SE2150793A1

SE2150793A1 - Fastening Element

Info

Publication number: SE2150793A1
Application number: SE2150793A
Authority: SE
Inventors: Daniel Dynesius
Original assignee: Scania Cv Ab
Priority date: 2021-06-21
Filing date: 2021-06-21
Publication date: 2022-12-22
Also published as: WO2022271061A1; BR112023026034A2; DE112022002078T5; SE545396C2

Abstract

A fastening element (1) is disclosed for attaching a first component (61) to a second component (62). The fastening element (1) comprises a first end portion (5) provided with a first snap fit arrangement (11), a second end portion (6) provided with a second snap fit arrangement (12), and a stop surface (7) having a surface normal (N) pointing towards the second snap fit arrangement (12). The fastening element (1) further comprises a third snap fit arrangement (13) arranged at a position between the stop surface (7) and the second snap fit arrangement (12).

Description

TECHNICAL FIELD The present disclosure relates to a fastening element for attaching a first component to a second component. ln more detail, the present disclosure relates to a fastening element comprising a number of snap fit arrangements for releasable attachment of a first component to a second component.

BACKGROUND Vehicle components are normally attached to each other using a number of fastening elements and/or using welding. The fastening elements may comprise screws, press screws, bolts, or the like. The attachment procedure can be difficult and burdensome. Vehicles comprise numerous parts and assembling costs constitute a large proportion of the final cost of a vehicle.

A common way to facilitate attachment of vehicle components is to implement features of the components at the design stage thereof, such as by providing one or both of the components with flanges, protrusions, recesses, rotational locks, and the like. ln this manner, the components can be held relative to each other in a simpler manner when attaching the components to each other using a number of fastening units and/or using welding. However, such solutions are costly and ineffective as they add design costs and provide a limited ability to hold the components relative to each other upon further attachment of the components. ln addition, such solutions can add weight and complexity to the components and normally require specific design of various components Which makes it difficult to use standardized components. Furthermore, these types of solutions normally require relative high tolerances of the mating surfaces of the components, which add costs and complexity to the product.

Moreover, in many cases, components are attached to each other with more fastening units than is required as a means to hold them in place relative to each other during assembly. This is costly and ineffective as it adds more fastening units than actually required for the component to function and be held in place. lt adds time by adding fastening units, as well as adding cost for the supplier due to tolerances, more parts and masking of extra threads during painting. Furthermore, many components have different thickness of a mounting surface requiring fastening units of different length, which thus also add costs due to logistics and administration.

SUMMARY lt is an object of the present invention to overcome, or at least alleviate, at least some of the above-mentioned problems and drawbacks.

According to an aspect of the invention, the object is achieved by a fastening element for attaching a first component to a second component. The fastening element comprises a first end portion provided with a first snap fit arrangement, a second end portion provided with a second snap fit arrangement, and a stop surface having a surface normal pointing towards the second snap fit arrangement. The fastening element comprises a third snap fit arrangement arranged at a position between the stop surface and the second snap fit arrangement.

Thereby, a fastening element is provided allowing an assembler to temporarily attach the first component to the second component in a quick, simple, and convenient manner. This is because the assembler may simply insert the second end portion into a hole of the second component. Since the fastening element comprises the stop surface, the stop surface can ensure that the fastening element is inserted a predetermined distance into the hole by abutting against a surface of the second component. The second snap fit arrangement of the fastening element can ensure that the fastening element is securely retained in the hole of the second component. ln addition, since the fastening element comprises the third snap fit arrangement arranged at a position between the stop surface and the second snap fit arrangement, the fastening element can be attached to components of different thicknesses in a simple and secure manner.

Then, after inserting the second end portion of the fastening element into the hole of the second component, the assembler can in a quick, simple, and convenient manner align a hole of the first component onto the first end portion of the fastening element and press the first component in a direction towards the second component. ln this manner, the assembler can in a quick, simple, and convenient manner attach the first component to the second component without the use of tools. The first snap fit assembly can ensure that the fastening element is securely retained in the hole of the first component so as to temporarily attach the first component to the second component. Then, while the first component is securely attached to the second component by the use of the fastening element, the assembler may further secure the first component to the second component in a simple and convenient manner using a further fastening unit, welding, or the like. 3 The fastening element according to embodiments herein can be referred to as a third hand solution because it can function as a "third hand" for an assembler, i.e. a third hand holding the first component relative to the second component when further attaching the first component to the second component.

Thus, a fastening element is provided having conditions for reducing manufacturing costs and assembling costs of vehicles. This is because the fastening element circumvents the need for designing the first and second components with flanges, protrusions, recesses, rotational locks, and the like, for holding the first and second components relative to each other when further securing the first component to the second component. As a further result thereof, the fastening element provides conditions for using standardized components having lower tolerances, lower weight, and lower complexity. ln addition the fastening element circumvents the need for using an excessive number of fastening units for securing the first component to the second component, which also provides conditions for lower tolerances, lower weight, lower complexity, and lower assembling costs of vehicles.

Accordingly, a fastening element is provided overcoming, or at least alleviating, at least some of the above-mentioned problems and drawbacks. As a result, the above-mentioned object is achieved.

As understood from the herein described, an assembling machine may utilize the fastening element according to the embodiments herein for attaching the first component to the second component. Therefore, the wording "an/the assembler", as used herein, may be replaced with the wording "an/the assembler, or an/the assembling machine".

Moreover, the fastening element according to embodiments herein may be used in another manner than in the above described example for attaching a first component to a second component. As an example, the first end portion may first be inserted into a hole of a first component and the assembler may take the first component and move it relative to a second component such that the second end portion of the fastening element is inserted into a hole of the second component. As another example, the second end portion of the fastening element may be inserted into a hole of a first component and the first end portion of the fastening element may be inserted into a hole of a second component. 4 Optionally, the fastening element has a first section comprising the first snap fit arrangement and a second section comprising the second and third snap fit arrangements, and wherein the first section has a larger diameter than the second section. Thereby, a fastening element is provided allowing the first section to be inserted into holes having a larger diameter than the diameter of a hole in which the second section is adapted to be inserted into. Moreover, a fastening element is provided having conditions for being simple to use. This is because an assembler can in a quicker and simpler manner determine which end of the fastening element that is adapted to be inserted into a hole of the second component and vice versa.

Optionally, the stop surface is formed by a transition surface between the first section and the second section. Thereby, a fastening element is provided having conditions for holding the first component at a distance close to the second component. This is because the need for a protrusion between the first and second sections of the fastening element is circumvented. Thus, as a further result, since the need for a protrusion between the first and second sections of the fastening element is circumvented, a fastening element is provided having conditions for holding the first component relative to the second component with the first and second components being in abutting contact with each other.

Optionally, the first snap fit arrangement comprises a number of cantilevers each comprising a protruding edge. Thereby, a simple and efficient fastening element is provided capable of holding the first component relative to the second component in a secure manner. Moreover, it can be ensured that the first end portion can be inserted into a hole in a quick and simple manner. Furthermore, it can be ensured that the first end portion can be removed from a hole in a quick and simple manner.

Optionally, the first snap fit arrangement comprises two pairs of oppositely arranged cantilevers each comprising a protruding edge. Thereby, a simple and efficient fastening element is provided capable of holding the first component relative to the second component in a secure manner. Moreover, due to the pairs of oppositely arranged cantilevers each comprising a protruding edge, it can be ensured that the first end portion can be inserted into a hole in a quick and simple manner. Furthermore, it can be ensured that the first end portion can be removed from a hole in a quick and simple manner.

Optionally, the fastening element has a region with substantially constant diameter, and wherein the region extends between the protruding edges of the cantilevers of the first snap fit arrangement and the stop surface. Thereby, the need for a protrusion between the first and second sections of the fastening element is circumvented, a fastening element is provided having conditions for holding the first component relative to the second component while the first component is in abutting contact With the second component.

Optionally, the second snap fit arrangement comprises a pair of oppositely arranged cantilevers each comprising a protruding edge. Thereby, a simple and efficient fastening element is provided capable of holding the first component relative to the second component in a secure manner while having conditions for being inserted into a hole of the second component in a quick and simple manner. Furthermore, it can be ensured that the second end portion can be removed from a hole in a quick and simple manner.

Optionally, the thickness of each cantilever of the second snap fit arrangement, measured in a direction perpendicular to a centre axis of the fastening element, is within the range of 18 - 47%, or is within the range of 30 - 42%, of the diameter of the section of the fastening element at which the cantilever is arranged. Thereby, a simple and efficient fastening element is provided capable of holding the first component relative to the second component in a secure manner while having conditions for being inserted into a hole of the second component in a quick and simple manner. Furthermore, it can be ensured that the fastening element can be removed from holes in a quick and simple manner.

Optionally, the third snap fit arrangement comprises a pair of oppositely arranged cantilevers each comprising a protruding edge. Thereby, a simple and efficient fastening element is provided having conditions for being attached to components of different thicknesses in a simple and secure manner. That is, in more detail, since the third snap fit arrangement is arranged at a position between the stop surface and the second snap fit arrangement, the protruding edges of the cantilevers of the third snap fit arrangement can secure the fastening element in a hole having a first length/depth, whereas protruding edges of the cantilevers of the second snap fit arrangement can secure the fastening element in a hole having a second length/depth being greater than first length/depth. ln other words, due to these features, a fastening element is provided capable of holding the first component relative to types of second components of different thicknesses in a secure manner. Moreover, since the third snap fit arrangement comprises a pair of oppositely arranged cantilevers each comprising a protruding edge, it can be ensured that the second end portion of the fastening element can be inserted into a hole in a quick and simple manner. Furthermore, it can be ensured that the second end portion of the fastening element can be removed from a hole in a quick and simple manner. 6 Optionally, each cantilever of the third snap fit arrangement is placed With 90 degree angles to cantilevers of the second snap fit arrangement. Thereby, a simple and efficient fastening element is provided capable of holding the first component relative to the second component in a secure manner while having conditions for being inserted into holes in a quick and simple manner.

Optionally, each cantilever of the third snap fit arrangement comprises a slit extending through the cantilever. Thereby, a greater flexibility of the cantilevers of the third snap fit arrangement can be ensured while maintaining a certain thickness of the cantilevers. ln this manner, the fastening element can be manufactured in a more cost-efficient manner because the cantilevers of the third snap fit arrangement can have the same thickness as the cantilevers of the second snap fit arrangement while ensuring a high flexibility so as to lower the force needed for inserting the second end portion of the fastening element into a hole, as well as the force needed for removing the second end portion of the fastening element from a hole.

Optionally, the slit has a U-shape oriented such that the open portion of the U-shape points in a direction towards the stop surface. Thereby, a greater flexibility of the cantilevers of the third snap fit arrangement can be ensured while maintaining a certain thickness of the cantilevers.

Optionally, each cantilever has an arc-shaped outer surface. Thereby, a simple and efficient fastening element is provided capable of holding the first component relative to the second component in a secure manner while having conditions for being inserted into holes of first and second components in a quick and simple manner.

Optionally, the radius of curvature of the arc-shaped outer surface corresponds to the radius of the section of the fastening element at which the cantilever is arranged. Thereby, a simple and efficient fastening element is provided capable of holding the first component relative to the second component in a secure manner while having conditions for being inserted into holes of first and second components in a quick and simple manner.

Optionally, radially outer surfaces of the cantilevers form radially outer surfaces of the fastening element. Thereby, a simple and efficient fastening element is provided capable of holding the first component relative to the second component in a secure manner while having conditions for being inserted into holes of first and second components in a quick and simple manner.

Optionally, a cross section of each cantilever has the shape of a minor circle sector. Thereby, a simple and cost-efficient fastening element is provided while a certain flexibility of each cantilever can be ensured.

Optionally, the fastening element is elongated along a centre axis of the fastening element, and wherein each cantilever is flexible to move the protruding edge in directions substantially perpendicular to the centre axis of the fastening element. Thereby, a simple and efficient fastening element is provided capable of holding the first component relative to the second component in a secure manner while having conditions for being inserted into holes of first and second components in a quick and simple manner. Furthermore, it can be ensured that the fastening element can be removed from holes in a quick and simple manner.

Optionally, the fastening element is elongated along a centre axis of the fastening element, and wherein each cantilever is elongated along a direction of elongation being parallel to the centre axis of the fastening element when the cantilever is in an undeformed state. Thereby, a simple and efficient fastening element is provided capable of holding the first component relative to the second component in a secure manner while having conditions for being inserted into holes of first and second components in a quick and simple manner. Furthermore, it can be ensured that the fastening element can be removed from holes in a quick and simple manner.

Optionally, the fastening element has a void space between each pair of oppositely arranged cantilevers, and wherein the width of the void space, measured in a plane perpendicular to a centre axis of the fastening element, is at least twice as large as the radial extension of each protruding edge of the pair of oppositely arranged cantilevers. Thereby, a simple and efficient fastening element is provided capable of holding the first component relative to the second component in a secure manner while having conditions for being inserted into holes of first and second components in a quick and simple manner. Furthermore, it can be ensured that the fastening element can be removed from holes in a quick and simple manner.

Optionally, the stop surface separates the fastening element into a first section comprising the first snap fit arrangement and a second section comprising the second and third snap fit arrangements, and wherein the second section has a greater length than the first section. Thereby, a fastening element is provided having conditions for a quick and simple attachment of first components to second components of greater thickness. 8 Optionally, each of the first and second end portions is frustoconical. Thereby, a simple and efficient fastening element is provided capable of holding the first component relative to the second component in a secure manner while having further improved conditions for being inserted into ho|es of first and second components in a quick and simple manner.

Optionally, the protruding edges of the first snap fit arrangement form part of the frustoconical shape of the first end portion. Thereby, a simple and efficient fastening element is provided capable of holding the first component relative to the second component in a secure manner while having further improved conditions for inserting the first end portion into ho|es in a quicker and simpler manner.

Optionally, the protruding edges of the pair of oppositely arranged cantilevers of the second snap fit arrangement form part of the frustoconical shape of the second end portion. Thereby, a simple and efficient fastening element is provided capable of holding the first component relative to the second component in a secure manner while having further improved conditions for inserting the second end portion into ho|es in a quicker and simpler manner.

Optionally, the fastening element comprises a through hole extending through an axial centre of the fastening element. Thereby, a fastening element is provided having conditions for a lower material usage While being capable of holding the first component relative to the second component in a secure manner. ln addition, the fastening element can be removed from a hole in a simpler manner for example when removing the fastening element by drilling. This is because the through hole extending through the axial centre of the fastening element can align and centre the drilling tool during drilling. As a further result thereof, the drilling tool is less likely to damage delimiting surfaces of the hole during the process of drilling.

Optionally, the fastening element is made of one continuous piece of material. Thereby, a fastening element is provided having conditions and characteristics suitable for being manufactured a cost-efficient manner while being capable of holding the first component relative to the second component in a secure manner.

Optionally, the fastening element is made of a polymeric material. Thereby, fastening element is provided having conditions and characteristics suitable for being manufactured a cost-efficient manner while being capable of holding the first component relative to the second component in a secure manner. Moreover, a fastening element is provided being 9 less likely to damage surfaces, such as painted surfaces, of first and second components in an assembling procedure of the first and second components using the fastening element.

Further features of, and advantages with, the present invention will become apparent when studying the appended c|aims and the following detailed description.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS Various aspects of the invention, including its particular features and advantages, will be readily understood from the example embodiments discussed in the following detailed description and the accompanying drawings, in which: Fig. 1 illustrates a vehicle according to some embodiments, Fig. 2 illustrates an enlarged view of a first and a second component of the vehicle illustrated in Fig. 1, Fig. 3 illustrates a cross section of the first and second components illustrated in Fig. 2, Fig. 4 illustrates a side view of a fastening element according to embodiments illustrated in Fig. 2 and Fig. 3, Fig. 5 illustrates a first perspective view of the fastening element illustrated in Fig. 2 - Fig. 4, and Fig. 6 illustrates a second perspective view of the fastening element illustrated in Fig. 2 - Fig.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION Aspects of the present invention will now be described more fully. Like numbers refer to like elements throughout. Well-known functions or constructions will not necessarily be described in detail for brevity and/or clarity.

Fig. 1 illustrates a vehicle 2 according to some embodiments. According to the illustrated embodiments, the vehicle 2 is a truck, i.e. a heavy vehicle. However, according to further embodiments, the vehicle 2, as referred to herein, may be another type of manned or unmanned vehicle for land or water based propulsion such as a lorry, a bus, a construction vehicle, a tractor, a car, a ship, a boat, or the like.

The vehicle 2 comprises a first component 61 and a second component 62. According to the illustrated embodiments, the second component 62 is a chassis beam of the vehicle 2 and the first component 61 is a bracket attached to the second component 62, i.e. to the chassis beam of the vehicle 2. According to further embodiments, the first and second components 61, 62 may be other types of components of the vehicle 2. Purely as examples, one or both of the first and second components 61, 62 may a bracket, a console, a rail, a guide rail, a plate, a panel, or the like. Since the first and second components 61, 62 are components of the vehicle 2, the first component 61 may be referred to as a first vehicle component 61 and the second component 62 may be referred to as a second vehicle component 62.

Fig. 2 illustrates an enlarged view of the first and second components 61, 62 of the vehicle 2 illustrated in Fig. 1. As clearly seen in Fig. 2, the first component 61 is held relative to the second component 62 by a fastening element 1.

Fig. 3 illustrates a cross section of the first and second components 61, 62 illustrated in Fig. 2. ln Fig. 3, the cross section is made in a plane comprising a centre axis of the fastening element 1 as is further explained herein. The fastening element 1 comprises a first end portion 5 and a second end portion 6. ln Fig. 3, the first end portion 5 has been inserted into a hole 71 of the first component 61 and the second end portion 6 has been inserted into a hole 72 of the second component 62. According to the illustrated embodiments, each of the holes 71, 72 of the first and second components 61, 62 is a through hole.

Fig. 4 illustrates a side view of the fastening element 1 according to the embodiments illustrated in Fig. 2 and Fig. 3. As is indicated in Fig. 4, the first end portion 5 of the fastening element 1 comprises a first snap fit arrangement 11 and the second end portion 6 of the fastening element 1 comprises a second snap fit arrangement 12. The fastening element 1 further comprises a stop surface 7. The stop surface 7 has a surface normal N pointing towards the second snap fit arrangement 12. The fastening element 1 comprises a third snap fit arrangement 13 arranged at a position between the stop surface 7 and the second snap fit arrangement 12. Thus, the surface normal N of the stop surface 7 is also pointing towards the third snap fit arrangement 13 of the fastening element 1.

As is explained in more detail below, according to the illustrated embodiments, each snap fit arrangement 11, 12, 13 of the fastening element 1 comprises a number of cantilevers 31, 32, 33, wherein each cantilever 31, 32, 33 comprises a protruding edge 41, 42, 43 protruding radially from the cantilever 31, 32, 33, i.e. protruding in a direction perpendicular to the centre axis Ca of the fastening element 1. As indicated in Fig. 4, the fastening element 1 is elongated along a centre axis Ca of the fastening element 1. The centre axis Ca of the fastening element 1 coincides with an insertion direction when the fastening element 1 is inserted into a hole of a component, such as a hole 71, 72 of a component 61, 62 illustrated 11 in Fig. 3. The centre axis Ca of the fastening element 1 extends through an axial centre of the fastening element 1.

As is further explained herein, each cantilever 31, 32, 33 of the fastening element 1 is flexible to move the protruding edge 41, 42, 43 of the cantilever 31, 32, 33 in directions substantially perpendicular to the centre axis Ca of the fastening element 1, i.e. in radial directions of the fastening element 1. Moreover, as can be clearly seen in Fig. 4, each cantilever 31, 32, 33 is elongated along a direction of elongation De being parallel to the centre axis Ca of the fastening element 1 when the cantilever 31, 32, 33 is in an undeformed state. ln Fig. 4, each cantilever 31, 32, 33 of the fastening element 1 is illustrated in an undeformed state. The undeformed state may also be referred to as a non-flexed state.

The cantilevers 31, 32, 33 of the fastening element 1 are thus a type of snap fit arms protruding in directions coinciding with the centre axis Ca of the fastening element 1 when the cantilever 31, 32, 33 is in an undeformed state. Therefore, the cantilevers 31, 32, 33 of the fastening element 1 may also be referred to as snap fit arms or the like.

According to the illustrated embodiments, the surface normal N of the stop surface 7 is parallel to the centre axis Ca of the fastening element 1. Moreover, as is indicated in Fig. 4, the protruding edge 41 of a cantilever 31 of the first snap fit arrangement 11 has a surface normal N1 pointing towards the second snap fit arrangement 12 as well as towards the third snap fit arrangement 13. According to the illustrated embodiments, the surface normal N1 of the protruding edge 41 of the cantilever 31 of the first snap fit arrangement 11 is parallel to the surface normal N of the stop surface 7 and is pointing in the same direction as the surface normal N of the stop surface 7.

Moreover, as is indicated in Fig. 4, the protruding edge 42 of a cantilever 32 of the second snap fit arrangement 12 has a surface normal N2 pointing towards the first snap fit arrangement 11. According to the illustrated embodiments, the surface normal N2 of the protruding edge 42 of the cantilever 32 of the second snap fit arrangement 12 is parallel to the surface normal N of the stop surface 7 and is pointing in a direction opposite to the surface normal N of the stop surface 7 and thus also opposite to the surface normal N1 of the protruding edge 41 of the cantilever 31 of the first snap fit arrangement 11.

Likewise, as is indicated in Fig. 4, the protruding edge 43 of a cantilever 33 of the third snap fit arrangement 13 has a surface normal N3 pointing towards the first snap fit arrangement 11. According to the illustrated embodiments, the surface normal N3 of the protruding edge 12 43 of the cantilever 33 of the third snap fit arrangement 13 is parallel to the surface normal N of the stop surface 7 and is pointing in a direction opposite to the surface normal N of the stop surface 7 and thus also opposite to the surface normal N1 of the protruding edge 41 of the cantilever 31 of the first snap fit arrangement 11. Hence, according to the illustrated embodiments, the surface normal N3 of the protruding edge 43 of the cantilever 33 of the third snap fit arrangement 13 is parallel to and pointing in the same direction to the surface normal N2 of the protruding edge 42 of the cantilever 32 of the second snap fit arrangement 12.

According to the illustrated embodiments, the fastening element 1 has a first section 21 comprising the first snap fit arrangement 11 and a second section 22 comprising the second and third snap fit arrangements 12, 13. The first section 21 has a diameter d1 being larger than a diameter d2, d2' of the second section 22. ln more detail, according to the illustrated embodiments, the stop surface 7 separates the fastening element 1 into the first section 21 comprising the first snap fit arrangement 11 and the second section 22 comprising the second and third snap fit arrangements 12, 13. ln other words, the stop surface 7 is formed by a transition surface 7' between the first section 21 and the second section 22. The first section 21 of the fastening element 1 has a region 23 with substantially constant diameter d1. The region 23 extends between the protruding edges 41 of the cantilevers 31 of the first snap fit arrangement 11 and the stop surface 7.

According to the illustrated embodiments, the second section 22 has a slightly reduced diameter d2' at a region of the second end portion 6 as compared to the diameter d2 of the second section 22 located in a region of the stop surface 7. The diameter d2' at a region of the second end portion 6 may be a few percent smaller than the diameter d2 of the second section 22 located in a region of the stop surface 7. ln this manner, the insertion of the second section 22 into a hole is further facilitated. However, according to some embodiments, the second section 22 may have a constant diameter d2 between the stop surface 7 and the protruding edges 43, 42 of the second section 22.

Below, simultaneous reference is made to Fig. 2 - Fig. 4, if not indicated othenNise. The fastening element 1 according to the present disclosure allows an assembler, or an assembling machine, to temporarily attach the first component 61 to the second component 62 in a quick, simple, and convenient manner. As understood from the herein described, an assembling machine may utilize the fastening element 1 according to the embodiments herein for attaching the first component 61 to the second component 62. However, for reasons of brevity and clarity, only an assembler is referred to in some places herein. 13 Therefore, the wording "an/the assembler", as used herein, may be replaced with the wording "an/the assembler, or an/the assembling machine".

Thus, the assembler may simply insert the second end portion 6 into a hole 72 of the second component 62. The hole 72 of the second component 62 and/or the fastening element 1 may be configured such that the diameter of the hole 72 of the second component 62 is slightly larger than the diameter d2, d2' of the second section 22 of the fastening element 1. Since the fastening element 1 comprises the stop surface 7, the stop surface 7 can ensure that the fastening element 1 is inserted a predetermined distance into the hole 72 by the stop surface 7 abutting against a surface of the second component 62.

As can be seen when comparing Fig. 3 and Fig. 4, the thickness of the second component 62 at the location of the hole 72, and thus also the length/depth of the hole 72, is slightly smaller than the distance between the stop surface 7 and protruding edges 43 of cantilevers 33 of the third snap fit arrangement 13 measured in a direction parallel to the centre axis Ca of the fastening element 1. When in this position, the fastening element 1 will be retained in the hole 72 by an abutting contact between the stop surface 7 of the fastening element 1 and a surface of a first side S1 of the second component 62 and/or an abutting contact between the protruding edges 43 of cantilevers 33 of the third snap fit arrangement 13 and surface of a second side S2 of the first second component 62.

As clearly seen in Fig. 4, each protruding edge 41, 42, 43 of the cantilevers 31, 32, 33 of the fastening element 1 protrudes radially from the fastening element 1, i.e. protrudes in a radial direction of the fastening element 1. Radial directions of the fastening element 1 are perpendicular to the centre axis Ca of the fastening element 1. Thus, each protruding edge 41, 42, 43 of the cantilevers 31, 32, 33 has a radial extension Re, Re', Re", as is indicated in Fig. 4. The hole 72 of the second component 62 and/or the fastening element 1 may be configured such that the diameter of the hole 72 of the second component 62 is slightly smaller than the diameter of a circle drawn across surfaces of the protruding edges 43 of the third snap fit arrangement 13. Likewise, the hole 72 of the second component 62 and/or the fastening element 1 may be configured such that the diameter of the hole 72 of the second component 62 is slightly smaller than the diameter of a circle drawn across surfaces of the protruding edges 42 of the second snap fit arrangement 12.

As explained above, each cantilever 31, 32, 33 of the fastening element 1 is flexible to move the protruding edge 41, 42, 43 of the cantilever 31, 32, 33 in directions substantially perpendicular to the centre axis Ca of the fastening element 1. ln this manner, when the 14 second section 22 of the fastening element 1 is pressed into the hole 71, 72, the abutting contact between the protruding edges 42 of the second snap fit arrangement 12 and delimiting surfaces of the hole 71, 72 will cause flexing/deformation of the cantilevers 32 of the second snap fit arrangement 12 in directions towards the centre axis Ca of the fastening element 1. Likewise, when the protruding edges 43 of the third snap fit arrangement 13 reaches delimiting surfaces of the hole 71, 72, the abutting contact between the protruding edges 43 of the third snap fit arrangement 13 and delimiting surfaces of the hole 71, 72 will cause flexing/deformation of the cantilevers 33 of the third snap fit arrangement 13 in directions towards the centre axis Ca of the fastening element 1.

With reference to Fig. 3, an assembler may press the second section 22 of the fastening element 1 into a hole 72 of the second component 62 from the first side S1 of the second component 62. The abutting contact between the protruding edges 42, 43 of the second and third snap fit arrangement 12, 13 and delimiting surfaces of the hole 72 will cause flexing/deformation of the cantilevers 32, 33 of the second and third snap fit arrangement 12, 13 in a direction towards the centre axis Ca of the fastening element 1. When the protruding edges 42 of the second snap fit arrangement 12 reaches a second side S2 of the second component 62, the elasticity of the cantilevers 32 of the second snap fit arrangement 12 forces the cantilevers 32 to move in directions away from the centre axis Ca of the fastening element 1. Accordingly, the elasticity of the cantilevers 32 of the second snap fit arrangement 12 forces the cantilevers 32 to assume the undeformed state illustrated in Fig. 3 and Fig. 4. Likewise, when the protruding edges 43 of the third snap fit arrangement 13 reaches the second side S2 of the second component 62, the elasticity of the cantilevers 33 of the third snap fit arrangement 13 forces the cantilevers 33 to move in directions away from the centre axis Ca of the fastening element 1. Accordingly, the elasticity of the cantilevers 32 of the second snap fit arrangement 12 forces the cantilevers 32 to assume the undeformed state illustrated in Fig. 3 and Fig. 4. ln this manner, the fastening element 1 is securely retained in the hole 72 of the second component 62.

As understood from the above, and as can be seen in Fig. 3, due to the different distances between the stop surface 7 and the protruding edges 43 of the third snap fit arrangement 13 and the stop surface 7 and the protruding edges 42 the of the second snap fit arrangement 12, the fastening element 1 can be attached to components of different thicknesses in a simple and secure manner. That is, the protruding edges 42 the of the second snap fit arrangement 12 can be utilized to retain the fastening element 1 in a hole having greater length/depth than the hole 72 of the second component 62 illustrated in Fig. 3. ln this manner a more versatile fastening element 1 is provided.

After inserting the second end portion 6 of the fastening element 1 into the hole 72 of the second component 62, the assembler can in a quick, simple, and convenient manner align a hole 71 of the first component 61 onto the first end portion 5 of the fastening element 1 and press the first component 61 in a direction towards the second component 62. ln this manner, the assembler can in a quick, simple, and convenient manner attach the first component 61 to the second component 62. As can be seen in Fig. 3, the hole 71 of the first component 61 and/or the fastening element 1 may be configured such that the diameter of the hole 71 of the first component 61 is slightly larger than the diameter d1 of the first section 21 of the fastening element 1. Moreover, the thickness of the first component 61 at the location of the hole 71, and thus also the length/depth of the hole 71, is slightly smaller than the distance between the stop surface 7 and protruding edges 41 of cantilevers 31 of the first snap fit arrangement 11 measured in a direction coinciding with the centre axis Ca of the fastening element 1.

The first snap fit assembly 11 can thus ensure that the fastening element 1 is securely retained in the hole 71 of the first component 61 so as to temporarily attach the first component 61 to the second component 62. Thus, in this manner, an assembler may temporarily attach the first component 61 to the second component 62 in a quick, simple, and convenient manner without the use of tools. Then, the assembler may further secure the first component 61 to the second component 62 in a simple and convenient manner using a further fastening unit 10, welding, or the like. The fastening element 1 according to embodiments herein can be referred to as a third hand solution because it can function as a "third hand" for an assembler, i.e. a third hand holding the first component 61 relative to the second component 62 when further attaching the first component 61 to the second component 62. ln the example illustrated in Fig. 2 and Fig. 3, a further fastening unit 10 is inserted into a second hole 81 of the first component 61 and into a second hole 82 of the second component 62. As best seen in Fig. 3, in the illustrated example, the further fastening unit 10 is a bolt comprising a threaded portion 10". The further fastening unit 10 is inserted from the first side S1 of the second component 62 and is configured to be attached by threading a nut onto the threaded portion 10' at the second side S2 of the second component 62. According to further embodiments, the further fastening unit 10, as referred to herein may be another type of unit than a bolt and may be inserted into a hole 82 from the second side S2 of the second component 62. 16 When the further fastening unit 10 is inserted into the second hole 81 of the first component 61 and into the second hole 82 of the second component 62, the second component 62 is attached to the first component 61 and is rotationally locked to the first component 61. The assembler may thus utilize the further fastening unit 10 to rotationally lock the first component 61 to the second component 62. As an alternative, or in addition, the assembler may utilize two or more fastening elements 1 according to the present disclosure when attaching the first component 61 to the second component 62, before further fastening the first component 61 to the second component 62 using a further fastening unit 10, welding or the like.

As understood from the herein described, the fastening element 1 according to the present disclosure has conditions for reducing manufacturing costs and assembling costs of vehicles.

This is because the fastening element circumvents the need for designing the first and second components 61, 62 with flanges, protrusions, recesses, rotational locks, and the like, for holding the first and second components 61, 62 relative to each other when further securing the first component 61 to the second component 62. As a further result thereof, the fastening element provides conditions for using standardized components 61, 62 having lower tolerances, lower weight, and lower complexity. ln addition, the fastening element 1 circumvents the need for using an excessive number of fastening units 10 for securing the first component 61 to the second component 62, which also provides conditions for lower tolerances, lower weight, lower complexity, and lower assembling costs of vehicles.

The fastening element 1 according to embodiments herein may be used in another manner than in the above described example for attaching a first component 61 to a second component 62. As an example, the first end portion 5 of the fastening element 1 may first be inserted into a hole 71 of a first component 61 and the assembler may take the first component 61 and move it relative to a second component 62 such that the second end portion 6 of the fastening element 1 is inserted into a hole 72 of the second component 62. As another example, the second end portion 6 of the fastening element 1 may be inserted into a hole 71 of a first component 61 and the first end portion 5 of the fastening element 1 may be inserted into a hole 72 of a second component 62.

The fastening element 1 according to the present disclosure provides a releasable attachment of the first component 61 against the second component 62. That is, after having further fastened the first component 61 against the second component 62 using a further 17 fastening unit 10, welding, or the like, the assembler may remove the fastening element 1. The assembler may remove the fastening element 1 using hands, pliers, a screwdriver, or the like, or by drilling. The assembler may apply a force onto the cantilevers 32, 33 of the second and third snap fit arrangements 12, 13 to compress the cantilevers 32, 33 towards the centre axis Ca of the fastening element 1 for example using hands, pliers, or the like. The assembler may then pull the fastening element 1 out of the holes 71, 72 of the first and second components 61, 62 from the first side S1 of the second component 62 in the example illustrated in Fig. 3. As an alternative, the assembler may apply a force onto the cantilevers 31 of the first snap fit arrangement 11 to compress the cantilevers 31 towards the centre axis Ca of the fastening element 1 for example using hands, pliers, or the like. The assembler may then pull the fastening element 1 out of the holes 71, 72 of the first and second components 61, 62 from the second side S2 of the second component 62 in the example illustrated in Fig. 3. Thus, due to the features of the fastening element 1, the fastening element 1 can be removed from the first and second components 61, 62 in a quick and simple manner.

Fig. 5 illustrates a first perspective view of the fastening element 1 illustrated in Fig. 2 - Fig. 4. As is best seen in Fig. 5, according to the illustrated embodiments, the second snap fit arrangement 12 comprises a pair of oppositely arranged cantilevers 32 each comprising a protruding edge 42. The feature that the cantilevers 32 of the second snap fit arrangement 12 are oppositely arranged means that the cantilevers 32 are arranged radially opposite to each other at a respective side of a separation plane extending through the centre axis Ca of the fastening element 1 at a location between the cantilevers 32 of the second snap fit arrangement 12. Moreover, the feature that the cantilevers 32 of the second snap fit arrangement 12 are oppositely arranged can be defined as that the cantilevers 32 are arranged such that a centre plane which extends through a circumferential centre of each cantilever 32 is also extending through the centre axis Ca of the fastening element 1. Thus, when combining the two types of definitions above, the angle between the separation plane and the centre plane may be 90 degrees.

As also can be seen in Fig. 5, the third snap fit arrangement 13 comprises a pair of oppositely arranged cantilevers 33 each comprising a protruding edge 43. Similarly as explained above, the feature that the cantilevers 33 of the third snap fit arrangement 13 are oppositely arranged means that the cantilevers 33 are arranged radially opposite to each other at a respective side of a separation plane extending through the centre axis Ca of the fastening element 1 at a location between the cantilevers 33 of the third snap fit arrangement 13. Moreover, the feature that the cantilevers 33 of the third snap fit arrangement 13 are 18 oppositely arranged can be defined as that the cantilevers 33 are arranged such that a centre plane which extends through a circumferential centre of each cantilever 33 is also extending through the centre axis Ca of the fastening element 1. Thus, when combining the two types of definitions above, the angle between the separation plane and the centre plane for the cantilevers 33 of the third snap fit arrangement 13 may be 90 degrees.

Furthermore, as seen in Fig. 5, according to the i||ustrated embodiments, each cantilever 33 of the third snap fit arrangement 13 is placed with 90 degree angles to cantilevers 32 of the second snap fit arrangement 12. Thus, with reference to the above specified definitions, the centre plane of the cantilevers 33 of the third snap fit arrangement 13 coincides with the separation plane of the cantilevers 32 of the second snap fit arrangement 12. ln other words, the centre plane of the cantilevers 32 of the second snap fit arrangement 12 coincides with the separation plane of the cantilevers 33 of the third snap fit arrangement 13. Likewise, according to the i||ustrated embodiments, the angle between the centre plane of the cantilevers 33 of the third snap fit arrangement 13 and the centre plane of cantilevers 32 of the second snap fit arrangement 12 is 90 degrees.

According to further embodiments, the angle between the centre plane of the cantilevers 33 of the third snap fit arrangement 13 and the centre plane of cantilevers 32 of the second snap fit arrangement 12 may be within the range of 60 - 120 degrees or may be within the range of 80 - 100 degrees. According to further embodiments, the second and third snap fit arrangements 12, 13 may each comprise another number of cantilevers 32, 33 than two. Moreover, cantilevers 32, 33 of the second and third snap fit arrangements 12, 13 may be arranged in a different manner than according to the i||ustrated embodiments.

Fig. 6 i||ustrates a second perspective view of the fastening element 1 i||ustrated in Fig. 2 - Fig. 5. As is best seen in Fig. 6, according to the i||ustrated embodiments, the first snap fit arrangement 11 comprises two pairs of oppositely arranged cantilevers 31 each comprising a protruding edge 41. Similarly as explained above, the feature that the first snap fit arrangement 11 comprises two pairs of oppositely arranged cantilevers 31 means that cantilevers 31 of each pair of cantilevers 31 are arranged radially opposite to each other at a respective side of a separation plane extending through the centre axis Ca of the fastening element 1 between the pair of cantilevers 31. According to the i||ustrated embodiments, such a separation plane coincides with a centre plane of cantilevers 31 of the other pair of oppositely arranged cantilevers 31. This is because, according to the i||ustrated embodiments, each cantilever 31 of the first snap fit arrangement 11 is placed with 90 degree angles to other cantilevers 31 of the first snap fit arrangement 11. ln other words, 19 according to the illustrated embodiments, the angle between a first centre plane extending through circumferential centres of a first pair of oppositely arranged cantilevers 31 of the first snap fit arrangement 11 and a second centre plane extending through circumferential centres of a second pair of oppositely arranged cantilevers 31 of the first snap fit arrangement 11 is 90 degrees.

According to further embodiments, the angle between the first centre plane extending through circumferential centres of a first pair of oppositely arranged cantilevers 31 of the first snap fit arrangement 11 and the second centre plane extending through circumferential centres of a second pair of oppositely arranged cantilevers 31 of the first snap fit arrangement 11 may be within the range of 60 - 120 degrees or may be within the range of 80 - 100 degrees. According to further embodiments, the first snap fit arrangement 11 may comprise another number of cantilevers 31 than four. Moreover, cantilevers 31 of the first snap fit arrangement 11 may be arranged in a different manner than according to the illustrated embodiments.

Below, simultaneous reference is made to Fig. 3 - Fig. 6 if not indicated othenNise. As clearly seen, according to the illustrated embodiments, each of the first and second end portions 5, 6 is frustoconical. Moreover, according to the illustrated embodiments, the protruding edges 41 of the first snap fit arrangement 11 form part of the frustoconical shape of the first end portion 5. Furthermore, according to the illustrated embodiments, the protruding edges 42 of the pair of oppositely arranged cantilevers 32 of the second snap fit arrangement 12 form part of the frustoconical shape of the second end portion 6. Due to these features, the fastening element 1 can be inserted in a simple manner into holes 71, 72 of the first and second components 61, 62.

Moreover, as clearly seen, according to the illustrated embodiments, each cantilever 31, 32, 33 has an arc-shaped outer surface 31', 32', 33' in a plane perpendicular to the centre axis Ca of the fastening element 1. Moreover, the radius of curvature rc1, rc2 of the arc-shaped outer surface 31 ', 32' corresponds to the radius r1, r2 of the section 21, 22 of the fastening element 1 at which the cantilever 31, 32 is arranged. ln other Words, according to the illustrated embodiments, radially outer surfaces 31 ', 32', 33' of the cantilevers 31, 32, 33 form radially outer surfaces 31', 32', 33' of the fastening element 1. The radius of curvature rc1, rc2 of the arc-shaped outer surface 31 ', 32' is measured in a plane perpendicular to the centre axis Ca of the fastening element 1.

As is best seen in Fig. 5 and Fig. 6, the fastening element 1 comprises a through hole 18 extending through an axial centre of the fastening element 1. Thereby, a fastening element 1 is provided having conditions for a lower material usage. Moreover, the fastening element 1 can be removed from a hole 71, 72 in a simpler manner for example when removing the fastening element 1 by drilling. This is because the through hole 18 extending through the axial centre of the fastening element 1 can align and centre a drilling tool during drilling. As a further result thereof, the drilling tool is less likely to damage delimiting surfaces of the hole 71,72 during the process of drilling.

Moreover, in embodiments in which the fastening element 1 comprises a through hole 18 extending through an axial centre of the fastening element 1, the fastening element 1 can be removed from a hole 71, 72 in a simpler manner when pulling the fastening element 1 out of a hole 71, 72. This is because an elongated tool can be inserted into the through hole 18 of the fastening element 1 which can facilitate removal of the fastening element 1 from the hole 71, 72. The feature that the through hole 18 extends through an axial centre of the fastening element 1 means that the centre axis Ca of the fastening element 1 coincides with a centre axis of the through hole 18.

According to the illustrated embodiments, the fastening element 1 is made of one continuous piece of material, i.e. a piece of material in which the material is continuous/uninterrupted throughout the piece and thus also continuous/uninterrupted throughout the fastening element 1. The fastening element 1 may be made of a polymeric material, such as Polyethylene (PE), Polypropylene (PP), or the like. The fastening element 1 according to the present disclosure may be made by moulding, such as injection moulding.

As can be seen in Fig. 4 - Fig. 6, according to the illustrated embodiments, each cantilever 33 of the third snap fit arrangement 13 comprises a slit 15 extending through the cantilever 33. Each slit 15 has a U-shape oriented such that the open portion of the U-shape points in a direction towards the stop surface 7. Due to the slits 15, a greater flexibility of the cantilevers 33 of the third snap fit arrangement 13 can be ensured while maintaining a certain thickness of the cantilevers 33. ln this manner, the fastening element 1 can be manufactured in a more cost-efficient manner because the cantilevers 33 of the third snap fit arrangement 13 can have the same thickness as the cantilevers 32 of the second snap fit arrangement 12 while ensuring a high flexibility of the cantilevers 33 of the third snap fit arrangement 13 so as to lower the force needed for inserting the second end portion 6 of the fastening element 1 into a hole 71, 72. However, according to further embodiments, the fastening element 1 may lack the slits 15 according to the illustrated embodiments. 21 As is best seen in the perspective views of the fastening element 1 in Fig. 5 and Fig. 6, according to the illustrated embodiments, a cross section of each cantilever 31, 32, 33 has the shape of a minor circle sector. Moreover, as indicated in Fig. 4 - Fig. 6, the fastening element 1 has a void space 16, 16' between each pair of oppositely arranged cantilevers 31, 32, 33. According to the illustrated embodiments, the width w, w' of the void space 16, 16', measured in a plane perpendicular to a centre axis Ca of the fastening element 1, is at least twice as large as the radial extension Re, Re', Re" of each protruding edge 41, 42, 43 of the pair of oppositely arranged cantilevers 31, 32, 33. ln this manner, a sufficient flexing/movement of the cantilevers 31, 32, 33 of the fastening element 1 can be ensured when the fastening element 1 is inserted into holes 71, 72 having the same, or slightly larger, diameter as the diameters d1, d2, d2' of the radially outer surfaces 31 ', 32', 33' of the cantilevers 31, 32, 33 of the fastening element 1. ln Fig. 4, a thickness T2 of a cantilever 32 of the second snap fit arrangement 12 is indicated. As defined herein, the thickness T2 of a cantilever 32 of the second snap fit arrangement 12 is measured in a direction perpendicular to the centre axis Ca of the fastening element 1, i.e. in a radial direction of the fastening element 1. According to the illustrated embodiments, the thickness T2 of each cantilever 32 of the second snap fit arrangement 12, is approximately 36% of the diameter d2' of the section 22 of the fastening element 1 at which the cantilever 32 is arranged, i.e. approximately 36% of the diameter d2' of the second section 22 of the fastening element 1. According to further embodiments, the thickness T2 of each cantilever 32 of the second snap fit arrangement 12, measured a direction perpendicular to the centre axis Ca of the fastening element 1, may be within the range of 18 - 47%, or may be within the range of 30 - 42%, of the diameter d2' of the section 22 of the fastening element 1 at which the cantilever 32 is arranged.

As explained above, according to the illustrated embodiments, each cantilever 31, 32, 33 of the fastening element 1 is flexible to move the protruding edge 41, 42, 43 of the cantilever 31, 32, 33 in directions substantially perpendicular to the centre axis Ca of the fastening element 1. The cantilevers 31, 32, 33 of the fastening element 1 may be designed to be more flexible in directions perpendicular to the centre axis Ca of the fastening element 1 than in other directions of the fastening element 1.

According to the illustrated embodiments, the second section 22 has a length L2 being greater than a length L1 of the first section 21. The length L1 of the first section 21 may be measured between the first end portion 5 of the fastening element 1 and the stop surface 7 22 of the fastening element 1 in a direction parallel to the centre axis Ca of the fastening element 1. Likewise, the length L2 of the second section 22 may be measured between the second end portion 6 of the fastening element 1 and the stop surface 7 of the fastening element 1 in a direction parallel to the centre axis Ca of the fastening element 1.

According to the illustrated embodiments, the length L2 of the second section 22 is approximately 75% greater than the length L1 of the first section 21. According to further embodiments, the length L2 of the second section 22 may be 0% - 150% greater, or 25% - 100% greater, than the length L1 of the first section 21. However, according to some embodiments, the first section 21 of the fastening element 1 may have a length L1 being greater than a length L2 of the second section 22. Moreover, according to some embodiments, the first and second sections 21, 22 of the fastening element 1 may have equal length.

According to the illustrated embodiments, the diameter d1 of the first section 21 is approximately 25% greater than the diameter d2 of the second section 22 located in a region of the stop surface 7. According to further embodiments, the diameter d1 of the first section 21 may be within the range of 0% - 100% greater, or 5% - 50% greater, than the diameter d2 of the second section 22. Moreover, according to some embodiments, the second section 22 of the fastening element 1 may have a diameter d2 being greater than the diameter d1 of the first section 21 of the fastening element 1. Furthermore, according to some embodiments, the first and second sections 21, 22 of the fastening element 1 may have equal diameter d1, d2, d2'. Each diameter d1, d2, d2' of the fastening element 1 as referred to herein may be measured in a direction perpendicular to the centre axis Ca of the fastening element 1.

According to the illustrated embodiments, the fastening element 1 is arranged such that the distance from the stop surface 7 to a protruding edge 42 of a cantilever 32 of the second snap fit arrangement 12, measured in a direction parallel to the centre axis Ca of the fastening element 1, is approximately 78% greater than the distance from the stop surface 7 to a protruding edge 43 of a cantilever 33 of the third snap fit arrangement 13, measured in a direction parallel to the centre axis Ca of the fastening element 1. According to further embodiments, the fastening element 1 may be arranged such that the distance from the stop surface 7 to a protruding edge 42 of a cantilever 32 of the second snap fit arrangement 12, measured in a direction parallel to the centre axis Ca of the fastening element 1, is 3% - 250% greater, or 15% - 120% greater, than the distance from the stop surface 7 to a protruding edge 43 of a cantilever 33 of the third snap fit arrangement 13, measured in a direction parallel to the centre axis Ca of the fastening element 1. 23 According to the illustrated embodiments, the total length L1 + L2 of the fastening element 1 is 33 millimetres. However, the fastening element 1 may have another total length depending on the application, such as a total length within the range of 7 millimetres - 100 millimetres, or a total length within the range of 15 millimetres - 70 millimetres.

The wording "slightly larger" as used herein, may encompass that the object, aspect, or quantity referred to is 0.01% - 20%, or 0.01% - 9%, larger than the other object, aspect, or quantity referred to.

The wording "slightly smaller" as used herein, may encompass that the object, aspect, or quantity referred to is 0.01% - 20%, or 0.01% - 9%, smaller than the other object, aspect, or quantity referred to.

The feature that the second section 22 has a slightly reduced diameter d2' at a region of the second end portion 6 as compared to the diameter d2 of the second section 22 located in a region of the stop surface 7 may encompass that the slightly reduced diameter d2' is 99.99% - 93%, or is 99.8% - 95%, of the diameter d2 of the second section 22 located in a region of the stop surface 7.

The wording "substantially constant", as used herein, may encompass that the object, aspect, or quantity referred to varies less than 10%, or less than 5%.

The wording "substantially perpendicular to", as used herein, may encompass that the angle between the objects referred to is within the range of 80 - 100 degrees or is within the range of 83 - 97 degrees. lt is to be understood that the foregoing is illustrative of various example embodiments and that the invention is defined only by the appended independent claims. A person skilled in the art will realize that the example embodiments may be modified, and that different features of the example embodiments may be combined to create embodiments other than those described herein, without departing from the scope of the present invention, as defined by the appended independent claims.

As used herein, the term "comprising" or "comprises" is open-ended, and includes one or more stated features, elements, steps, components, or functions but does not preclude the 24 presence or addition of one or more other features, elements, steps, components, functions, or groups thereof.

Claims

1. 1. A fastening element (1) for attaching a first component (61) to a second component (62), wherein the fastening element (1) comprises: - a first end portion (5) provided with a first snap fit arrangement (11), - a second end portion (6) provided with a second snap fit arrangement (12), and - a stop surface (7) having a surface normal (N) pointing towards the second snap fit arrangement (12), and wherein the fastening element (1) comprises a third snap fit arrangement (13) arranged at a position between the stop surface (7) and the second snap fit arrangement (12).

2. The fastening element (1) according to claim 1, wherein the fastening element (1) has a first section (21) comprising the first snap fit arrangement (11) and a second section (22) comprising the second and third snap fit arrangements (12, 13), and wherein the first section (21) has a larger diameter (d1) than the second section (22).

3. The fastening element (1) according to claim 2, wherein the stop surface (7) is formed by a transition surface (7') between the first section (21) and the second section (22).

4. The fastening element (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the first snap fit arrangement (11) comprises a number of cantilevers (31) each comprising a protruding edge (41 ).

5. The fastening element (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the first snap fit arrangement (11) comprises two pairs of oppositely arranged cantilevers (31) each comprising a protruding edge (41).

6. The fastening element (1) according to claim 4 or 5, wherein the fastening element (1) has a region (23) with substantially constant diameter (d1), and wherein the region (23) extends between the protruding edges (41) of the cantilevers (31) of the first snap fit arrangement (11) and the stop surface (7).

7. The fastening element (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the second snap fit arrangement (12) comprises a pair of oppositely arranged cantilevers (32) each comprising a protruding edge (42).

8. The fastening element (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the third snap fit arrangement (13) comprises a pair of oppositely arranged cantilevers (33) each comprising a protruding edge (43).

9. The fastening element (1) according to claim 7 and 8, wherein each cantilever (33) of the third snap fit arrangement (13) is placed with 90 degree angles to cantilevers (32) of the second snap fit arrangement (12).

10. The fastening element (1) according to any one of the claims 4 - 9, wherein each cantilever (31, 32, 33) has an arc-shaped outer surface (31', 32', 33').

11. The fastening element (1) according to claim 10, wherein the radius of curvature (rc1, rc2) of the arc-shaped outer surface (31', 32') corresponds to the radius (r1, r2) of the section (21, 22) of the fastening element (1) at which the cantilever (31, 32) is arranged.

12. The fastening element (1) according to any one of the claims 4 - 11, wherein radially outer surfaces (31', 32', 33') the cantilevers (31, 32, 33) form radially outer surfaces (31 ', 32', 33') of the fastening element (1).

13. The fastening element (1) according to any one of the claims 4 - 12, wherein the fastening element (1) is elongated along a centre axis (Ca) of the fastening element (1), and wherein each cantilever (31, 32, 33) is flexible to move the protruding edge (41, 42, 43) in directions substantially perpendicular to the centre axis (Ca) of the fastening element (1 ).

14. The fastening element (1) according to any one of the claims 4 - 13, wherein the fastening element (1) is elongated along a centre axis (Ca) of the fastening element (1), and wherein each cantilever (31, 32, 33) is elongated along a direction of elongation (De) being parallel to the centre axis (Ca) of the fastening element (1 ) when the cantilever (31, 32, 33) is in an undeformed state.

15. The fastening element (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein each of the first and second end portions (5, 6) is frustoconical.

16. The fastening element (1) according to claim 15 and any one of the claims 4 and 5, wherein the protruding edges (41) of the first snap fit arrangement (1 1) form part of the frustoconical shape of the first end portion (5).

17. The fastening element (1) according to claim 7 and any one of the claims 15 and 16, wherein the protruding edges (42) of the pair of oppositely arranged cantilevers (32) of the second snap fit arrangement (12) form part of the frustoconical shape of the second end portion (6).

18. The fastening element (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the fastening element (1) is made of one continuous piece of material.