Patent ID: 6237207
Filing Date: 2001-05-29
Classification: B25B,F02F,F16J,Y10S,Y10T

Abstract:
A fastener holding device capable of repeated use, comprising, in combination, a body with an axially extending flange having a working clearance fit over a first part associated in use with said flange, a second axially extending flange adapted to hold a surface of a second part to be fastened in place on a machine housing by a plurality of fasteners, said body holding said flanges in fixed relation to each other, and a third element adapted to retain a plurality of fastener-receiving fingers, each fastener-receiving finger being flexibly attached to said body, said fastener-receiving fingers comprising at least three generally axially extending legs and a pocket for each leg, said pocket being adapted to grasp the enlarged head portion of said fastener and transiently prevent movement of said fastener in both axial directions thereof, said pockets and said axial legs deflecting sufficiently to allow said fasteners to be pressed into fastener-receiving openings in said machine housing when said fastener is engaged with a fastener driver and axial force is applied to said fastener driver, said legs of said fastener-holding device being deflectable so as to permit said fastener to engage said machine housing, and release the engagement of said fasteners with said holding device.