Importance

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Abstract

The apparatus of this invention, which performs the method described, includes a die member having a generally rectangular opening having a width between the opposed end walls, which receive the end walls of the nut pilot, less than the width of the nut, and arcuate corners, which shear and deform the pilot end walls and corners, forming the bearing panel support abutments described. The die member includes upstanding elongated clinching lips on opposed sides of the die opening. The clinching lips perferably are truncated, including a flat top portion, tapered side walls and tapered inner walls, which deform the pierced panel edges into the groove openings in sealing engagement, as described. The preferred die member also includes upstanding spanking lips adjacent the end walls of the die opening. The height of the spanking lips can be the same as or less than the height of the clinching lips and the length of the spanking lips is less than the die opening. The spanking lips shear and deform the nut pilot end walls beneath the panel, as described.

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First Claim