METHOD AND APPARATUS FOR FASTENING

摘要

A method and apparatus for a 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 memberincludes 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 atleast 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 withclips for retaining other articles. The apparatus preferably is a unitary member formed of a molded plastic material.