Abstract An elongate retainer clip having securing means at one end comprising teeth and associated means for causing the teeth to biasedly engage a stationary member to which the clip is attached. Abutment means are formed for limiting the depth to which the securing means engage the stationary member, and to provide a surface upon which pressure may be applied to facilitate initial engagement. The opposite end of the clip is provided with an inclined extremity and a latching projection such that the latching projection may be released by applying pressure to the inclined surface. In a further embodiment, the retainer clip is used to secure a panel to an enclosure having an extended flange thereabout. In order to disengage the clip the panel is rotated, pivoting upon the edge of the flange and deflecting the edge of the clip downwardly.
Fastening means for releasably coupling first and second planar members in substantially parallel planes, said fastening means including: a first end of a generally S-shaped configuration comprising first, second and third substantially parallel, spaced portions, said first and second portions defining a first channel opening in a first planar direction and said second and third portions defining a second channel opening in an opposite planar direction, said first channel including at least two upstanding teeth extending from lower and upper confronting surfaces of said first and second portions respectively for engaging said first planar member upon insertion thereof into said first channel; a second end comprising an extension of said third portion and being disposed in a plane substantially parallel to said first channel, said second end extending substantially beyond said first end and including detent means extending upwardly from a surface thereof and being inclined toward said first end for engaging said second member to prevent axial separation from said first member and further including a ramp-like surface extending oppositely from said second end to facilitate the engagement of said detent means with said second member.
Claim 2
Dependent Claim
187 words
Fastening means for releasably coupling first and second planar members in substantially parallel planes, said fastening means including: a first end of a generally S-shaped configuration comprising first, second and third substantially parallel, spaced portions, said first and second portions defining a first channel opening in a first planar direction and said second and third portions defining a second channel opening in an opposite planar direction, said first channel including at least two upstanding teeth extending from lower and upper confronting surfaces of said first and second portions respectively for engaging said first planar member upon insertion thereof into said first channel; a second end comprising an extension of said third portion and being disposed in a plane substantially parallel to said first channel, said second end extending substantially beyond said first end and including detent means extending upwardly from a surface thereof and being inclined toward said first end for engaging said second member to prevent axial separation from said first member and further including a ramp-like surface extending oppositely from said second end to facilitate the engagement of said detent means with said second member.
Claim 3
Dependent Claim
28 words
The invention as defined in claim 1 wherein said detent means is disposed upon the same side of said fastening means as said first portion of said S-shape.
Claim 4
Dependent Claim
43 words
The invention as defined in claim 2 wherein each said tooth contacting one surface of the planar portion of the first member is disposed substantially opposite to a corresponding said tooth contacting the opposite surface of the planar portion of the first member.