Panel fastener
US6594870B1 · kind B1 · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Jan 22, 2001 |
| Grant date | Jul 22, 2003 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Jan 22, 2021 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC Y)Emerging Cross-Sectional Technologies
- CPC primaryY10T24/44026
- WIPO fieldMechanical elements
- WIPO sectorMechanical engineering
Abstract
A fastener for coupling a trim panel to a support member includes a mounting grommet with a funnel-shaped receiver communicating with an aperture for receiving one end of a fastener pin having a plurality of spaced annular ratcheting grooves formed thereon. The opposite or second end of the pin includes a pointed end with a pair of resilient locking arms, which extend divergently outwardly and away from an apex of the second end of the pin at an acute angle and at a spacing of about 180°, for insertion into an aperture of a support structure. Interposed between the first and second ends of the fastening pin is a resilient, generally cup-shaped seal which engages a surface of the support structure opposite the locking arms for providing a seal surrounding the aperture in the support structure to which the fastening pin is inserted. The grommet includes an annular slot defined by a collar on one side and a shoulder of the funnel-shaped receiver on the other. The shoulder includes an outwardly extending, resilient, annular flange cooperating with the support structure secured to the trim panel for centering the grommet. A trim panel includes a support socket including a slotted ap…
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.