Twist-in-place grommet connection assembly

US9790974B2 · kind B2 · utility

Assignee

• ILLINOIS TOOL WORKS INC. · US

Inventors

• Jason D. Holt · Ventura, US
• Ronald C. Owens, II · Frankfort, US
• John D. Bisset · Lexington, US
• Eric B. Jipp · Elkport, US
• Troy S. Field · South Lyon, US
• Jeremy R.D. Tuttle · Dearborn, US

Key dates

• Filing date: Dec 30, 2013
• Grant date: Oct 17, 2017
• Expiry date: Dec 18, 2034

Classification

• Technology area (CPC F): Mechanical Engineering; Lighting; Heating
• CPC primary: F16B41/002
• WIPO field: Mechanical elements
• WIPO sector: Mechanical engineering

Abstract

A connection assembly adapted for receipt of a male connection member at the interior of a grommet. The connection assembly includes a grommet of hollow construction including a first collar and a second non-circular collar disposed in spaced-apart relation from the first collar. An axial bore extends entirely through the grommet. A sleeve insert including a hollow stem extends into the axial bore so as to at least partially line the axial bore. A complementary retaining panel includes a substantially non-circular access opening adapted to receive the second collar in pass-through relation and to block the first collar against insertion. Upon rotation, the grommet is blocked against withdrawal through the access opening and the retaining panel is held securely in place.