Mechanical Panel Fastener works without screws or tools.
Press Release Summary:
Utilizing D·SNAP technology, SNAP-JOINER can be snapped into place on metal panels by hand. Requiring rectangular opening for installation, D·SNAP housing holds spring-loaded set of wings that snap into position to hold firmly in panel, even in severe vibration environments. Product can be used wherever 2 sheet metal panels need to be joined. It can also be used in place of captive screws and is removable via tool.
Original Press Release:
Unique Fastener Featured In New 'Snap-Line'; Uses Innovative DoSnap Technology
Fasten Panels Mechanically without Screws or Tools
Chantilly, VA -- DIRAK, a global innovator in latches, locks and hinges, has introduced a completely new type of panel fastener as one of its first products incorporating D·SNAP technology. Marketed under the SNAP-LINE brand, the SNAP-JOINER fastener requires no screws or tools for installation. It can be snapped into place on metal panels easily, by hand. The only preparation required for the panels is a simple rectangular opening.
"The SNAP-JOINER fastener offers manufacturers the potential to reduce cost and speed up assembly processes," said Dieter Ramsauer, founder of DIRAK and the engineer-designer of D·SNAP.
At the heart of SNAP-JOINER is the D·SNAP housing, which holds a spring-loaded set of wings designed to snap into position to hold firmly in a panel. A product using the D·SNAP mechanism holds securely, even in severe vibration environments.
The SNAP-JOINER fastener is suitable wherever two sheet metal panels need to be joined, for example: trays in 19-inch server racks, panels for exhibits, and modular office furniture.
The SNAP-JOINER design lends itself to many adaptations. One type of adaptation is ideal for use where standard or captive screws have traditionally been used. The design can also be incorporated into different mechanisms such as handles. Attaching a handle, that has SNAP-JOINER designed-in, is as simple as positioning the handle in place on a panel with prepared cut-out, and pressing. No other parts or tools are needed for assembly.
The advantage of the SNAP-JOINER fastener is that it is shipped as a complete assembly, ready to be snapped into a prepared cutout, joining two panels together. Traditionally, joining two panels with captive screw requires several operations and special equipment. It involves mounting a receptacle on the main frame; mounting the screw on the movable frame, and possibly mounting a handle on the movable frame, using screws.
To allow for easy replacement and for maintenance of associated areas, the SNAP-JOINER can be retracted using a tool, easily allowing the hardware to slide back out from the panel opening. As a captive-screw alternative, it can be manufactured to remain captive in one panel or removed from both panels. The design can be modified so the fastener is removable from inside or outside of the joined panels. A variety of removal tool options are available. The design can also be modified for different sizes and handle thicknesses.
To learn about SNAP-LINE products online, click on the D·SNAP image from DIRAK's homepage at www.dirak.com. For additional information, contact DIRAK, Inc., 4115 Pleasant Valley Road, Suite 200, Chantilly, VA 20151. Tel: 703-378-7637. Fax: 703-378-7638. E-mail: options@dirak.com
DIRAK products are sold and distributed globally through a network of authorized sales representatives. Other products in the DIRAK modular Locking, Latching, and Hinging System family include quick release fasteners, quarter-turn fasteners, snap/push locks, knobs, handles, wing-L&T handles, Swinghandles, hinges, and EMI/RFI gasketing. The company's global headquarters is in Ennepetal, Germany.
