If the clips hook face is at 90 to the direction of connection, the connection will lock and cannot be undone by a simple

pull (unless you pull hard enough to break the clip). If, however, the latching face of the hook is angled (Figure 2), a simple pull will release the connection.

Figure 2: Cantilever clip with angled hook face to facilitate removal If you want a locking but non-permanent connection, say for an access panel, you can angle the hook face at 90 but allow the hook to be pushed manually out of its slot to unlock the connection. This is simple if the hook is positioned on the outside of the part. If the hook is located behind a wall, the designer can provide a window through which the hook can be accessed (Figure 3).

Figure 3: Clip positioned in a window to allow unlocking Design of a cantilever clip determines its effectiveness and durability. The clips arm must flex enough to allow it to lock and unlock without breaking or deforming. This ability to flex depends on several factors including the materials Youngs modulus, the angle through which the clip