WO2020107095A1 - Electrically conductive fastener and method of using same - Google Patents

Electrically conductive fastener and method of using same Download PDF

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Publication number
WO2020107095A1
WO2020107095A1 PCT/CA2018/051538 CA2018051538W WO2020107095A1 WO 2020107095 A1 WO2020107095 A1 WO 2020107095A1 CA 2018051538 W CA2018051538 W CA 2018051538W WO 2020107095 A1 WO2020107095 A1 WO 2020107095A1
Authority
WO
WIPO (PCT)
Prior art keywords
fastener
panel
connector
vehicle light
electrically conductive
Prior art date
Application number
PCT/CA2018/051538
Other languages
French (fr)
Inventor
Brian FEWTRELL
Muhammad Reza MUSAPOORROODSARI
Albert Yam Lim CHEE
Original Assignee
Ampco Manufacturers Inc.
Priority date (The priority date is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the date listed.)
Filing date
Publication date
Application filed by Ampco Manufacturers Inc. filed Critical Ampco Manufacturers Inc.
Priority to PCT/CA2018/051538 priority Critical patent/WO2020107095A1/en
Publication of WO2020107095A1 publication Critical patent/WO2020107095A1/en

Links

Classifications

    • H—ELECTRICITY
    • H01—ELECTRIC ELEMENTS
    • H01R—ELECTRICALLY-CONDUCTIVE CONNECTIONS; STRUCTURAL ASSOCIATIONS OF A PLURALITY OF MUTUALLY-INSULATED ELECTRICAL CONNECTING ELEMENTS; COUPLING DEVICES; CURRENT COLLECTORS
    • H01R9/00—Structural associations of a plurality of mutually-insulated electrical connecting elements, e.g. terminal strips or terminal blocks; Terminals or binding posts mounted upon a base or in a case; Bases therefor
    • H01R9/16—Fastening of connecting parts to base or case; Insulating connecting parts from base or case
    • H01R9/18—Fastening by means of screw or nut
    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B60—VEHICLES IN GENERAL
    • B60Q—ARRANGEMENT OF SIGNALLING OR LIGHTING DEVICES, THE MOUNTING OR SUPPORTING THEREOF OR CIRCUITS THEREFOR, FOR VEHICLES IN GENERAL
    • B60Q1/00—Arrangement of optical signalling or lighting devices, the mounting or supporting thereof or circuits therefor
    • B60Q1/0088—Details of electrical connections
    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B60—VEHICLES IN GENERAL
    • B60Q—ARRANGEMENT OF SIGNALLING OR LIGHTING DEVICES, THE MOUNTING OR SUPPORTING THEREOF OR CIRCUITS THEREFOR, FOR VEHICLES IN GENERAL
    • B60Q1/00—Arrangement of optical signalling or lighting devices, the mounting or supporting thereof or circuits therefor
    • B60Q1/26—Arrangement of optical signalling or lighting devices, the mounting or supporting thereof or circuits therefor the devices being primarily intended to indicate the vehicle, or parts thereof, or to give signals, to other traffic
    • B60Q1/2619—Arrangement of optical signalling or lighting devices, the mounting or supporting thereof or circuits therefor the devices being primarily intended to indicate the vehicle, or parts thereof, or to give signals, to other traffic built in the vehicle body
    • B60Q1/2623—Details of the fastening means
    • B60Q1/2626—Screw-nut fasteners
    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B60—VEHICLES IN GENERAL
    • B60Q—ARRANGEMENT OF SIGNALLING OR LIGHTING DEVICES, THE MOUNTING OR SUPPORTING THEREOF OR CIRCUITS THEREFOR, FOR VEHICLES IN GENERAL
    • B60Q1/00—Arrangement of optical signalling or lighting devices, the mounting or supporting thereof or circuits therefor
    • B60Q1/26—Arrangement of optical signalling or lighting devices, the mounting or supporting thereof or circuits therefor the devices being primarily intended to indicate the vehicle, or parts thereof, or to give signals, to other traffic
    • B60Q1/2619—Arrangement of optical signalling or lighting devices, the mounting or supporting thereof or circuits therefor the devices being primarily intended to indicate the vehicle, or parts thereof, or to give signals, to other traffic built in the vehicle body
    • B60Q1/2623—Details of the fastening means
    • B60Q1/263—Snap-in fasteners
    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B60—VEHICLES IN GENERAL
    • B60Q—ARRANGEMENT OF SIGNALLING OR LIGHTING DEVICES, THE MOUNTING OR SUPPORTING THEREOF OR CIRCUITS THEREFOR, FOR VEHICLES IN GENERAL
    • B60Q1/00—Arrangement of optical signalling or lighting devices, the mounting or supporting thereof or circuits therefor
    • B60Q1/26—Arrangement of optical signalling or lighting devices, the mounting or supporting thereof or circuits therefor the devices being primarily intended to indicate the vehicle, or parts thereof, or to give signals, to other traffic
    • B60Q1/28—Arrangement of optical signalling or lighting devices, the mounting or supporting thereof or circuits therefor the devices being primarily intended to indicate the vehicle, or parts thereof, or to give signals, to other traffic for indicating front of vehicle
    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B60—VEHICLES IN GENERAL
    • B60Q—ARRANGEMENT OF SIGNALLING OR LIGHTING DEVICES, THE MOUNTING OR SUPPORTING THEREOF OR CIRCUITS THEREFOR, FOR VEHICLES IN GENERAL
    • B60Q1/00—Arrangement of optical signalling or lighting devices, the mounting or supporting thereof or circuits therefor
    • B60Q1/26—Arrangement of optical signalling or lighting devices, the mounting or supporting thereof or circuits therefor the devices being primarily intended to indicate the vehicle, or parts thereof, or to give signals, to other traffic
    • B60Q1/32—Arrangement of optical signalling or lighting devices, the mounting or supporting thereof or circuits therefor the devices being primarily intended to indicate the vehicle, or parts thereof, or to give signals, to other traffic for indicating vehicle sides, e.g. clearance lights
    • F—MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
    • F16—ENGINEERING ELEMENTS AND UNITS; GENERAL MEASURES FOR PRODUCING AND MAINTAINING EFFECTIVE FUNCTIONING OF MACHINES OR INSTALLATIONS; THERMAL INSULATION IN GENERAL
    • F16B—DEVICES FOR FASTENING OR SECURING CONSTRUCTIONAL ELEMENTS OR MACHINE PARTS TOGETHER, e.g. NAILS, BOLTS, CIRCLIPS, CLAMPS, CLIPS OR WEDGES; JOINTS OR JOINTING
    • F16B35/00—Screw-bolts; Stay-bolts; Screw-threaded studs; Screws; Set screws
    • F16B35/04—Screw-bolts; Stay-bolts; Screw-threaded studs; Screws; Set screws with specially-shaped head or shaft in order to fix the bolt on or in an object
    • F16B35/041—Specially-shaped shafts
    • F16B35/044—Specially-shaped ends
    • F—MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
    • F16—ENGINEERING ELEMENTS AND UNITS; GENERAL MEASURES FOR PRODUCING AND MAINTAINING EFFECTIVE FUNCTIONING OF MACHINES OR INSTALLATIONS; THERMAL INSULATION IN GENERAL
    • F16B—DEVICES FOR FASTENING OR SECURING CONSTRUCTIONAL ELEMENTS OR MACHINE PARTS TOGETHER, e.g. NAILS, BOLTS, CIRCLIPS, CLAMPS, CLIPS OR WEDGES; JOINTS OR JOINTING
    • F16B35/00—Screw-bolts; Stay-bolts; Screw-threaded studs; Screws; Set screws
    • F16B35/04—Screw-bolts; Stay-bolts; Screw-threaded studs; Screws; Set screws with specially-shaped head or shaft in order to fix the bolt on or in an object
    • F16B35/06—Specially-shaped heads
    • F—MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
    • F21—LIGHTING
    • F21S—NON-PORTABLE LIGHTING DEVICES; SYSTEMS THEREOF; VEHICLE LIGHTING DEVICES SPECIALLY ADAPTED FOR VEHICLE EXTERIORS
    • F21S43/00—Signalling devices specially adapted for vehicle exteriors, e.g. brake lamps, direction indicator lights or reversing lights
    • F21S43/10—Signalling devices specially adapted for vehicle exteriors, e.g. brake lamps, direction indicator lights or reversing lights characterised by the light source
    • F21S43/13—Signalling devices specially adapted for vehicle exteriors, e.g. brake lamps, direction indicator lights or reversing lights characterised by the light source characterised by the type of light source
    • F21S43/14—Light emitting diodes [LED]
    • F—MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
    • F21—LIGHTING
    • F21S—NON-PORTABLE LIGHTING DEVICES; SYSTEMS THEREOF; VEHICLE LIGHTING DEVICES SPECIALLY ADAPTED FOR VEHICLE EXTERIORS
    • F21S43/00—Signalling devices specially adapted for vehicle exteriors, e.g. brake lamps, direction indicator lights or reversing lights
    • F21S43/10—Signalling devices specially adapted for vehicle exteriors, e.g. brake lamps, direction indicator lights or reversing lights characterised by the light source
    • F21S43/13—Signalling devices specially adapted for vehicle exteriors, e.g. brake lamps, direction indicator lights or reversing lights characterised by the light source characterised by the type of light source
    • F21S43/15—Strips of light sources
    • F—MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
    • F21—LIGHTING
    • F21S—NON-PORTABLE LIGHTING DEVICES; SYSTEMS THEREOF; VEHICLE LIGHTING DEVICES SPECIALLY ADAPTED FOR VEHICLE EXTERIORS
    • F21S43/00—Signalling devices specially adapted for vehicle exteriors, e.g. brake lamps, direction indicator lights or reversing lights
    • F21S43/10—Signalling devices specially adapted for vehicle exteriors, e.g. brake lamps, direction indicator lights or reversing lights characterised by the light source
    • F21S43/19—Attachment of light sources or lamp holders
    • F21S43/195—Details of lamp holders, terminals or connectors
    • F—MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
    • F21—LIGHTING
    • F21S—NON-PORTABLE LIGHTING DEVICES; SYSTEMS THEREOF; VEHICLE LIGHTING DEVICES SPECIALLY ADAPTED FOR VEHICLE EXTERIORS
    • F21S43/00—Signalling devices specially adapted for vehicle exteriors, e.g. brake lamps, direction indicator lights or reversing lights
    • F21S43/50—Signalling devices specially adapted for vehicle exteriors, e.g. brake lamps, direction indicator lights or reversing lights characterised by aesthetic components not otherwise provided for, e.g. decorative trim, partition walls or covers
    • H—ELECTRICITY
    • H01—ELECTRIC ELEMENTS
    • H01R—ELECTRICALLY-CONDUCTIVE CONNECTIONS; STRUCTURAL ASSOCIATIONS OF A PLURALITY OF MUTUALLY-INSULATED ELECTRICAL CONNECTING ELEMENTS; COUPLING DEVICES; CURRENT COLLECTORS
    • H01R4/00—Electrically-conductive connections between two or more conductive members in direct contact, i.e. touching one another; Means for effecting or maintaining such contact; Electrically-conductive connections having two or more spaced connecting locations for conductors and using contact members penetrating insulation
    • H01R4/28—Clamped connections, spring connections
    • H01R4/48—Clamped connections, spring connections utilising a spring, clip, or other resilient member
    • H01R4/4809—Clamped connections, spring connections utilising a spring, clip, or other resilient member using a leaf spring to bias the conductor toward the busbar
    • H01R4/48185—Clamped connections, spring connections utilising a spring, clip, or other resilient member using a leaf spring to bias the conductor toward the busbar adapted for axial insertion of a wire end
    • H01R4/4819—Clamped connections, spring connections utilising a spring, clip, or other resilient member using a leaf spring to bias the conductor toward the busbar adapted for axial insertion of a wire end the spring shape allowing insertion of the conductor end when the spring is unbiased
    • H01R4/4823—Multiblade spring
    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B60—VEHICLES IN GENERAL
    • B60Q—ARRANGEMENT OF SIGNALLING OR LIGHTING DEVICES, THE MOUNTING OR SUPPORTING THEREOF OR CIRCUITS THEREFOR, FOR VEHICLES IN GENERAL
    • B60Q2400/00—Special features or arrangements of exterior signal lamps for vehicles
    • B60Q2400/30—Daytime running lights [DRL], e.g. circuits or arrangements therefor
    • F—MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
    • F16—ENGINEERING ELEMENTS AND UNITS; GENERAL MEASURES FOR PRODUCING AND MAINTAINING EFFECTIVE FUNCTIONING OF MACHINES OR INSTALLATIONS; THERMAL INSULATION IN GENERAL
    • F16B—DEVICES FOR FASTENING OR SECURING CONSTRUCTIONAL ELEMENTS OR MACHINE PARTS TOGETHER, e.g. NAILS, BOLTS, CIRCLIPS, CLAMPS, CLIPS OR WEDGES; JOINTS OR JOINTING
    • F16B21/00—Means for preventing relative axial movement of a pin, spigot, shaft or the like and a member surrounding it; Stud-and-socket releasable fastenings
    • F16B21/06—Releasable fastening devices with snap-action
    • F16B21/07—Releasable fastening devices with snap-action in which the socket has a resilient part
    • F16B21/078—Releasable fastening devices with snap-action in which the socket has a resilient part the socket having a further molded-in or embedded component, e.g. a ring with snap-in teeth molded into it
    • F—MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
    • F16—ENGINEERING ELEMENTS AND UNITS; GENERAL MEASURES FOR PRODUCING AND MAINTAINING EFFECTIVE FUNCTIONING OF MACHINES OR INSTALLATIONS; THERMAL INSULATION IN GENERAL
    • F16B—DEVICES FOR FASTENING OR SECURING CONSTRUCTIONAL ELEMENTS OR MACHINE PARTS TOGETHER, e.g. NAILS, BOLTS, CIRCLIPS, CLAMPS, CLIPS OR WEDGES; JOINTS OR JOINTING
    • F16B2200/00—Constructional details of connections not covered for in other groups of this subclass
    • F16B2200/93—Fastener comprising feature for establishing a good electrical connection, e.g. electrostatic discharge or insulation feature
    • F—MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
    • F21—LIGHTING
    • F21S—NON-PORTABLE LIGHTING DEVICES; SYSTEMS THEREOF; VEHICLE LIGHTING DEVICES SPECIALLY ADAPTED FOR VEHICLE EXTERIORS
    • F21S45/00—Arrangements within vehicle lighting devices specially adapted for vehicle exteriors, for purposes other than emission or distribution of light
    • F21S45/50—Waterproofing
    • F—MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
    • F21—LIGHTING
    • F21W—INDEXING SCHEME ASSOCIATED WITH SUBCLASSES F21K, F21L, F21S and F21V, RELATING TO USES OR APPLICATIONS OF LIGHTING DEVICES OR SYSTEMS
    • F21W2103/00—Exterior vehicle lighting devices for signalling purposes
    • F21W2103/15—Side marker lights
    • F—MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
    • F21—LIGHTING
    • F21W—INDEXING SCHEME ASSOCIATED WITH SUBCLASSES F21K, F21L, F21S and F21V, RELATING TO USES OR APPLICATIONS OF LIGHTING DEVICES OR SYSTEMS
    • F21W2103/00—Exterior vehicle lighting devices for signalling purposes
    • F21W2103/55—Daytime running lights [DRL]
    • H—ELECTRICITY
    • H01—ELECTRIC ELEMENTS
    • H01R—ELECTRICALLY-CONDUCTIVE CONNECTIONS; STRUCTURAL ASSOCIATIONS OF A PLURALITY OF MUTUALLY-INSULATED ELECTRICAL CONNECTING ELEMENTS; COUPLING DEVICES; CURRENT COLLECTORS
    • H01R12/00—Structural associations of a plurality of mutually-insulated electrical connecting elements, specially adapted for printed circuits, e.g. printed circuit boards [PCB], flat or ribbon cables, or like generally planar structures, e.g. terminal strips, terminal blocks; Coupling devices specially adapted for printed circuits, flat or ribbon cables, or like generally planar structures; Terminals specially adapted for contact with, or insertion into, printed circuits, flat or ribbon cables, or like generally planar structures
    • H01R12/50—Fixed connections
    • H01R12/51—Fixed connections for rigid printed circuits or like structures
    • H01R12/55—Fixed connections for rigid printed circuits or like structures characterised by the terminals
    • H—ELECTRICITY
    • H01—ELECTRIC ELEMENTS
    • H01R—ELECTRICALLY-CONDUCTIVE CONNECTIONS; STRUCTURAL ASSOCIATIONS OF A PLURALITY OF MUTUALLY-INSULATED ELECTRICAL CONNECTING ELEMENTS; COUPLING DEVICES; CURRENT COLLECTORS
    • H01R2101/00—One pole
    • H—ELECTRICITY
    • H01—ELECTRIC ELEMENTS
    • H01R—ELECTRICALLY-CONDUCTIVE CONNECTIONS; STRUCTURAL ASSOCIATIONS OF A PLURALITY OF MUTUALLY-INSULATED ELECTRICAL CONNECTING ELEMENTS; COUPLING DEVICES; CURRENT COLLECTORS
    • H01R4/00—Electrically-conductive connections between two or more conductive members in direct contact, i.e. touching one another; Means for effecting or maintaining such contact; Electrically-conductive connections having two or more spaced connecting locations for conductors and using contact members penetrating insulation
    • H01R4/28—Clamped connections, spring connections
    • H01R4/48—Clamped connections, spring connections utilising a spring, clip, or other resilient member
    • H01R4/4809—Clamped connections, spring connections utilising a spring, clip, or other resilient member using a leaf spring to bias the conductor toward the busbar
    • H01R4/4846—Busbar details
    • H01R4/4848—Busbar integrally formed with the spring

Definitions

  • the present disclosure relates to fasteners. More particularly, the present disclosure is directed to electrically conductive fasteners.
  • fastening of an electrical vehicle component to a panel of a vehicle there are many applications which require fastening of an electrical vehicle component to a panel of a vehicle, and electrically powering the component.
  • One example is fastening a light to an exterior of a panel of a vehicle, such as the exterior of a roof panel, and powering the light.
  • One application of fastening and powering a vehicle light is fastening and powering a running light, marker light, or clearance light to the exterior of a truck, for example a tractor unit.
  • the running light, marker light, or clearance light may be fastened to a roof fairing, hood panel, cab panel, or sleeper panel of a tractor unit.
  • One aspect of the invention provides an electrically conductive fastener comprising: an electrically conductive shaft with a first end and a second end and a threaded section between said first and second ends, a tool interface provided between said first end of the shaft and said threaded section, said first end provided with a first electrically conductive connector, and said second end provided with a second electrically conductive connector electrically connected to the first electrical connector.
  • the second electrical connector is electrically connected to the first electrical connector by the electrically conductive shaft
  • the first connector comprises a ball-stud connector
  • the second connector comprises a snap-fit connector
  • the fastener is self-tapping.
  • the fastener comprises a stop flange extending radially from the shaft between the threaded section and the tool interface.
  • the fastener comprises a flexibly resilient gasket mounted on the stop flange.
  • an external vehicle light comprising: an electrically conductive fastener extending through an aperture in an electrically insulating vehicle panel, wherein the fastener comprises: an electrically conductive shaft with a first end and a second end and a threaded section between said first and second ends and the threaded section engaged with cooperating grooves along an interior surface of the aperture, a tool interface provided between said first end of the shaft and said threaded section, a stop flange extending radially from the shaft and between the threaded section and the tool interface and abutting an exterior surface of the panel, said first end provided with a first electrically conductive connector, said second end provided with a second electrically conductive connector electrically connected to the first electrical connector, and a vehicle light comprising: a body, a light emitting element mounted within the body, and an electrically conductive receptacle mounted within the body, wherein the receptacle is electrically connected to the light emitting element and the first connector is securely received by the
  • One aspect of the invention provides a method for mounting and powering an external vehicle light comprising: forming an aperture in an electrically insulating vehicle panel, screwing an electrically conductive fastener through the aperture in the panel, connecting a power cable to the first end of the fastener, and securely and removably receiving a second end of the fastener in an electrically conductive receptacle of a vehicle light.
  • Figure 1A is a front elevation view of an electrically conductive fastener according to an example embodiment.
  • Figures 1 B and 1 C are respective bottom side and top side perspective views of an electrically conductive fastener as shown in Fig. 1A.
  • Figure 2 is a perspective view of an electrical receptacle for receiving the electrically conductive fastener shown in Fig. 1A.
  • Figure 3 is a vertical cross-sectional front view of an electrically conductive fastener as shown in Fig. 1A installed in a vehicle panel according to an example embodiment.
  • Figure 4A is a front elevation view of an electrical vehicle component incorporating two electrically conductive fasteners as shown in Fig. 1 A securing the component to a vehicle panel, according to an example embodiment.
  • Figure 4B is a right side view of the electrical vehicle component shown in Fig. 4A.
  • Figure 5A is a schematic transverse vertical cross-sectional view along line A-A of Fig. 4A of an electrical vehicle component fastened to a vehicle panel by an electrically conductive fastener as shown in Fig. 1A.
  • Figure 5B and 5C are schematic transverse vertical cross-sectional views of alternative embodiments of an electrical vehicle component fastened to a vehicle panel by an electrically conductive fastener as shown in Fig. 1 A.
  • Figure 6 is an exploded perspective view of the electrical vehicle component shown in Fig. 4A using two electrically conductive fasteners as shown in Fig. 1A to secure a light to a vehicle roof panel, and connect two power cables according to an example embodiment.
  • Figures 7A, 7B and 7C are perspective views of lights mounted on vehicles by one or more electrically conductive fastener as shown in Fig. 1A.
  • FIG. 1A depicts an embodiment of an electrically conductive fastener 100 comprising a first connector 110, a tool interface 120, a stop flange 130, a threaded shaft 140, and a second connector 150.
  • First and second connectors 110 and 150 are both electrically conductive, and electrically connected to each other. The latter feature may be achieved for ease of manufacture by forming the entire fastener 100 from an electrically conductive material. Accordingly, fastener 100 conducts electricity between first connector 110 and second connector 150.
  • First and second connectors 110 and 150 may be any connector capable of securely and conductively mating with an electrical receptacle, port, jack or socket, and conducting electricity to the respective mating electrical receptacle, port, jack or socket.
  • connectors 1 10 and 150 may comprise: a snap-fit connector, a ball-stud connector, or any other type of friction connector.
  • Fig. 1A depicts an embodiment where first connector 110 comprises a ball-stud connector, and second connector 150 comprises a recessed section configured to receive a snap-fit connector, for example a HanTM E female power connector.
  • Tool interface 120 may comprise any feature capable of interfacing with a tool to transmit a rotational force to fastener 100.
  • Fig. 1A depicts an embodiment of fastener 100 where tool interface 120 comprises a hexagonal head capable of interfacing with a socket wrench to transmit a rotational force to fastener 100
  • tool interface 120 may comprise a square head or any shape of head capable of transmitting a rotational force.
  • Stop flange 130 may be any feature which provides a planar lower surface for abutting against a vehicle panel through which threaded shaft 140 is screwed.
  • Fig. 1A depicts an embodiment where stop flange 130 comprises a circular stop flange projecting radially from threaded shaft 140 and beyond tool interface 120.
  • stop flange 130 may be provided by a surface of tool interface 120.
  • Threaded shaft 140 extends below stop flange 130 and allows fastener 100 to be screwed through a vehicle panel until stop flange 130 encounters a surface of the vehicle panel.
  • the shape, angle, pitch and lead of the thread of threaded shaft 140 may be selected specifically for the type of vehicle panel in which fastener 100 is to be installed.
  • fastener 100 may be self-tapping, and capable of forming a threaded aperture through a vehicle panel.
  • fastener 100 may be installed in a vehicle panel without first drilling a hole through the vehicle panel.
  • second connector 150 may be configured to form an aperture through the vehicle panel, for example by hammering second connector 150 into the vehicle panel, or by rotating second connector 150 against the vehicle panel.
  • Fastener 100 may be integrally formed or formed by attaching two or more parts.
  • Fastener 100 may comprise any non-corrosive electrically conductive material, for example, stainless steel, brass, titanium, copper, aluminum, or any combination thereof.
  • fastener 100 comprises two or more attached parts
  • some parts of fastener 100 may be electrically conductive, and other parts of fastener 100 may be electrically insulating.
  • at least some parts mechanically connecting first connector 110 to second connector 150 are electrically conductive in order to conduct electricity between first connector 1 10 and second connector 150. If the vehicle panel into which fastener 1 10 is intended to be installed is electrically insulating, such as fiberglass, then the entirety of fastener 1 10 may be electrically conductive. Otherwise those parts of fastener 1 10 between first connector 110 to second connector 150 which contact the panel must be electrically insulated from the electrically conductive panel.
  • FIG. 2 depicts an example embodiment of electrical receptacle 200 for fastener 100.
  • Electrical receptacle 200 comprises a body 210 and two or more receiving arms 220A and 220B extending over an aperture 230.
  • receiving arms 220A and 220B comprise flexibly resilient projections configured to flex away from aperture 230.
  • Aperture 230 is dimensioned to receive first connector 110 where first connector comprises a ball-stud connector.
  • Arms 220A and 220B are configured to securely receive ball-stud connector 1 10 by flexing away from aperture 230 as the ball of ball-stud connector 1 10 is inserted through aperture 230, and flex in towards aperture 230 as the ball of ball- stud connector 1 10 passes beyond arms 220A and 220B and securely hold the stud of ball- stud connector 1 10 below the ball.
  • Electrical receptacle 200 is formed of an electrically conductive, durable material, such as nickel plated spring steel. Electrical receptacle 200 is provided with conductor tabs 240A, 240B, 240C and 240D which electrically connect to PCB 646 depicted in Fig. 6.
  • Fig. 3 depicts fastener 100 installed in vehicle panel 310.
  • Vehicle panel 310 has an exterior surface 315A, and an interior surface 315B. Exterior surface 315A forms an exterior of the vehicle, and interior surface 315B is interior to the vehicle.
  • Vehicle panel 310 comprises an electrically insulating material, for example, fiberglass, sheet molding compound (SMC), plastic, carbon fibre, or dry carbon fibre.
  • vehicle panel 310 may be a wall or a roof of vehicle, for example a fiberglass wall or roof of a hood, cab, or sleeper of a tractor unit.
  • vehicle panel 310 may be a wall of a body of any vehicle, including a tractor trailer, bus, recreational vehicle, boat, train, or airplane.
  • Fastener 100 is installed in vehicle panel 310 by piercing vehicle panel 310 with second connector 150 to form aperture 320 through vehicle panel 310, and screwing fastener 100 through aperture 320.
  • Fastener 100 is screwed through aperture 320 by interfacing a tool with tool interface 120 and rotating fastener 100 about axis A1.
  • the threads of threaded shaft 140 grip the sides of aperture 320 and advance fastener 100 through aperture 320.
  • the threads of threaded shaft 140 cut cooperating groves into the walls of aperture 320.
  • Fastener 100 is screwed through vehicle panel 310 until stop flange 130 abuts exterior surface 315A of vehicle panel 310. Once stop flange 130 abuts exterior surface 315A, fastener 100 may be additionally rotated about axis A1 to tighten fastener 100 against vehicle panel 310 and create pressure between stop flange 130 and vehicle panel 310. The pressure between stop flange 130 and vehicle panel 310 may resist the ingress of water between stop flange 130 and vehicle panel 310 and form a water resistant seal.
  • a sealing member may be provided or formed between stop flange 130 and vehicle panel 310.
  • a flexibly resilient body may be provided between stop flange 130 and vehicle panel 310, such as first flexibly resilient body 432 depicted in Fig. 5C.
  • a sealant may be provided on one or both of stop flange 130 and vehicle panel 310. A sealant and/or a gasket may resist the ingress of water between stop flange 130 and vehicle panel 310 and form a water resistant seal.
  • a sealant may be provided on the threads of threaded shaft 140 to form a seal between threaded shaft 140 and the interior wall of aperture 320 and form a water resistant seal.
  • the sealant may comprise one or more of: silicone,
  • FIGs. 4A and 4B are respective front and side views of an electrical vehicle component 410 incorporating two electrically conductive fasteners 100 to secure the component 410 to a vehicle panel 310, according to an example embodiment.
  • Fig. 5A is a cross-sectional view along line A-A in Fig. 4A of an electrical vehicle component 410 fastened to vehicle panel 310 by fastener 100.
  • Component 410 shown in Figs. 5A-5C and 6 comprises electrical receptacle 520 mounted within body 530 and configured to securely receive first connector 110 of fastener 100.
  • first connector 1 10 comprises a ball-stud connector
  • electrical receptacle 420 comprises a spring connector.
  • Component 410 may be for example a running light for mounting on the roof of a tractor unit.
  • fastener 100 is first installed in vehicle panel 310 as described above. Once fastener 100 is installed, component 410 may be securely fastened to fastener 100 by securing ball-stud connector 1 10 into electrical receptacle 520.
  • Fig. 5B depicts an embodiment where flexibly resilient body 430 is provided between component 410 and vehicle panel 310, for example a foam pad or a rubber gasket.
  • electrical receptacle 520 may be positioned within component 410 to securely receive first connector 1 10 at a point within component 410 less than the height of first connector 1 10 above vehicle panel 310.
  • flexibly resilient body 430 is compressed between component 410 and vehicle panel 310. Compressing flexibly resilient body 430 between component 410 and vehicle panel 310 may provide a water resistant seal between component 410 and vehicle panel 310.
  • flexibly resilient body 430 may comprise two or more distinct bodies, for example as depicted in Fig. 5C.
  • Fig. 5C depicts first flexibly resilient body 432 between stop flange 130 of fastener 100 and vehicle panel 310, and second flexibly resilient body 434 between component 410 and vehicle panel 310.
  • Fig. 6 depicts light 600 fastened to vehicle panel 610 by first and second electrically conductive fasteners 620A and 620B, and powered by first and second power cables 630A and 630B, according to an example embodiment.
  • Light 600 comprises light-transitive cover 642, light-reflective cover 644, PCB 646, backing 648, and gasket 650.
  • PCB 646 includes light-emitting elements 660 and electrical receptacles 670.
  • Light-emitting elements 660 may comprise one or more of: light emitting diodes (LEDs), incandescent light bulbs, halogen light bulbs, and high-intensity discharge (HID) lamps.
  • LEDs light emitting diodes
  • ILD high-intensity discharge
  • Figs. 7A, 7B and 7C depict clearance, running, or marker lights 600 mounted by one or more fasteners 100 respectively on a tractor unit 701 , a bus 702, and a recreational vehicle (RV) 703.
  • RV recreational vehicle
  • connection or coupling means any connection or coupling, either direct or indirect, between two or more elements; the coupling or connection between the elements can be physical, logical, or a combination thereof;

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  • Engineering & Computer Science (AREA)
  • General Engineering & Computer Science (AREA)
  • Mechanical Engineering (AREA)
  • Physics & Mathematics (AREA)
  • Microelectronics & Electronic Packaging (AREA)
  • Optics & Photonics (AREA)
  • Lighting Device Outwards From Vehicle And Optical Signal (AREA)

Abstract

An electrically conductive fastener and method of using same is disclosed, wherein the electrically conductive fastener comprises: an electrically conductive shaft with a first end and a second end and a threaded section between said first and second ends, a tool interface provided between said first end of the shaft and said threaded section, said first end provided with a first electrically conductive connector, and said second end provided with a second electrically conductive connector electrically connected to the first electrical connector.

Description

Electrically Conductive Fastener and Method of Using Same
Technical Field
[0001] The present disclosure relates to fasteners. More particularly, the present disclosure is directed to electrically conductive fasteners.
Background
[0002] There are many applications which require fastening of an electrical vehicle component to a panel of a vehicle, and electrically powering the component. One example is fastening a light to an exterior of a panel of a vehicle, such as the exterior of a roof panel, and powering the light. One application of fastening and powering a vehicle light is fastening and powering a running light, marker light, or clearance light to the exterior of a truck, for example a tractor unit. The running light, marker light, or clearance light may be fastened to a roof fairing, hood panel, cab panel, or sleeper panel of a tractor unit.
[0003] Many existing systems for fastening and powering a vehicle component require separate fasteners and power cables. For example on a tractor unit, a first set of holes is drilled though a panel of the tractor unit to install a set of screws fastening lights to the panel, and a second set of holes is drilled through the panel to feed electrical wires to the lights.
[0004] There are many disadvantages to using separate fasteners and power cables. The exterior of a tractor unit is frequently subject to rain and wind, for example when travelling along a road. The ingress of water through a panel of a tractor unit and into the tractor unit may damage the tractor unit, and poses a significant maintenance issue. As such, any holes drilled through the panels of a tractor unit must be sealed against water ingress. Increasing the number of holes through the panels of a tractor unit, for example by using separate holes for fasteners and power cables, increases the number of holes which require sealing, and increases the number of potential points of failure.
[0005] Furthermore, conventional methods of feeding an electrical cable through a hole in a panel of a tractor unit are laborious and difficult to seal against water ingress. [0006] There is a general desire for an improved method and apparatus for fastening electrical vehicle components to vehicle panels and powering those components.
[0007] The foregoing examples of the related art and limitations related thereto are intended to be illustrative and not exclusive. Other limitations of the related art will become apparent to those of skill in the art upon a reading of the specification and a study of the drawings.
Summary
[0008] The following embodiments and aspects thereof are described and illustrated in conjunction with systems, tools and methods which are meant to be exemplary and illustrative, not limiting in scope. In various embodiments, one or more of the above- described problems have been reduced or eliminated, while other embodiments are directed to other improvements.
[0009] One aspect of the invention provides an electrically conductive fastener comprising: an electrically conductive shaft with a first end and a second end and a threaded section between said first and second ends, a tool interface provided between said first end of the shaft and said threaded section, said first end provided with a first electrically conductive connector, and said second end provided with a second electrically conductive connector electrically connected to the first electrical connector.
[0010] In some embodiments of the electrically conductive fastener: the second electrical connector is electrically connected to the first electrical connector by the electrically conductive shaft, the first connector comprises a ball-stud connector, the second connector comprises a snap-fit connector, and/or the fastener is self-tapping.
[0011] In some embodiments of the electrically conductive fastener the fastener comprises a stop flange extending radially from the shaft between the threaded section and the tool interface.
[0012] In some embodiments of the electrically conductive fastener the fastener comprises a flexibly resilient gasket mounted on the stop flange.
[0013] One aspect of the invention provides an external vehicle light comprising: an electrically conductive fastener extending through an aperture in an electrically insulating vehicle panel, wherein the fastener comprises: an electrically conductive shaft with a first end and a second end and a threaded section between said first and second ends and the threaded section engaged with cooperating grooves along an interior surface of the aperture, a tool interface provided between said first end of the shaft and said threaded section, a stop flange extending radially from the shaft and between the threaded section and the tool interface and abutting an exterior surface of the panel, said first end provided with a first electrically conductive connector, said second end provided with a second electrically conductive connector electrically connected to the first electrical connector, and a vehicle light comprising: a body, a light emitting element mounted within the body, and an electrically conductive receptacle mounted within the body, wherein the receptacle is electrically connected to the light emitting element and the first connector is securely received by the receptacle.
[0014] One aspect of the invention provides a method for mounting and powering an external vehicle light comprising: forming an aperture in an electrically insulating vehicle panel, screwing an electrically conductive fastener through the aperture in the panel, connecting a power cable to the first end of the fastener, and securely and removably receiving a second end of the fastener in an electrically conductive receptacle of a vehicle light.
[0015] In addition to the exemplary aspects and embodiments described above, further aspects and embodiments will become apparent by reference to the drawings and by study of the following detailed descriptions.
Brief Description of the Drawings
[0016] Exemplary embodiments are illustrated in referenced figures of the drawings. It is intended that the embodiments and figures disclosed herein are to be considered illustrative rather than restrictive.
[0017] Figure 1A is a front elevation view of an electrically conductive fastener according to an example embodiment.
[0018] Figures 1 B and 1 C are respective bottom side and top side perspective views of an electrically conductive fastener as shown in Fig. 1A. [0019] Figure 2 is a perspective view of an electrical receptacle for receiving the electrically conductive fastener shown in Fig. 1A.
[0020] Figure 3 is a vertical cross-sectional front view of an electrically conductive fastener as shown in Fig. 1A installed in a vehicle panel according to an example embodiment.
[0021] Figure 4A is a front elevation view of an electrical vehicle component incorporating two electrically conductive fasteners as shown in Fig. 1 A securing the component to a vehicle panel, according to an example embodiment.
[0022] Figure 4B is a right side view of the electrical vehicle component shown in Fig. 4A.
[0023] Figure 5A is a schematic transverse vertical cross-sectional view along line A-A of Fig. 4A of an electrical vehicle component fastened to a vehicle panel by an electrically conductive fastener as shown in Fig. 1A.
[0024] Figure 5B and 5C are schematic transverse vertical cross-sectional views of alternative embodiments of an electrical vehicle component fastened to a vehicle panel by an electrically conductive fastener as shown in Fig. 1 A.
[0025] Figure 6 is an exploded perspective view of the electrical vehicle component shown in Fig. 4A using two electrically conductive fasteners as shown in Fig. 1A to secure a light to a vehicle roof panel, and connect two power cables according to an example embodiment.
[0026] Figures 7A, 7B and 7C are perspective views of lights mounted on vehicles by one or more electrically conductive fastener as shown in Fig. 1A.
Description
[0027] Throughout the following description specific details are set forth in order to provide a more thorough understanding to persons skilled in the art. However, well known elements may not have been shown or described in detail to avoid unnecessarily obscuring the disclosure. Accordingly, the description and drawings are to be regarded in an illustrative, rather than a restrictive, sense.
[0028] Fig. 1A depicts an embodiment of an electrically conductive fastener 100 comprising a first connector 110, a tool interface 120, a stop flange 130, a threaded shaft 140, and a second connector 150. First and second connectors 110 and 150 are both electrically conductive, and electrically connected to each other. The latter feature may be achieved for ease of manufacture by forming the entire fastener 100 from an electrically conductive material. Accordingly, fastener 100 conducts electricity between first connector 110 and second connector 150.
[0029] First and second connectors 110 and 150 may be any connector capable of securely and conductively mating with an electrical receptacle, port, jack or socket, and conducting electricity to the respective mating electrical receptacle, port, jack or socket. For example, one or both of connectors 1 10 and 150 may comprise: a snap-fit connector, a ball-stud connector, or any other type of friction connector.
[0030] Fig. 1A depicts an embodiment where first connector 110 comprises a ball-stud connector, and second connector 150 comprises a recessed section configured to receive a snap-fit connector, for example a Han™ E female power connector.
[0031] Tool interface 120 may comprise any feature capable of interfacing with a tool to transmit a rotational force to fastener 100. Fig. 1A depicts an embodiment of fastener 100 where tool interface 120 comprises a hexagonal head capable of interfacing with a socket wrench to transmit a rotational force to fastener 100 Alternatively, tool interface 120 may comprise a square head or any shape of head capable of transmitting a rotational force.
[0032] Stop flange 130 may be any feature which provides a planar lower surface for abutting against a vehicle panel through which threaded shaft 140 is screwed. Fig. 1A depicts an embodiment where stop flange 130 comprises a circular stop flange projecting radially from threaded shaft 140 and beyond tool interface 120. In some embodiments, stop flange 130 may be provided by a surface of tool interface 120.
[0033] Threaded shaft 140 extends below stop flange 130 and allows fastener 100 to be screwed through a vehicle panel until stop flange 130 encounters a surface of the vehicle panel. The shape, angle, pitch and lead of the thread of threaded shaft 140 may be selected specifically for the type of vehicle panel in which fastener 100 is to be installed.
[0034] In some embodiments, fastener 100 may be self-tapping, and capable of forming a threaded aperture through a vehicle panel. In embodiments where fastener 100 is selftapping, fastener 100 may be installed in a vehicle panel without first drilling a hole through the vehicle panel. In such embodiments, second connector 150 may be configured to form an aperture through the vehicle panel, for example by hammering second connector 150 into the vehicle panel, or by rotating second connector 150 against the vehicle panel.
[0035] Fastener 100 may be integrally formed or formed by attaching two or more parts. Fastener 100 may comprise any non-corrosive electrically conductive material, for example, stainless steel, brass, titanium, copper, aluminum, or any combination thereof.
[0036] In embodiments where fastener 100 comprises two or more attached parts, some parts of fastener 100 may be electrically conductive, and other parts of fastener 100 may be electrically insulating. In these embodiments, at least some parts mechanically connecting first connector 110 to second connector 150 are electrically conductive in order to conduct electricity between first connector 1 10 and second connector 150. If the vehicle panel into which fastener 1 10 is intended to be installed is electrically insulating, such as fiberglass, then the entirety of fastener 1 10 may be electrically conductive. Otherwise those parts of fastener 1 10 between first connector 110 to second connector 150 which contact the panel must be electrically insulated from the electrically conductive panel.
[0037] Fig. 2 depicts an example embodiment of electrical receptacle 200 for fastener 100. Electrical receptacle 200 comprises a body 210 and two or more receiving arms 220A and 220B extending over an aperture 230. In the embodiment depicted in Fig. 2, receiving arms 220A and 220B comprise flexibly resilient projections configured to flex away from aperture 230. Aperture 230 is dimensioned to receive first connector 110 where first connector comprises a ball-stud connector. Arms 220A and 220B are configured to securely receive ball-stud connector 1 10 by flexing away from aperture 230 as the ball of ball-stud connector 1 10 is inserted through aperture 230, and flex in towards aperture 230 as the ball of ball- stud connector 1 10 passes beyond arms 220A and 220B and securely hold the stud of ball- stud connector 1 10 below the ball. Electrical receptacle 200 is formed of an electrically conductive, durable material, such as nickel plated spring steel. Electrical receptacle 200 is provided with conductor tabs 240A, 240B, 240C and 240D which electrically connect to PCB 646 depicted in Fig. 6.
[0038] Fig. 3 depicts fastener 100 installed in vehicle panel 310. Vehicle panel 310 has an exterior surface 315A, and an interior surface 315B. Exterior surface 315A forms an exterior of the vehicle, and interior surface 315B is interior to the vehicle. Vehicle panel 310 comprises an electrically insulating material, for example, fiberglass, sheet molding compound (SMC), plastic, carbon fibre, or dry carbon fibre. In some embodiments, vehicle panel 310 may be a wall or a roof of vehicle, for example a fiberglass wall or roof of a hood, cab, or sleeper of a tractor unit.
[0039] In other embodiments, vehicle panel 310 may be a wall of a body of any vehicle, including a tractor trailer, bus, recreational vehicle, boat, train, or airplane.
[0040] Fastener 100 is installed in vehicle panel 310 by piercing vehicle panel 310 with second connector 150 to form aperture 320 through vehicle panel 310, and screwing fastener 100 through aperture 320. Fastener 100 is screwed through aperture 320 by interfacing a tool with tool interface 120 and rotating fastener 100 about axis A1. As fastener 100 is rotated about axis A1 , the threads of threaded shaft 140 grip the sides of aperture 320 and advance fastener 100 through aperture 320. As fastener 100 is screwed through vehicle panel 310, the threads of threaded shaft 140 cut cooperating groves into the walls of aperture 320.
[0041] Fastener 100 is screwed through vehicle panel 310 until stop flange 130 abuts exterior surface 315A of vehicle panel 310. Once stop flange 130 abuts exterior surface 315A, fastener 100 may be additionally rotated about axis A1 to tighten fastener 100 against vehicle panel 310 and create pressure between stop flange 130 and vehicle panel 310. The pressure between stop flange 130 and vehicle panel 310 may resist the ingress of water between stop flange 130 and vehicle panel 310 and form a water resistant seal.
[0042] In some embodiments, a sealing member may be provided or formed between stop flange 130 and vehicle panel 310. For example, a flexibly resilient body may be provided between stop flange 130 and vehicle panel 310, such as first flexibly resilient body 432 depicted in Fig. 5C. In other embodiments, a sealant may be provided on one or both of stop flange 130 and vehicle panel 310. A sealant and/or a gasket may resist the ingress of water between stop flange 130 and vehicle panel 310 and form a water resistant seal.
[0043] In some embodiments, a sealant may be provided on the threads of threaded shaft 140 to form a seal between threaded shaft 140 and the interior wall of aperture 320 and form a water resistant seal. The sealant may comprise one or more of: silicone,
polyurethane, polytetrafluoroethylene, and Loctite™ thread sealant. [0044] Figs. 4A and 4B are respective front and side views of an electrical vehicle component 410 incorporating two electrically conductive fasteners 100 to secure the component 410 to a vehicle panel 310, according to an example embodiment.
[0045] Fig. 5A is a cross-sectional view along line A-A in Fig. 4A of an electrical vehicle component 410 fastened to vehicle panel 310 by fastener 100.
[0046] Component 410 shown in Figs. 5A-5C and 6 comprises electrical receptacle 520 mounted within body 530 and configured to securely receive first connector 110 of fastener 100. In the embodiment depicted in Fig. 5A, first connector 1 10 comprises a ball-stud connector, and electrical receptacle 420 comprises a spring connector. Component 410 may be for example a running light for mounting on the roof of a tractor unit.
[0047] To fasten component 410 to vehicle panel 310, fastener 100 is first installed in vehicle panel 310 as described above. Once fastener 100 is installed, component 410 may be securely fastened to fastener 100 by securing ball-stud connector 1 10 into electrical receptacle 520.
[0048] Fig. 5B depicts an embodiment where flexibly resilient body 430 is provided between component 410 and vehicle panel 310, for example a foam pad or a rubber gasket. In the embodiment depicted in Fig. 5B, electrical receptacle 520 may be positioned within component 410 to securely receive first connector 1 10 at a point within component 410 less than the height of first connector 1 10 above vehicle panel 310. Through this configuration, flexibly resilient body 430 is compressed between component 410 and vehicle panel 310. Compressing flexibly resilient body 430 between component 410 and vehicle panel 310 may provide a water resistant seal between component 410 and vehicle panel 310.
[0049] In some embodiments, flexibly resilient body 430 may comprise two or more distinct bodies, for example as depicted in Fig. 5C. Fig. 5C depicts first flexibly resilient body 432 between stop flange 130 of fastener 100 and vehicle panel 310, and second flexibly resilient body 434 between component 410 and vehicle panel 310.
[0050] Fig. 6 depicts light 600 fastened to vehicle panel 610 by first and second electrically conductive fasteners 620A and 620B, and powered by first and second power cables 630A and 630B, according to an example embodiment. [0051] Light 600 comprises light-transitive cover 642, light-reflective cover 644, PCB 646, backing 648, and gasket 650. PCB 646 includes light-emitting elements 660 and electrical receptacles 670.
[0052] Light-emitting elements 660 may comprise one or more of: light emitting diodes (LEDs), incandescent light bulbs, halogen light bulbs, and high-intensity discharge (HID) lamps.
[0053] Figs. 7A, 7B and 7C depict clearance, running, or marker lights 600 mounted by one or more fasteners 100 respectively on a tractor unit 701 , a bus 702, and a recreational vehicle (RV) 703.
[0054] While a number of exemplary aspects and embodiments have been discussed above, those of skill in the art will recognize certain modifications, permutations, additions and sub-combinations thereof. It is therefore intended that the following appended claims and claims hereafter introduced are interpreted to include all such modifications, permutations, additions and sub-combinations as are consistent with the broadest interpretation of the specification as a whole.
Interpretation of Terms
[0055] Unless the context clearly requires otherwise, throughout the description and the claims:
• “comprise”,“comprising”, and the like are to be construed in an inclusive sense, as opposed to an exclusive or exhaustive sense; that is to say, in the sense of “including, but not limited to”;
• “connected”,“coupled", or any variant thereof, means any connection or coupling, either direct or indirect, between two or more elements; the coupling or connection between the elements can be physical, logical, or a combination thereof;
• “herein”,“above",“below”, and words of similar import, when used to describe this specification, shall refer to this specification as a whole, and not to any particular portions of this specification;
• “or”, in reference to a list of two or more items, covers all of the following
interpretations of the word: any of the items in the list, all of the items in the list, and any combination of the items in the list; • the singular forms“a”,“an”, and“the” also include the meaning of any appropriate plural forms.
[0056] Words that indicate directions such as“vertical”,“transverse”,“horizontal”,“upward”, “downward”,“forward”,“backward”,“inward”,“outward”,“vertical”,“transverse”,“left”,“right”, “front”,“back”,“top”,“bottom”,“below”,“above”,“under”, and the like, used in this description and any accompanying claims (where present), depend on the specific orientation of the apparatus described and illustrated. The subject matter described herein may assume various alternative orientations. Accordingly, these directional terms are not strictly defined and should not be interpreted narrowly.

Claims

CLAIMS:
1 . An electrically conductive fastener comprising:
an electrically conductive shaft with a first end and a second end and a threaded section between said first and second ends;
a tool interface provided between said first end of the shaft and said threaded section;
said first end provided with a first electrically conductive connector; and said second end provided with a second electrically conductive connector electrically connected to the first electrical connector.
2. The fastener according to claim 1 , wherein the second electrical connector is
electrically connected to the first electrical connector by the electrically conductive shaft.
3. The fastener according to either of claims 1 and 2, wherein the first connector
comprises a ball-stud connector.
4. The fastener according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the second connector comprises a snap-fit connector.
5. The fastener according to any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein the tool interface
comprises a hexagonal head.
6. The fastener according to any one of claims 1 to 5, wherein said fastener is selftapping.
7. The fastener according to any one of claims 1 to 6, comprising a stop flange extending radially from the shaft between the threaded section and the tool interface.
8. The fastener according to claim 7, comprising a flexibly resilient gasket mounted on the stop flange.
9. The fastener according to claim 8 wherein the gasket comprises rubber.
10. The fastener according to claim 8 wherein the gasket comprises foam.
11. The fastener according to any one of claims 1 to 10, wherein the fastener is integrally formed.
12. The fastener according to any one of claims 1 to 1 1 , wherein the fastener comprises stainless steel.
13. The fastener according to any one of claims 7 to 12, comprising a sealant distributed over the stop flange.
14. The fastener according to any one of claims 1 to 13, comprising a sealant distributed over the threaded section.
15. An external vehicle light comprising:
an electrically conductive fastener extending through an aperture in an electrically insulating vehicle panel, wherein the fastener comprises;
an electrically conductive shaft with a first end and a second end and a threaded section between said first and second ends and the threaded section engaged with cooperating grooves along an interior surface of the aperture;
a tool interface provided between said first end of the shaft and said threaded section;
a stop flange extending radially from the shaft and between the threaded section and the tool interface and abutting an exterior surface of the panel;
said first end provided with a first electrically conductive connector; said second end provided with a second electrically conductive connector electrically connected to the first electrical connector; and a vehicle light comprising:
a body; a light emitting element mounted within the body; and
an electrically conductive receptacle mounted within the body, wherein the receptacle is electrically connected to the light emitting element and the first connector is securely received by the receptacle.
16. The external vehicle light according to claim 15, wherein the second electrical
connector is electrically connected to the first electrical connector by the electrically conductive shaft.
17. The external vehicle light according to either of claims 15 and 16, wherein the first connector comprises a ball-stud connector.
18. The external vehicle light according to any one of claims 15 to 17, wherein the second connector comprises a snap-fit connector.
19. The external vehicle light according to any one of claims 15 to 18, wherein the tool interface comprises a hexagonal head.
20. The external vehicle light according to any one of claims 15 to 19, wherein said
fastener is self-tapping.
21. The external vehicle light according to any one of claims 15 to 20, comprising a
sealant distributed over the threaded section.
22. The external vehicle light according to any one of claims 15 to 21 , comprising a
sealant distributed over the stop flange.
23. The external vehicle light according to any one of claims 15 to 22, comprising a
flexibly resilient first gasket between the exterior surface of the panel and the stop flange.
24. The external vehicle light according to claim 23 wherein the first gasket comprises rubber.
25. The external vehicle light according to either of claims 23 and 24, wherein the first gasket is compressed between the exterior surface of the panel and the stop flange.
26. The external vehicle light according to any one of claims 15 to 25, wherein the
fastener is integrally formed.
27. The external vehicle light according to any one of claims 15 to 26, wherein the
fastener comprises stainless steel.
28. The external vehicle light according to any one of claims 15 to 27, comprising a
flexibly resilient second gasket between the body of the vehicle light and the exterior surface of the panel.
29. The external vehicle light according to claim 28 wherein the second gasket comprises rubber.
30. The external vehicle light according to either of claims 28 and 29, wherein the second gasket is compressed between the body of the vehicle light and the exterior surface of the panel.
31. The external vehicle light according to any one of claims 15 to 30, wherein the
receptacle comprises an aperture for receiving said first connector and one or more flexible projections biased inwardly into said aperture.
32. The external vehicle light according to any one of claims 15 to 31 , comprising a power cable connected to the second connector.
33. A method for mounting and powering an external vehicle light comprising:
forming an aperture in an electrically insulating vehicle panel; screwing an electrically conductive fastener through the aperture in the panel; connecting a power cable to the first end of the fastener; and securely and removably receiving a second end of the fastener in an electrically conductive receptacle of a vehicle light.
34. The method according to claim 33 comprising abutting a stop flange of the fastener against the panel.
35. The method according to claim 34 comprising forming a water-resistant seal between the stop flange and the panel.
36. The method according to claim 35 wherein forming the water-resistant seal between the stop flange and the panel comprises screwing the fastener though the aperture to create pressure between the stop flange and the panel.
37. The method according to claim 35 wherein forming the water-resistant seal between the stop flange and the panel comprises compressing a flexibly resilient first gasket between the stop flange and the panel.
38. The method according to claim 35 wherein forming the water-resistant seal between the stop flange and the panel comprises distributing a sealant between the stop flange and the panel.
39. The method according to claim 33 comprising forming a water-resistant seal between the fastener and the aperture by distributing a sealant along a length of the fastener before screwing the fastener through the aperture in the panel.
40. The method according to any one of claims 33 to 39, comprising forming a water- resistant seal between the vehicle light and the panel.
41. The method according to claim 40 wherein forming the water-resistant seal between the vehicle light and the panel comprises compressing a flexibly resilient second gasket between the vehicle light and the panel.
42. The method according to claim 40 wherein forming the water-resistant seal between the vehicle light and the panel comprises distributing a sealant between the vehicle light and the panel.
43. The method according to any one of claims 33 to 42, wherein the panel comprises fiberglass.
44. The method according to any one of claims 33 to 43, wherein the vehicle is a tractor unit and the panel is a panel of the tractor unit.
45. The method according to any one of claims 33 to 43, wherein the vehicle is a tractor trailer and the panel is a panel of the tractor trailer.
46. The method according to any one of claims 33 to 43, wherein the vehicle is a bus and the panel is a panel of the bus.
47. The method according to any one of claims 33 to 43, wherein the vehicle is a
recreational vehicle and the panel is a panel of the recreational vehicle.
PCT/CA2018/051538 2018-11-30 2018-11-30 Electrically conductive fastener and method of using same WO2020107095A1 (en)

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Citations (8)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
US2673965A (en) * 1950-06-26 1954-03-30 William C Cass Ball and socket trailer hitch with means to conduct current therethrough
US3107061A (en) * 1960-10-10 1963-10-15 King Bee Mfg Co Vehicle lighting system
US3230494A (en) * 1964-07-08 1966-01-18 Pullman Inc Clearance marker light
US3321731A (en) * 1964-07-13 1967-05-23 Lehigh Valley Ind Inc Marker lamp adapted for mounting on an automotive vehicle, and connection into an electrical circuit, without the use of tools
US3451035A (en) * 1966-06-08 1969-06-17 Truck Lite Co Rail mounting bracket for vehicle lamps
US3582640A (en) * 1968-06-17 1971-06-01 Duralite Mfg Co Roof assembly and lighting system
US4051360A (en) * 1976-03-17 1977-09-27 Peterson Manufacturing Company Lamp and mounting structure therefor
US6095663A (en) * 1997-07-02 2000-08-01 Truck-Lite Co., Inc. Combination clearance and marker light assembly

Patent Citations (8)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
US2673965A (en) * 1950-06-26 1954-03-30 William C Cass Ball and socket trailer hitch with means to conduct current therethrough
US3107061A (en) * 1960-10-10 1963-10-15 King Bee Mfg Co Vehicle lighting system
US3230494A (en) * 1964-07-08 1966-01-18 Pullman Inc Clearance marker light
US3321731A (en) * 1964-07-13 1967-05-23 Lehigh Valley Ind Inc Marker lamp adapted for mounting on an automotive vehicle, and connection into an electrical circuit, without the use of tools
US3451035A (en) * 1966-06-08 1969-06-17 Truck Lite Co Rail mounting bracket for vehicle lamps
US3582640A (en) * 1968-06-17 1971-06-01 Duralite Mfg Co Roof assembly and lighting system
US4051360A (en) * 1976-03-17 1977-09-27 Peterson Manufacturing Company Lamp and mounting structure therefor
US6095663A (en) * 1997-07-02 2000-08-01 Truck-Lite Co., Inc. Combination clearance and marker light assembly

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