New technology promises to enable attachment of hinges, swing handles, and other devices to sheet metal surfaces without screws or tools. The D-SNAP line of fasteners from DIRAK (www.dirak.com) are said to cut cost, assembly time, and inventory. The enabling feature: protruding wings.
According to inventor and company founder Dieter Ramsauer, the D-SNAP line is made of powdered metal and has a smooth surface. Also, he says, they are spring loaded, and work well in applications where there is vibration.
The spring-loaded wings retract as the part is installed and slide back into place when installation is completed. A key retracts the wings so the hardware can slip back out from the panel opening.
Ramsauer, who started DIRAK after working in a metalworking shop, says the new line of fasteners reduces the chance of error and mix up of screws, and makes the installation at end-user locations easier. The parts are pre-assembled.
Panel preparation to accept the hardware consists of a simple rectangular cutout.
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| Before installation, wedge-shaped wings protrude from the housing. The wings retract after installation, holding the hardware securely. |