Importance

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Abstract

Disclosed are fastener assemblies in which the fastener is captivated in a channel member and is removable through the opening between inturned flange edges of the channel member. Embodiments of a nut retainer assembly and a bolt retainer assembly are disclosed as is an embodiment of a complementary clamping system utilizing a nut retainer assembly and a bolt retainer assembly. In order to facilitate insertion of a fastener through the opening between inturned flange edges of the channel member, at least one of the flats of the base of the fastener includes an inclined portion. Further, in order to facilitate removal of a captivated fastener, at least one of the flats of the base of the fastener includes a cut-out or recessed portion which with the inturned flange edge forms a slot suitable for receiving the tip of a screwdriver. Pivoting the screwdriver in cooperation with the recessed portion of the flat causes outward, elastic flexing of a flange portion to enable the base of the fastener to be moved through the opening between the inturned flange edges, and thus removed from captivation in the channel member. A fastener base is inserted into the channel member through the opening by positioning the fastener base with one flat in the channel member and with the inclined portion of the other flat resting on an inturned flange edge. Force is applied to the fastener base which in cooperation with the inclined flat portion flexes elastically the flange portion of the channel member outwardly to enable the fastener base to be moved through the opening.

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First Claim