Importance

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Abstract

The present invention relates to an improved arrangement for attaching a plastic panel and metal mounting strip sub-assembly to an automotive body metal substructure enabling controlled distortion free thermal expansion and contraction of the plastic panel relative to the mounting strip. The attaching arrangement comprises a metal spacing washer having a tubular sleeve portion formed with an integral frusto-conical spring flange. The washer sleeve portion free end extends through an elongated slot in the mounting strip and an aligned circular opening in the panel. A blind breakstem rivet is inserted through the washer bore and upon being set applies a predetermined axial clamping force biasing the washer flange into contact with the mounting strip. The rivet head undersurface may be provided with an annular locking ring adapted to engage the plastic panel out surface. Upon the panel being heated to its thermal-relaxation temperature the locking ring is embedded in the softened plastic panel thereby reducing excess load on the washer spring flange in a tolerance self-compensating manner.

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First Claim