Key principles.
Standard pattern
Cantilever beam with hooked tip. Beam flexes during insertion.
30-45°
Engagement face 30-45° angle. Lower = easier insertion.
45-90°
Retention face. 90° = permanent. 45-60° = removable.
< 1% nylon
Max strain at flex < 1% for nylon. 1.5% for ABS, PC.
0.5-2 mm
Larger hook = more retention but harder to engage.
PP, nylon, ABS
PP excellent for living-hinge clips. Nylon strong + tough. ABS general.
FAQ
F = (3 × E × I × δ) / L³, where E=modulus, I=moment of inertia, δ=deflection, L=length. Standard textbook formula.
PP for living-hinge style flexibility. Nylon for highest strength. ABS easy to mold.
For 1000+ engagement cycles, design conservatively. Fatigue strength ~50% static.
Length-to-thickness ratio L/t > 5 for elastic flex. Thin enough to bend.
Material creep over time loosens clip. Heat softens plastic, releases. Repeated cycles fatigue.
Engagement angle and retention angle determine. Symmetric: removable. Asymmetric (90° retention): permanent.
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