Locking mechanisms

摘要

A fastener that has an anchor that can be inserted into and locked within a female cage. The female cage includes at least two flexible spring members that each have a first portion and a second portion that is at an angle to the first portion. The cage also has a collar that extends around the first portions of the flexible members. The springs are adapted to move relative to the collar between first and second positions. When the springs are in the first position, the second portions are separated into an open position. Movement of the springs into the second position forces the second portions of the springs to move into a closed position. The second sides are constructed so that there is an aperture between the springs when the second portions are in the closed position. The anchor has a conical shaped barb with an apex and a base portion. The base portion of the barb is slightly larger than the aperture between the springs. When the female cage is in the closed position, the anchor can be pushed through the aperture. Once inserted, the stiffness of the second portions prevent the barb from being pulled back out of the cage. Detachment occurs when the springs are moved back into the first position and the second portions open up into the open position, whereby the barb can be removed from the cage. The flexible springs are attached to a gear that rotates and moves the springs between the first and second positions.