Research articles Integral attachment using snap‐fit features: a key to assembly automation. Part 3 ‐ an attachment‐level design methodology

Abstract

The third part of a comprehensive six‐part series on a promising and growing approach to mechanical attachment amenable to automation. Integral snap‐fit attachment design has traditionally focused almost exclusively on the individual features that actually accomplish locking between parts of an assembly (e.g. cantilever hooks, bayonet‐fingers, compressive hooks, traps, and others). The placement and orientation of features that facilitate or enhance engagement or eliminate unwanted translation, rotation or vibration, i.e. locating features and enhancements, are rarely considered. Here, describes integral features classified as locks, locators or enhancements. More importantly, presents a systematic six‐step approach or methodology to guide designers at the higher, attachment or conceptual design level (as opposed to lower, feature or detail design level).

Citation

Messler, R.W., Genc, S. and Gabriele, G.A. (1997), "Research articles Integral attachment using snap‐fit features: a key to assembly automation. Part 3 ‐ an attachment‐level design methodology", Assembly Automation, Vol. 17 No. 3, pp. 239-248. https://doi.org/10.1108/01445159710172445