Patent Publication Number: US-2023138689-A1

Title: Captive fastener and method of assembling the same

Description:
CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS 
     This application claims priority to U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 63/007,618, filed on Apr. 9, 2020, titled “CAPTIVE FASTENER AND METHOD OF ASSEMBLING THE SAME,” the entire disclosure of which is incorporated by reference herein for all purposes. 
    
    
     BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION 
     This invention relates to captive fasteners of the type generally used to attach a first panel to a second panel, frame or other surface when it is desired to keep the fastener in position without loose items of hardware. The captive fastener is mounted such that the fastener stays attached to a panel even when the fastener is disengaged from another panel or surface surface. 
     Captive fasteners have been disclosed in, for example, U.S. Pat. Nos. 5,382,124, 5,851,095, and 6,280,131, the disclosures of which are incorporated herein by reference. Though the captive fasteners disclosed in these patents represent improvements over prior fasteners, there remains a need for captive fasteners with further improvements in terms of at least one of performance, ease of assembly, reduction of manufacturing cost, and/or functionality. 
     SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION 
     According to preferred principles of a fastener provided by the invention, a captive fastener attachable to a panel along a fastener axis is provided. The captive fastener includes a fastener having a head portion at a proximal end of the fastener and a shaft extending from the head portion and along the fastener axis to a distal end portion of the fastener. The captive fastener also includes a knob formed separately from the fastener and assembled to the fastener, the knob having a proximal end portion engaged to the head portion of the fastener and an annular portion extending radially around the fastener axis and the shaft of the fastener and distally from the head portion of the fastener to a distal end portion of the knob. 
     A ferrule is associated with the knob, the ferrule defining an opening extending along the fastener axis and receiving the shaft of the fastener. The ferrule has a proximal end portion configured to prevent separation of the knob from the ferrule along the fastener axis and a distal end portion configured for engagement to the panel. A spring is positioned to bias the knob or the fastener proximally relative to the ferrule and to inhibit tilting of the knob or the fastener relative to the fastener axis. The proximal end portion of the ferrule having been positioned to be associated with the knob in an insertion direction along the fastener axis, and the head portion of the fastener having been inserted within the knob for engagement to the knob in the insertion direction. 
     The engagement between the proximal portion of the knob and the head portion of the fastener is configured to resist axial movement of the knob relative to the fastener along the fastener axis, rotational movement of the knob relative to the fastener about the fastener axis, and pivotal movement of the knob relative to the fastener axis. 
     According to a first aspect of the invention in which snap-in assembly, for example, is made possible, the proximal end portion of the knob is mechanically engaged to the head portion of the fastener. The head portion of the fastener has a proximally facing surface facing toward the proximal end of the fastener, a distally facing surface facing toward the distal end portion of the fastener, and a transverse surface extending transverse to the proximally facing surface and the distally facing surface of the head portion of the fastener. The knob has a proximally facing surface facing toward a proximal end of the knob, a distally facing surface facing toward a distal end of the knob, and a transverse surface extending transverse to the proximally facing surface and the distally facing surface of the knob. 
     At least one of the proximally facing surface of the knob and the distally facing surface of the knob is movable radially relative to the fastener axis between an engaging position, in which the proximally facing surface of the knob can engage the distally facing surface of the head portion of the fastener and the distally facing surface of the knob can engage the proximally facing surface of the head portion of the fastener, thereby capable of restricting movement of the head portion of the fastener relative to the knob along the fastener axis, and an extended position, in which at least one of the proximally facing surface of the knob or the distally facing surface of the knob is disengaged from the head portion of the fastener, thereby permitting movement of the head portion of the fastener relative to the knob along the fastener axis. The transverse surface of the head portion of the fastener abuts the transverse surface of the knob, thereby restricting rotational movement of the knob relative to the fastener about the fastener axis. 
     In a first embodiment of this first aspect of the invention, the knob includes a leg defining the distally facing surface of the knob or the proximally facing surface of the knob, the leg of the knob being moveable radially outwardly to move the distally facing surface of the knob or the proximally facing surface of the knob from the engaging position to the extended position, thereby permitting insertion of the head portion of the fastener into the knob, and from the extended position to the engaging position, thereby resisting withdrawal of the head portion of the fastener from the knob. 
     An second embodiment of this first aspect of the invention, the knob includes an inner component and an outer component fixed to the inner component, the inner component of the knob defining at least one of the distally facing surface of the knob or the proximally facing surface of the knob, and the outer component of the knob defining a radially outwardly facing surface positioned for gripping the knob. 
     In a third embodiment of this first aspect of the invention, the knob includes an inner wall defining an annular groove sized to accommodate the head portion of the fastener and defining the distally facing surface of the knob and the proximally facing surface of the knob, thereby resisting withdrawal of the head portion of the fastener from the knob upon insertion of the head portion of the fastener into the annular groove defined in the inner wall of the knob. 
     In a fourth embodiment of this first aspect of the invention, the head portion of the fastener defines an annular groove providing the proximally facing surface and the distally facing surface of the head portion of the fastener, and the knob includes an inner wall having an inwardly extending protrusion providing the proximally facing surface of the knob and the distally facing surface of the knob. The inwardly extending protrusion of the knob is positioned to extend into the annular groove of the head portion of the fastener, thereby permitting a pressed insertion of the head portion of the fastener within the inner wall of the knob and resisting withdrawal of the head portion of the fastener from the knob. 
     According to a second aspect of the invention in which heat stake assembly, for example, is made possible, the proximal end portion of the knob is deformed into the engagement with the head portion of the fastener. The head portion of the fastener has a proximally facing surface facing toward the proximal end of the fastener, a distally facing surface facing toward the distal end portion of the fastener, and a transverse surface extending transverse to the proximally facing surface of the head portion of the fastener and the distally facing surface of the head portion of the fastener. The knob has an engagement surface and a transverse surface extending transverse to the engagement surface of the knob. 
     The engagement surface of the knob is deformable from an extended position, in which the engagement surface of the knob is disengaged from the head portion of the fastener, thereby permitting movement of the head portion of the fastener relative to the knob along the fastener axis, and a deformed position, radially inward from the extended position, in which the engagement surface of the knob engages the head portion of the fastener, thereby restricting movement of the head portion of the fastener relative to the knob along the fastener axis. The transverse surface of the head portion of the fastener abuts the transverse surface of the knob, thereby restricting rotation of the knob relative to the fastener about the fastener axis. 
     In a fifth embodiment according to this second aspect of the invention, the knob includes a leg defining the engagement surface. The leg of the knob is deformable radially inwardly relative to the fastener axis to move the engagement surface of the knob from the extended position to the deformed position, thereby resisting withdrawal of the head portion of the fastener from the knob. 
     In a sixth embodiment according to this aspect of the invention, the knob includes a proximal annular edge portion defining the engagement surface. The proximal annular edge portion of the knob is deformable radially inwardly to deform the engagement surface from the extended position to the deformed position, thereby resisting withdrawal of the head portion of the fastener from the knob. 
     In a seventh embodiment according to this aspect of the invention, the knob includes a proximal component and a distal component. The proximal component defines the engagement surface of the knob and the distal component defines the transverse surface of the knob. The proximal component of the knob is heat bonded to the distal component of the knob, thereby resisting separation of the proximal component of the knob from the distal component of the knob and withdrawal of the head portion of the fastener from the knob. 
     According to another aspect of the invention in which snap-in assembly, for example, is made possible, a method is provided for assembling a captive fastener by mechanically engaging the proximal end portion of the knob to the head portion of the fastener. The method includes moving at least one of the proximally facing surface of the knob and the distally facing surface of the knob radially outwardly relative to the fastener axis to the extended position, in which at least one of the proximally facing surface of the knob or the distally facing surface of the knob is disengaged from the head portion of the fastener; inserting the head portion of the fastener into the proximal end portion of the knob; returning the at least one of the proximally facing surface of the knob and the distally facing surface of the knob radially inwardly relative to the fastener axis from the extended position to the engaging position, such that the proximally facing surface of the knob engages the distally facing surface of the head portion of the fastener and the distally facing surface of the knob engages the proximally facing surface of the head portion of the fastener, thereby restricting movement of the head portion of the fastener relative to the knob along the fastener axis; abutting the transverse surface of the head portion of the fastener against the transverse surface of the knob, thereby restricting rotational movement of the knob relative to the fastener about the fastener axis; positioning a spring to bias the knob or the fastener proximally and to inhibit tilting of the knob or the fastener relative to the fastener axis; and associating a ferrule with the knob such that the opening defined in the ferrule extends along the fastener axis and receives the shaft of the fastener, and such that the proximal end portion of the ferrule prevents separation of the knob from the ferrule along the fastener axis. 
     In a first embodiment of this method, the moving step includes moving a leg defining the distally facing surface of the knob or the proximally facing surface of the knob radially outwardly to the extended position, thereby permitting insertion of the head portion of the fastener into the knob, and the returning step includes returning the leg from the extended position to the engaging position, thereby resisting withdrawal of the head portion of the fastener from the knob. 
     In a second embodiment, the method includes mechanically coupling an outer component of the knob to an inner component of the knob or to the head portion of the fastener, thereby preventing separation of the outer component of the knob from the inner component of the knob along the fastener axis. 
     In a third embodiment of the method, the inserting step includes press inserting the head portion of the fastener into an annular groove defined in an inner wall of the knob. 
     In a fourth embodiment of this method, the inserting step includes extending an inwardly extending protrusion of the knob into an annular groove of the head portion of the fastener, thereby permitting pressed insertion of the head portion of the fastener into the inner wall of the knob and resisting withdrawal of the head portion of the fastener from the knob. 
     According to yet another aspect of the invention in which heat stake assembly, for example, is made possible, a method is provided for assembling a captive fastener by deforming the proximal end portion of the knob into the engagement with the head portion of the fastener. The method includes inserting the head portion of the fastener into the proximal end portion of the knob; deforming the engagement surface of the knob radially inwardly relative to the fastener axis from the extended position, in which the engagement surface of the knob is disengaged from the head portion of the fastener, to the deformed position, in which the engagement surface of the knob engages the head portion of the fastener, such that the proximally facing surface of the knob engages the distally facing surface of the head portion of the fastener and the engagement surface of the knob engages the proximally facing surface of the head portion of the fastener, thereby restricting movement of the head portion of the fastener relative to the knob along the fastener axis; abutting the transverse surface of the head portion of the fastener against the transverse surface of the knob, thereby restricting rotational movement of the knob relative to the fastener about the fastener axis; positioning a spring to bias the knob or the fastener proximally and to inhibit tilting of the knob or the fastener relative to the fastener axis; and associating a ferrule with the knob such that the opening defined in the ferrule extends along the fastener axis and receives the shaft of the fastener, and such that the proximal end portion of the ferrule prevents separation of the knob from the ferrule along the fastener axis. 
     According to a fifth embodiment, this method includes abutting the distally facing surface of the engagement surface against the proximally facing surface of the head portion of the fastener, thereby restricting movement of the head portion of the fastener relative to the knob along the fastener axis. 
     According to a sixth embodiment, the deforming step of this method includes deforming a proximal annular edge portion of the knob defining the engagement surface radially inwardly to move the engagement surface from the extended position to the deformed position, thereby resisting withdrawal of the head portion of the fastener from the knob. 
     According to a seventh embodiment, this method further includes heat bonding a proximal component of the knob to a distal component of the knob, thereby resisting separation of the proximal portion of the knob from the distal component of the knob and withdrawal of the head portion of the fastener from the knob. 
    
    
     
       BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS 
         FIG.  1 A  is a side view of a captive fastener according to a first embodiment of the invention, in an extended configuration. 
         FIG.  1 B  is a side view of the captive fastener shown in  FIG.  1 A , in a compressed configuration. 
         FIG.  1 C  is a top view of the captive fastener shown in  FIG.  1 A . 
         FIG.  2 A  is a cross-sectional side view of the captive fastener shown in  FIG.  1 A , taken through line  2 A- 2 A in  FIG.  1 C . 
         FIG.  2 B  is a bottom view of the captive fastener shown in  FIG.  1 A . 
         FIG.  3    is an exploded view of the captive fastener shown in  FIG.  1 A . 
         FIG.  4 A  is a perspective view of a knob component of the captive fastener shown in  FIG.  1 A . 
         FIG.  4 B  is a perspective view of a fastener component of the captive fastener shown in  FIG.  1 A . is  FIG.  5 A  is an exploded view of the captive fastener shown in  FIG.  1 A . 
         FIG.  5 B  is a side view of the captive fastener shown in  FIG.  1 A , in an unfastened condition. 
         FIG.  5 C  is a side view of the captive fastener shown in  FIG.  1 A , in a fastened condition. 
         FIG.  6 A  is a perspective view of the knob component of the captive fastener shown in  FIG.  1 A . 
         FIG.  6 B  is a cross-sectional side view of the knob component of the captive fastener shown in  FIG.  1 A , taken through line  6 B- 6 B in  FIG.  6 C . 
         FIG.  6 C  is a top view of the knob component of the captive fastener shown in  FIG.  1 A . 
         FIG.  6 D  is a side view of the knob component of the captive fastener shown in  FIG.  1 A . 
         FIG.  7 A  is a top view of the fastener component of the captive fastener shown in  FIG.  1 A . 
         FIG.  7 B  is a perspective view of the fastener component of the captive fastener shown in  FIG.  1 A . 
         FIG.  7 C  is a cross-sectional side view of the fastener component of the captive fastener shown in  FIG.  1 A , taken through line  7 C- 7 C in  FIG.  7 A . 
         FIG.  7 D  is another perspective view of the fastener component of the captive fastener shown in  FIG.  1 A . 
         FIG.  8 A  is a side view of a spring component of the captive fastener shown in  FIG.  1 A . 
         FIG.  8 B  is an end view of a spring component of the captive fastener shown in  FIG.  1 A . 
         FIG.  8 C  is a perspective view of a spring component of the captive fastener shown in  FIG.  1 A . 
         FIG.  9 A  is a top view of a ferrule component of the captive fastener shown in  FIG.  1 A . 
         FIG.  9 B  is a side view of a ferrule component of the captive fastener shown in  FIG.  1 A . 
         FIG.  9 C  is a perspective view of a ferrule component of the captive fastener shown in  FIG.  1 A . 
         FIG.  9 D  is a cross-sectional side view of a ferrule component of the captive fastener shown in  FIG.  1 A . 
         FIG.  10 A  is an exploded view of a variation of the captive fastener shown in  FIG.  1 A . 
         FIG.  10 B  is a cross-sectional side view of the variation of the captive fastener shown in  FIG.  10 A , taken through line  10 B- 10 B in  FIG.  10 C . 
         FIG.  10 C  is a top view of the variation of the captive fastener shown in  FIG.  10 A . 
         FIG.  11 A  is a cross-sectional side view of a variation of a ferrule component of the captive fastener shown in  FIG.  1 A , prior to assembly. 
         FIG.  11 B  is a cross-sectional side view of the variation of a ferrule component of the captive fastener shown in  FIG.  1 A , subsequent to assembly. 
         FIG.  12 A  is a side view of the captive fastener shown in  FIG.  1 A , illustrating rotational movement. 
         FIG.  12 B  is a side view of the captive fastener shown in  FIG.  1 A , illustrating axial movement in a distal direction. 
         FIG.  12 C  is a side view of the captive fastener shown in  FIG.  1 A , illustrating axial movement in a proximal direction. 
         FIG.  12 D  is a side view of the captive fastener shown in  FIG.  1 A , illustrating pivotal movement. 
         FIG.  13    is a perspective view of another variation of the captive fastener shown in  FIG.  1 A . 
         FIG.  14    is a perspective view of a captive fastener according to a second embodiment of the invention. 
         FIGS.  15  through  18 B  are views of the captive fastener shown in  FIG.  14   , including components and variations of the captive fastener. 
         FIGS.  19 A and  19 B  are perspective views of a captive fastener according to a third embodiment of the invention. 
         FIGS.  20 A through  23 B  are views of the captive fastener shown in  FIGS.  19 A and  19 B , including components and variations of the captive fastener. 
         FIGS.  24 A and  24 B  are top and cross-sectional side views of a captive fastener according to a fourth embodiment of the invention. 
         FIGS.  25 A through  36 D  are views of the captive fastener shown in  FIGS.  24 A and  24 B , including components and variations of the captive fastener. 
         FIGS.  37 A through  37 C  are side and top views of a captive fastener according to a fifth embodiment of the invention. 
         FIGS.  38 A through  43 D  are views of the captive fastener shown in  FIGS.  37 A through  37 C , including components and variations of the captive fastener. 
         FIGS.  44 A and  44 B  are top views of a captive fastener according to a sixth embodiment of the invention, before and after deformation, respectively. 
         FIGS.  45  through  50 E  are views of the captive fastener shown in  FIGS.  44 A and  44 B , including components and variations of the captive fastener. 
         FIGS.  51 A through  51 C  are top, side, and perspective views of a captive fastener according to a seventh embodiment of the invention. 
         FIGS.  52 A through  57 D  are views of the captive fastener shown in  FIG.  51 A , including components and variations of the captive fastener. 
     
    
    
     DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF EMBODIMENTS OF THE INVENTION 
     Although the invention is illustrated and described herein with reference to specific embodiments, the invention is not intended to be limited to the details shown. Rather, various modifications may be made in the details within the scope and range of equivalents of the claims and without departing from the invention. 
     Also, like numbers are intended to refer to like features or components in various embodiments of the invention. Also, designators such as “A” are intended to indicate variations of related components or features. 
     Referring generally to embodiments of captive fasteners selected for illustration in  FIGS.  1 A through  57 D , a captive fastener  100 ,  200 ,  300 ,  400 ,  500 ,  600 ,  700  is attachable to a panel (not shown) along a fastener axis FA. The captive fastener  100 ,  200 ,  300 ,  400 ,  500 ,  600 ,  700  includes a fastener  102 ,  202 ,  302 ,  402 ,  502 ,  602 ,  702  having a head portion  104 ,  204 ,  304 ,  404 ,  504 ,  604 ,  704  at a proximal end  106 ,  206 ,  306 ,  406 ,  506 ,  606 ,  706  of the fastener  102 ,  202 ,  302 ,  402 ,  502 ,  602 ,  702  and a shaft  108 ,  208 ,  308 ,  408 ,  508 ,  608 ,  708  extending from the head portion  104 ,  204 ,  304 ,  404 ,  504 ,  604 ,  704  and along the fastener axis FA to a distal end portion  110 ,  210 ,  310 ,  410 ,  510 ,  610 ,  710  of the fastener  102 ,  202 ,  302 ,  402 ,  502 ,  602 ,  702 . 
     Although the fasteners selected for illustration have a distal end portion with a threaded fastener arrangement, the fasteners can be provided with any form of engagement feature. For example, a threaded shaft can be replaced with a quarter-turn or bayonet or other fastener arrangement, depending on the preference of the user of the captive fastener. Accordingly, a captive screw can be provided according to this invention, but other fastener types are also contemplated. 
     A knob  112 ,  212 ,  312 ,  412 ,  512 ,  612 ,  712  is formed separately from the fastener  102 ,  202 ,  302 ,  402 ,  502 ,  602 ,  702  and assembled to the fastener  102 ,  202 ,  302 ,  402 ,  502 ,  602 ,  702 . The knob  112 ,  212 ,  312 ,  412 ,  512 ,  612 ,  712  has a proximal end portion  114 ,  214 ,  314 ,  414 ,  514 ,  614 ,  714  engaged to the head portion  104 ,  204 ,  304 ,  404 ,  504 ,  604 ,  704  of the fastener  102 ,  202 ,  302 ,  402 ,  502 ,  602 ,  702  and an annular portion  116 ,  216 ,  316 ,  416 ,  516 ,  616 ,  716  extending radially around the fastener axis FA and the shaft  108 ,  208 ,  308 ,  408 ,  508 ,  608 ,  708  of the fastener  102 ,  202 ,  302 ,  402 ,  502 ,  602 ,  702  and distally from the head portion  104 ,  204 ,  304 ,  404 ,  504 ,  604 ,  704  of the fastener  102 ,  202 ,  302 ,  402 ,  502 ,  602 ,  702  to a distal end portion  114 ,  214 ,  314 ,  414 ,  514 ,  614 ,  714  of the knob  112 ,  212 ,  312 ,  412 ,  512 ,  612 ,  712 . 
     A ferrule  120 ,  220 ,  320 ,  420 ,  520 ,  620 ,  720  is associated with the knob  112 ,  212 ,  312 ,  412 ,  512 ,  612 ,  712 . The ferrule  120 ,  220 ,  320 ,  420 ,  520 ,  620 ,  720  defines an opening  122 ,  222 ,  322 ,  422 ,  522 ,  622 ,  722  extending along the fastener axis FA and receiving the shaft  108 ,  208 ,  308 ,  408 ,  508 ,  608 ,  708  of the fastener  102 ,  202 ,  302 ,  402 ,  502 ,  602 ,  702 . The ferrule  120 ,  220 ,  320 ,  420 ,  520 ,  620 ,  720  has a proximal end portion  124 ,  224 ,  324 ,  424 ,  524 ,  624 ,  724  configured to prevent separation of the knob  112 ,  212 ,  312 ,  412 ,  512 ,  612 ,  712  from the ferrule  120 ,  220 ,  320 ,  420 ,  520 ,  620 ,  720  along the fastener axis FA and a distal end portion  126 ,  226 ,  326 ,  426 ,  526 ,  626 ,  726  configured for engagement to the panel (not shown). 
     A spring  128 ,  228 ,  328 ,  428 ,  528 ,  628 ,  728  is positioned to bias the knob  112 ,  212 ,  312 ,  412 ,  512 ,  612 ,  712  or the fastener  102 ,  202 ,  302 ,  402 ,  502 ,  602 ,  702  proximally relative to the ferrule  120 ,  220 ,  320 ,  420 ,  520 ,  620 ,  720  and to inhibit tilting of the knob  112 ,  212 ,  312 ,  412 ,  512 ,  612 ,  712  or the fastener  102 ,  202 ,  302 ,  402 ,  502 ,  602 ,  702  relative to the fastener axis FA. Although a spring is preferably included in each of the embodiments, the spring is not always shown in the accompanying figures. One skilled in the art will understand the positioning of springs in the various embodiments. 
     The proximal end portion  124 ,  224 ,  324 ,  424 ,  524 ,  624 ,  724  of the ferrule  120 ,  220 ,  320 ,  420 ,  520 ,  620 ,  720  has been positioned to be associated with the knob  112 ,  212 ,  312 ,  412 ,  512 ,  612 ,  712  in an insertion direction ID along the fastener axis FA. Similarly, the head portion  104 ,  204 ,  304 ,  404 ,  504 ,  604 ,  704  of the fastener  102 ,  202 ,  302 ,  402 ,  502 ,  602 ,  702  has been inserted within the knob  112 ,  212 ,  312 ,  412 ,  512 ,  612 ,  712  for engagement to the knob  112 ,  212 ,  312 ,  412 ,  512 ,  612 ,  712  in the insertion direction ID. 
     Although the embodiments selected for illustration in the figures include particular springs or ferrules or knobs or fasteners in various combinations, these components can be “mixed and matched” to suit a particular preference, a particular application, or a particular processing method. Accordingly, the various knob, fastener, spring, and ferrule configurations can be selected and assembled in unlimited combinations. 
     In one embodiment selected for illustration, the captive fastener can be assembled manually or by automated processes in which components of the captive fastener are brought together into assembly along a common axis such as fastener axis FA. In this way, the process steps can be aligned along a common axis for ease of assembly and efficiency. Also, the forces necessary to assemble the components can be applied along the common axis such that components can be pressed or otherwise engaged or coupled by urging one component against another. For example, referring to a first embodiment, the proximal end portion  124  of the ferrule  120  is positioned to be associated with the knob  112  along the fastener axis FA. Similarly, the head portion  104  of the fastener  102  is inserted within the knob  112  for engagement to the knob  112  along the fastener axis FA. In the same way, all remaining components can be brought together along the same fastener axis FA, including the spring. Depending on the preferences of the manufacturer of the captive fastener, the fastener axis FA can be oriented vertically or horizontally or at any angle to facilitate assembly. 
     In another embodiment selected for illustration, the captive fastener can be assembled manually or by automated processes in which components of the captive fastener are brought together into assembly in a common insertion direction ID. In this way, the process steps can be performed in or from a common insertion direction for ease of assembly and efficiency. Also, the forces necessary to assemble the components can be applied in the common insertion direction such that components can be pressed or otherwise engaged or coupled by urging one component against another from a common direction. For example, referring to a first embodiment, the proximal end portion  124  of the ferrule  120  is positioned to be associated with the knob  112  in an insertion direction ID. Similarly, the head portion  104  of the fastener  102  is inserted within the knob  112  for engagement to the knob  112  in the same insertion direction ID. Depending on the assembly and embodiment of the captive fastener, the insertion direction ID can be a proximal or distal direction such that all process steps can be performed from in the proximal direction or the distal direction. 
     The engagement  130 ,  230 ,  330 ,  430 ,  530 ,  630 ,  730  between the proximal portion of the knob  112 ,  212 ,  312 ,  412 ,  512 ,  612 ,  712  and the head portion  104 ,  204 ,  304 ,  404 ,  504 ,  604 ,  704  of the fastener  102 ,  202 ,  302 ,  402 ,  502 ,  602 ,  702  is configured to resist axial movement A of the knob  112 ,  212 ,  312 ,  412 ,  512 ,  612 ,  712  relative to the fastener  102 ,  202 ,  302 ,  402 ,  502 ,  602 ,  702  along the fastener axis FA, rotational movement R of the knob  112 ,  212 ,  312 ,  412 ,  512 ,  612 ,  712  relative to the fastener  102 ,  202 ,  302 ,  402 ,  502 ,  602 ,  702  about the fastener axis FA, and pivotal movement P of the knob  112 ,  212 ,  312 ,  412 ,  512 ,  612 ,  712  relative to the fastener axis FA. 
     In the captive fastener  100 ,  200 ,  300 ,  400 ,  500 ,  600 ,  700 , the fastener  102 ,  202 ,  302 ,  402 ,  502 ,  602 ,  702  is metallic, and the knob  112 ,  212 ,  312 ,  412 ,  512 ,  612 ,  712  is non-metallic. Nevertheless, both the fastener and the knob can be metallic or non-metallic. Also, the metallic or non-metallic materials can be selected from a wide variety of acceptable materials, depending on the application of the captive fastener, the preference of the end user, or the preference of the manufacturer. Examples of suitable materials are described in U.S. Pat. Nos. 5,382,124, 5,851,095, and 6,280,131, the disclosures of which are incorporated herein by reference. 
     The proximal end portion  124 ,  224 ,  324 ,  424 ,  524 ,  624 ,  724  of the ferrule  120 ,  220 ,  320 ,  420 ,  520 ,  620 ,  720  and the head portion  104 ,  204 ,  304 ,  404 ,  504 ,  604 ,  704  of the fastener  102 ,  202 ,  302 ,  402 ,  502 ,  602 ,  702  are inserted within the knob  112 ,  212 ,  312 ,  412 ,  512 ,  612 ,  712  in the insertion direction ID, the insertion direction ID being a distal direction from the proximal end portion  114 ,  214 ,  314 ,  414 ,  514 ,  614 ,  714  of the knob  112 ,  212 ,  312 ,  412 ,  512 ,  612 ,  712  along the fastener axis FA. 
     Alternatively, the proximal end portion  124 ,  224 ,  324 ,  424 ,  524 ,  624 ,  724  of the ferrule  120 ,  220 ,  320 ,  420 ,  520 ,  620 ,  720  and the head portion  104 ,  204 ,  304 ,  404 ,  504 ,  604 ,  704  of the fastener  102 ,  202 ,  302 ,  402 ,  502 ,  602 ,  702  can be inserted within the knob  112 ,  212 ,  312 ,  412 ,  512 ,  612 ,  712  in the insertion direction ID, the insertion direction ID being a proximal direction from the distal end portion  118 ,  218 ,  318 ,  418 ,  518 ,  618 ,  718  of the knob  112 ,  212 ,  312 ,  412 ,  512 ,  612 ,  712  along the fastener axis FA. 
     The proximal end portion  124 ,  224 ,  324 ,  424 ,  524 ,  624 ,  724  of the ferrule  120 ,  220 ,  320 ,  420 ,  520 ,  620 ,  720  includes a radial extension  132 ,  232 ,  332 ,  432 ,  532 ,  632 ,  732  extending radially outwardly relative to the fastener axis FA for engagement with the knob  112 ,  212 ,  312 ,  412 ,  512 ,  612 ,  712  to prevent the separation of the knob  112 ,  212 ,  312 ,  412 ,  512 ,  612 ,  712  from the ferrule  120 ,  220 ,  320 ,  420 ,  520 ,  620 ,  720 . 
     The radial extension  132 ,  232 ,  332 ,  432 ,  532 ,  632 ,  732  of the proximal end portion  124 ,  224 ,  324 ,  424 ,  524 ,  624 ,  724  of the ferrule  120 ,  220 ,  320 ,  420 ,  520 ,  620 ,  720  is optionally deformed from an extended position, in which the proximal end portion  124 ,  224 ,  324 ,  424 ,  524 ,  624 ,  724  of the ferrule  120 ,  220 ,  320 ,  420 ,  520 ,  620 ,  720  is insertable within the knob  112 ,  212 ,  312 ,  412 ,  512 ,  612 ,  712 , thereby permitting movement of the proximal end portion  124 ,  224 ,  324 ,  424 ,  524 ,  624 ,  724  of the ferrule  120 ,  220 ,  320 ,  420 ,  520 ,  620 ,  720  into the knob  112 ,  212 ,  312 ,  412 ,  512 ,  612 ,  712  in the insertion direction ID along the fastener axis FA, to an engaging position, in which the proximal end portion  124 ,  224 ,  324 ,  424 ,  524 ,  624 ,  724  of the ferrule  120 ,  220 ,  320 ,  420 ,  520 ,  620 ,  720  cannot be removed from within the knob  112 ,  212 ,  312 ,  412 ,  512 ,  612 ,  712  in a direction opposite the insertion direction ID, thereby preventing the separation of the knob  112 ,  212 ,  312 ,  412 ,  512 ,  612 ,  712  from the ferrule  120 ,  220 ,  320 ,  420 ,  520 ,  620 ,  720  along the fastener axis FA. 
     Embodiments of the invention include captive fasteners in which the proximal end portion of the knob is mechanically engaged or coupled to the head portion of the fastener, such as for example by snap-in assembly. Such mechanical engagement is optionally provided by a snap-in or press insertion engagement. In such embodiments, insert molding, heat bonding, and/or crimping processes can be eliminated. For example, such embodiments can be assembled simply by coupling separate, pre-formed components. This makes possible the mass production of the components, which can be subsequently assembled with one another in a separate operation. Accordingly, the engaging step for engagement between the knob and the fastener can be completed without permanently deforming the knob. 
     Referring generally to the embodiments shown in  FIGS.  1 A- 36 D  for illustration, the head portion  104 ,  204 ,  304 ,  404  of the fastener  102 ,  202 ,  302 ,  402  has a proximally facing surface  134 ,  234 ,  334 ,  434  facing toward the proximal end of the fastener  102 ,  202 ,  302 ,  402 , a distally facing surface  136 ,  236 ,  336 ,  436  facing toward the distal end portion  110 ,  210 ,  310 ,  410  of the fastener  102 ,  202 ,  302 ,  402 , and a transverse surface  138 ,  238 ,  338 ,  438  extending transverse to the proximally facing surface  134 ,  234 ,  334 ,  434  and the distally facing surface  136 ,  236 ,  336 ,  436  of the head portion  104 ,  204 ,  304 ,  404  of the fastener  102 ,  202 ,  302 ,  402 . 
     The knob  112 ,  212 ,  312 ,  412  has a proximally facing surface  140 ,  240 ,  340 ,  440  facing toward a proximal end of the knob  112 ,  212 ,  312 ,  412 , a distally facing surface  142 ,  242 ,  342 ,  442  facing toward a distal end of the knob  112 ,  212 ,  312 ,  412 , and a transverse surface  144 ,  244 ,  344 ,  444  extending transverse to the proximally facing surface  140 ,  240 ,  340 ,  440  and the distally facing surface  142 ,  242 ,  342 ,  442  of the knob  112 ,  212 ,  312 ,  412 . 
     At least one of the proximally facing surface  140 ,  240 ,  340 ,  440  of the knob  112 ,  212 ,  312 ,  412  and the distally facing surface  142 ,  242 ,  342 ,  442  of the knob  112 ,  212 ,  312 ,  412  are movable radially relative to the fastener axis FA between two positions: 
     (1) an engaging position, in which the proximally facing surface  140 ,  240 ,  340 ,  440  of the knob  112 ,  212 ,  312 ,  412  engages the distally facing surface  136 ,  236 ,  336 ,  436  of the head portion  104 ,  204 ,  304 ,  404  of the fastener  102 ,  202 ,  302 ,  402  and the distally facing surface  142 ,  242 ,  342 ,  442  of the knob  112 ,  212 ,  312 ,  412  engages the proximally facing surface  134 ,  234 ,  334 ,  434  of the head portion  104 ,  204 ,  304 ,  404  of the fastener  102 ,  202 ,  302 ,  402 , thereby restricting movement of the head portion  104 ,  204 ,  304 ,  404  of the fastener  102 ,  202 ,  302 ,  402  relative to the knob  112 ,  212 ,  312 ,  412  along the fastener axis FA; and 
     (2) an extended position, in which at least one of the proximally facing surface  140 ,  240 ,  340 ,  440  of the knob  112 ,  212 ,  312 ,  412  or the distally facing surface  142 ,  242 ,  342 ,  442  of the knob  112 ,  212 ,  312 ,  412  is disengaged from the head portion  104 ,  204 ,  304 ,  404  of the fastener  102 ,  202 ,  302 ,  402 , thereby permitting movement of the head portion  104 ,  204 ,  304 ,  404  of the fastener  102 ,  202 ,  302 ,  402  relative to the knob  112 ,  212 ,  312 ,  412  along the fastener axis FA. 
     The transverse surface  138 ,  238 ,  338 ,  438  of the head portion  104 ,  204 ,  304 ,  404  of the fastener  102 ,  202 ,  302 ,  402  abuts the transverse surface  144 ,  244 ,  344 ,  444  of the knob  112 ,  212 ,  312 ,  412 , thereby restricting rotational movement of the knob  112 ,  212 ,  312 ,  412  relative to the fastener  102 ,  202 ,  302 ,  402  about the fastener axis FA. 
     In the first embodiment and variations thereof illustrated in  FIGS.  1 A to  13    relating to the captive fastener  100 , the knob  112  includes a moveable portion such as a tab or a flexible region to define the distally facing surface of the knob and/or the proximally facing surface of the knob. In this embodiment, a leg  146  defines the distally facing surface  142  of the knob  112  or the proximally facing surface  140  of the knob  112 . The leg  146  of the knob  112  is moveable radially outwardly to move the distally facing surface  142  of the knob  112  or the proximally facing surface  140  of the knob  112  from (1) the engaging position to the extended position, thereby permitting insertion of the head portion  104  of the fastener  102  into the knob  112 , and (2) from the extended position to the engaging position, thereby resisting withdrawal of the head portion  104  of the fastener  102  from the knob  112 . 
     The knob  112  includes an inner wall  148  defining the proximally facing surface  140  of the knob  112  or the distally facing surface  142  of the knob  112 , thereby restricting movement of the head of the fastener  102  relative to the knob  112  along the fastener axis FA. 
     In the captive fastener  100 , the leg  146  of the knob  112  defines the distally facing surface  142  of the knob  112 , and the inner wall  148  of the knob  112  defines the proximally facing surface  140  of the knob  112 . The distally facing surface  142  of the leg  146  of the knob  112  abuts the proximally facing surface  134  of the head portion  104  of the fastener  102 , and the proximally facing surface  140  of the inner wall  148  of the knob  112  abuts the distally facing surface  136  of the head portion  104  of the fastener  102 . 
     In the captive fastener  100 , the knob  112  includes two or more legs, for example six legs in this embodiment, at least one of the legs defining the transverse surface  144  of the knob  112 . The adjacent legs are separated by a gap  150 . 
     The transverse surface  138  of the head portion  104  of the fastener  102  extends into the gap  150  between adjacent legs, and the transverse surface  138  of the head portion  104  of the fastener  102  abuts the transverse surface  144  of the leg  146  of the knob  112 , thereby restricting rotational movement of the knob  112  relative to the fastener  102  about the fastener axis FA. 
     The knob  112  is configured for snap-in engagement of the head portion  104  of the fastener  102  by the leg  146  of the knob  112  in the engaging position, thereby resisting withdrawal of the head portion  104  of the fastener  102  from the knob  112 . For example, insertion of the head portion of the fastener can be achieved by snapping it into the knob using an insertion force. For example, legs or tabs or flexible sections can temporarily deform as the fastener is installed and then snap back into position without permanent deformation. Once snapped into position, the fastener cannot be unintentionally removed from the knob in the axial direction. Also, once snapped into position, the fastener cannot be unintentionally rotated relative to the knob about the axis. 
     The leg  146  of the knob  112  further defines a ramped surface  152  tapering from a radially outward portion of the leg  146  to a radially inward portion of the leg  146 , the ramped surface  152  of the leg  146  of the knob  112  being positioned to facilitate the movement of the leg  146  of the knob  112  radially outwardly during the insertion of the head portion  104  of the fastener  102  into the knob  112 . 
     The ramped surface  152  of the leg  146  of the knob  112  faces a proximal end  154  of the knob  112 . In this embodiment, the proximal end portion  124  of the ferrule  120  and the head portion  104  of the fastener  102  have both been inserted within the knob  112  in the insertion direction ID. In this case, the insertion direction ID is a distal direction from the proximal end portion  114  of the knob  112  along the fastener axis FA. 
     The knob  112  also includes an annular wall  156  positioned radially outwardly from the leg  146  of the knob  112  and at least partially enclosing the leg  146  of the knob  112 . The annular wall  156  defines a radially outwardly facing surface  158  positioned for gripping the knob  112 . 
     Referring specifically to particular figures illustrating the first embodiments and variations thereof,  FIG.  1 A  is a side view of a captive fastener  102  according to a first embodiment of the invention, in an extended configuration, and  FIG.  1 B  is a side view of the captive fastener shown in  FIG.  1 A , in a compressed configuration. These figures illustrate compression of the ferrule into the knob against the bias of the spring. In a disengaged position in which the fastener is not engaged to another panel, the captive fastener will be in the extended position of  FIG.  1 A  with an extended length EL. In an engaged position in which the fastener is engaged to another panel, the captive fastener will be in the compressed position of  FIG.  1 B  with a compressed length CL.  FIG.  1 C  is a top view of the captive fastener shown in  FIG.  1 A . 
       FIG.  2 A  is a cross-sectional side view of the captive fastener shown in  FIG.  1 A . Engagement  130  after snap-in assembly of the fastener and the knob is illustrated.  FIG.  2 B  is a bottom view of the captive fastener shown in  FIG.  1 A . 
       FIG.  3    is an exploded view of the captive fastener shown in  FIG.  1 A . As illustrated in  FIG.  3    the fastener and knob are inserted in a distal direction illustrated as insertion direction ID. 
       FIG.  4 A  is a perspective view of a knob component of the captive fastener shown in  FIG.  1 A .  FIG.  4 B  is a perspective view of a fastener component of the captive fastener shown in  FIG.  1 A . 
       FIG.  5 A  is an exploded view of the captive fastener shown in  FIG.  1 A .  FIG.  5 B  is a side view of the captive fastener shown in  FIG.  1 A , in an unfastened condition corresponding generally to the extended position described above.  FIG.  5 C  is a side view of the captive fastener shown in  FIG.  1 A , in a fastened condition corresponding generally to the compressed position described above. 
       FIG.  6 A  is a perspective view of the knob component of the captive fastener shown in  FIG.  1 A .  FIG.  6 B  is a cross-sectional side view of the knob component of the captive fastener shown in  FIG.  1 A .  FIG.  6 C  is a top view of the knob component of the captive fastener shown in  FIG.  1 A . And  FIG.  6 D  is a side view of the knob component of the captive fastener shown in  FIG.  1 A . 
       FIG.  7 A  is a top view of the fastener component of the captive fastener shown in  FIG.  1 A .  FIG.  7 B  is a perspective view of the fastener component of the captive fastener shown in  FIG.  1 A .  FIG.  7 C  is a cross-sectional side view of the fastener component of the captive fastener shown in  FIG.  1 A . And  FIG.  7 D  is another perspective view of the fastener component of the captive fastener shown in  FIG.  1 A . 
       FIG.  8 A  is a side view of a spring component of the captive fastener shown in  FIG.  1 A .  FIG.  8 B  is an end view of a spring component of the captive fastener shown in  FIG.  1 A . And  FIG.  8 C  is a perspective view of a spring component of the captive fastener shown in  FIG.  1 A . 
       FIG.  9 A  is a top view of a ferrule component of the captive fastener shown in  FIG.  1 A .  FIG.  9 B  is a side view of a ferrule component of the captive fastener shown in  FIG.  1 A .  FIG.  9 C  is a perspective view of a ferrule component of the captive fastener shown in  FIG.  1 A . And  FIG.  9 D  is a cross-sectional side view of a ferrule component of the captive fastener shown in  FIG.  1 A . In this embodiment, the distal end portion of the ferrule is configured for press-in engagement to a panel such as a thin panel component that may be formed from sheet metal. 
       FIG.  10 A  is an exploded view of a variation of the captive fastener shown in  FIG.  1 A .  FIG.  10 B  is a cross-sectional side view of the variation of the captive fastener shown in  FIG.  10 A .  FIG.  10 C  is a top view of the variation of the captive fastener shown in  FIG.  10 A . In this variation, the ferrule  120 A has a distal end portion  126 A configured for SMT (Surface Mount Technology) engagement to a printed circuit board or other substrate. 
       FIG.  11 A  is a cross-sectional side view of a variation of a ferrule component of the captive fastener shown in  FIG.  1 A , prior to assembly.  FIG.  11 B  is a cross-sectional side view of the variation of a ferrule component of the captive fastener shown in  FIG.  1 A , subsequent to assembly. In this embodiment, the ferrule  120 B can be inserted into a knob in a distal direction, with the distal end portion  126 B collapsed as shown in  FIG.  11 A  so that it can pass through the center of the knob. Upon insertion, the distal end portion  126 B can be deformed from the collapsed position as shown in  FIG.  11 A  to an expanded position shown in  FIG.  11 B  so that it can be positioned against the surface of a panel to which it is to be attached, such as by SMT. This deformation of the distal end portion  126 B can be achieved by press force along the fastener axis FA an in the insertion direction ID. 
       FIG.  12 A  is a side view of the captive fastener shown in  FIG.  1 A , illustrating rotational movement.  FIG.  12 B  is a side view of the captive fastener shown in  FIG.  1 A , illustrating axial movement in a distal direction.  FIG.  12 C  is a side view of the captive fastener shown in  FIG.  1 A , illustrating axial movement in a proximal direction. And  FIG.  12 D  is a side view of the captive fastener shown in  FIG.  1 A , illustrating pivotal movement. These figures illustrate the qualities and forms of the engagement between the knob and the fastener. 
       FIG.  13    is a perspective view of another variation of the captive fastener shown in  FIG.  1 A . In this variant, the knob of the captive fastener  100 B is modified to remove the annular wall  156  of the knob  112 . This allows for a smaller diameter OD of the captive fastener  100 B if required or preferred for a particular application. In addition, knurls (not shown) or other surface features for gripping can be optionally provided on the outer surface of the knob or on a proximally or distally facing surface of the knob. 
     In the second embodiment and variations thereof illustrated in  FIGS.  14  to  18 B  relating to the captive fastener  200 , the knob  212  includes an inner component  260  and an outer component  262  fixed to the inner component  260 . The inner component  260  of the knob  212  defines at least one of the distally facing surface  242  of the knob  212  or the proximally facing surface  240  of the knob  212 , and the outer component  262  of the knob  212  defines a radially outwardly facing surface  258  positioned for gripping the knob  212 . Accordingly, captive fastener  200  differs from captive fastener  100  primarily by providing a two-piece knob. 
     The inner component  260  of knob  212  includes a leg  246  defining the distally facing surface  242  of the knob  212  or the proximally facing surface  240  of the knob  212 . The leg  246  of the inner component  260  of the knob  212  is moveable radially outwardly to move the distally facing surface  242  of the knob  212  or the proximally facing surface  240  of the knob  212  (1) from the engaging position to the extended position, thereby permitting insertion of the head portion  204  of the fastener  202  into the knob  212 , and (2) from the extended position to the engaging position, thereby resisting withdrawal of the head portion  204  of the fastener  202  from the knob  212 . 
     The inner component  260  of the knob  212  includes an inner wall  248  defining the proximally facing surface  240  of the knob  212  or the distally facing surface  242  of the knob  212 , thereby restricting movement of the head portion of the fastener  202  relative to the knob  212  along the fastener axis FA. 
     The outer component  262  of the knob  212  has at least one facing surface positioned for mechanical coupling of the outer component  262  of the knob  212  to the inner component  260  of the knob  212  or to the head portion  204  of the fastener  202 , thereby preventing separation of the outer component  262  of the knob  212  from the inner component  260  of the knob  212  along the fastener axis FA. 
     The facing surface of the outer component  262  of the knob  212  includes a distally facing surface  266  positioned to contact the proximally facing surface  234  of the head portion  204  of the fastener  202 . 
     The facing surface of the outer component  262  of the knob  212  also includes a proximally facing surface  264  positioned to contact a distal end portion of the inner component  260  of the knob  212 . Optionally, the distal end portion may have a plurality of slots  231 , as shown for example, in  FIG.  14   . 
     The facing surface  264  of the outer component  262  of the knob  212  is moveable (1) radially outwardly from an engaging position to contact the distal end portion of the inner component  260  of the knob  212  to an extended position, thereby permitting insertion of the inner component  260  of the knob  212  into the outer component  262  of the knob  212 , and (2) from the extended position to the engaging position, thereby resisting withdrawal of the inner component  260  of the knob  212  from the outer component  262  of the knob  212 . 
     The knob  212  is configured for snap-in engagement of the inner component  260  of the knob  212  in the outer component  262  of the knob  212  with the facing surface of the outer component  262  of the knob  212  in the engaging position, thereby resisting withdrawal of the inner component  260  of the knob  212  from the outer component  262  of the knob  212 . 
     The outer component  262  of the knob  212  has a transverse surface  268  positioned for contact with the inner component  260  of the knob  212  and/or the head portion  204  of the fastener  202 , thereby preventing rotation of the outer component  262  of the knob  212  relative to the inner component  260  of the knob  212  about the fastener axis FA. 
     Referring specifically to particular figures illustrating the first embodiment and variations thereof,  FIG.  14    is a perspective view of a captive fastener according to the second embodiment of the invention.  FIGS.  15  through  18 B  are views of the captive fastener shown in  FIG.  14   , including components and variations of the captive fastener. 
     In the third embodiment and variations thereof illustrated in  FIGS.  19 A to  23 B  relating to the captive fastener  300 , the knob  312  includes an inner wall  348  defining an annular groove  370 ,  370 A sized to accommodate the head portion  304  of the fastener  302  and defining the distally facing surface  342  of the knob  312  and the proximally facing surface  340  of the knob  312 , thereby resisting withdrawal of the head portion  304  of the fastener  302  from the knob  312  upon insertion of the head portion  304  of the fastener  302  into the annular groove  370 ,  370 A defined in the inner wall  348  of the knob  312 . Generally speaking, the proximally facing surface  334  may instead extend radially outward or extend in a proximal direction (e.g. upward). 
     The annular groove  370 ,  370 A defined in the inner wall  348  of the knob  312  is a continuous groove such that at least one of the distally facing surface  342  of the knob  312  and the proximally facing surface  340  of the knob  312  is a continuous surface. 
     The inner wall  348  of the knob  312  further defines a tapered region  372 ,  372 A adjacent the annular groove  370 ,  370 A and tapering from a larger portion sized to accommodate the head portion  304  of the fastener  302  to a smaller portion sized to resist passage of the head portion  304  of the fastener  302 , thereby permitting a pressed insertion of the head portion  304  of the fastener  302  into the annular groove  370 ,  370 A defined in the inner wall  348  of the knob  312 . 
     The smaller portion of the tapered region  372  of the inner wall  348  of the knob  312  defines gaps extending into the annular groove  370 , thereby facilitating the is pressed insertion of the head portion  304  of the fastener  302  into the annular groove  370  defined in the inner wall  348  of the knob  312 . 
     The tapered region  372 ,  372 A defined in the inner wall  348  of the knob  312  being positioned adjacent the proximally facing surface  340  defined by the annular groove  370 ,  370 A of the knob  312 , thereby permitting the pressed insertion of the head portion  304  of the fastener  302  into the annular groove  370 ,  370 A defined in the inner wall  348  of the knob  312  in the insertion direction ID. In this case, the insertion direction ID is a proximal direction from the distal end portion of the knob  312  along the fastener axis FA. 
     A perimeter edge of the head portion  304  of the fastener  302  defines the transverse surface  338  of the head portion  304  of the fastener  302 . The transverse surface  344  of the knob  312  is formed within the annular groove  370 ,  370 A defined in the inner wall  348  of the knob  312  upon the insertion of the head portion  304  of the fastener  302  into the annular groove  370 ,  370 A. For example, the knob can be formed of non-metallic material or metallic material that can cold flow or deform in response to the insertion of the fastener and the contours of the transverse surface of the fastener. In one embodiment, the transverse surface of the knob is formed after assembly of the fastener into the knob. 
     Referring specifically to particular figures illustrating the third embodiment and variations thereof,  FIGS.  19 A and  19 B  are perspective views of a captive fastener according to a third embodiment of the invention.  FIGS.  20 A through  23 B  are views of the captive fastener shown in  FIGS.  19 A and  19 B , including components and variations of the captive fastener. The insertion direction ID is a proximal direction as indicated in  FIG.  20 B . 
     In the fourth embodiment and variations thereof illustrated in  FIGS.  24 A to  36 C  relating to the captive fastener  400 , the head portion  404  of the fastener  402  defines an annular groove  476 ,  476 A providing the proximally facing surface  434  and the distally facing surface  436  of the head portion  404  of the fastener  402 , with the knob  412  having an inner wall  448  having an inwardly extending protrusion  478  providing the proximally facing surface  440  of the knob  412  and the distally facing surface  442  of the knob  412 . 
     The inwardly extending protrusion  478  of the knob  412  is positioned to extend into the annular groove  476 ,  476 A of the head portion  404  of the fastener  402 , thereby permitting a pressed insertion of the head portion  404  of the fastener  402  within the inner wall  448  of the knob  412  and resisting withdrawal of the head portion  404  of the fastener  402  from the knob  412 . The annular groove  476 ,  476 A defined in the head portion  404  of the fastener  402  is a continuous groove. 
     The head portion  404  of the fastener  402  further defines at least one axial groove  480 ,  480 A providing the transverse surface  438  of the fastener  402 . The knob  412  also includes an inwardly extending bump providing the transverse surface  444  of the knob  412 , the inwardly extending bump of the knob  412  being positioned to extend into the axial groove of the head portion  404  of the fastener  402 , thereby restricting the rotational movement of the knob  412  relative to the fastener  402  about the fastener axis FA. 
     Referring specifically to particular figures illustrating the fourth embodiment and variations thereof,  FIGS.  24 A and  24 B  are top and cross-sectional side views of a captive fastener according to a fourth embodiment of the invention.  FIGS.  25 A through  36 D  are views of the captive fastener shown in  FIGS.  24 A and  24 B , including components and variations of the captive fastener. Captive fastener  400 A differs from captive fastener  400  primarily in that that the knob of captive fastener  400 A includes a single bump-style protrusion to provide the transverse surface of the knob. Also, captive fastener  400 A includes a ferrule  420 A that uses a ring or washer  421 A for engagement to a panel.  FIGS.  31 B,  31 C, and  31 D  illustrate positions of the captive fastener  400 A with the assembled ferrule  420 A. 
     In addition to captive fasteners in which the knob is mechanically engaged or coupled to the head portion of the fastener, embodiments of the invention also include captive fasteners in which the knob is deformed into engagement with the head portion of the fastener, such as by heat stake assembly. In such embodiments, the captive fasteners can be assembled by coupling separate, pre-formed components (as with mechanically engaged or coupled components). Also, such embodiments permit the forming of the captive fasteners using processes operating along a common fastener axis FA and components assembled along a common insertion direction ID. 
     Referring generally to the embodiments shown in  FIGS.  37 A through  57 D  for illustration, the proximal end portion  514 ,  614 ,  714  of the knob  512 ,  612 ,  712  is deformed into the engagement with the head portion  504 ,  604 ,  704  of the fastener  502 ,  602 ,  702 . Specifically, the head portion  504 ,  604 ,  704  of the fastener  502 ,  602 ,  702  has a proximally facing surface  534 ,  634 ,  734  facing toward the proximal end of the fastener  502 ,  602 ,  702 , a distally facing surface  536 ,  636 ,  736  facing toward the distal end portion  510 ,  610 ,  710  of the fastener  502 ,  602 ,  702 , and a transverse surface  538 ,  638 , and  738  extending transverse to the proximally facing surface  534 ,  634 ,  734  of the head portion  504 ,  604 ,  704  of the fastener  504 ,  604 ,  704  and the distally facing surface  536 ,  636 ,  736  of the head portion  504 ,  604 ,  704  of the fastener  502 ,  602 ,  702 . 
     The knob  512 ,  612 ,  712  has an engagement surface and a transverse surface  544 ,  644 ,  744  extending transverse to the engagement surface of the knob  512 ,  612 ,  712 . The engagement surface of the knob  512 ,  612 ,  712  is deformable from 
     (1) an extended position, in which the engagement surface of the knob  512 ,  612 ,  712  is disengaged from the head portion  504 ,  604 ,  704  of the fastener  502 ,  602 ,  702 , thereby permitting movement of the head portion  504 ,  604 ,  704  of the fastener  502 ,  602 ,  702  relative to the knob  512 ,  612 ,  712  along the fastener axis FA, and 
     (2) a deformed position, radially inward from the extended position, in which the engagement surface of the knob  512 ,  612 ,  712  engages the head portion  504 ,  604 ,  704  of the fastener  502 ,  602 ,  702 , thereby restricting movement of the head portion  504 ,  604 ,  704  of the fastener  502 ,  602 ,  702  relative to the knob  512 ,  612 ,  712  along the fastener axis FA. 
     The transverse surface  538 ,  638 ,  738  of the head portion  504 ,  604 ,  704  of the fastener  502 ,  602 ,  702  abuts the transverse surface  544 ,  644 ,  744  of the knob  512 ,  612 ,  712 , thereby restricting rotation of the knob  512 ,  612 ,  712  relative to the fastener  502 ,  602 ,  702  about the fastener axis FA. 
     In the fifth embodiment and variations thereof illustrated in  FIGS.  37 A to  43 D  relating to the captive fastener  500 , the knob  512  includes an extension or tab or protrusion of knob material such as a leg  546  defining the engagement surface (a radially inner facing surface of the pre-deformed leg  546 ). The leg  546  of the knob  512  is deformable radially inwardly relative to the fastener axis FA to move the engagement surface of the knob  512  from the extended position to the deformed position, thereby resisting withdrawal of the head portion  504  of the fastener  502  from the knob  512 . 
     The knob  512  includes an inner wall  548  defining the proximally facing surface  540 . The engagement surface of the leg  546  of the knob  512  provides the distally facing surface  542  of the knob  512 . The distally facing surface  542  of the engagement surface of the knob  512  abuts the proximally facing surface  534  of the head portion  504  of the fastener  502 , and the proximally facing surface  540  of the inner wall  548  of the knob  512  abuts the distally facing surface  536  of the head portion  504  of the fastener  502 , thereby restricting movement of the head portion  504  of the fastener  502  relative to the knob  512  along the fastener axis FA. 
     A perimeter edge of the head portion  504  of the fastener  502  defines the transverse surface  538  of the head portion  504  of the fastener  502 . The transverse surface  544  of the knob  512  is provided by a recess defined in an inner wall  548  of the knob  512 . The transverse surface  538  of the head portion  504  of the fastener  502  extends into the recess defined in the inner wall  548  of the knob  512 , and the transverse surface  538  of the head portion  504  of the fastener  502  abuts the transverse surface  544  of the knob  512 , thereby restricting rotational movement of the knob  512  relative to the fastener  502  about the fastener axis FA. 
     Referring specifically to particular figures illustrating the fifth embodiment and variations thereof,  FIGS.  37 A through  37 C  are side and top views of a captive fastener according to a fifth embodiment of the invention.  FIGS.  38 A through  43 D  are views of the captive fastener shown in  FIGS.  37 A through  37 C , including components and variations of the captive fastener. In  FIG.  38 B , the engagement surface  584  is not yet deformed into engagement with the head portion of the fastener. Instead, it is upright and positioned to allow insertion of the fastener into the knob in the distal direction. After deformation, as shown in  FIG.  38 A , the engagement surface  584  provides engagement  530  to prevent unintended removal of the fastener from the knob.  FIGS.  41 C and  41 D  are side views of a captive fastener  500  according to the fifth embodiment of the invention, before and after deformation, respectively. Also,  FIG.  41 B  shows the knob before deformation, albeit in a configuration with the knob extended from the ferrule. Specifically, in  FIG.  41 C  the very top portions of the engagement surfaces of the knob can be seen extending upwardly. In  FIG.  41 D , however, the engagement surfaces have been deformed downwardly and inwardly to engage the head portion of the fastener. Accordingly,  FIG.  41 C  is before the deformation assembly process and  FIG.  41 D  is after the deformation assembly process is completed. 
     In the sixth embodiment and variations thereof illustrated in  FIGS.  44 A to  50 E  relating to the captive fastener  600 , the knob  612  includes a proximal annular edge portion  686  defining the engagement surface. The proximal annular edge portion  686  of the knob  612  is deformable radially inwardly to deform the engagement surface from the extended position to the deformed position, thereby resisting withdrawal of the head portion  604  of the fastener  602  from the knob  612 . 
     In  FIG.  44 A , the proximal annular edge portion  686  is not yet deformed, thus allowing insertion of the fastener into the knob from the proximal end of the knob and along a distal insertion direction ID. In  FIG.  44 B , the proximal annular edge portion  686  is deformed against the proximally facing surface of the head portion of the fastener, thus preventing withdrawal of the fastener from the knob from the proximal end of the knob and along a distal insertion direction ID. 
     The knob  612  includes an inner wall  648  defining the proximally facing surface  640 . The engagement surface of the proximal annular edge portion of the knob  612  abuts the proximally facing surface  634  of the head portion  604  of the fastener  602 , and the proximally facing surface  640  of the inner wall  648  of the knob  612  abuts the distally facing surface  636  of the head of the fastener  602 , thereby restricting movement of the head portion  604  of the fastener  602  relative to the knob  612  along the fastener axis FA. 
     The knob  612  has an inner wall  648  defining the proximally facing surface  640 . The engagement surface of the proximal annular edge portion  686  of the knob  612  provides the distally facing surface  642  of the knob  612 . The distally facing surface  642  of the engagement surface abuts the proximally facing surface  634  of the head portion  604  of the fastener  602 , and the proximally facing surface  640  of the inner wall  648  of the knob  612  abuts the distally facing surface of the head portion  604  of the fastener  602 , thereby restricting movement of the head portion  604  of the fastener  602  relative to the knob  612  along the fastener axis FA. 
     The proximally facing surface  634  of the head portion  604  of the fastener  602  provides the transverse surface  638  of the head portion  604  of the fastener  602 , and the engagement surface of the proximal annular edge portion of the knob  612  is deformed to provide the transverse surface  644  of the knob  612 . The transverse surface  644  of the knob  612  is formed on the engagement surface of the knob  612  upon deforming the engagement surface from the extended position to the deformed position, thereby restricting rotation of the knob  612  relative to the fastener  602  about the fastener axis FA. 
     Referring specifically to particular figures illustrating the sixth embodiment and variations thereof,  FIGS.  44 A and  44 B  are top views of a captive fastener according to a sixth embodiment of the invention, before and after deformation, respectively.  FIGS.  45  through  50 E  are views of the captive fastener shown in  FIGS.  44 A and  44 B , including components and variations of the captive fastener. As shown in  FIGS.  46 B and  46 C , the captive fastener  600  can be configured with a press-in style ferrule or with an SMT ferrule. Additionally, each of the captive fastener embodiments illustrated in the figures can be configured with any type of ferrule. Accordingly, none of the embodiments are limited to the types of ferrules illustrated in the figures and can utilize any style of ferrule, including flare ferrules, SMT ferrules, press-in ferrules and other ferrule styles. 
     In the seventh embodiment and variations thereof illustrated in  FIGS.  51 A to  57 D  relating to the captive fastener  700 , the knob  712  comprises a proximal component  788  and a distal component  790 . The proximal component  788  defines the engagement surface of the knob  712  and the distal component  790  defines the transverse surface  744  of the knob  712 . The proximal component  788  of the knob  712  is heat bonded to the distal component  790  of the knob  712 , thereby resisting separation of the proximal component  788  of the knob  712  from the distal component  790  of the knob  712  and withdrawal of the head portion  704  of the fastener  702  from the knob  712 . 
     The proximal component of the knob  712  has an annular protrusion  792  that extends in a general direction along or parallel to the fastener axis FA. The annular protrusion  792  is deformed as the engagement surface of the proximal component  788  of the knob  712  is deformed from the extended position to the deformed position. 
     As described above, the proximal component  788  of the knob  712  is heat bonded to the distal component  790  of the knob  712 . The heat bonding process can include any bonding process, such as for example thermal bonding or melt bonding or ultrasonic bonding or welding or sonic welding or other forms of bonding metallic or non-metallic materials. For example, ultrasonic welding is suitable for bonding thermoplastic materials. In one example, a tool and/or die can be moved along the fastener axis into contact with the knob in order to bring about the deformation or bonding of the knob component or components. 
     Additionally, for example in connection with the fifth, sixth, and seventh embodiments, such a tool and/or die can be moved along the fastener axis into contact with the knob in order to bring about the deformation or bonding of the knob component or components to engage the fastener within the knob. The tool or die can be shaped to form a surface of the knob or to permanently move a portion of the knob into an engagement position. 
     The distal component  790  of the knob  712  has an inner wall  748  defining the proximally facing surface  740 . The engagement surface of the proximal component of the knob  712  provides the distally facing surface  742  of the knob  712 . The distally facing surface  742  of the engagement surface abuts the proximally facing surface  734  of the head portion  704  of the fastener  702 , and the proximally facing surface  740  of the inner wall  748  of the knob  712  abuts the distally facing surface  736  of the head portion  704  of the fastener  702 , thereby restricting movement of the head portion  704  of the fastener  702  relative to the knob  712  along the fastener axis FA. 
     A perimeter edge of the head portion  704  of the fastener  702  defines the transverse surface  738  of the head portion  704  of the fastener  702 . The transverse surface  744  of the knob  712  being provided by a recess defined in an inner wall  748  of the knob  712 . The transverse surface  738  of the head portion  704  of the fastener  702  extends into the recess defined in the inner wall  748  of the knob  712 , and the transverse surface  738  of the head portion  704  of the fastener  702  abuts the transverse surface  744  of the knob  712 , thereby restricting rotational movement of the knob  712  relative to the fastener  702  about the fastener axis FA. 
     Referring specifically to particular figures illustrating the sixth embodiment and variations thereof,  FIGS.  51 A through  51 C  are top, side, and perspective views of a captive fastener according to a seventh embodiment of the invention.  FIGS.  52 A through  57 D  are views of the captive fastener shown in  FIG.  51 A , including components and variations of the captive fastener. 
     A method of assembling the captive fastener by mechanically engaging the proximal end portion  114 ,  214 ,  314 ,  414 , of the knob  112 ,  212 ,  312 ,  412  to the head portion  104 ,  204 ,  304 ,  404  of the fastener  102 ,  202 ,  302 ,  402  will now be described. 
     The method includes moving at least one of the proximally facing surface  140 ,  240 ,  340 ,  440  of the knob  112 ,  212 ,  312 ,  412  and the distally facing surface  142 ,  242 ,  342 ,  442  of the knob  112 ,  212 ,  312 ,  412  radially outwardly relative to the fastener axis FA to the extended position, in which at least one of the proximally facing surface  140 ,  240 ,  340 ,  440  of the knob  112 ,  212 ,  312 ,  412  or the distally facing surface  142 ,  242 ,  342 ,  442  of the knob  112 ,  212 ,  312 ,  412  is disengaged from the head portion  104 ,  204 ,  304 ,  404  of the fastener  102 ,  202 ,  302 ,  402 . 
     The method also includes inserting the head portion  104 ,  204 ,  304 ,  404  of the fastener  102 ,  202 ,  302 ,  402  into the proximal end portion  114 ,  214 ,  314 ,  414  of the knob  112 ,  212 ,  312 ,  412 . 
     The method further includes returning the at least one of the proximally facing surface  140 ,  240 ,  340 ,  440  of the knob  112 ,  212 ,  312 ,  412  and the distally facing surface  142 ,  242 ,  342 ,  442  of the knob  112 ,  212 ,  312 ,  412  radially inwardly relative to the fastener axis FA from (1) the extended position, to (2) the engaging position, such that the proximally facing surface  140 ,  240 ,  340 ,  440  of the knob  112 ,  212 ,  312 ,  412  engages the distally facing surface  136 ,  236 ,  336 ,  436  of the head portion  104 ,  204 ,  304 ,  404  of the fastener  102 ,  202 ,  302 ,  402  and the distally facing surface  142 ,  242 ,  342 ,  442  of the knob  112 ,  212 ,  312 ,  412  engages the proximally facing surface  134 ,  234 ,  334 ,  434  of the head portion  104 ,  204 ,  304 ,  404  of the fastener  102 ,  202 ,  302 ,  402 , thereby restricting movement of the head portion  104 ,  204 ,  304 ,  404  of the fastener  102 ,  202 ,  302 ,  402  relative to the knob  112 ,  212 ,  312 ,  412  along the fastener axis FA. 
     The method also includes abutting the transverse surface  138 ,  238 ,  338 ,  438  of the head portion  104 ,  204 ,  304 ,  404  of the fastener  102 ,  202 ,  302 ,  402  against the transverse surface  144 ,  244 ,  344 ,  444  of the knob  112 ,  212 ,  312 ,  412 , thereby restricting rotational movement of the knob  112 ,  212 ,  312 ,  412  relative to the fastener  102 ,  202 ,  302 ,  402  about the fastener axis FA. 
     The method further includes positioning the spring  128 ,  228 ,  328 ,  428  to bias the knob  112 ,  212 ,  312 ,  412  or the fastener  102 ,  202 ,  302 ,  402  proximally and to inhibit tilting of the knob  112 ,  212 ,  312 ,  412  or the fastener  102 ,  202 ,  302 ,  402  relative to the fastener axis FA. 
     The method also includes associating the ferrule  120 ,  220 ,  320 ,  420  with the knob  112 ,  212 ,  312 ,  412  such that the opening defined in the ferrule  120 ,  220 ,  320 ,  420  extends along the fastener axis FA and receives the shaft of the fastener  102 ,  202 ,  302 ,  402 , and such that the proximal end portion  124 ,  224 ,  324 ,  424  of the ferrule  120 ,  220 ,  320 ,  420  prevents separation of the knob  112 ,  212 ,  312 ,  412  from the ferrule  120 ,  220 ,  320 ,  420  along the fastener axis FA. 
     In a first embodiment of this method, the moving step includes moving a leg  146  defining the distally facing surface  142  of the knob  112  or the proximally facing surface  140  of the knob  112  radially outwardly to the extended position, thereby permitting insertion of the head portion  104  of the fastener  102  into the knob  112 . Also, the returning step includes returning the leg  146  from the extended position to the engaging position, thereby resisting withdrawal of the head portion  104  of the fastener  102  from the knob  112 . 
     The returning step includes snap-in engagement of the head portion  104  of the fastener  102  by the leg  146  of the knob  112  in the engaging position, thereby resisting withdrawal of the head portion  104  of the fastener  102  from the knob  112 . 
     In a second embodiment of this method, the method further comprises mechanically coupling an outer component  262  of the knob  212  to an inner component  260  of the knob  212  or to the head portion  204  of the fastener  202 , thereby preventing separation of the outer component  262  of the knob  212  from the inner component  260  of the knob  212  along the fastener axis FA. 
     The method also includes moving a facing surface  264  of the outer component  262  of the knob  212  radially outwardly to an extended position, thereby permitting insertion of the inner component  260  of the knob  212  into the outer component  262  of the knob  212 , and from the extended position to an engaging position, thereby resisting withdrawal of the inner component  260  of the knob  212  from the outer component  262  of the knob  212 . 
     In a third embodiment of the method, the inserting step including press inserting the head portion  304  of the fastener  302  into an annular groove  370 ,  370 A defined in an inner wall  348  of the knob  312 . 
     The press inserting of the inserting step includes inserting the head portion  304  of the fastener  302  through a tapered region  372 ,  372 A of the inner wall  348  of the knob  312  adjacent the annular groove  370 ,  370 A, thereby permitting pressed insertion of the head portion  304  of the fastener  302  into the annular groove  370 ,  370 A defined in the inner wall  348  of the knob  312 . 
     In a fourth embodiment of this method, the inserting step includes extending an inwardly extending protrusion  478  of the knob  412  into an annular groove  476 ,  476 A of the head portion  404  of the fastener  402 , thereby permitting pressed insertion of the head portion  404  of the fastener  402  into the inner wall  448  of the knob  412  and resisting withdrawal of the head portion  404  of the fastener  402  from the knob  412 . 
     This embodiment of the method also includes extending an inwardly extending bump of the knob  412  into an axial groove  480  of the head portion  404  of the fastener  402 , thereby restricting the rotational movement of the knob  412  relative to the fastener  402  about the fastener axis FA. 
     A method of assembling the captive fastener by deforming, such as by heat-stake assembly for example, the proximal end portion  514 ,  614 ,  714  of the knob  512 ,  612 ,  712  into the engagement with the head portion,  504 ,  604 ,  704  of the fastener  502 ,  602 ,  702  is also provided. 
     The method includes inserting the head portion  504 ,  604 ,  704  of the fastener  502 ,  602 ,  702  into the proximal end portion  514 ,  614 ,  714  of the knob  512 ,  612 ,  712 . 
     The method includes deforming the engagement surface of the knob  512 ,  612 ,  712  radially inwardly relative to the fastener axis FA from 
     (1) the extended position, in which the engagement surface of the knob  512 ,  612 ,  712  is disengaged from the head portion  504 ,  604 ,  704  of the fastener  502 ,  602 ,  702 , to 
     (2) the deformed position, in which the engagement surface of the knob  512 ,  612 ,  712  engages the head portion  504 ,  604 ,  704  of the fastener  502 ,  602 ,  702 , such that the proximally facing surface  540 ,  640 ,  740  of the knob  512 ,  612 ,  712  engages the distally facing surface  536 ,  636 ,  736  of the head portion  504 ,  604 ,  704  of the fastener  502 ,  602 ,  702  and the engagement surface of the knob  512 ,  612 ,  712  engages the proximally facing surface  534 ,  634 ,  734  of the head portion  504 ,  604 ,  704  of the fastener  502 ,  602 ,  702 , thereby restricting movement of the head portion  504 ,  604 ,  704  of the fastener  502 ,  602 ,  702  relative to the knob  512 ,  612 ,  712  along the fastener axis FA. 
     The method also includes abutting the transverse surface  538 ,  638 ,  738  of the head portion  504 ,  604 ,  704  of the fastener  502 ,  602 ,  702  against the transverse surface  544 ,  644 ,  744  of the knob  512 ,  612 ,  712 , thereby restricting rotational movement of the knob  512 ,  612 ,  712  relative to the fastener  502 ,  602 ,  702  about the fastener axis FA. 
     The method of this embodiment further includes positioning the spring to bias the knob  512 ,  612 ,  712  or the fastener  502 ,  602 ,  702  proximally and to inhibit tilting of the knob  512 ,  612 ,  712  or the fastener  502 ,  602 ,  702  relative to the fastener axis FA. 
     The method also includes associating the ferrule  520 ,  620 ,  720  with the knob  512 ,  612 ,  712  such that the opening defined in the ferrule  520 ,  620 ,  720  extends along the fastener axis FA and receives the shaft of the fastener  502 ,  602 ,  702 , and such that the proximal end portion  524 ,  624 ,  724  of the ferrule  520 ,  620 ,  720  prevents separation of the knob  512 ,  612 ,  712  from the ferrule  520 ,  620 ,  720  along the fastener axis FA. 
     According to the fifth embodiment, the method includes abutting the distally facing surface  542  of the engagement surface against the proximally facing surface  534  of the head portion  504  of the fastener  502 , thereby restricting movement of the head portion  504  of the fastener  502  relative to the knob  512  along the fastener axis FA. 
     The method of this embodiment also includes abutting the proximally facing surface  540  of the inner wall  548  of the knob  512  against the distally facing surface  536  of the head portion  504  of the fastener  502 , thereby restricting movement of the head portion  504  of the fastener  502  relative to the knob  512  along the fastener axis FA. 
     According to the sixth embodiment of this method, the deforming step includes deforming a proximal annular edge portion of the knob  612  defining the engagement surface radially inwardly to move the engagement surface from the extended position to the deformed position, thereby resisting withdrawal of the head portion  604  of the fastener  602  from the knob  612 . 
     Method can further include abutting the proximal annular edge portion  686  of the knob  612  against the proximally facing surface  634  of the head portion  604  of the fastener  602 , and abutting the proximally facing surface  640  of the inner wall  648  of the knob  612  against the distally facing surface  636  of the head of the fastener  602 , thereby restricting movement of the head portion  604  of the fastener  602  relative to the knob  612  along the fastener axis FA. 
     According to the seventh embodiment of the method, the method includes heat bonding a proximal component  788  of the knob  712  to a distal component  790  of the knob  712 , thereby resisting separation of the proximal portion of the knob  712  from the distal component of the knob  712  and withdrawal of the head portion  704  of the fastener  702  from the knob  712 . 
     In this embodiment, the method further comprises deforming an annular protrusion of the proximal component of the knob  712  as the engagement surface of the proximal component of the knob  712  is moved from the extended position to the deformed position. 
     Generally, a method of assembling the captive fastener along the insertion direction and the fastener axis is provided. The method includes providing the fastener, the knob, the spring and the ferrule as separate components; positioning the proximal end portion of the ferrule to extend within the knob in the insertion direction and along the fastener axis; inserting the spring within the knob in the insertion direction and along the fastener axis; inserting the head portion of the fastener within the knob for engagement to the knob in the insertion direction and along the fastener axis; and engaging the proximal portion of the knob and the head portion of the fastener to resist axial movement of the knob relative to the fastener along the fastener axis, rotational movement of the knob relative to the fastener about the fastener axis, and pivotal movement of the knob relative to the fastener axis; wherein the insertion direction of the ferrule, the insertion direction of the spring, and the insertion direction of the head portion of the fastener are the same insertion direction. 
     The insertion direction can be a distal direction. Also, the method can also include deforming the distal end portion of the ferrule from a retracted condition in which the distal end portion of the ferrule is sized to extend through the knob and an extended condition in which the distal end portion of the ferrule is enlarged and configured for the engagement to the panel. Also, the engaging step can include snap-in engagement of the proximal portion of the knob and the head portion of the fastener. Further, the engaging step can be completed without permanently deforming the knob. 
     Advantages associated with embodiments of this invention include one or more of the following benefits: lower manufacturing or assembly cost, reduced tilting of fastener or screw heads relative to the fastener axis, the ability to use an injection molded knob component, the availability of snap-in assembly processes, the availability of hot-staking assembly processes, and/or the ability to use existing stamped ferrule configurations. Other advantages will be understood by those of skill in the field of fastener technologies. 
     While preferred embodiments of the invention have been shown and described herein, it will be understood that such embodiments are provided by way of example only. Numerous variations, changes and substitutions will occur to those skilled in the art without departing from the spirit of the invention. Accordingly, it is intended that the appended claims cover all such variations as fall within the spirit and scope of the invention.