JP2000205224A - Adjustable connector device - Google Patents

Abstract

PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To make a connector agregate so as to provide a space tolerance compensation ensuring a region as large as possible and compensate in many shafts in an automobile. SOLUTION: An adjustable connector device is provided between a support 2 particularly an automobile main body part and a plate element particularly a door coating. The connector device is provided with a connector member having an upper part 3 which can be mounted in the plate element and a lower part 4 which can be connected to the support 2. A neck-shaped intermediate region 5 fitted to a locking element 10 is provided between the upper/lower parts 3, 4. A region before the intermediate region is formed so as to cross an engaging piece 12 which can be buried in a support opening 7. The intermediate region is pressed by interference between the intermediate region and the engaging piece and spread to the outward in a radial direction behind the support opening 7.

Description

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0001]

TECHNICAL FIELD The present invention relates to a fastener.
More particularly, it relates to an adjustable connector device of the type used to hold a plate element to a support member.

[0002]

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION Connectors of the type under consideration are those commonly used in automotive technology and provide an adjustable connection between a door covering and a vehicle body. Typically, the upper portion of the connector assembly is attached to a plate element, such as a door covering, and the lower portion of the connector assembly is attached to a support member, such as an automobile body. However, the connector assembly is adjustable so that the relative distance between the door covering and the body can be selected when the fastener is installed.

[0003] Such a basic non-adjustable connection element is disclosed in European patent application EP 0 726 401 A1. There, the connector is shown having a pair of flanges provided above a circumferentially disposed second flange having a different elasticity than the pair of flanges. In that device, a pair of flanges are inserted laterally into pockets formed in the upper contact area. The lower sealing lip can act on the upper region of the support when the device is in the mounted state and makes a somewhat tight connection.

Furthermore, the state of the art has an upper part which can be attached to a plate element, a central part and a special holding element. Such a connection is described in German Patent Application DE 40
14589C1. The connector configurations shown in that application can compensate for mounting tolerances that are particularly useful in the automotive industry. However, compensation for that tolerance
This is only possible in a plane extending parallel to the support member.

[0005]

A fastener of the type described above for mounting a vehicle door covering device to a vehicle body presents several assembly problems. In particular, the devices described above do not allow for adjustment of the spacing between the door covering and the body panel support.

[0006] It is therefore desirable to provide an adjustable connector device that retains a plate element in a spaced relationship with respect to a support member.

It is an object of the present invention to solve the above problems and to provide a new and improved adjustable connector that provides the connector assembly with spacing tolerance compensation that compensates for as much area as possible and within multiple axes in the vehicle. It is to provide a device and a structure.

[0008]

In particular, according to one aspect of the invention, an intermediate neck region is provided between the upper or upper portion and the lower or lower portion of the connector. The intermediate neck region is fitted with a plurality of locking elements which penetrate into engagement pieces which can be embedded and connected in the operatively associated support openings in the front region of the connector. When the neck-like region has been pierced into the support opening, the selectively implantable engagement piece expands behind the support opening. At least one companion locking element on the engagement piece is adapted to selectively engage a plurality of locking elements disposed on the intermediate neck. Due to the interaction of the locking element in the neck-shaped intermediate area with the counter locking element provided on the engagement piece, tolerance compensation is provided over a large area across the transverse axis of the vehicle, ie the "Y-axis". The horizontal axis crosses the drive direction, that is, extends from the driver door to the passenger door. As a result of the ability of the intermediate region to traverse the engagement piece and expand the engagement piece radially outward behind the door opening, the present invention provides assurance of a fixed and sealed attachment of the connecting piece to the vehicle support member.

According to another aspect of the invention, the engagement piece or member of the invention is made from two materials. The two-component part thus produced has a holding element made of a first hard material and an embedded element made of a second soft material. Preferably, both materials are synthetic materials, such as a hard material, for example a PA-type material, and a soft material, a TPE material. Using a mixture of materials, a small press force
It is required to embed the intermediate piece in the contact piece to ensure a tight seal. In addition to the above, very high pulling forces are required to pull the intermediate region out of the engagement member, since the mating lock piece embeds itself in the locking element. Thus, in every respect, a highly effective connection element is obtained.

In accordance with yet another aspect of the present invention, the retaining element is at least partially embedded within the embedded element. Furthermore, the holding element so formed has cross pieces. The crosspiece is such that the crosspiece itself can be embedded in an embedding element made of a soft material.

Further in accordance with the present invention, the retaining element may be formed to include four opposing cross pieces formed adjacent to the cross-shaped end regions embedded within the embedded element. The cross-shaped design end region has at least two opposite locking elements. The locking elements may each be arranged in the region between the two cross beams, for example 4
There are two companion locking elements, which can embed themselves within one of the locking elements.

According to yet another aspect of the invention, the intermediate region is designed to have a cylindrical end portion. The cylindrical end portion is provided between at least two diagonally extending resilient guide vanes and the cone. The cone is adapted to mechanically act on the inner wall of the engagement piece to radially spread the engagement piece to engage behind the support opening. The guide wings, in one embodiment, protrude from the engagement piece and provide excellent mounting assistance during mounting of the connecting element into the support opening.

According to a further aspect of the invention, the retaining element provided with the counterlock element has a circumferentially inner recess for receiving the implantable element. Furthermore, the opposing elastic locking element may be provided above the recess, for example at the cross piece. In this configuration, some cross pieces may be arranged diagonally opposite each other.

According to yet another aspect of the invention, the implantation element comprises a ring implanted in the recess and an expansion element connected therewith, whereby the expansion element assumes an annular shape. During use of the adjustable connector device,
Prior to final mounting in the support, the spreading element is embedded in the groove in the intermediate region and does not interfere with the mounting process. More specifically, the spreading element is embedded in the groove in the intermediate region and does not prevent the insertion of the connection according to the invention into the support opening. The expansion element is pushed out of the groove and embeds itself behind the support opening in the expanded state under the influence of the pressure generated by the intermediate piece pushed into engagement with the engagement piece. Only once. Since the implant element itself is made of a soft material, an overall improved and excellent sealing effect is guaranteed.

[0015] In a further aspect of the invention, the inner recess of the holding element is inverted U-shaped and has on the side facing the intermediate region a leg which extends through the support opening. ing. The front side of the leg element is such that the leg element itself can be embedded together with the expanding element into the groove in the intermediate region. Furthermore, in accordance with this aspect of the invention, the front side of the leg member is adapted to embed itself in the circumferential recess of the expanding element. In such an arrangement, the groove in the intermediate region may be followed forwardly by a guide cone, for example, which is preferably designed to have a cross-section taking the form of a cross. This shape also allows the connecting element formed according to the invention to be easily inserted into the associated support opening.

In accordance with yet another aspect of the invention, the retaining element is formed to have a contoured area that can be embedded in the embedded element. Alternatively, the retaining element is designed in the form of a ring that is at least partially embedded in the embedded element. In that case, at least one part of the holding element forms a protruding area which simultaneously forms a mating catch.

In yet another aspect of the invention, the upper portion of the connecting member has an intermediate region having a plurality of vertically extending cross pieces formed on the outer periphery. The crosspiece is fitted at the front to at least one locking element. In this aspect of the invention, the lower portion of the connector assembly includes a housing having a recess formed in the upper portion and having a cross-sectional shape of a plurality of vertically extending cross pieces. The inside of the housing is fitted with at least one mating catch to engage a plurality of locking elements formed on the face of the upper crosspiece. The pair of intersections are formed diagonally opposite each other so that the intersections have different widths. The single crosspiece may have various widths, whereby the locking element is preferably located in the crosspiece area having a width corresponding to the width of the face of the single crosspiece. In this case, the housing has cross sections with different widths adapted to receive the longitudinally extending cross pieces.

In yet another aspect of the invention, the crosspieces are bound at their ends by a conically tapered insertion region. The insertion area may comprise, for example, at least two diagonally opposed elastic stop projections.

According to yet another aspect of the invention, the intermediate region between the crosspiece and the insertion region has a contracted region.

[0020] In another aspect of the invention, the upper housing has at least one longitudinally extending groove connecting the recess. Preferably, some grooves may be formed to extend on at least one face and / or at least one lateral side of the housing.

In accordance with yet another aspect of the present invention, the lower portion of the adjustable connector device may be formed as a two-piece component, and thus includes a region of the first rigid material including the housing and the upper portion of the sealing flange. , A lower portion of the sealing flange and a region of a second soft material including at least one expanding element passing through the support opening. The expansion element can be expanded behind the support opening through the upper middle area of the adjustable connector device.

According to yet another aspect of the present invention, the region formed behind the sealing flange is made of a second soft material and has at least two regions which can be selectively embedded in the contracted portion of the intermediate region. A locking member may be provided. After the upper part has been inserted into the lower part, the at least two latching members are pushed apart by an inclined surface provided in the intermediate region above the contraction so that it can expand behind the support opening.

In yet another aspect of the invention, several opposing crosspieces are provided in the lower portion above the sealing flange. The crosspieces are respectively fitted on the inside to mating catches which engage with corresponding locking elements formed in the intermediate region.

Alternatively, in another embodiment of the invention, the lower portion is made from two materials. The two-component part thus produced has an area of hard material. This area consists of the crosspiece, the upper part of the sealing flange and the expanding element which can pass through the support opening. The region of the second soft material has a lower portion of the sealing flange.

In yet another aspect of the invention, the lower portion is formed to include a region of a soft material provided between two regions of a hard material. The lower part is provided with a circumferential sealing lip.

The upper portion of the intermediate region may be formed to have a variety of optional different configurations, such as, for example, a configuration having a tube connection, a cable clamp region, a retaining element region.

[0027]

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS Referring to the drawings, which are for purposes of illustrating but not limited to the preferred embodiment of the present invention, FIG. 1 is formed based on a first preferred embodiment of the present invention. 2 shows an adjustable connector device. FIG. 1 shows a connecting portion (connector member) 1 which enables a support 2 such as a main body of an automobile to be connected to a plate element (not shown) such as a door covering member of the automobile. The connection unit 1
It has an upper part 3 selectively attached to the plate element and a lower part 4 adapted to be selectively connected to the associated support 2. The upper part 3 can take any shape. In the preferred embodiment shown, however, the upper portion has three flanges. The uppermost flange has a plurality of spirally extending ribs, as best shown in FIG.

As is evident from FIGS. 1 and 3, the neck-shaped intermediate region 5 is arranged between the upper part 3 and the lower part 4.
As shown, the intermediate region 5 includes a plurality of locking elements 10.
Is provided. The locking element 10 may be formed in a serrated threaded area, a hook-like structure, etc., for example as a circumferential ring.

As best shown in FIG. 3, the intermediate region is:
It has a forward region that can traverse the engagement member 12 during installation of the adjustable connector device. The engagement member 12 can be selectively embedded in the support opening 7 and can expand behind the support opening when the intermediate region is received in the engagement member 12. The final or assembled condition of the adjustable connector device is best shown in schematic cross section in FIG. As best shown in FIGS.
At least one that can be selectively embedded in the locking element 10
It has two side chain lock units 14. In this way, the intermediate region 5 is selectively adjusted with respect to the engagement piece 12, and as shown by Y in FIG.
Adjusted in the range of the interval between.

Preferably, the engaging member is formed from two materials as two component parts. As best shown in the cross-sections of FIGS. 3 and 4, the engagement member 12 has a retaining element 16 made of a hard plastic material and an embedding element 18 made of a soft plastic material. Holding element 16
Has a plurality of side chain lock units 14. As shown, the companion locking unit 14 is adapted to engage a plurality of locking elements 10 formed in the intermediate region 5.

A first preferred embodiment of the holding element 16 is shown in FIGS.
Is shown in In these drawings, the holding element is:
It has four diagonally opposed crosspiece members 20 embedded in the embedding element 18 according to FIG. Preferably, adjacent to the cross piece member 20 is a cross-shaped end area fitted to the mating locking element 14 as shown in FIG.
The companion locking elements 14 may be respectively provided between the regions between the pair of cross beams a, b, c, d, as particularly shown in FIGS. The cross beam is preferably designed in the form of a thin cross piece and therefore has a certain elasticity. FIG.
As shown in the figure, the intersection piece preferably projects into the space between the intersection beams a, b, c, d.

In this way, in the embodiment shown in FIGS. 3 and 4, the holding element 16 is completely and largely embedded in the embedding element 18 made of a material softer than the material from which it is formed.

The leading end of the intermediate region 5 is shown in FIGS. The cylindrical member 22 is formed in the intermediate region as shown, and supports at least two elastic guide vanes 23. The guide vanes extend diagonally outward from the cylindrical member 22. A cone or conical surface 25 is formed in the intermediate region 5 between the plurality of locking elements 10 and the cylindrical member 22. The conical surface 25 can engage and squeeze the inner wall 30 of the engagement member 12. In this relationship as shown in FIG. 4, the guide vanes 23 project outward beyond the engagement member 12. The pair of guide vanes comprises, for example, in FIG. 5, a mounting aid for inserting the connection according to the invention into the associated support opening 7. However, it is possible, for example, to utilize several guide vanes which are separated from one another by grooves. In that example, the guide vanes preferably have a ramp that extends obliquely to facilitate insertion into the support opening.

During mounting of the connector device, upon compression of the connection 1 against the support opening 7, the wings 23 press on the lower region of the embedding element 18 made of a soft material, thereby compressing the embedding element. This results in a very good attachment to the associated support. When reaching the position shown in FIG. 3, the elastic wings 23 expand diagonally outward. In this regard,
As shown in FIG. 3, the cone 2
5, there is a possibility of moving the engaging element 12 consisting of the retaining element 16 and the embedding element 18 out,
Thereby, as best shown in FIG. 2, the engagement member itself is gripped in the front region behind the opening 7 of the support 2. At the same time, the companion locking unit 14 of the holding element made of hard material embeds itself in the corresponding locking element 10 within the tolerance (tolerance) range Y of FIG. This allows for excellent tolerance compensation of the spacing between the support 2 and the operatively associated support or plate element (not shown) throughout the Y direction. The plate element is, for example, itself 3 in FIG.
Pocket (not shown) in the upper part 3 consisting of two disks
Etc. can be embedded. This ensures a fixed connection with the support member 2 in a functionally correct position.

Since the embedding element 18 is formed from a material softer than the holding element 16, the soft material completely traverses the support opening 7 as shown in FIG. Alternatively, it can be embedded in the front to more easily ensure a watertight covering of the support opening 7.

Referring to FIGS. 9 and 10, there is shown a second preferred embodiment of the adjustable connector device. In these figures, as best shown in FIG.
6 'forms a circumferential inner recess 27. In this embodiment, the embedding element 18 ′ embeds itself in the recess 27. The embedding element 18 'is, for example, a ring 28
And an expanding element 29 integrally connected to the ring 28. The expansion element 29 may be designed in an annular shape and is preferably embedded in a groove 32 formed in the intermediate region 5 ′ before mounting the adjustable connector device in the associated support opening 7. Further, as shown in FIG. 10, in this embodiment, the elastic two-sided lock unit 1 is used.
4 ″ is a holding element 1 supported by a plurality of cross pieces 40
6. These cross pieces 40 are arranged diagonally opposite each other, as best shown in FIG.

As can be seen from FIGS. 9 and 10, the leading end of the intermediate region 5 'is designed to have a cross-sectional shape in the form of a cross which provides guidance assistance during mounting of the intermediate region in the holding element. It has a groove 32 and a guide cone region 36. In addition, the cross-section formed by the guide cone 36 assists in mounting the connector device in the support opening by providing an introduction profile, as best shown in FIGS.

In FIG. 10, after the connector device according to the invention has been pre-mounted in the support opening, if the pressure is applied again in the direction X, the respective locking unit 14 'will be in the functionally correct position in the Y direction. It locks, so that at the same time the expansion element 29 is pushed out of the groove 32 and engages behind the support opening 7 with its radial expansion.
Therefore, the intermediate region 5 'is formed by the intermediate region 5'
9 is pushed radially outward to engage behind the support member 2, thus locking the retaining element 16 'in place. A plurality of matching locking mechanisms 14 ′ are then provided for the holding element 1.
Hold the middle region 5 'with respect to 6'.

FIG. 11 shows a cross-sectional view of another preferred embodiment of the present invention. As shown therein, the expansion element 29 is designed to have a different profile than the expansion element shown in FIG. Overall, the expansion element shown in FIG.
It engages an additional volume in the groove 32 formed in the intermediate area 5 '.

Referring to FIG. 12, another preferred embodiment of the present invention is shown. As shown therein, the groove 32 is not provided in the intermediate member. Rather, the expansion element 29
Are two regions 37, 37a opposed at an angle to each other
have. As a result of the angled opposition to one another, a radial spreading action takes place when the intermediate region 5 'is pressed into the holding element 16'. When that occurs, the embedding element 18 ′ ″ is expanded radially outward to engage behind the support opening 7.

In the embodiment shown in FIGS. 13-15, the inner recess 17 'of the retaining element 16 "has an inverted U-shape having a leg member 33 provided on the side facing the intermediate region 5'. The inverted U-shaped part of the holding element extends through the support opening 7. In this configuration, the front side of the leg member 33 is adapted to bury itself in the recess of the expansion element 29.

Again, like the special embodiment shown in FIG. 12, a pair of surfaces 37, 37a are provided in the embodiment shown in FIG. The surfaces of the pair face each other at an angle, and FIG.
The radial expansion process leads to the final mounting state shown in FIG.

FIG. 14 shows a plurality of resilient locking units 14 "" formed as part of a retaining element 16 "". The side lock unit is provided on the cross piece 40 shown in the figure. When the connector member 1 is mounted in the support opening as shown in FIG.
Initially remain in the groove 32, producing a pre-installed insertion effect. Therefore, it is possible to generate pressure on the intermediate piece in the direction indicated by X in the drawing. As a result of the generation of pressure in the X direction, the spreading element is pushed out of the groove 32, resulting in the final mounting state or structure shown in FIG.

Although not shown in the drawing, the embedded element 1
It is possible to provide the holding element with a contour area embedded in 8. The contour area may, for example, be formed in a hollow shape, so that the retaining element fitted to the corresponding counterlock unit is attached to the embedding element. further,
Although not specifically shown in the drawings, the retaining element may be formed as at least partly embedded in the embedded element, whereby at least one area projects from the embedded element and at the same time the counterlock unit To form
For example, the ring may be formed such that the ring comprises an outer annular region embedded in the implant. An embedding piece is connected via a cross piece to the inner annular area where several other opposing counter locking units are located.

With respect to the intermediate neck shape, there are various other possible shapes. Thus, instead of the two guide rings 23 shown in FIG. 7, for example, a conical region may be provided to fit at several rearwardly extending cross pieces or the like at the rear end.

FIGS. 16-22 illustrate another preferred embodiment of the present invention. As shown there, the upper part 3 has an intermediate area 5 provided with cross pieces 48, 49 extending vertically at the outer circumference. The crosspiece has a front face provided with a plurality of locking elements 10 ', as best shown in FIG. The cross pieces 48, 49 are diagonally opposite one another, whereby preferably four cross pieces are provided. The intersection is
For example, in the embodiment shown in FIG. 16, the cross pieces 48 can have various widths such that the cross pieces 48 have a smaller width than the cross pieces 49. The cross piece 49 converges to a narrower design or contour under the locking element 10 '. The contour member 58 is shown in FIG.
6, is located at the intersection between the intersection pieces 48,49. In addition to the above, the upper part 3
8, 49 are formed to be bound on one side by an insertion region 47 which is tapered in a conical shape.

FIGS. 17 and 18 show the lower part 4 in detail.
As shown there, the lower part is shaped in cross section to engage the upper part 3. Preferably, the lower part may be formed from a combination of the two components. The first area I is
It is made of a hard material.
4, and a housing 44 having an upper portion of a sealing flange 42. The second region II is formed integrally with the first region, but is made of a second soft material. The second area II has a lower part of the sealing flange 42 and a number of expanding elements 57 separated from one another by grooves.

As specifically shown in FIG. 18, the housing member 44 has at least one longitudinally extending groove 55 or 55 'connected to the recess 45. In this configuration, a groove 55 is provided in at least one surface of the housing member 44, while a groove 55 'extends in at least one lateral wall of the housing member.

Further, as can be seen from FIG. 18, the housing member 44 having the recess 45 is formed in a cross section for engaging the intermediate region 5 of the upper part 3. That is, the housing member can receive the four cross pieces 48, 49.

FIG. 19 shows the pre-mounted state and FIG.
6 shows a perspective view of the adjustable connector device of the present embodiment comprising an upper portion 3 shown in FIG. 6 and a lower portion 4 formed based on FIGS.

In FIG. 20, the preload adjustable connector device is mounted in the opening 7 of the associated support 2. By way of example, the support 2 may be provided with a recess or groove 66. The lower region of the sealing flange 42 is preferably made of a soft material and in the embodiment shown in FIG.
Has a circumferential sealing lip 38 acting on the surface of the recess 66 of the support 2 as shown in FIG.

After the adjustable connector device is provided in the structure shown in FIG. 20, pressure in the direction indicated by X in FIG. By the pressure in the X direction,
21, the conically tapered insertion area 47 of the upper part 3 presses against the expanding element 57 of the upper part 4, FIG.
The spreading element is pushed out behind the support opening 7, as best shown at 22. The expansion is caused by the interaction between the cross pieces 48, 49 and the profile member 58. Due to the inward pressing action, the mating hook member 14 is moved to the housing member 4.
4 are arranged at different heights in the recesses 45, are locked in the corresponding locking elements 10 ′ outside the upper part 3 and are functionally fixed in the openings in the support 2. Hold the secure coupling unit shown at 22.

FIGS. 23 to 34 show another preferred embodiment of the present invention. As best shown in FIGS. 23 and 24, the upper portion has diagonally opposed crosspieces 48 ', 49' provided with locking elements 10 '. Contraction area 53
Are provided below the intersection pieces 48 ', 49'. A pair of opposing elastic locking stop members 51 are disposed adjacent to the contraction region 53 as shown. As shown, a pair of opposing recesses 52 are provided in a shrink region 53.

FIGS. 25 to 28 show the lower part which can be engaged with the upper part 3 in FIGS. The housing member 44 is formed in a sealing flange, and has a recess 45 in which the counter locking member 14 is provided inside as shown. Preferably, the mating hook members are arranged in a staggered height, as best shown in FIGS. As in the specific embodiment described above, the lower part 4 preferably comprises a two-component part having a first region I of a first hard material and a second region II of a second soft material. . A second region II of a second soft material has a lower portion of the sealing flange 42 and is provided with a circumferential sealing lip 38 as shown. The first region I of the first hard material, as best shown in FIG. 27, has a lower part which preferably penetrates the support opening and a staggered locking member 60.

The unit consisting of the upper part 3 and the lower part 4 can be mounted in the opening 7 of the associated support 2 in a pre-mounted configuration, as best shown in FIGS. 29-31. The latching member 60 of the lower part 4 has not yet been expanded in the position shown, but embeds itself in a contracted area 53 in the front part of the intermediate area 5. This orientation results in a preload configuration of the adjustable connector device.

When pressure is applied to the upper part 3 in the X direction shown in FIG.
It slides along (FIGS. 23, 33) and expands behind the support openings 7, as shown in particular in FIG. A latching member 60 is positioned behind the support opening and holds the entire connector device of the present invention having upper and lower portions 3, 4 so as to be functionally secured in the support 2.

As can be seen from FIGS. 32 and 34, the latch stop 51 is freely under the support 2 and serves as an additional connection for other parts and the like (not shown).

The counter locking member 14 in the recess 45 of the housing member 44 is itself connected to the corresponding locking element 1 of the upper part 3.
By embedding at 0 ', the connected assembly of parts as a unit is advantageously made to be functionally fixed to the support 2 and closed within itself.

Referring to FIGS. 35-39, another alternate preferred embodiment of the present invention is shown. As shown therein, the lower portion 4 has a number of opposing resilient cross pieces 63 located above the sealing flange 42, as best shown in FIGS. 37-39. The opposing elastic cross pieces 63 are provided with a mating hook member 14 on their inner surfaces.

The lower part 4 is preferably made from a two-component extrusion process and comprises a first region I of a first hard material,
And a second region II made of a second soft synthetic material. FIG.
As is clear from FIG. 5, the second soft synthetic material
Region II forms the lower region of the sealing flange 42 and is preferably provided with a resilient sealing lip 38.

In the lower area of the lower part 4, FIGS.
, A number of diagonally opposed resilient expanding elements 57 'are provided. In this configuration, the crosspiece 63 is preferably staggered with a spreading element 57 ′ in the circumferential direction with respect to the longitudinal axis created by the lower part 4 and the intermediate region 5.

The upper part 3 is preferably made to have a cylindrical intermediate area 5 provided with a locking element 10, as shown in FIG. The upper and lower parts are
It is preferably used integrally to provide a pre-mounted unit to be mounted in the support opening 7. When pressure is applied to the upper part, the front part of the intermediate region 5 acts to spread the spreading element 57 radially outward from the lower part. In this way, the connection according to the invention is suitable for fastening to the support member 2.

FIGS. 40 and 41 show another preferred embodiment of the present invention. As shown therein, the lower part 4 has a first region I made of a first hard material and a second region I made of a second soft material.
Region II. The second region II forms a circumferential sealing lip 38. The first region I has a plurality of expanding elements of the type described above in connection with the other preferred embodiments described above. The expansion element is, after its insertion into the opening 7 of the support 2,
Corresponding inclined surface 61 provided in the front part of the intermediate area 5
Can be opened radially outward.

All of the above-described preferred embodiments of the connector arrangement according to the invention have in common that the upper part 3 above the intermediate region 5 has three flanges spaced apart from one another. Thus, FIG.
According to a, the lateral insertion is in the pocket 7 of the associated part 75.
Performed to 0. Another component (not shown) may be located above the first component.

According to FIG. 42b, the upper part 3 is provided with three flanges spaced apart from each other and a pair of tube holding devices of a known construction spaced apart parallel to each other.

As shown in FIG. 42c, the upper portion is provided with a loop lace 72 to fit the adjustable connector device to form a loop around a plurality of pipelines or the like (not shown). I have.

In FIG. 42d, a plurality of tube clamping devices 71 'of different designs are formed in the upper part 3 to accommodate an adjustable connector for connecting a tube or the like to a support member.

One or more tubular devices (not shown)
Can be positioned substantially parallel to the surface of the support member 2,
In the structure shown in FIG. 42e, a dish-shaped vertical recess is provided in the upper part. The operatively associated tubular member is then clamped using one or more cable ties (not shown) or other suitable laces.

According to several alternative preferred embodiments of the present invention,
A simple but effective connection is provided between the support 2, in particular the body of the motor vehicle, and the plate element, in particular the door covering of the motor vehicle. Effective sealing of the support openings is provided by the connector arrangement. Furthermore, good tolerance compensation in the Y direction is ensured for large areas, especially for motor vehicles.

[Brief description of the drawings]

FIG. 1 is a side view of an adjustable connector device constructed according to a first preferred embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 2 is a top view of the adjustable connector device shown in FIG.

FIG. 3 is a longitudinal sectional view of the adjustable connector device taken along line III-III in FIG. 2;

FIG. 4 is a longitudinal sectional view taken along line III-III of FIG. 2, showing a final mounted state in which the adjustable connector device is partially retracted.

FIG. 5 is a partial perspective view of a first embodiment of a holding element comprising the adjustable connector device of the present invention.

6 is a plan view of FIG.

FIG. 7 is a partial perspective view of an intermediate region of the first embodiment of the present invention shown in FIG.

8 is a bottom view of the intermediate region shown in FIG.

FIG. 9 is a side view of an adjustable connector device constructed according to a second preferred embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 10 is a partial cross-sectional view of the adjustable connector device shown in FIG. 4, showing a pre-assembled state after first insertion into an operatively associated support opening.

FIG. 11 is a longitudinal sectional view of an adjustable connector device constructed in accordance with another preferred embodiment, after insertion into an operatively associated support opening.

FIG. 12 is a partial longitudinal sectional view of another embodiment of the locking mechanism used in the adjustable connector device.

FIG. 13 is a view similar to FIG. 12, but showing a state after it has been finally inserted into the support opening;

FIG. 14 is a side view of the embodiment of the adjustable connector device shown in FIG.

FIG. 15 is a longitudinal sectional view of another preferred embodiment of the adjustable connector device shown in FIGS. 13 and 14, showing a precast state.

FIG. 16 is a top perspective view of another preferred embodiment of the present adjustable connector device constructed in accordance with the present invention.

17 is a longitudinal sectional view of the upper part of the adjustable connector device shown in FIG.

18 is a perspective view of the lower portion of the adjustable connector device engageable with the upper portion shown in FIG.

FIG. 19 is a perspective view of the upper and lower portions of the adjustable connector device shown in FIGS. 16-18, showing the engaged relationship;

20 is a longitudinal sectional view of the center seen through the upper part of the adjustable connector device shown in FIG. 19;

FIG. 21 is a side view of the adjustable connector device shown in FIGS. 16-20, showing a final assembled state.

FIG. 22 is a longitudinal sectional view of the adjustable connector device taken along line XXII-XXII in FIG. 21.

FIG. 23 is a top side view of an adjustable connector device constructed according to another preferred embodiment;

FIG. 24 is a side view of the upper portion of the adjustable connector device shown in FIG. 23, showing a state rotated by 90 degrees.

FIG. 25 is a top view of the lower portion of the adjustable connector device capable of receiving the upper portion of the connector device shown in FIGS.

26 is a side view of the lower part of the connector device shown in FIG. 25.

FIG. 27 is a longitudinal sectional view of the lower part as viewed from the line XXVII-XXVII in FIG. 25.

FIG. 28 is a longitudinal sectional view of the lower portion of the connector device taken along line XXVIII-XXVIII in FIG. 25;

FIG. 29 is a side view of the upper and lower portions of the connector device shown in FIGS. 23 to 29, showing a state following the mounting in the support opening.

30 is a longitudinal sectional view of the connector device as viewed from the line XXX-XXX in FIG. 29.

FIG. 31 is a perspective view of the adjustable connector device shown in FIGS.

FIG. 32 is a side view of the connector assembly shown in FIGS. 29-31, showing a final state of mounting.

FIG. 33 is a longitudinal sectional view of the connector device taken along line XXXIII-XXXIII in FIG. 32.

FIG. 34 is a perspective view of an assembled connector device constructed based on the device shown in FIGS. 32 and 33 and disposed in an associated support opening.

FIG. 35 is a longitudinal sectional view of another preferred embodiment of the present adjustable connector device, after installation in the associated support opening.

36 is a top view of the connector device shown in FIG.

FIG. 37 is a perspective view of a lower portion of the connector device shown in FIGS.

FIG. 38 is a longitudinal sectional view of the lower part shown in FIG. 37.

FIG. 39 is a longitudinal sectional view of the lower portion shown in FIG. 36 viewed from another angle.

FIG. 40 is a longitudinal sectional view of another preferred embodiment of the present adjustable connector device in an assembled state.

FIG. 41 is a perspective view of an embodiment of the connector device shown in FIG. 40.

42a to 42e are central longitudinal sectional views of the upper part of the connector device according to another preferred embodiment of the present invention, showing respective modifications.

[Explanation of symbols]

 DESCRIPTION OF SYMBOLS 1 ... Connection part (connector member) 2 ... Support body 3 ... Upper part 4 ... Lower part 5 ... Intermediate area 10 ... Locking element 12 ... Engagement member 14 ... Companion locking unit (member) 16 ... Holding element 18 ... Embedding Element 20: Cross piece (member) 23: Elastic guide wing

Continuation of front page (71) Applicant 597013146 Industriestr. 2-8, 78315 Radolfzell, Germany F term (reference) 3D023 BA01 BB08 BC00 BD03 BE03 BE16 BE36 3J036 AA05 BA04 BB01 FA04

Claims (41)

[Claims] 1. An adjustable connector device of the type used to hold a plate element at a distance with respect to a support member, said adjustable connector device comprising a support opening (7) formed in an associated support member and a mounting member. A mating engagement member (12), wherein the engagement member (12) forms a central opening and is open at a first end to engage a back surface of the associated support member; 12) and at least one companion lock unit (14, 14 ', 14 ", 14'") extending radially inward into said central opening, an upper piece (3) and a lower piece (4). ), Wherein the first connector member (1) forms a neck-shaped intermediate region (5, 5 ') that is received in a central opening of the engagement member (12). The first connector portion being disposed in the neck-shaped intermediate region (5, 5 '). When at least one (1) is received in the central opening of the engagement member (12), the at least one one-way lock unit (14, 14 ', 14 ", 14'") is selectively engaged by the lock. A plurality of locking elements, the plurality of locking elements being associated with a support member when the first connector member (1) is selectively received within the engagement member (12). (12)
An adjustable connector device cooperating with the engagement member (12) to open away from the first end of the adjustable connector. 2. A holding element (16, 1) made of a first hard material, said engagement member (12) being composed of two element pieces.
6 ′, 16 ″, 16 ′ ″) and an embedding element (18, 18 ′, 18 ″, 18 ′ ″) made of a second soft material, wherein the at least one two-way lock unit ( 14,1
4. The adjustable connector device of claim 1, wherein 4 ', 14 ", 14"') are disposed on said retaining element and are comprised of said first rigid material. 3. The adjustable connector device according to claim 2, wherein said retaining element (16) is partially embedded in said embedded element (18). 4. The retaining element (16) is in the form of a ring, the retaining element (16) being provided with the embedded element (18).
A first portion at least partially embedded therein and a second portion extending from the implanted element (18) and forming the at least one side lock unit (14). The adjustable connector device according to claim 3. 5. The holding element (16) has at least one cross piece (2) extending into the embedding element (18).
4. The adjustable connector device according to claim 3, comprising: (0). 6. The holding element (16) comprises four crosspiece members (20) extending into the embedding element (18), with each member (20) facing the other of the members (20). Extending between said four cross members (20) and at least 2
5. The adjustable connector device according to claim 4, comprising a set of cross-embedded end regions (21) supporting two one-side lock units (14). 7. Each embedded end area (21) forms a cross beam member (a, b, c, d), wherein at least two said companion locking units are at least two.
7. The adjustable connector device as claimed in claim 6, wherein the adjustable connector device is supported by the two cross beam members (a, b, c, d). 8. A cylindrical member (2) extending at a first end thereof from said first end of said neck-shaped intermediate region (5, 5 ').
2) at least two elastic guide vanes (23) supported by
And the cylindrical member (22) and the intermediate region (5, 5 ').
A conical surface (25) disposed between the plurality of locking elements (10) formed on the inner wall (25) of the engagement member (12). The adjustable connector device according to claim 1, wherein the adjustable connector device engages with (30). 9. The at least two elastic guide vanes (2)
9. The adjustable connector device according to claim 8, wherein 3) extends radially outward from said elongated neck-shaped intermediate region (5, 5 ') and beyond said engagement member (12). . 10. The holding element (16, 16 ′, 1)
6 ″, 16 ′ ″) is the embedded element (18, 18 ′, 1).
The adjustable connector device according to claim 2, characterized in that it forms a circumferential inner recess (27, 27 ') adapted to receive the recess (8 ", 18'''). 11. The retaining element (14, 14 ', 14 ", 14"') at least one of which is adjacent to the circumferential inner recess (27, 27 '). (1
11. The adjustable connector device according to claim 10, wherein the adjustable connector device is disposed in the same manner as in (6, 16 ', 16 ", 16'"). 12. The device according to claim 11, wherein the at least one companion locking unit is supported by at least one cross piece. An adjustable connector device according to any of the preceding claims. 13. The embedded element (18, 18 ′, 1)
8 ″, 18 ′ ″) is a ring-shaped member (28) disposed in the circumferential inner recess (27, 27 ′), and an expanded portion that engages with the first connector member (1). Element (2
The adjustable connector device according to claim 10, further comprising: 9). 14. The adjustable connector device according to claim 13, wherein the expanding element has an annular shape. 15. The groove (32) for receiving said expanding element (29) prior to selective connection of said adjustable connector device with said associated support member (15).
15. The adjustable connector device according to claim 14, comprising: 16. The holding element (16, 16 ′, 1)
6 ", 16 '") in the circumferentially inner recess (27, 2).
The adjustable connector device according to claim 10, characterized in that the 7 ') is substantially formed in an inverted U-shape and forms a leg member (33) passing through the support opening (7). . 17. The first end of the leg member (33) and the expanding element (29) can be embeddedly engaged in the groove (32) formed in the intermediate area (5, 5 '). 17. The adjustable connector device of claim 16, wherein: 18. The adjustable connector device according to claim 17, wherein the expansion element has a circumferential recess for receiving the leg member. 19. The adjustable connector device according to claim 10, wherein the neck-shaped intermediate region (5, 5 ′) forms a guide cone (36) adjacent to the groove (32). . 20. The adjustable connector device according to claim 19, wherein said guide conical member has a T-shaped cross section. 21. The upper piece (3) of said neck-shaped intermediate area (5, 5 ') has a plurality of radially extending intersecting pieces formed along the longitudinal axis of said intermediate area (5, 5'). Members (48, 4
9, 48 ', 49') and the members (48, 49, 4).
8 ', 49') are each a set of said plurality of locking elements (1
0 '), the upper piece (4) of the neck-shaped intermediate area (5, 5') has a sealing flange (42) supporting a housing member (44), and the housing member (44) Intermediate area (5,
5 ') forming a recess (45) having a cross-sectional shape adapted to receive a plurality of radially extending crosspiece members formed in the upper piece (3), wherein the housing member (44) is formed in the upper piece (3). At least one two-way locking member (1) operative to selectively engage said plurality of locking elements (10 ') supported on a plurality of radially extending crosspiece members of the piece (3).
2. The adjustable connector device according to claim 1, wherein the intermediate region is selectively clamped to the sealing flange in support of 4). 22. The plurality of radially extending crosspiece members (48, 49, 48 ', 49') having a cross-sectional cross-section, each crosspiece member being disposed on opposite diagonals with respect to one another. 22. The adjustable connector device of claim 21, wherein: 23. Each of said plurality of radially extending crosspiece members has a different width, and said recess (45) is adapted to receive said plurality of radially extending crosspiece members having a different width. 23. The adjustable connector device according to claim 22, wherein the adjustable connector device has a curved cross section. 24. The plurality of locking elements (10 ') of the plurality of radially extending crosspiece members extending in a spaced relationship along a longitudinal axis of the neck-shaped intermediate region (5, 5'). 24. The adjustable connector device according to claim 23, wherein the adjustable connector devices are arranged at each of the positions. 25. At least two of said plurality of crosspiece members extend in opposite radial directions, said at least two crosspiece members having different widths, and said opposite radially extending members. Each of the at least two crosspiece members has a respective set of locking elements (1) having a different width formed based on a different width of the opposing radially extending crosspiece members (49, 49 ').
25. The adjustable connector device of claim 24, wherein the adjustable connector device supports 0 '). 26. The intermediate region (5, 5 ′) having a conical taper on its first end.
47 '), wherein the plurality of cross piece members (48, 49, 48', 49 ') are formed.
Are the insertion regions (47, 4) tapered in the conical shape.
26. The adjustable connector device of claim 25, wherein said adjustable connector device is bundled at each end of said member by 7 '). 27. The adjustable connector according to claim 26, wherein the insertion area supports at least two diagonally extending elastic latching projections extending from the intermediate area. apparatus. 28. The first end of the neck-shaped intermediate region (5, 5 ′) is connected to the at least two locking projections (51) and the plurality of radially extending cross pieces (48, 49, 4).
8 ', 49') between the at least one recess (52) and the latching projection (52). 28. The adjustable connector device according to claim 27, wherein the first end of the elastic latching projection (51) is received at times. 29. The neck-shaped intermediate region (5, 5 ′) includes a narrow contraction region (53) disposed between the plurality of crosspiece members (48 ′, 49 ′) and the conical shape. 29. The adjustable connector device according to claim 28, further comprising a tapered insertion region (47, 47 '). 30. The adjustable connector device has a first region (I) made of a first hard material and a second region (II) made of a second soft material, wherein the first region (I). Has a set of cross pieces (63), an upper part of the sealing flange (42) and the expanding element (57 '), and the second area (II) has a lower part of the sealing flange (42). 30. The adjustable connector device of claim 29, wherein: 31. The set of crosspieces (63) are arranged along a longitudinal axis formed by the expanding element (57, 57 ′) and the intermediate region (5, 5 ′); 31. The adjustable connector device of claim 30, wherein the adjustable connector device is circumferentially spaced about the longitudinal axis. 32. The housing member (44) supports a plurality of mating members (14), and each mating member (14).
22. The adjustable connector device according to claim 21, wherein the studs are disposed on the housing member (44) with respect to the sealing flange (42). 33. The housing member (44) has at least one longitudinally extending groove (55, 55 ') formed in the housing member following the recess (45). 33. The adjustable connector device of claim 32. 34. The housing member (44) having a plurality of vertically extending grooves (50, 55) extending in at least one surface and lateral sides.
3. The adjustable connector device according to claim 3. 35. The lower piece (4) comprises a first region (I) of a first hard material forming the housing member (44) and a second soft material forming a lower portion of the sealing flange (42). A two-component part having a second region of material (II), wherein said spreading element (57) can selectively penetrate said support opening (7), said spreading element (57) 35. The device according to claim 34, characterized in that it extends radially outward behind the support opening (7) by selective engagement of a piece (3) with the intermediate region (5, 5 '). Adjustable connector device. 36. The intermediate region (5, 5 ′) includes a plurality of contour members (5, 5) formed between the plurality of intersection pieces (48, 49).
8) characterized in that said profile member acts on said expanding member (57) to selectively engage behind said support opening (7) and expands radially outward. Claim 35
An adjustable connector device according to any of the preceding claims. 37. The second region (II) has at least two locking members (60) disposed adjacent to the sealing flange (42), wherein the at least two locking members are in the intermediate region. (5, 5 ′) can be selectively embedded in the contraction area (53), wherein the at least two latching members (60) engage the inclined surface formed in the intermediate area, Above the contraction area (53), the at least two locking members (6
Engaging behind the support opening (7) following the selective insertion movement of the upper piece (3) into the lower piece (4), while forcing a radial outward spreading movement of 0). 37. The adjustable connector device according to claim 36, wherein the connector device is capable of being adjusted. 38. The lower piece (4) has a plurality of opposing cross pieces (63) adjacent to the sealing flange (42);
Each opposing intersection piece has at least one mating catch (14).
And the at least one mating locking member is provided with the plurality of locking elements (10, 1) in the intermediate region (5, 5 ').
38. The adjustable connector device according to claim 37, wherein contact can be made with 0 '). 39. The lower part of said sealing flange (42) has a circumferential sealing lip (3) arranged on the outer periphery of said sealing flange.
39. The adjustable connector device according to claim 38, comprising: (8). 40. The lower piece (4) of the connector member
3. The adjustable connector device according to claim 2, wherein the connector comprises a first hard material and a second soft material, the second soft material forming a circumferential sealing lip (38). 41. The upper piece (3) of said intermediate area (5, 5 ') has at least one pipe clamping device, a cable gripping area and a panel holding element. 3. The adjustable connector member according to 2.