Quick fastener instead of bolt & nut (small)

[YvesMontreal]

Hi all,

I would need a quick fastener to replace bolt & nut, the bolt measurements being:
between 7/16" / 1/2" length
1/16 diameter, or a bit smaller

Because of space constraints, the device that would take the place of the nut has to be relatively small.

Purpose: the two fasteners that hold harmonica covers; the harmonicist has to open his harmonicas frequently to adjust the musical pitch (tone) and the reed (blade) "height"... so now you may realize that I was really not sure of what forum to choose

Thanks very much in advance.

Yves
Montreal

 

[redpicker]

Just to think "outside the box" for you, how about magnets?

rp

 

[YvesMontreal]

Not a bad idea "per se", however, it's not possible for a number of reasons (very small space for a fastener, types of metal involved, and it's got to be very stable), but the suggestion will sure have it's brainstorming effect!

Thx rp.

YvesM

 

[MikeHalloran]

How many would you like to buy?



Mike Halloran
Pembroke Pines, FL, USA

 

[YvesMontreal]

Good question.

For now it's for personal use, then, after a test with a dozen or so (2 x each harmonica), if proven really useful, I would need a few dozens.

Then, as many, after their own test, for every friend/colleague harmonicist that I convince that those non-cumbersome, quick-install/quick-release fasteners suggested are operational (one harmonicist deals with a couple of dozens of harmonicas, or more).

For the record, I've tried a few solutions up to now (binder clips <

http://www.ibmilw.com/images/baseitems/51686.jpg>,

electrical wires twisted...), but there are too many drawbacks, so the device should really be the small bolts specified above (possibly without the thread, "pins", then), with "something else" than a nut that clips on the non-head end.

 

[YvesMontreal]

I think I've got a good comparison, now: those self-clipping fasteners that hold certain lapel pins in place, or some types of earrings.

But they have got to hold quite firmly in place on their 1/16" diam. bolts/pins.

 

[MikeHalloran]

You need something like a ball stud speed clip:

http://www.boltproducts.com/tinnerman/stud-ball-fasteners.html

... except much smaller, especially the socket part.

Small problem: It's probable that no such thing exists yet.

Making a smaller stud is not a big deal.

Making a socket is. It's worth studying the geometry of the Tinnerman part, to understand how the assembled stud/clip preload the parts against each other, and how the angles on the clip make the assembly separable. Note also that the clip comprises leaf springs, which cannot be arbitrarily shortened.

Perhaps a similar stud, with a caged wire fork socket, as in 'DOT' fasteners as used on very old convertible tops, tonneau covers, and pup tents.

Or maybe a stud that's notched less severely, with a HyperTac connector socket.





Mike Halloran
Pembroke Pines, FL, USA

 

[YvesMontreal]

Great, thanks very much, Mike. It's very inspiring.

There should be a way to find smaller versions in some industries. I'll sure search the Web with the key words "Ball-Stud Speed Clips" and variants, and then, be well documented to search hardware stores.

Yves
Montréal