Snap fit

Snap fit
A snap-fit is a mechanical joint system where part-to-part attachment is accomplished with
locating and locking features (constraint features) that are homogenous with one or the
other of the components being joined. Joining requires the (flexible) locking features to
move aside for engagement with the mating part, followed by return of the locking feature
toward its original position to accomplish the interference required to latch the components
together. Locator features, the second type of constraint feature, are inflexible, providing
strength and stability in the attachment. Enhancements complete the snap-fit system,
adding robustness and user-friendliness to the attachment.

-The First Snap-Fit Handbook, Bonenberger, 2000

Snap fit
an arrangement of compatible locators, locks and enhancements acting to form a
mechanical attachment between parts

Snap fit

Important Criterion Flexibility in integral locking feature

Catch

Joining method using springy (elastic) properties of metals and plastics

Plastic Plastic
Plastic Metal
Metal Metal

Although most commonly used today with plastic assembled parts, snap-fit has long before existed in
metal-metal components in clothing

Results in reduced man-hour, production cost, and or number of parts in

assembly

Snap fit examples

Toys
Small Appliances
Automotive
Electronic Fields

Key Requirements

Strength attachment integrity for life of product

Integrity prevents:
Looseness
Breakage
Squeaks
Rattles

Constraint prevention or control of relative movement between parts

Constraint Condition
Effect on

Proper

Under

Over

Noise

Allows a close fit btwn

pairs

Part misalignment, possible

looseness, squeaks and
rattles

None

Assembly

Features fir w/out

interference

None

Difficult assembly interference

btwn parts

Cost

Saving (relative to over)

None

Requires close tolerances

Analysis

Makes feature analysis

possible

None

Interference is statically
indeterminate

Reliability

Supports feature strength

for reliability

Improper lock loading can lead

to lock failure

Possible failure due to residual

stain btwn parts
Possible component distortion
under extreme temp.

Key Requirements

Compatibility harmony in snap-fit interface between all elements

Often a subtle mistake

Robustness tolerance of snap-fit to all variables and unknowns that exist in product design, manufacture, assembly, and use

Customers ability to interpret proper use

Technicians ability to properly disassemble and reassemble without damage
Environment
Misuse, unexpected loads

Retention nature of locking pair

Permanent not intended for release

(not truly permanent, but require more effort or tool for release)
Non-permanent intended for release
Releasing

Non-releasing

Example: Duracon M90-44

Yield strain : 7 - 8%
Thickness: h = 3mm
Height: Y = 2mm
Span: L = 10mm

Strain = 9%

Annular locks

Interface between concentric ridges in cylinders

catch is wrapped around cylinder
Ex: cap on ball-point pen

Constrain in 5 degrees of motion

Reasons we are looking at using annular locks:
Compatibility can be locked in at any rotational position
Constrained in 5 DOM

Other important features of snap-fit

Guides
Help with assembly
Protect catch when misaligned

Assists
Finger tab
Tool access
Recessed, or push-in activation

Guards
Protect weak features

Troubleshooting

Difficult assembly

Distorted parts

Parts warped when made

Distorted in assemble
Feature tolerances and position robustness
Over-constraint
Compliant (flexible) parts, often panels are not constrained at enough points

Feature damage

Over-constraint
Assembly motion and constraint feature incompatibility
Basic shape and assembly motion incompatibility
Access and basic shape incompatibility
Access and assembly motion incompatibility
Parts warped
Simultaneous engagement of several features
No guide or clearance enhancement
No operator feedback and/or feedback interface
Mating part is too hard to handle

Over-constraint
Under-constraint
Incompatibility between features and assembly motion
Long term yield
Damaged during assembly
Poor processing
Abuse in usage
Abuse or damage during service / removal

Loose parts

Feature damage
Weak feature mounting area on mating and base plate
Difficult assembly
Under-constraint
Compliant parts do not provide a stron base for the constrint features

Construx

Knex

Our application