Illinois Tool Works Inc.

Mark A Vogel

Duane M Schultz

James E deBeers

A method and apparatus for retaining a body member with a load member fastened to a mounting surface by a support member. The load member includes a contact surface engageable by the support member, and the body member includes a throughhole for receiving at least a portion of the load member. A breakable flash connection couples the load member to the body member so that at least a portion of the load member is disposed in the throughhole of the body member. The flash connection is breakable upon moving the load member relative to the body member with the support member in contact with the contact surface of the load member, wherein the load member retains the body member and isolates the body member from stress imparted by the support member to reduce deformation of the body member. The body member may be a part of a panel or be configured with clips for retaining other articles. The apparatus preferably is a unitary member formed of a molded plastic material.

Method and apparatus for fastening

An encapsulating grommet for use with a push-pin for retaining a covering panel or other structure to a supporting panel is molded in an open condition and includes a hinge portion which permits one half of the encapsulating grommet to be folded against the other half. One of the two halves includes a rectangular frame having an opening surrounded by an umbrella-like flange. The other half snap-fits into the rectangular frame when closed so that the encapsulating grommet may be shipped in a closed condition. One of the two halves has a single side wall, while the other half has an inner and outer side wall separated by a channel. When the two halves are closed upon one another, the single side wall fits into the channel, whereby a labyrinth seal against dust and water will be provided for the internal cavity of the encapsulating grommet.

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Frankfort, IL, United States of America

Mark A Vogel