Matthew W Robbins

US Patent:

53260821, Jul 5, 1994

Filed:

Jun 10, 1992

Appl. No.:

7/896706

Inventors:

Jack D. Ecktman - Indianapolis IN
Matthew A. Robbins - Elkhart IN

Assignee:

Bridgestone/Firestone, Inc. - Akron OH

International Classification:

B60G 1126

US Classification:

267 6427

Abstract:

A self locking, snap mounted attachment device formed integrally with a plastic member, such as the end plate or piston of an air spring, for mounting the member on a separate support member. The device has a rigid member terminating in arcuate outer surfaces. Preferably two pairs of flexible fingers are mounted between the arcuate end surfaces on opposite sides of the rigid member. The fingers have stems with curved outer surfaces, which in combination with the curved surfaces of the rigid member define an imaginary circle complemental to a circular hole in the support member into which the attachment device is to be inserted. A shoulder is formed on each of the finger stems and snaps into engagement with the support member after passing through the attachment hole. The rigid member resists shear forces exerted on the device and the fingers automatically snap into position to secure the end plate or piston on the support member when the device is inserted into the attachment hole.