this way offer greater adaptability of the grommet to different retention posts 2302 ,

As in 27 is shown, is the upper inclined surface 2422 with the transition wall 2704 of the retaining bolt 2302 engaged. In this illustrated embodiment, the inclination of the upper inclined surface is correct 2422 and the slope of the transition wall 2704 approximately coincide with each other. In alternative embodiments, the slopes may be different or exactly coincident with each other. The attachment of the lower spout 2306 on the retaining bolt 2302 is then guaranteed if the innermost limit 2426 the bead 2416 extends inward so that the inner diameter of the lower spout 2306 at this point larger than the diameter of the stem 2706 but smaller than the diameter of the retaining bolt head wall 2702 is.

The inclination of the lower inclined surface 2424 is determined so that the lower spout 2306 over the retention post head 2312 and a user can easily grasp the bottom grommet on the post head 2312 can index. The finger 2408 essentially bend in the hinge plane 2407 when over the retaining post head 2312 slide; then the fingers return 2408 elastically return or remain in their home position, depending on the size of the retention post stem 2706 with which they engage, in a half-bent position.

Like everyone else 27 - 27C can also be seen, the cap has 2308 a down-hanging side wall 2708 with an outer side wall surface 2710 on. This outer side wall surface 2710 fits in the bottom cover hole 2710 and forms the section of the spout 2705 that the hole 2710 limited.

27 shows a retaining post or bolt 2302 with a first profile. A top 2720 the retaining post is located near the lower surface 2722 the cap 2308 , The retaining post head wall 2702 is near the general inner sidewall surface 2418 the finger 2408 , The angle of the transition wall 2704 is approximately equal to that of the inclined surface 2422 is about twice as long. The diameter of the stem 2706 is significantly smaller than the inner diameter of the lower spout 2306 measured over the innermost bead boundaries 2426 ,

27A shows the spout 2305 as she has a vehicle floor cover 2304 at a retention post 2730 attached, which has a different profile than the retention post 2302 having. The diameter of the enlarged head 2732 of the post 2730 is smaller than that of the post 2302 , The inclined surface 2422 the bead 2416 is still long enough to be pressed in behind the inclined wall 2734 to get in touch. An upper wall 2736 of the post 2730 is not as high as the top wall 2720 of the retaining post 2302 ,

In 27B is a retention post 2740 to see a much thicker stalk 2742 having. The diameter of the stem 2742 is about the same as the minimum inner diameter of the lower spout measured over the innermost bead boundaries 2426 , The spout 2305 can even pick up poles with stems thicker than these, as long as there is a clear difference between the diameter of the pole head and that of the pole stalk. The positions of the inclined side wall 2744 and the upper wall 2746 are similar to the retaining post 2302 ,

The in 27C illustrated retaining posts 2750 has no inclined transition wall between his head 2752 and his stalk 2754 on. Instead, the vertical wall ends 2756 Of the head 2752 at an abrupt corner 2758 , From this corner 2758 extends a horizontal surface 2760 to a side wall 2762 of the post stalk 2754 , The inclined surface 2422 comes with the corner 2758 engaged to the ground cover 2304 at the post 2750 to keep. The inclined surface 2422 is large enough to snap in different positions behind the lower mullion corners and keep the spouted ground cover still on the mullion.

28 shows a further embodiment 2800 the lower spout. In this embodiment are between the fingers 2408 relatively small (in terms of their angular width with respect to the axis X) guide ribs 2802 used. In this embodiment, there is between each pair of adjacent fingers 2408 a little guide rib 2802 ; alternative embodiments, however, guide ribs 2802 at shorter intervals, and the guide ribs 2802 may have widths and heights that differ from those shown. In particular, alternative embodiments may include three guide ribs 2802 exhibit, between a subset of the fingers 2408 are used. The guide ribs 2802 are elongated, aligned with the axis X and are along their axial outer ends on the inner surface 2502 the outer sidewall 2402 appropriate. The general inner side wall surfaces 2418 the finger 2408 each correspond to an imaginary cylinder, which is slightly larger than the diameter of the largest post head 2312 is the lower spout 2306 to record, as in 29 is shown. The guiding or supporting ribs 2802 extend radially inward to end at just this imaginary cylinder. The guide ribs 2802 are not designed to be bendable and therefore more resistant to the lateral displacement of the floor cover 2304 (and the lower spout installed in it 2306 ) with respect to the retention post header 2312 ,

Another embodiment 3000 a lower spout is in 30 shown. As shown, the lower spout has 3000 small guide ribs 3002 and small transverse ribs 3004 on. Every cross rib 3004 extends from the inner surface 2502 the outer sidewall 2402 to the outer side wall surface 2504 of the respective finger 2408 , An angular width of each transverse rib 3004 (with respect to the axis X) is significantly smaller than the angular width of the finger supported by it 2408 , The angular width of the transverse rib 3004 For example, can be a quarter of the angular width of the finger 2408 or less. Each transverse rib depends on the annulus 2410 (not shown; s. 26 ) over a predetermined distance less than the axial length of the finger supported by it 2408 can be, down. The transverse ribs 3004 are behind each finger 2408 to increase the bending strength and a lateral support against the head of the retaining bolt 2302 to provide the vehicle floor cover. In this embodiment, there is a small guide rib between each finger 3002 and behind every finger 2408 a transverse rib 3004 ; alternative embodiments, however, guide ribs 3002 and transverse ribs 3004 at shorter intervals, and the guide ribs 3002 and transverse ribs 3004 may have widths and heights that differ from those shown.

In the in 30 illustrated embodiment, the fingers bend 2408 around a post head 2312 in a manner different from the diffraction of the embodiments described above. When the fingers 2408 over the post head 2312 they tend to move or stretch as a unit radially outward, and will flex less articulated. Such articulated flexion is more likely along the length of the finger 2408 do not occur through a transverse rib 3004 supported or stiffened. Otherwise, your fingers will stretch 2408 as a combined ring, reducing the ring stiffness of the outer sidewall 2402 stronger. Every cross rib 3004 may also be made thin enough that it flexes and translates tangentially under a radial force exerted by the post head, allowing greater articulation of the finger supported by it.

In the in 31 illustrated embodiment are a lower spout 2306 and an upper spout 2308 mounted so that they have a hole in a floor cover 2304 dress, and over the post or bolt 2302 a vehicle carpet fastener 3102 caught. The fastening device 3102 has a body 3124 which may be formed of nylon or other suitable polymeric compound. The device 3102 has a first lower side 3122 and a second upper side 3120 which are both flat and are substantially perpendicular to the X axis. The body 3124 is in relation to the overall height of the fastening device 3102 thin and flat and may have a round, square, rectangular or hexagonal boundary shape or any other shape that provides economically acceptable results. In the illustrated embodiment, the lateral boundary of the device body is 3124 spaced from the axis X by a radius which is a multiple of the radius of the head wall 3108 or the stem 3114 is.

From the first page 3122 many projections extend 3104 parallel to the axis X down. In this embodiment, the projections 3104 arranged in linear rows, have a triangular bottom and are pyramidal. The projections 3104 in the illustrated embodiment are thorns. Other embodiments may include protrusions of other shapes and / or bottoms of other shapes such that the protrusions are substantially circular or rectangular pyramids. The projections 3104 grab into the carpet pile of the footwell, thereby preventing the device from becoming damaged 3102 and the spouts attached to it 2306 . 2308 and the ground cover 2304 move.

As 31 can be seen, has the fastening device 3102 a horizontally enlarged head 3106 on. In this embodiment, the enlarged head 3106 an upwardly concave top 3112 which has been selected for formability purposes. Other embodiments may have flat or hollow tops. The head 3106 has a head wall 3108 which is circular cylindrical and centered with respect to the axis X. The head 3106 sits on top of a cylindrical stem 3114 whose diameter is less than the head wall 3108 is. In this embodiment, an inclined frusto-conical transition surface or wall extends 3110 from an upper end of the outer surface of the stem 3114 upwards and outwards to a lower end of the head wall 3108 ,

The finger 2408 the lower spout 2306 stand with the retaining bolt 2302 engaged. As described above, the bead 2416 every finger 2408 an upper inclined surface 2422 and a lower inclined surface 2424 on. In the illustrated embodiment, the upper inclined surface 2422 the bead 2416 smaller than the lower inclined surface 2424 the bead 2416 , The lower inclined surface 2424 can be aligned at about 150 degrees to the X axis. The upper inclined surface 2422 may be aligned at about 45 degrees to the X axis. Alternative embodiments may be fingers 2408 with beads 2416 have the other shapes and upper inclined surfaces 2422 and lower inclined surfaces 2424 have other lengths or angles. As in 31 represented is the upper inclined surface 2422 with the fixture head 3106 engaged.

As in 31 is shown, is the upper inclined surface 2422 with the transition wall 3110 the fastening device 3102 engaged. In this illustrated embodiment, the inclination of the upper inclined surface is correct 2422 and the slope of the transition wall 3110 at least approximately coincident with each other. In alternative embodiments, the slopes may be different. The attachment of the lower spout 2306 on the retaining bolt 2302 is then guaranteed if the innermost limit 2426 the bead 2416 extends inward so that the inner diameter of the lower spout 2306 at this point larger than the diameter of the stem 3114 but smaller than the diameter of the retaining bolt head wall 3108 is.

The inclination of the lower inclined surface 2424 is determined so that the lower spout 2306 over the retention post head 3106 and a user can easily grasp the bottom grommet on the post head 3106 can index. The finger 2408 essentially bend in the horizontal hinge plane 2407 when over the retaining post head 2312 slide; then the fingers return 2408 elastically return or remain in their home position, depending on the size of the retention post stem 3114 with which they engage, in a half-bent position.

Another embodiment 3200 a lower spout is in 32 shown. In the in 32 embodiment shown are the fingers 3219 thicker than in the 23 - 31 illustrated embodiments; the fingers have a greater distance between the inner side wall surface 3206 and the outer side wall surface 3204 on. In addition, each finger is between the upper side or hinge plane 3220 and the top inner surface 3222 thicker. That to the fingers 3219 added filler increases the strength and strength of the fingers 3219 reduces its displacement under any radially acting force and increases its stiffness or spring constant. While the in 32 shown fingers 3219 not nested with the centering ribs, could also nested centering ribs in a similar way as to 33 shown and described below.

In 33 has the lower spout 3300 six centering ribs 3302 on. Other embodiments may use a different number of centering ribs 3302 exhibit. The centering ribs 3302 are between adjacent fingers 3306 positioned. In the illustrated embodiment, there is between each adjacent pair of fingers 3306 a single centering rib 3302 , Other embodiments may use a different number of centering ribs 3302 exhibit. By the arrangement of the centering ribs 3302 become the fingers 3306 during installation of the lower spout 3300 on a vehicle floor cover retaining post or bolt 2302 protected against breakage (s. 23 ). The post ( 2312 in 23 ) can be installed during installation by the consumer along the centering ribs 3302 slide. A lower edge 3312 each centering rib 3302 can be in by a bottom surface 3304 the lower spout flange 3314 end of the horizontal plane.

In the in 34 embodiment shown are a lower spout 2306 and an upper spout 2308 mounted so that they have a hole in a floor cover 2304 dress, and over the head or bolt 2302 a vehicle carpet fastener 3401 caught. The fastening device 3401 has a body 3406 which may be formed of nylon or other suitable polymeric compound. The device 3401 has a first lower side 3418 and a second upper side 3420 on, with both sides being level and themselves substantially perpendicular to the axis X are located. The body 3406 is in relation to the overall height of the fastening device 3401 thin and flat and may have a round, square, rectangular or hexagonal boundary shape or any other shape that provides economically acceptable results. In the illustrated embodiment, the lateral boundary of the device body is 3406 spaced from the axis X by a radius which is a multiple of the radius of the head wall 3408 or the stem 3414 is.

In the 34 illustrated fastening device 3401 is used on carpet-free vehicle foot wells 3404 , such as those made of vinyl or painted metal used. The fastening device 3401 (S. 35 ) has an adhesive layer 3402 on, on the lower side 3418 of the fixture body 3406 is appropriate. In the illustrated embodiment, the adhesive layer 3402 a smaller diameter than the fastener body 3406 on; other embodiments, on the other hand, may have an adhesive layer 3402 with an identical diameter as the fastener body 3406 or a different shape or diameter than that shown. The adhesive layer 3402 may be formed by a foam core with opposing adhesive surfaces, wherein a lower surface of the adhesive layer 3402 may be protected by a peelable release liner (not shown) prior to being applied by a consumer or user to an upper smooth surface of the vehicle footwell 3404 is glued on.

As 34 can be seen, has the fastening device 3401 a horizontally enlarged head 3416 on. In this embodiment, the enlarged head 3416 an upwardly concave top 3412 which has been selected for formability purposes. Other embodiments may have flat or hollow tops. The head 3416 has a head wall 3408 which is circular cylindrical and centered with respect to the axis X. The head 3416 sits on top of a cylindrical stem 3414 whose outside diameter is less than the top wall 3408 is. In this embodiment, an inclined frusto-conical transition surface or wall extends 3410 from an upper end of the outer surface of the stem 3414 upwards and outwards to a lower end of the head wall 3408 ,

The finger 2408 the lower spout 2306 stand with the retaining bolt or post 3422 engaged. As described above, the bead 2416 every finger 2408 an upper inclined surface 2422 and a lower inclined surface 2424 on. In the illustrated embodiment, the upper inclined surface 2422 the bead 2416 smaller than the lower inclined surface 2424 the bead 2416 , The lower inclined surface 2424 can be aligned at about 150 degrees to the X axis. The upper inclined surface 2422 may be aligned at about 45 degrees to the X axis. Alternative embodiments may be fingers 2408 with beads 2416 have the other shapes and upper inclined surfaces 2422 and lower inclined surfaces 2424 have other lengths or angles. As in 34 represented is the upper inclined surface 2422 with the fixture head 3416 engaged.

As in 34 shown is the upper inclined surface 2422 with the transition wall 3410 of the fixture post 3422 engaged. In this illustrated embodiment, the inclination of the upper inclined surface is correct 2422 and the slope of the transition wall 3410 at least approximately coincident with each other. In alternative embodiments, the slopes may be different. The attachment of the lower spout 2306 on the retaining bolt 3422 is then guaranteed if the innermost limit 2426 the bead 2416 extends inward so that the inner diameter of the lower spout 2306 at this point larger than the diameter of the stem 3414 but smaller than the diameter of the retaining bolt head wall 3408 is.

The inclination of the lower inclined surface 2424 is determined so that the lower spout 2306 over the retention post head 3416 and a user can easily grasp the bottom grommet on the post head 3416 can index. The finger 2408 essentially bend in the horizontal hinge plane 2407 when over the retaining post head 2312 slide; then the fingers return 2408 elastically return or remain in their home position, depending on the size of the retention post stem 3414 with which they engage, in a half-bent position. The fastening device 3401 is useful in any combination of lower and upper spouts as illustrated and described herein.

35 shows the adhesive layer 3402 on the lower side 3418 of the fastening body 3406 , In this embodiment, the lower side 3418 almost completely from the adhesive layer 3402 covered. Other embodiments may include adhesive layers 3402 having other dimensions or shapes as long as they provide economically acceptable results.

In 36 and 37 is a lower spout 3600 shown, which is usable with any of the above-described upper spouts and fastening devices. The spout 3600 is preferably formed in one piece. Similar to the in 33 illustrated embodiment is between each pair of fingers 3604 a centering rib 3602 arranged. Each centering rib 3602 Aligns vertically with the axis of the spout 3600 , A strength of each centering rib 3602 is smaller than the radial spacing between adjacent fingers 3604 , Each centering rib 3602 is like that with the outer sidewall 3606 the lower spout 3600 molded in one piece, extending from the cylindrical inner surface 3608 the tulle side wall 3606 extends radially inward.

The finger 3604 resemble the in 33 shown fingers 3306 , Every finger 3604 ends in a bead 3610 that has a radial inner boundary 3612 having. Every bead 3610 has a pair of inclined surfaces 3614 and 3616 on that in conjunction with 32 described inclined surfaces 3208 . 3212 resemble. Each centering rib 3602 has an inner vertical surface or boundary 3618 on, which is arranged on an imaginary cylindrical surface, that of the surface 3608 the tulle side wall 3606 radially inwardly spaced, but from the position of the inner vertical surfaces 3612 the bead, which they occupy in an undeflected state, is arranged radially outward. Axial can be any centering rib 3602 from the through the lower surface 3620 the lower spout flange 3622 occupied plane to the upper end of the tulle side wall 3606 extend. A lower surface 3624 each centering rib 3602 can through a curved transition 3626 with the inner vertical surface 3618 be connected to the same. Instead in through the bottom surface 3620 plane can end any surface 3624 also on the lower surface 3627 of a ring 3629 end where the area 3627 one level below the lower surface 3620 occupies.

Every finger 3604 has one or more guide ribs associated therewith 3628 on, by an outer cylindrical side wall 3630 of the finger 3604 are arranged radially outwards. Every leadership rib 3628 extends from the inner surface 3608 the tulle side wall 3606 radially inward. An inner surface or boundary 3632 every leadership rib 3628 is from the outer cylindrical side wall 3630 of the finger 3604 It is spaced apart. A lower limit or area 3634 every leadership rib 3628 can with the lower flange surface 3620 be coplanar or, as shown, with the lower surface 3627 of the ring 3629 be coplanar. Each guide rib extends from the surface 3634 axially up to its end and its connection to a lower surface of a hinge element of the finger 3604 (similar to area 3222 , as in 32 shown).

In this illustrated embodiment, the guide ribs 3628 about as thick as the centering ribs 3602 , In the illustrated embodiment, there are three guide ribs 3628 for every finger 3604 provided and arranged around the axis so that they are evenly spaced from each other and from the adjacent centering ribs 3602 are spaced. The number, arrangement and spacing of the guide ribs 3628 are changeable, if required by other design specifications. The strength or angular extent of each guide rib 3628 is smaller than the spacing between the same and an adjacent guide rib 3628 or centering rib 3602 ,

38 shows a spout 3600 in a respect to the retention post 3800 a vehicle mat inclined position. The spout 3600 can take this position when it is attached to a mat or bottom tray (not shown) and when placed on the post 3800 is lowered. In this position and without the provision of guide ribs 3628 can be one or more of the fingers 3604 at the head 3802 of the post 3800 get stuck, causing them to flex inwardly toward the axle during mat mounting and inadvertently become excessively curved or even break off. Each group of guide ribs 3628 prevents or limits at least the contact between the post head 3802 and radial outer surfaces of the associated fingers 3604 ,

In summary, embodiments of a vehicle floor cover grommet have been illustrated and described that can accommodate any of a variety of vehicle floor space retention posts. The present invention further provides a fastening device that enables the attachment of vehicle floor coverings in various vehicle foot wells. The attachment device has protrusions that engage the carpet of a vehicle footwell, and a fastener that is received in an upper spout or cap, a lower spout, or a bottom cover that is thermoformed about an upstanding button. The vehicle floor cover is enclosed between the spout and the fastening device and releasably attachable in the vehicle footwell.

While illustrated embodiments of the present invention have been described and illustrated in the accompanying drawings, the present invention is not limited to the same, but only by the scope and spirit of the appended claims.

Claims (45)

Device for fastening a vehicle floor covering to the carpet in the footwell of a vehicle, the device comprising: a body having a first side, a second side opposite the first side, and an axis defined to be perpendicular to the first and second sides; a plurality of protrusions extending from the first side, each protrusion spaced from adjacent protrusions, the protrusions forming a two-dimensional array; the projections being formed in linear rows and each having a vertical side aligned with the axis, the vertical sides being coplanar in any row, the rows being a first row and a second row parallel to and adjacent to the first row wherein the vertical sides in the first row are aligned so as to face the vertical sides in the second row; and a fastener extending from the second side along the axis opposite the protrusions, wherein the fastener is dimensioned to be received in a grommet of a vehicle floor cover. The device of claim 1, wherein the body is formed of nylon. The device of claim 1, wherein the protrusions are spikes. The device of claim 1, wherein each of the plurality of protrusions has a triangular bottom. A system for releasably attaching a vehicle floor cover to the carpet in the footwell of a vehicle, comprising: a carpet attachment member, the attachment member having a body having a first side, a second side opposite the first side, and an axis formed to be perpendicular to the first side, wherein a plurality of spikes parallel to the axis of the first Side down and is suitable to penetrate into the carpet, wherein a fastening means is integrally formed with the body and extending from the second side upwards; a vehicle floor cover having an upper surface and a lower surface, wherein a hole is formed from the lower surface to the upper surface, the hole being adapted to receive the fastener; and an upper spout wherein an opening of the upper spout receives the fastener, the upper spout and the fastener releasably attaching the vehicle floor cover to the carpet. The system of claim 5, wherein the first attachment means includes a mushroom head that snaps into the opening of the upper spout to secure the upper spout to the attachment member. The system of claim 5, wherein the vehicle floor cover has two holes, a fastener being received in each of the holes, with a respective upper grommet receiving a respective fastener for each hole. The system of claim 5, wherein the upper spout is a closed cap that snaps into the fastener. The system of claim 5, wherein the footwell is a passenger-side footwell and the vehicle floor cover is a passenger-side floor cover, the system further comprising a driver-side vehicle footwell, at least one OEM floor-covering fastening device protruding up from a floor of the driver's foot-side footwell, and a bottom cover Driver's side includes, with a grommet in the bottom cover of the driver's side receives the OEM bottom cover fixing device. A system for releasably attaching a vehicle floor cover to the carpet in the footwell of a vehicle, comprising: a carpet fastener, the fastener member having a body having a first side, a second side opposite the first side, and an axis formed at an angle perpendicular to the first side, wherein a plurality of spikes extend parallel to the axis from the first side downwardly; is adapted to penetrate into the carpet, wherein a fastening means is formed integrally with the body and extending from the second side upwards; a lower spout connected to the attachment means, wherein a lower spout attachment means extends upwardly from the lower spout; a vehicle floor cover having a top surface and a bottom surface, wherein a hole is formed from the bottom surface to the top surface, the hole being adapted to receive the bottom spout attachment means; and an upper spout wherein an opening of the upper spout receives the lower spout attachment means to releasably attach the vehicle floor cover to the carpet. The system of claim 10, wherein the first attachment means includes a mushroom head that snaps into the opening of the spout to secure the vehicle floor cover to the carpet. The system of claim 10, wherein the vehicle floor cover has two holes, a fastener being received in each of the holes, a respective upper grommet receiving a respective fastener. The system of claim 10, wherein the upper spout is a closed cap that snaps onto the fastener. The system of claim 10, wherein the footwell is a passenger-side footwell and the vehicle floor cover is a passenger-side floor cover, the system further comprising a driver-side vehicle footwell, at least one OEM floor-covering fastening device protruding up from a floor of the driver's foot-side footwell and a bottom cover Driver's side includes, with a grommet in the bottom cover of the driver's side receives the OEM bottom cover fixing device. Device for fastening a vehicle floor covering to the carpet in the footwell of a vehicle, the device comprising: a body having a first side, a second side opposite the first side, and an axis defined to be perpendicular to the first and second sides; a plurality of protrusions extending from the first side, each protrusion spaced from adjacent protrusions, the protrusions forming a two-dimensional array, the protrusions being formed in linear rows; and a single fastener extending from the second side along the axis opposite the protrusions, wherein the fastener is dimensioned to be received in a grommet. The system of claim 15, wherein the attachment means includes a mushroom head that snaps into the opening of the spout to secure the vehicle floor cover to the carpet. A ground cover grommet adapted to be used with floor cover retaining posts of different shapes in a vehicle footwell, the grommet comprising: a lower spout, wherein an outer side wall of the lower spout is formed about an axis and has an outer surface and an inner surface, a bottom cover retaining flange of the lower spout connected to the outer side wall and extending radially outward from the outer surface of the outer side wall, the outer side wall of the lower spout extending axially from the retaining flange to a hinge plane of the lower spout; an annular space disposed in the hinge plane of the lower spout and extending radially inwardly from the outer side wall of the lower spout to an inner end of the annular space; a plurality of fingers disposed about the axis angularly spaced from each other with an upper end of each finger connected to the inner end of the annulus such that the annulus spaces the upper end from the inner surface of the outer sidewall; each finger extending axially downwardly from the upper end of the finger to a lower end of the finger and having an inner side wall surface disposed between the upper and lower finger ends, i. H. aligned with the axis, is arranged; for each finger, a bead formed near the lower end of the finger and extending radially inwardly from the inner side wall surface of the finger, the bead being adapted to press-fit with any of a plurality of differently shaped predetermined vehicle foot restraining post headers to stand; and an upper spout wherein a downwardly extending side wall of the upper spout is adapted to be secured to the outer surface of the outer side wall of the lower spout. The ground cover spout of claim 17, wherein a side wall of the upper spout snaps into the outer surface of the outer side wall of the lower spout. The floor covering spout of claim 18, wherein the outer side wall of the lower spout has an engagement rib formed at an angle to the axis configured to extend radially outwardly from the outer surface of the side wall, the side wall of the upper spout having an inner surface and an inner surface Latch extending radially inwardly from the latter inner surface, the latch engaging with the engagement ridge of the outer side wall of the lower spout. The floor covering grommet of claim 17, wherein the upper grommet is in the form of a cap, the upper grommet completely covering an upper surface of the lower grommet. The ground cover spout of claim 17, wherein the upper end of each finger has a first portion extending inwardly from the inner end of the annulus, a second portion of the finger extending downwardly from the first portion of the finger. A ground cover spout according to claim 17, wherein for each finger the bead of the finger is a innermost boundary, wherein a spacing between the inner surface of the outer sidewall and an outer surface of each finger is greater than or equal to a distance between the innermost boundary of the bead and the inner sidewall surface of the finger. The ground cover spout of claim 17, wherein the upper end of the finger and the annulus form a hinge about which the finger bends. The floor covering spout of claim 17, further comprising a plurality of angularly spaced apart vertical ribs aligned with and about the axis, each vertical rib positioned between adjacent fingers and spaced therefrom, wherein the inner sidewall surfaces of the fingers correspond to one another Corresponding axis aligned imaginary cylinder, wherein each vertical rib extends from the inner surface of the outer side wall of the lower spout radially inwardly to the imaginary cylinder. The ground cover spout of claim 17, wherein the lower spout is integrally molded from a polymeric material. A ground cover grommet adapted to be used with floor cover retaining posts of different shapes in a vehicle footwell, the grommet comprising: a lower spout, wherein an outer side wall of the lower spout is formed about an axis and has an inner surface and an outer surface, a bottom cover retaining flange of the lower spout connected to the outer side wall and extending radially outward from the outer surface of the outer side wall, the outer side wall extending axially from the retaining flange to an upper level of the lower spout; a plurality of fingers formed about the axis angularly spaced from one another, each finger spaced radially inwardly from the inner surface of the outer sidewall, an inner sidewall surface of each finger on an imaginary cylinder aligned with the axis is arranged, wherein the fingers are formed integrally with the outer side wall of the lower spout; wherein each finger has a lower end spaced axially downwardly from the upper plane of the outer side wall, each finger having a bead, an inner end of the bead being disposed radially inwardly from the inner side wall surface of the latter finger and close to the lower end of the finger, each bead having an innermost boundary closest to the axis, an inclined surface of the bead extending upwardly and outwardly from the innermost boundary of the bead to on the inner sidewall surface of the finger to end; and an upper spout, wherein a downwardly extending side wall of the upper spout is adapted to be attached to the outer surface of the outer side wall of the lower spout. The ground cover spout of claim 26, wherein a radial distance, measured perpendicular to the axis, between the innermost boundary of the bead and the inner sidewall surface of the respective finger ranges from about 1 to about 3 mm. The ground cover spout of claim 26, wherein the inclined surface of the bead is at an angle with respect to the axis in the range of about 30 to about 60 degrees. The ground cover spout of claim 28, wherein the angle is 45 degrees. The ground cover spout of claim 26, wherein each bead has a second inclined surface extending downwardly from the innermost boundary of the bead and out to the bottom of the finger. The ground cover spout of claim 26, wherein the upper spout is in the form of a cap that completely covers an upper side of the lower spout. The ground cover spout of claim 26, wherein each finger has an outer sidewall surface, wherein a radial distance between the innermost boundary of the bead and the inner sidewall surface of the respective finger measured perpendicular to the axis is less than or equal to a radial spacing between the inner surface measured perpendicular to the axis the outer side wall of the lower spout and the outer side wall surface of the finger is. The floor covering spout of claim 26, further comprising a plurality of angularly spaced apart vertical ribs aligned with and about the axis, each vertical rib positioned between adjacent fingers and spaced therefrom, each vertical rib extending from the inner surface of the vertical rib outer side wall of the lower spout extends radially inwardly to the imaginary cylinder. The ground cover spout of claim 26, wherein the bottom spout is integrally molded from a thermoplastic polymer material. A floor covering grommet adapted to be used with floor cover retaining posts of different shapes in a vehicle footwell, the grommet comprising: a lower grommet, an outer sidewall of the lower grommet being formed about an axis and having an outer surface and an inner surface Bottom cover retaining flange of the lower spout is connected to the outer side wall and extends radially outwardly from the outer surface of the outer side wall, wherein the outer side wall of the retaining flange extends axially up to an upper level of the lower spout; a plurality of fingers formed about the axis angularly spaced from each other, each finger having an outer sidewall surface spaced radially inwardly from the inner surface of the outer sidewall, an inner sidewall surface of each finger on a first sidewall disposed with the axis aligned imaginary cylinder, wherein the fingers are formed integrally with the outer side wall of the lower spout; each finger having a lower end spaced axially and downwardly from the upper plane of the outer sidewall, each finger having a bead, an inner end of the bead extending radially inwardly from the inner sidewall surface of the latter finger and near the lower one An end of the finger, each bead having an innermost boundary closest to the axis, an inclined surface of the bead extending upwardly and outwardly from the innermost boundary to terminate on the inner sidewall surface of the finger; for each finger, a vertical rib extending radially inward from the inner surface of the outer sidewall to the outer sidewall surface of the finger, wherein an angular width of the vertical rib with respect to the axis is less than or equal to one quarter of a corresponding angular width of the finger; and an upper spout, wherein a downwardly extending side wall of the upper spout is adapted to be secured to the outer surface of the outer side wall of the lower spout. A system for attaching a ground cover to a vehicle floor space, the system comprising: a lower spout, wherein an outer side wall of the lower spout is formed about an axis and has an outer surface and an inner surface, a bottom cover retaining flange of the lower spout connected to the outer side wall and extending radially outward from the outer surface of the outer side wall, the outer side wall of the lower spout extending axially from the retaining flange to a hinge plane of the lower spout; an annular space disposed in the hinge plane of the lower spout and extending radially inwardly from the outer side wall of the lower spout to an inner end of the annular space; a plurality of fingers disposed about the axis angularly spaced from each other with an upper end of each finger connected to the inner end of the annulus such that the annulus spaces the upper end from the inner surface of the outer sidewall with each finger extending axially downwardly from the upper end of the finger to a lower end of the finger and having an inner sidewall surface formed between the upper and lower finger ends, i. H. aligned with the axis, is arranged; for each finger, a bead formed near the lower end of the finger and extending radially inwardly from the inner side wall surface of the finger, the bead being adapted to press-fit with any of a plurality of differently shaped predetermined vehicle foot restraining post headers to stand; an upper spout, wherein a downwardly extending side wall of the upper spout is adapted to be secured to the outer surface of the outer side wall of the lower spout, and a fastening device adapted to be mounted on a vehicle footwell, the fastening device comprising a fastener body having an upper surface and a lower surface, a bottom cover retaining post extending upwardly from the upper surface of the fastener body and adapted to engage with the fingers of the fastener body lower spout to be engaged. The system of claim 36, wherein the fastener is adapted to be attached to a carpet, wherein a plurality of protrusions extend from the lower surface of the fastener body, each protrusion being spaced from adjacent protrusions, the protrusions forming a two-dimensional array. The system of claim 36, wherein the attachment device is adapted to be attached to a carpet-free surface of the vehicle floor space, wherein an adhesive layer is attached to the lower surface of the attachment body and extends downwardly therefrom. A system for attaching a ground cover to a vehicle floor space, the system comprising: a lower spout, wherein an outer side wall of the lower spout is formed about an axis and has an inner surface and an outer surface, a bottom cover retaining flange of the lower spout connected to the outer side wall and extending radially outward from the outer surface of the outer side wall, the outer side wall extending axially from the retaining flange to an upper level of the lower spout; a plurality of fingers formed about the axis angularly spaced from one another, each finger spaced radially inwardly from the inner surface of the outer sidewall, an inner sidewall surface of each finger on an imaginary cylinder aligned with the axis is arranged, wherein the fingers are formed integrally with the outer side wall of the lower spout; wherein each finger has a lower end spaced axially downwardly from the upper plane of the outer side wall, each finger having a bead, an inner end of the bead being disposed radially inwardly from the inner side wall surface of the latter finger and close to the lower end of the finger, each bead having an innermost boundary closest to the axis, an inclined surface of the bead extending upwardly and outwardly from the innermost boundary of the bead to on the inner sidewall surface of the finger to end; an upper spout, wherein a downwardly extending side wall of the upper spout is adapted to be attached to the outer surface of the outer side wall of the lower spout; and a fastening device adapted to be mounted on a vehicle footwell, the fastening device comprising a fastener body having a top surface and a bottom surface, a bottom cover retaining post extending upwardly from the upper surface of the fastener body and adapted to engage with the fingers to engage the lower spout. The system of claim 39, wherein each finger has an outer surface opposite the inner surface of the outer sidewall of the lower grommet, the lower grommet further including, for each finger, at least one guide rib extending radially from the inner surface of the outer sidewall, with an inner boundary of at least one guide rib from the outer surface of the finger to which it is associated, is spaced. The system of claim 40, wherein the lower spout for each finger includes a plurality of guide ribs including the at least one guide rib, wherein each of the plurality of guide ribs is spaced from adjacent ones of the plurality of guide ribs. The system of claim 39, wherein at least one guide rib extends radially from the inner surface of the outer side wall of the lower spout, wherein the guide rib is positioned between adjacent fingers, wherein a thickness of the guide rib is smaller than the radial spacing between two adjacent fingers, wherein an inner Limiting the guide rib is spaced from the innermost boundary of the bead radially outward. The system of claim 39, wherein the fastener is adapted to be attached to a carpet, wherein a plurality of protrusions extend from the lower surface of the fastener body, each protrusion being spaced from adjacent protrusions, the protrusions forming a two-dimensional array. The system of claim 39, wherein the fastening device is adapted to be attached to a carpet-free surface of the vehicle footwell, wherein an adhesive layer is attached to the lower surface of the fastener body and extends downwardly therefrom. The system of claim 39, wherein each finger has an outer surface opposite the inner surface of the outer sidewall of the lower grommet, the lower grommet further including, for each finger, a vertical rib extending radially from the inner surface of the outer sidewall to the outer surface of the finger an angular width of the vertical rib with respect to the axis is less than or equal to one quarter of a corresponding angular width of the finger.

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