Patent Abstract:
A self-locking panel nut fastener having a nut for being received within an opening in a panel which self-locks and upon receiving a threaded screw or bolt enhances the locking relationship with the panel.

Full Description:
This application is a continuation-in-part of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 10/858,213, filed Jun. 1, 2004, abandoned, which claims priority to U.S. Provisional Application Ser. No. 60/558,695, filed Apr. 1, 2004, which is herein incorporated by reference in its entirety. 

   FIELD OF THE INVENTION 
   The present invention relates to a self-locking panel nut fastener. In particular, the present invention relates to a nut for being received within an opening in a panel that self-locks and upon receiving a threaded screw or bolt enhances the locking relationship with the panel. 
   BACKGROUND 
   There are many situations in which panels have openings located inwardly of the edges to which it would be desirable to adhere other equipment or panels. A desirable means for accomplishing this would be the provision of a nut that could be readily positioned within the opening and self-lock on receiving a securing bolt or screw therein. This is especially desirable in those situations in which access is substantially confined to one side of the panel and where there is no easy means of tightening or otherwise securing or adjusting the nut position from the opposite side of the panel. These situations are frequently encountered, for example, in modern automotive vehicles. 
   U.S. Pat. No. 4,610,588 provides a fastener clip adapted for use with an associated fastener including a head portion having an aperture through which the fastener extends. Included in the fastener clip is a pair of integral, spaced apart legs extending from each side of the head portion. Each leg includes first and second portions with the second portion being bent back upon the first portion in a position spaced outwardly thereof. A finger portion is located at a free end of the second portion and extends inwardly toward and through an aperture in the first portion. When a tension load is imposed on the clip, connecting zones between the first and second portions of each leg are deflected toward each other to apply a clamping force to a fastener extending there between. A limitation with this fastener clip is that it is not configured for use with panel openings having uneven edges (e.g., burred edges, flanged edges). 
   U.S. Pat. No. 5,645,384 provides a release fastener with a first element providing a retention mechanism for engaging and retaining a stud of the fastener. A second element having a pair of flexible elongate components is spaced from the first by a bight portion and has a pair of transverse tabs disposed adjacent to the bight portion. These are adapted to engage one face of a support, in an aperture of which the receptacle is mounted. In use, the bight portion engages the other face. A third element is disposed at the opposite end of the second element from the bight portion and has a flexible barb portion arranged to flex on insertion of the receptacle in the aperture and to engage the other face after insertion in order to retain the receptacle in the aperture. A limitation with this release fastener is that upon insertion of a stud, the retention force is weak, and a general loosening of the device occurs over time. 
   U.S. Pat. No. 5,919,019 provides a nut for mounting into an opening located in the central part of a panel including a sleeve and resilient locking trips and panel edge securing means extending from opposite sides of the nut. When the nut is positioned within the opening the locking strips obstruct removal from the opening. On a bolt being fully received within the sleeve both the strips and edge securing means engage the panel. A limitation with this nut is that installation of the nut requires a high amount of insertion force. 
   U.S. Pat. No. 6,095,734 provides a push-nut fastener having a substantially planar base portion from which a cylindrical sleeve is drawn and internally threaded. A pair of angled leg portions extending from opposing lateral edges of the base portion, each including a laterally extending tab partially extending into a space formed between said leg portions for engaging threads of a mating male fastener. Inner and outer leg sections preferably define the leg portions. Each outer leg section includes an inwardly angled section that engages the edges of a mounting hole of a panel into which the push-nut is seated during assembly. A limitation with this fastener clip is that it is not configured for use with panel openings having uneven edges (e.g., burred edges, flanged edges). 
   What are needed are push-in nut fasteners configured for use with uneven panel opening edges. Additionally, what are needed are push-in nut fasteners with improved insertion ergonomics. Additionally, what are needed are improved push-in nut fasteners that do not loosen over time. 
   SUMMARY 
   The present invention relates to a self-locking panel nut fastener. In particular, the present invention relates to a nut for being received within an opening in a panel that self-locks and upon receiving a threaded screw or bolt enhances the locking relationship with the panel. 
   In certain embodiments, the present invention provides a push-in nut fastener, comprising a planar surface with proximal and distal ends; a sleeve extending from the planar surface; a cantilever integral with the planar surface and extending away from the planar surface distal end in a plane that is approximately parallel to and below the planar surface; and a retention arm integral with the planar surface and extending from the planar surface proximal end so that the retention arm is positioned at least partially beneath the sleeve. 
   In further embodiments, the sleeve comprises internal threads that receive a threaded fastener. In preferred embodiments, the sleeve is approximately perpendicular to the planar surface. In other embodiments, the push-in nut fastener is formed from sheet metal. In preferred embodiments, the sheet metal is spring steel. In further embodiments, the cantilever extends beyond the distal end of the planar surface. In even further embodiments, the retention arm is deflectable by a threaded fastener inserted into the sleeve. 
   In certain embodiments, the present invention provides a push-in nut fastener for insertion into a panel opening within a panel having upper and lower surfaces, the push-in nut comprising a planar surface having proximal and distal ends; a sleeve extending outwardly from the planar surface; a cantilever integral with and extending away from the planar surface distal end in a plane that is approximately parallel to and beneath the planar surface so that when the push-in nut fastener is inserted into the panel opening the cantilever engages the bottom surface of the panel and the planar surface engages the upper surface of the panel; and a retention arm integral with and extending away from the planar surface proximal end at an angle so that the retention arm is positioned at least partially beneath the sleeve so that when the push-in nut is inserted into the panel opening the retention arm engages the lower surface of the panel to secure the proximal end of the push-in nut fastener in the panel. 
   In further embodiments, the push-in nut is formed from sheet metal. In further embodiments, the sheet metal is spring steel. In yet further embodiments, the sleeve is approximately perpendicular to the planar surface. In preferred embodiments, the sleeve comprises internal threads that receive a threaded fastener. In further embodiments, the cantilever provides a leverage force against the lower surface of the panel upon insertion of the push-in nut fastener into the panel opening. In even further embodiments, the cantilever is curvilinear. In other preferred embodiments, the retention arm extends toward the planar surface distal end. In further embodiments, the retention arm is deflectable by a threaded fastener inserted into the sleeve. In yet further embodiments, deflection of the retention arm increases the angle between the planar surface and the retention arm. 
   In certain embodiments, the present invention provides a push-in nut fastener for insertion into a panel opening within a panel having upper and lower surfaces, the push-in nut comprising a planar surface with proximal and distal ends, wherein the planar surface contacts the upper surface of the panel to prevent the push-in nut fastener from being displaced through the panel opening; a sleeve extending outwardly from the planar surface, wherein the sleeve comprises internal threads to secure the threaded fastener; a cantilever integral with and extending away from the planar surface in a plane that is approximately parallel to and below the planar surface so that the cantilever extends beyond the planar surface distal end; and a retention arm integral with and extending away from the planar surface proximal end at an angle to a position at least partially below the sleeve, wherein upon insertion of the push-in nut fastener into the panel opening the planar surface engages the upper surface of the panel and the cantilever engages the bottom surface of the panel and thereby providing leverage for insertion of the proximal end of the push-in nut fastener and the retention arm into the panel opening so that the retention arm engages the lower surface of the panel and wherein the retention arm is deflectable by a threaded fastener inserted into the sleeve so that the retention arm exerts pressure against the threaded fastener and the lower surface of the panel. 
   In certain embodiments, the present invention provides a push-in nut fastener, comprising a planar surface with proximal and distal ends; a sleeve extending from the planar surface; a cantilever integral with the planar surface and extending away from the planar surface distal end in a plane that is approximately parallel to and below the planar surface; and a retention arm integral with the planar surface and extending from the planar surface proximal end so that the retention arm is positioned at least partially beneath the sleeve. 
   In further embodiments, the sleeve comprises internal threads that receive a threaded fastener. In preferred embodiments, the sleeve is approximately perpendicular to the planar surface. In other embodiments, the push-in nut fastener is formed from sheet metal. In preferred embodiments, the sheet metal is spring steel. In further embodiments, the cantilever extends beyond the distal end of the planar surface. In even further embodiments, the retention arm is deflectable by a threaded fastener inserted into the sleeve. 
   In further embodiments, the planar surface is molded with a plastisol pad. In preferred embodiments, the planar surface has therein at least one strengthening rib. 
   In certain embodiments, the present invention provides a push-in nut fastener, comprising a planar surface with proximal and distal ends; a sleeve extending from the planar surface, the sleeve having an axis extending through a center thereof and substantially perpendicular to the planar surface; a cantilever integral with the planar surface; a retention arm having a retention arm tail, the retention arm integral with the planar surface and extending from the planar surface proximal end so that the retention arm is positioned at least partially beneath the sleeve, such that at least a portion of the retention arm extends across the axis, the retention arm further comprising a retention arm tail flap extending from the retention arm tail; wherein upon insertion of the push-in nut fastener into an opening the retention arm tail flap engages the edge of the panel opening. 
   In preferred embodiments, the planar surface is molded with a plastisol pad. In preferred embodiments, the planar surface having therein at least one strengthening rib. 
   In preferred embodiments, the sleeve comprises internal threads that receive a threaded fastener. In other preferred embodiments, the sleeve is approximately perpendicular to the planar surface. 
   In preferred embodiments, the push-in nut fastener is formed from sheet metal. In other preferred embodiments, the sheet metal is spring steel. 
   In preferred embodiments, the cantilever extends beyond the distal end of the planar surface. In other preferred embodiments, the retention arm is deflectable by a threaded fastener inserted into the sleeve. In preferred embodiments, the engaging of the retention arm tail flap with the opening prevents rattling of the push-in nut fastener. 

   
     FIGURE DESCRIPTION 
       FIG. 1  illustrates a side overhead view of a push-in nut fastener embodiment. 
       FIG. 2  illustrates an overhead view of a panel. 
       FIG. 3  illustrates a side overhead view of a push-in nut fastener embodiment secured within a panel. 
       FIG. 4  illustrates a cross sectional side view of a push-in nut fastener embodiment. 
       FIG. 5  illustrates a side view of a threaded fastener in a push-in nut fastener embodiment secured within a panel. 
       FIG. 6  illustrates a cross sectional side view of a push-in nut fastener embodiment. 
       FIG. 7  illustrates a side view of a threaded fastener in a push-in nut fastener embodiment secured within a panel. 
       FIG. 8  illustrates an overhead view of a push-in nut fastener embodiment. 
       FIG. 9  illustrates a side overhead view of a push-in nut fastener embodiment. 
       FIG. 10  illustrates an overhead view of a push-in nut fastener embodiment. 
       FIG. 11  illustrates a push-in nut fastener embodiment from a bottom up perspective. 
       FIG. 12  illustrates a side view of a push-in nut fastener embodiment. 
       FIG. 13  illustrates a side view of a threaded fastener within a push-in nut fastener secured in a panel opening. 
   

   DETAILED DESCRIPTION 
   The following discussion relates to a push-in nut fastener in accordance with certain preferred embodiments of the present invention. The push-in nut fasteners of the present invention have numerous advantages over previous prior art devices including, but not limited to, an ability to cover a larger panel thickness range in comparison to typical designs, improved installation ergonomics, improved use with burred or flanged panel opening edges, decreased potential for rattling, and improved strength of the device.  FIGS. 1-13  illustrate various preferred embodiments of the push-in nut fasteners of the present invention. The present invention is not limited to these particular embodiments. 
   Referring to  FIG. 1 , the push-in nut fastener  100  comprises a planar surface  120 , a sleeve  130 , a cantilever  140 , and a retention arm  150 . The push-in nut fastener  100  is not limited to a particular material composition (e.g., steel, wood, plastic, or mixture thereof). In preferred embodiments, the material composition of the push-in nut  100  is sheet metal (e.g., steel). In particularly preferred embodiments, the composition of the push-in nut  100  is spring steel. 
     FIG. 2  generally presents a panel  160  (e.g., workpieces) designed for use with the present invention. Panels  160  finding use within the present invention have a panel opening  170  therein with a panel opening proximal end  180  and a panel opening distal end  190 . A panel  160  has a panel upper surface  200  and a panel lower surface  210 . Additionally, the panel  160  and panel opening  170  are located in a panel plane  220 . 
     FIG. 3  illustrates a push-in nut fastener  100  secured with a panel  160 . In particular, the push-in nut fastener  100  is insertable into the panel opening  170  with the sleeve  130 , cantilever  140 , and retention arm  150  fitting within the panel opening  170  and the planar surface  120  located above the panel opening  170  and panel plane  220 . 
   Referring again to  FIG. 1 , the push-in nut fastener  100  comprises a planar surface  120 . The planar surface  120  comprises a planar surface distal end  230  and a planar surface proximal end  240 . The planar surface  120  is not limited to a particular shape (e.g., rectangular, square, circular). In preferred embodiments, the planar surface  120  is square shaped. The planar surface  120  is not limited to particular size dimensions. Additionally, the planar surface  120  has a planar surface plane  250 . 
   Referring to  FIG. 3 , the planar surface  120  serves as a platform for securing the push-in nut fastener  100  with a panel  160 . In preferred embodiments, the size dimensions of the planar surface  120  are large enough to prevent the push-in nut fastener  100  from falling through a panel opening  170 . In such embodiments, the planar surface distal end  230  and planar surface proximal end  240  overlap the panel opening proximal end  180  and panel opening distal end  190  thereby preventing the push-in nut fastener  100  from falling through the panel opening  170 . Additionally, upon insertion of a push-in nut fastener  100  into a panel opening  170 , the planar surface plane  250  is in substantially parallel alignment with the panel plane  220 . 
   Referring to  FIG. 1 , the push-in nut fastener  100  comprises a sleeve  130 . The sleeve  130  has a sleeve opening  260 . The sleeve opening  260  is not limited to a particular positioning within the push-in nut fastener  100 . In preferred embodiments, the sleeve opening  260  extends through the planar surface  120 . In preferred embodiments, the sleeve  130  is positioned at the center of the planar surface  120 . In further preferred embodiments, the sleeve opening  260  extends through the bottom of the planar surface  120 . The sleeve  130  is not limited to particular size dimensions. In preferred embodiments, the sleeve  130  is either drawn or roll-formed. 
   Still referring to  FIG. 1 , the sleeve  130  has a sleeve axis  270 . In preferred embodiments, the sleeve axis  270  is in substantially perpendicular alignment with the planar surface plane  250 .  FIG. 4  presents a cross sectional side view of a push-in nut fastener  100  and illustrates that the sleeve axis  270  is in substantially perpendicular alignment with the planar surface plane  250 . Referring to  FIG. 3 , upon insertion of a push-in nut fastener  100  into a panel opening  170 , the sleeve axis  270  is in substantially perpendicular alignment with the planar surface plane  250  and the panel plane  220 . 
     FIG. 5  illustrates a side view of a threaded fastener  110  secured within a push-in nut fastener  100  secured in a panel opening  170 . Threaded fasteners  110  refer to hardware agents comprising a threaded face and a head. Examples include, but are not limited to, threaded workpieces, nuts, screws, set screws, grub screws, threaded bolts, and the like. The sleeve  130  serves to secure threaded fasteners  110  within the push-in nut fastener  100 . The sleeve  130  is not limited to securing a particular type of threaded fastener (e.g., threaded workpieces, nuts, screws, set screws, grub screws, threaded bolts). In preferred embodiments, a threaded fastener  110  is twisted down through the sleeve opening  260 . 
   Referring to  FIG. 1 , the push-in nut fastener  100  comprises a cantilever  140  extending from the planar surface  120 . The cantilever  140  is not limited to a particular positioning on the push-in nut fastener  100 . In preferred embodiments, the cantilever  140  is positioned at the planar surface distal end  230 . Referring to  FIG. 3 , upon insertion of a push-in nut fastener  100  in a panel opening  170 , the cantilever  140  fits into the panel opening  170 . 
   Referring to  FIG. 4 , the cantilever  140  comprises a cantilever downwardly extending member  280 , and a cantilever horizontal member  290  extending from the cantilever downwardly extending member  280 . The cantilever downwardly extending member  280  extends downward from the planar surface distal end  230  at a predetermined angle (e.g., 0-degrees, 10-degrees, 45-degrees, 90-degrees, 120-degrees). In preferred embodiments, the cantilever downwardly extending member  280  extends downward from the planar surface distal end  230  at approximately a 90-degree angle. The cantilever downwardly extending member  280  is not limited to particular size dimensions. 
   Referring to  FIG. 4 , the cantilever  140  further comprises a cantilever downwardly extending member plane  300 . In preferred embodiments, the cantilever downwardly extending member plane  300  is in approximately perpendicular alignment with the planar surface plane  250 . Referring to  FIG. 5 , upon insertion of a threaded fastener  110  within a push-in nut fastener  100  secured within a panel  160 , the cantilever downwardly extending member plane  300  is in approximately perpendicular alignment with the planar surface plane  250  and the panel plane  220 . 
   Referring to  FIG. 4 , the cantilever horizontal member  290  extends from the cantilever downwardly extending member  280  at a predetermined angle (e.g., 0-degrees, 10-degrees, 45-degrees, 90-degrees, 120-degrees). In preferred embodiments, the cantilever horizontal member  290  extends from the cantilever downwardly extending member  280  at approximately a 90-degree angle. In preferred embodiments, the cantilever horizontal member  290  extends from the cantilever downwardly extending member  280  in a proximal to distal direction. In other preferred embodiments, as shown in  FIG. 6 , the cantilever horizontal member  290  extends from the cantilever downwardly extending member  280  at approximately a 45-degree angle. In such preferred embodiments, the cantilever horizontal member  290  extends from the cantilever downwardly extending member  280  in a proximal to distal direction. 
   Referring to  FIGS. 4 and 6 , in particularly preferred embodiments, the length of the cantilever horizontal member  290  extends beyond the length of the planar surface distal end  230 . In such embodiments, the cantilever horizontal member  290  is not limited to a particular distance extension beyond the planar surface distal end  230 . 
   The cantilever horizontal member  290  is not limited to particular size dimensions. As shown in  FIG. 4 , in some preferred embodiments, the cantilever horizontal member  290  is shaped in a linear fashion. As shown in  FIG. 6 , in some preferred embodiments, the cantilever horizontal member  290  is shaped in a curvilinear fashion. In such embodiments, a cantilever horizontal member  290  shaped in a curvilinear fashion secures panel openings  170  with protruding rims (discussed in more detail below). 
   Referring to  FIG. 4 , the cantilever  140  further comprises a horizontal member plane  310 . In some preferred embodiments, the cantilever horizontal member plane  310  is in approximately parallel alignment with the planar surface plane  250 , and in approximately perpendicular alignment with the cantilever downwardly extending member plane  300 . As shown in  FIG. 6 , in other preferred embodiments, the cantilever horizontal member plane  310  is in approximately a 45-degree angle alignment with the planar surface plane  250 , and in approximately a 45-degree angle alignment with the cantilever downwardly extending member plane  300 . 
   Referring to  FIG. 5 , in some preferred embodiments, upon insertion of a threaded fastener  110  in a push-in nut fastener  100  secured within a panel opening  170 , the cantilever horizontal member plane  310  is in approximately parallel alignment with the planar surface plane  250  and the panel plane  220 , and in approximately perpendicular alignment with the cantilever downwardly extending member plane  300 . 
   In other preferred embodiments, as shown in  FIG. 7 , upon insertion of a threaded fastener  110  in a push-in nut fastener  100  secured within a panel opening  170 , the cantilever horizontal plane  310  is in approximately a 45-degree angle alignment with the planar surface plane  250  and the panel plane  220 , and in approximately a 45-degree angle alignment with the cantilever downwardly extending member plane  300 . 
   Referring to  FIG. 5 , a linearly shaped cantilever horizontal member  290  secures push-in nut fasteners  100  with even edged panel openings  170 . In such preferred embodiments, the panel  160  fits between the cantilever horizontal member  290  and the planar surface distal end  230 . Referring to  FIG. 7 , a curvilinearly shaped cantilever horizontal member  290  secures push-in nut fasteners  100  in panel openings  170  with protruding rim (e.g., uneven panel opening edges, burred edges, flanged edges). In such preferred embodiments, the protruding rim of a panel opening  170  fits against the cantilever downwardly extending member  280  and against the distal end of the cantilever horizontal member  290 . As such, the curvilinear shaped cantilever horizontal member  290  accommodates panel openings  170  with protruding rims. 
   Referring to  FIGS. 5 and 7 , the cantilever  140  provides a leverage force as the push-in nut fastener  100  is inserted into a panel opening  170 . In particular, insertion of the push-in nut fastener  100  into the panel opening  170  requires placement of the planar surface  120  over the panel opening  170  and placement of the cantilever  140  underneath the panel opening distal end  190 . As the push-in nut fastener  100  is inserted into the panel opening  170 , the retention arm  140  is lowered through panel opening proximal end  180  (as discussed in more detail below). The cantilever  140  provides a leverage force against the panel lower surface  164  as the push-in nut fastener  100  is inserted into the panel opening  170 . 
   Referring to  FIG. 1 , the push-in nut fastener  100  comprises a retention arm  150 . The retention arm  150  comprises a retention arm proximal flap  320  with a retention arm proximal flap distal end  330 , a retention arm distal flap  340  with a retention arm distal flap distal end  350 , and a retention arm tail  360  with a retention arm tail distal end  370 . The retention arm  150  further comprises a retention arm plane  400 . 
   Referring to  FIG. 4 , the retention arm proximal flap  320  extends downward from the planar surface proximal end  240  at a predetermined angle (e.g., 0-degrees, 10-degrees, 45-degrees, 90-degrees, 120-degrees). In preferred embodiments, the retention arm proximal flap  320  extends downward from the planar surface proximal end  240  at approximately a 45-degree angle. In preferred embodiments, the direction of retention arm proximal flap  320  extension is from the planar surface proximal end  240  toward the proximal surface distal end  230 . The retention arm proximal flap  320  is not limited to particular size dimensions. As shown in  FIG. 1 , in some preferred embodiments, the retention arm proximal flap  320  has a retention arm proximal flap opening  380 . In such preferred embodiments, the retention arm tail  360  is positioned within the retention arm proximal flap opening  380  (discussed in more detail below). 
   Referring to  FIG. 4 , in particularly preferred embodiments, the retention arm proximal flap  320  extends beneath the sleeve  130 .  FIG. 8  provides an overhead perspective of the retention arm proximal flap  320  extending beneath the sleeve  130 . Referring to  FIG. 5 , upon insertion of a threaded fastener  110  into a push-in nut fastener  100  secured within a panel  160 , the retention arm  150  is deflected upon the panel lower surface  180 . Deflection of the retention arm  150  upon the panel lower surface  180  increases the securing of the push-in nut fastener  100  with the panel  160  (discussed in more detail below). 
   Referring to  FIG. 1 , the retention arm distal flap  340  extends from the retention arm proximal flap distal end  330  at a predetermined angle (e.g., 0-degrees, 10-degrees, 45-degrees, 90-degrees, 120-degrees). In preferred embodiments, the retention arm distal flap  290  extends from the retention arm proximal flap distal end  330  at approximately a 20-degree angle. The direction of retention arm distal flap  340  extension is toward the planar surface proximal end  240 . The retention arm distal flap  290  is not limited to particular size dimensions.  FIG. 4  provides a cross section side view of a push-in nut fastener with a retention arm proximal distal flap  340  extending from the retention arm proximal flap distal end  330  at approximately a 20-degree angle.  FIG. 5  provides a side view of a threaded fastener  110  in a push-in nut fastener  100  secured within a panel  160  with a retention arm proximal distal flap  340  extending from the retention arm proximal flap distal end  330  at approximately a 20-degree angle. 
   Referring to  FIG. 1 , the retention arm tail  360  extends from the retention arm distal flap distal end  350  at a predetermined angle (e.g., 0-degrees, 10-degrees, 45-degrees, 90-degrees, 120-degrees). The retention arm tail  360  is not limited to particular size dimensions. As shown in  FIG. 1 , in some preferred embodiments, the retention arm tail  360  extends from the retention arm distal flap distal end  350  at approximately a 45-degree angle. In such preferred embodiments, the retention arm tail  360  extends through the retention arm proximal flap opening  380 . Referring to  FIG. 5 , upon insertion of a threaded fastener  110  into a push-in nut fastener  100  secured within a panel opening  170 , the retention arm tail  360  extending through the proximal flap opening  380  is in contact with the panel lower surface  180 . Contacting the panel lower surface  180  with the retention arm tail  360  increases the securing of the push-in nut fastener  100  with the panel  160  (discussed in more detail below). 
   As shown in  FIG. 9 , in other preferred embodiments, the retention arm tail  360  extends from the retention arm distal flap distal end  350  at approximately a 90-degree angle in a direction toward the planar surface  120 . In some preferred embodiments, the retention arm tail  360  comprises a retention arm tail flap  390  extending from the retention arm tail distal end  370  at a predetermined angle (e.g., 0-degrees, 10-degrees, 45-degrees, 90-degrees, 120-degrees). In preferred embodiments, the retention arm tail flap  390  extends from the retention arm tail distal end  370  at a 90-degree angle.  FIG. 10  illustrates an overhead perspective of the retention arm tail flap  390 . The retention arm tail flap  390  is not limited to particular size dimensions. Referring to  FIG. 7 , upon insertion of a threaded fastener  110  into a push-in nut fastener  100  secured within a panel opening  170 , the retention arm tail flap  390  is in contact with the panel lower surface  180 . Contacting the panel lower surface  180  with the retention arm tail flap  390  increases the securing of the push-in nut fastener  100  with the panel  160 . Additionally, contacting the panel lower surface  180  with the retention arm tail flap  390  permits push-in nut fasteners  100  to be secured with panel openings  170  with protruding rims (discussed in more detail below). 
   Referring to  FIG. 1 , the retention arm  150  has a retention arm plane  400 . Referring to  FIG. 5 , upon insertion of the push-in nut fastener  100  with the panel opening  170 , the retention arm plane  400  is located beneath the planar surface plane  250  and the panel plane  220 . In particular, the retention arm plane  400  is in an approximately diagonal alignment (e.g., 45-degree angle) with the planar surface plane  250  and the panel plane  220 . 
   In some preferred embodiments, as shown in  FIG. 5 , the retention arm  150  provides a deflection force as a threaded fastener  110  is inserted into a push-in nut fastener  100  secured in a panel opening  170 . In particular, a threaded fastener  110  advancing through the sleeve  130  contacts the distal end of the retention arm  150  causing the retention arm  150  to deflect away from the threaded fastener  110 . Deflection of the retention arm  150  causes an increase in the angle between the planar surface proximal end  240  and the retention arm  150 . Additionally, deflection of the retention arm  150  causes the retention arm tail  360  to contact the panel lower surface  180 . In particular, as the retention arm  150  is deflected away from the threaded fastener  110 , the retention arm tail  360  contacts the panel opening proximal end  180  with a constant tension. As such, deflection of the retention arm  150  results in an increased securing of the push-in nut fastener  100  with the panel  160 . The constant contact tension between the retention arm  150  and the panel opening proximal end  180  prevents loosening of the fit between the push-in nut fastener  100  and the panel  160  over time. 
   In other preferred embodiments, as shown in  FIG. 7 , the retention arm  150  provides a deflection force as a threaded fastener  110  is inserted into a push-in nut fastener  100  secured in a panel opening  170 . In particular, a threaded fastener  110  advancing through the sleeve  130  contacts the distal end of the retention arm  150  causing the retention arm  150  to deflect away from the threaded fastener  110 . Deflection of the retention arm  150  causes an increase in the angle between the planar surface proximal end  240  and the retention arm  150 . Additionally, deflection of the retention arm  150  causes the retention arm tail flap  390  to contact the panel lower surface  180 . In particular, as the retention arm  150  is deflected away from the threaded fastener  110 , the retention arm tail flap  390  contacts the panel opening proximal end  180  with a constant tension. As such, deflection of the retention arm  150  results in an increased securing of the push-in nut fastener  100  with the panel  160 . The constant contact tension between the retention arm  150  and the panel opening proximal end  180  prevents loosening of the fit between the push-in nut fastener  100  and the panel  160  over time. Additionally, securing the retention arm  150  with the retention arm tail flap  390 , as opposed to the retention arm tail  360 , provides a gap between the retention arm proximal flap  320  and the retention arm tail  360 . The protruding rim of a panel opening  170  fits within the gap between the retention arm proximal flap  320  and the retention arm tail  360 . As such, in preferred embodiments, the push-in nut fastener  100  is secured within panel openings  170  with protruding rims. 
     FIG. 11  illustrates a bottom view of a push-in nut fastener embodiment. As shown, the push-in nut fastener  100  comprises a planar surface  120  comprising a planar surface distal end  230  and a planar surface proximal end  240 , a sleeve  130  comprising a sleeve opening  260  and a sleeve axis  270 , a cantilever  140  comprising a cantilever downwardly extending member  280 , a cantilever horizontal member  290 , a cantilever downwardly extending member plane  300 , a horizontal member plane  310 , a retention arm  150  comprising a retention arm proximal flap  320 , a retention arm proximal flap distal end  330 , a retention arm distal flap  340 , a retention arm distal flap distal end  350 , a retention arm tail  360 , a retention arm tail distal end  370 , and a retention arm plane  400 . 
   Still referring to  FIG. 11 , the planar surface  120  further comprises a planar surface bottom surface  410 . The planar surface bottom surface  410  comprises at least one strength rib  420  (e.g., a set of stiffening beads). The present invention is not limited to a particular type of strengthening ribs  420 . The strengthening ribs  420  are not limited to a particular length or width. In some embodiments, a set of strength ribs  420  may be positioned at any location along the planar surface bottom surface  410 . In preferred embodiments, two sets of strength ribs  420  are laterally positioned along the planar surface bottom surface  410  on each side of the sleeve  130  such that each set of strength ribs  420  extends from the planar surface distal end  230  to the planar surface proximal end  240 . Upon insertion of the push-in nut fastener  100  into a panel, the strengthening ribs  420  function to maintain the integrity of the push-in nut fastener  100  as a whole (e.g., function to prevent the planar surface  120  from bowing). 
     FIG. 12  illustrates a side view of a push-in nut fastener embodiment. As shown, the push-in nut fastener  100  comprises a sleeve  130  comprising a sleeve opening  260  and a sleeve axis  270 , a cantilever  140  comprising a cantilever downwardly extending member  280 , a cantilever horizontal member  290 , a cantilever downwardly extending member plane  300 , a horizontal member plane  310 , a retention arm  150  comprising a retention arm proximal flap  320 , a retention arm proximal flap distal end  330 , a retention arm distal flap  340 , a retention arm distal flap distal end  350 , a retention arm tail  360 , a retention arm tail distal end  370 , a retention arm tail flap  390 , and a retention arm plane  400 . 
   Still referring to  FIG. 12 , a panel padding  430  encompasses the upper and lower surfaces of the planar surface planar surface including the planar surface distal end, planar surface proximal end, planar surface plane, and the planar surface bottom surface. The panel padding  430  is not limited to a particular material (e.g., plastic, rubber, foam, or mixture thereof). In preferred embodiments, the material of the panel padding  430  is plastisol. The panel padding  430  is not limited to particular size dimensions. In preferred embodiments, the panel padding  430  extends beyond the planar surface proximal end and above the retention arm tail flap  390 . In preferred embodiments, the panel padding  430  is molded upon the planar surface such that the sleeve opening  260  remains exposed. 
     FIG. 13  illustrates a side view of a threaded fastener within a push-in nut fastener secured in a panel opening. As shown, the push-in nut fastener  100  comprises a panel padding  430  encompassing the upper and lower surfaces of the planar surface planar surface including the planar surface distal end, planar surface proximal end, planar surface plane, and the planar surface bottom surface, a sleeve  130  comprising a sleeve opening  260  and a sleeve axis  270 , a cantilever  140  comprising a cantilever downwardly extending member  280 , a cantilever horizontal member  290 , a cantilever downwardly extending member plane  300 , a horizontal member plane  310 , a retention arm  150  comprising a retention arm proximal flap  320 , a retention arm proximal flap distal end  330 , a retention arm distal flap  340 , a retention arm distal flap distal end  350 , a retention arm tail  360 , a retention arm tail distal end  370 , a retention arm tail flap  390 , and a retention arm plane  400 . 
   Still referring to  FIG. 13 , upon insertion of a threaded fastener  110 , the panel padding  430  is positioned between the panel  170  and the head of the threaded fastener  110  such that the head of the threaded fastener  110  is prevented from contacting the panel  170 . As such, in preferred embodiments, the panel padding  430  raises the head of the threaded fastener  110  off of the panel  170 . In preferred embodiments, the positioning of the panel padding  430  serves to provide a watertight seal between the threaded fastener  110  and the panel  170 . In preferred embodiments, the positioning of the panel padding  430  serves to dampen potential rattling sound between the threaded fastener  110  and the panel  170 . 
   Still referring to  FIG. 13 , in preferred embodiments, the panel padding  430  further engages the retention arm flap  390  positioned at the edge of the panel opening  170 . As such, the panel padding  430  serves to secure the retention arm flap  390  with the edge of the panel opening  170  (e.g., serves to prevent the retention arm flap  390  from snapping beneath the panel opening  170 ). By preventing the retention arm flap  390  from snapping beneath the edge of the panel opening  170 , the push-in nut fastener  100  may be used in panels with very thin thickness measurements (described in more detail below). 
   Still referring to  FIG. 13 , in preferred embodiments, securing the retention arm flap  390  with the edge of the panel opening  170  provides a compression force within the retention arm distal flap  340  so as to prevent rattling of the push-in nut fastener  100  in the absence of an inserted threaded fastener  110 . Additionally, in preferred embodiments, securing the retention arm flap  390  within the edge of the panel opening  170  provides improved pull out performance of the push-in nut fastener  100 . 
   Still referring to  FIG. 13 , upon insertion of a threaded fastener  110 , the panel padding  430  the positioning of the panel padding  430  permits the push-in nut fastener  100  to be secured within a panel  170  having sections of varied thickness (e.g., panel thickness ranges between 0.7 mm to 1.8 mm). As such, in preferred embodiments, push-in nut fasteners  100  comprising a panel padding  430  are especially applicable for use in panels  170  having varied thickness sections (e.g., a door panel having a section with a thickness of 0.70 mm and a thickness of 1.8 mm in a different section; “tailor welding”). 
   All publications and patents mentioned in the above specification are herein incorporated by reference. Although the invention has been described in connection with specific preferred embodiments, it should be understood that the invention as claimed should not be unduly limited to such specific embodiments. Indeed, various modifications of the described modes for carrying out the invention that are obvious to those skilled in the relevant fields are intended to be within the scope of the following claims.

Technology Classification (CPC): 5