Push clip fastener with retention tabs

Abstract

A clip member is configured for selective engagement with a receiving member having an aperture and a predetermined material thickness between a front surface and a back surface. The clip member includes a base surface and pair of substantially parallel tangs projecting outwardly from the base surface with each tang having an engaging barb. A pair of cantilevered spring tabs are adjacent the tangs and extend from the base surface substantially parallel thereto. The spring tabs have a tab engaging surface projecting above the base surface defining a distance to a barb engagement surface less than the thickness of the receiving member. When the clip member is pressed into the aperture, the tangs are bent as they enter through the front surface. The tab engaging surfaces engage the front surface of the receiving member before the barb engagement surfaces reach the rear surface. The spring tabs deflect with further movement of the clip member into the receiving member and develop a spring load therebetween. The tangs snap back and the barb engagement surfaces engage the rear surface when the barbs exit the aperture, thereby positively retaining the receiving member and maintaining the spring load between the clip member and the receiving member.