Patent ID: 9079341
Filing Date: 2015-07-14
Classification: B29C,B29L,Y10T

Abstract:
1. A one piece snap-in retainer of multi-shot molded construction adapted to separate along a molded-in fracture line upon application of axial tensioning force, the retainer comprising: a base clip portion of molded polymer, the base clip portion being adapted for snap-fit insertion into an acceptance opening in a first structure, the base clip portion including a proximal barrel segment and a distal snap-in element projecting outwardly away from the barrel segment; and a head portion of molded polymer, the head portion being adapted for operative connection to a second structure for disposition in opposing relation to the first structure, wherein the head portion at least partially surrounds the proximal barrel segment in melt-bonded relation to the proximal barrel segment along an interface with the molded-in fracture line extending circumferentially about the proximal barrel segment at the interface, the molded-in fracture line including a protuberance molded into one of the proximal barrel segment and the head portion at the interface in combination with an opposing complimentary mating depression molded into the other of the proximal barrel segment and the head portion at the interface such that the protuberance is normally nested in melt-bonded relation within the mating depression, wherein the protuberance and the mating depression define stress concentrating irregularities at the interface facilitating fracture at the interface and separation of the head portion from the base clip portion upon application of the axial tensioning force; and wherein the proximal barrel segment is cylindrical and includes a rear axial opening and a hollow axial core extending from the rear axial opening to a depth beyond the molded-in fracture line.