Patent ID: 10046491

Abstract:
A system for manufacturing a two-part fastener may include a fastener-molding housing and an actuating assembly. The fastener-molding housing may include a fastener mold having a first mold section connected to a second mold section through a flash connection mold section. The fastener mold is configured to receive fastener-forming material to form a pre-engaged fastener having a first fastener portion within the first mold section and a second fastener portion within the second mold section. The first fastener portion is temporarily secured to the second fastener portion through a flash connection portion formed within the flash connection mold section. The an actuating assembly includes a stripper plate, a connecting member, and at least one ejection member. The connecting member is configured to securely retain the first fastener portion. The stripper plate is configured to be moved relative to the connecting member in order to drive one of the first or second fastener portions into the other of the first or second fastener portions to form a fully-formed fastener. The ejection member is configured to eject the fully-formed fastener from the actuating assembly.