Abstract: An assembly is provided that includes a barrel nut, a barrel nut retainer and a fastener. The barrel nut includes a threaded aperture. The barrel nut retainer includes a one-way installation guide. The fastener is configured to thread into the threaded aperture. The fastener is further configured to pass through the threaded aperture and project into the one-way installation guide when the fastener is inserted into the barrel nut retainer along a first direction.

Abstract: A retention clip assembly is for attachment to a stud. The assembly includes a base plate and a cover plate. The base plate includes a base rim and a locking finger extending from the base rim. The cover plate includes a cover rim and a flange. The cover rim defines a lock opening configured for receiving the locking finger therein to retain the cover plate to the base plate. The flange extends inwardly from the cover rim at an angle which is acute such that the flange overlays the cover opening and is configured for engaging the external teeth on the stud. The cover plate attached to the base plate with a sheet of material therebetween. The cover plate and base plate are positioned such that the flange engages the external teeth of the stud to prevent removal of the retention clip assembly from the stud.

Abstract: The invention provides for a retainer for stabilizing a threaded member. The retainer may include a base portion having an opening and an outer perimeter lying in a first plane, the opening having a plurality of elongated sections each extending toward the outer perimeter so as to define in the base portion one or more arms. Each of the aims may have a head section having at least one groove, the head sections being located in a second plane which is parallel to and spaced apart from the first plane. The elongated sections may be symmetrically arranged about an axis. The grooves may be arranged to define at least a portion of a helix. The outer perimeter of the retainer may be circular.

Abstract: The invention relates to a fastening element (1) for vehicle parts (5), in particular for fastening a heat shield to a bolt shaped fastening means (13) of a vehicle body, preferably an underbody of a motor vehicle, comprising a claw disk (2) and a spring washer (3), held at claws (2.1) of the claw disk, wherein the claw disk (2) comprises an opening (6) and the spring washer (3) can be interlocked with a bolt shaped fastening means (13), wherein the claw disk (2) comprises at least one clip element (8), associated with the opening (6) and oriented away from the spring washer (3), wherein the at least one clip element (8) is configured for insertion through an opening (7) in the vehicle part (5) or in the heat shield, and wherein the at least one clip element (8) comprises an undercut (10) for interlocking the rim portion of the opening (7) of the vehicle part (5) or of the heat shield.

Abstract: The invention provides for a retainer for stabilizing a threaded member. The retainer may include a base portion having an opening and an outer perimeter lying in a first plane, the opening having a plurality of elongated sections each extending toward the outer perimeter so as to define in the base portion one or more arms. Each of the aims may have a head section having at least one groove, the head sections being located in a second plane which is parallel to and spaced apart from the first plane. The elongated sections may be symmetrically arranged about an axis. The grooves may be arranged to define at least a portion of a helix. The outer perimeter of the retainer may be circular.

Abstract: A fastening device for fixing a member to be fixed to a fixing member through a screw, the fastening device includes: a top plate portion; and a pair of leg piece portions respectively suspended from the two side edges of the top plate portion, wherein the top plate portion includes two pairs of first elastic securing pieces disposed opposed to each other for defining a first screw hole formed in the screw, and two pairs of regulating pieces respectively interposed between the first elastic securing pieces for defining a first guide hole having a diameter larger than the first screw hole.

Abstract: A gardening tool suspension device includes a suspension rack (20) having a through hole (22), a gardening tool (10) mounted on the suspension rack and a fastening mechanism (30) mounted on the suspension rack and locked onto the gardening tool to attach the gardening tool to the suspension rack. The gardening tool include two handles (13) pivotally connected by a threaded pivot shaft (12). The fastening mechanism includes a locking nut (31) screwed onto the pivot shaft and having a flange (311) extending through the through hole, and a retaining ring (32) locked onto the flange of the locking nut. Thus, only the locking nut is locked by the retaining ring so that the two handles of the gardening tool are not limited and can be pivoted freely, thereby facilitating a consumer operating the gardening tool.

Abstract: The invention provides for a retainer for stabilizing a threaded member. The retainer may include a base portion having an opening and an outer perimeter lying in a first plane, the opening having a plurality of elongated sections each extending toward the outer perimeter so as to define in the base portion one or more arms. Each of the aims may have a head section having at least one groove, the head sections being located in a second plane which is parallel to and spaced apart from the first plane. The elongated sections may be symmetrically arranged about an axis. The grooves may be arranged to define at least a portion of a helix. The outer perimeter of the retainer may be circular.

Abstract: A joint includes at least one joint bushing and a joint bolt or pipe that is rotatably mounted with radial play in the joint bushing, forming an annular bearing gap. The joint has a play compensation element having several spring-loaded sections that engage in the annular bearing gap. The radii of the spring-loaded sections are shorter than the radius of the annular bearing gap. The spring-loaded sections project beyond a base body of the play compensation element at an acute angle to the joint axis. If the play compensation element is designed both to compensate the play and to axially secure the joint, it includes at least one clamping section, which is/are supported on the joint bolt and project(s) beyond the opposite side of the base body of the play compensation element to the spring-loaded sections. The play compensation element can be used in particular for joints of adjusting devices in motor vehicles.

Abstract: An attachment device for attaching a substrate to a support structure includes a housing having a space defined by facing wall portions. The space captures a rotatable push nut with flexible teeth. The housing is attached to the substrate using a flange positioned opposite one of the wall portions, the substrate being crimped between the flange and the wall portion. The device may be pushed onto a threaded stud to rapidly affix the substrate to the support structure. The push nut may be rotated within the housing to disengage it from the stud and thereby remove the substrate from the support structure.

Abstract: A mechanical stop is adapted to be mounted onto a rigid bar and includes a single piece conically shaped body having a plurality of inwardly extending projections. Each of the inwardly extending projections have a distal end that is contoured to match an outer surface of the bar. The distal ends define an opening. The conically shaped body is adapted to be plastically deformed to a substantially flat shape after being placed onto the rigid bar. The opening includes a first dimension larger than the rigid bar prior to being plastically deformed and a second dimension smaller than the rigid bar after being plastically deformed. After the conically shaped body is plastically deformed into a substantially flat shape, the distal ends will frictionally engage the outer surface of the rigid bar to secure the mechanical stop thereon.

Abstract: A first device is attached to a second device, particularly first and second radiators, using a retainer and a cooperable button. The retainer has a base and a stem projecting from one side thereof with an elongated ratchet for engaging at least one pawl in an axial opening of the button. The button, preferably a single piece, has a hub with an axial opening in which the pawl is located and has a resilient rim. In one embodiment, side-by-side devices are embraced between the base and the button. In another embodiment, one device is embraced between the base and the button, and the base has a superstructure for engaging the other device.

Abstract: An attachment clip 10 is provided to attach a heat shielding plate 4 to an under-panel 2. The under-panel 2 has a bolt 5 projecting from a floor tunnel 2a. The heat shielding plate 4 has a bolt hole 4a formed to allow passage of a shank 5a of the bolt 5. The attachment clip 10 has a clip body 11 having an abutting part 13 for abutment on the heat shielding plate 4. The abutting part 13 has a shank hole 12 for passage of the shank 5a of the bolt 5. The attachment clip 10 further includes six engagement claws 10A–10F projecting from the inner periphery of the clip body 11 inwardly. The engagement claws 10A–10F have respective engagement tips 10a–10f formed to depart from the clip body 11 along the axial direction of the attachment chip 10, providing a substantial cone-shaped configuration. The engagement claws 10A–10F elastically engage with threads of the shank 5a while urging the heat shielding plate 4 toward the under-panel 2 along the axial direction of the bolt 5.

Abstract: A locking device and its assemblage are provided for confining an object such as a shaft of a motor. The locking device is used to confine the shaft having an end with a recess portion having a defining surface to prevent the shaft from being displaced in an axial direction. The locking device is a geometrically closed-loop body having an opening, and having a flexibility so that the shaft will pass through the opening and the end of the shaft will thus be confined by the locking device while the force disappears. The locking device is free from contact with the recess portion of the shaft when the shaft is spinning. A simple process can be used to assemble and disassemble the locking assemblage.

Abstract: A fastener device is disclosed for fastening a member having a post extending therefrom to a retainer defining an aperture. The arrangement is such that the post is received within the aperture of the retainer for lockably retaining the member relative to the retainer. The device includes a washer which has a peripheral rim and a first and a second face. The washer defines a hole for the reception therein of the post. The washer has a plurality of barbs which surround the hole, the barbs lockably cooperating with the post when the post is inserted into the hole. Also, the washer defines a plurality of ears which extend from the peripheral rim such that when the post is inserted into the aperture of the retainer, the ears engage the retainer for retaining the member relative to the retainer.

Abstract: A captive fastener retention member includes a cylindrical body having a flange at one end thereof. Work piece retention members project outwardly of the body for securing the retention member in a bore of a work piece. A dimple projects inwardly in the retention member to hold a fastener. The flange on the retention member rests against a work piece, and is shaped to inhibit scratching or gouging of the work piece surface.

Abstract: A retaining ring in accordance with the present invention mainly includes an outer circumference and an inner circumference. The inner circumference has a slightly narrow diameter adapted to fittingly engage with an outer circumference of a shaft.

Abstract: A retaining ring in accordance with the present invention mainly includes an outer circumference and an inner circumference. The inner circumference has a slightly narrow diameter adapted to fittingly engage with an outer circumference of a shaft.

Abstract: A bowed snap-disc includes inner and outer perimeters that provide the disc with operating characteristics not found in comparably sized discs. At certain points along its circumference, the inner perimeter extends farther from the disc's center than certain other points of the disc's outer perimeter. This provides the disc with a unique combination of spring constant, compressive force, deflection and coefficient of compliance. The disc is particularly useful as a small, flat compression spring; a shaft or bar locking element; tightness indicator for a threaded fastener; or a lock washer.

Abstract: A locking device and its assemblage are provided for confining an object. The locking device is used to confine the object having an end having a recess having a defining surface to prevent the object from being displaced in a direction. The locking device is a geometrically closed-loop body having a hollow portion, and has a flexibility so that upon being applied with an external force, the object will pass through the hollow portion and the end will thus be confined by the locking device while the force disappears. A simple process can be used to assemble and disassemble the locking assemblage.

Abstract: A protective device for an aciculate object includes a body, a capture, and a protective cap. The body is a geometric shape with two ends. The body has a longest side of length L1. The body is resistant to deformation along an axis parallel to the longest side of the body. The capture is formed into the body at one end. The protective device is pushed over a pointy or pointed end of the aciculate object positively engaging the capture of the protective device. The capture retains the aciculate object and resists movement of the aciculate object coaxially off the aciculate object and in a direction normal to an axis parallel to the longest side of the body. The protective cap is mounted to the end of the body opposite the capture. The protective cap has a diameter L2, such that L2 is less than L1. The protective cap is resistant to penetration from the pointy or pointed of the aciculate object.

Abstract: The structural unit (12) is comprised of a securing element (11) and a wiper device (10) and the wiper device 10 is detachably fastened to the securing element (11). In this instance, the detachable connection is embodied as a detent connection. A detent element (14) is embodied on the securing element (11) and elastically engages in detent fashion in a detent seat (13) embodied on a wiper bearing (15) of the wiper device (10).

Abstract: A pin cap to protect the end of a pin that is usable with a range of pin sizes. The pin cap has a generally cylindrical shape with a closed end and an open end. The open end may have a tapered entry to facilitate insertion of the pin end into the pin cap. The interior of the body of the pin cap has a plurality of concave diaphragms with stellate center cuts. A pin is directed toward the center of each diaphragm while compression of the pin body compresses the diaphragms, thereby allowing the stellate center cut to open to allow the pin to pass through the diaphragm. When pressure on the pin body is relaxed, the stellate center cuts close down on the pin to hold it in place. By selecting the type of material used for the diaphragms, the number of diaphragms and the number of slots in the stellate center cut, the resistance of the pin cap to being pulled off the pin can be set. The concave shape of the diaphrams also resists removal of the pin cap from a pin.

Abstract: A bowed snap-disc includes inner and outer perimeters that provide the disc with operating characteristics not found in comparably sized discs. At certain points along its circumference, the inner perimeter extends farther from the disc's center than certain other points of the disc's outer perimeter. This provides the disc with a unique combination of spring constant, compressive force, deflection and coefficient of compliance. The disc is particularly useful as a small, flat compression spring; a shaft or bar locking element; tightness indicator for a threaded fastener; or a lock washer.

Abstract: A spring collet clamping system and method therefor including a collet disposed about a shaft, for example a rotary motor shaft, a substantially balanced spring clamp having a coil portion with arms extending from generally opposite portions thereof, the coil portion of the spring clamp is disposed about a portion of the collet, for example resilient arms thereof, to constrict and clamp the collet about the shaft.

Abstract: A bolt retainer mechanism in one layer of a multiple-layered steel (MLS) gasket, includes an aperture defining a radially inwardly extending tabs. In one embodiment, each tab is formed to define an inverted U-shaped tang positioned adjacent to, and in symmetrical registration with though axially spaced from, an associated mated aperture formed in a second layer of at least a two-layer gasket. Collectively, the plurality of tangs defines a circumscribed diameter slightly smaller than the diameter of the associated mated aperture, to assure retention of a bolt supported through the mated apertures for pre-assembly shipment. Preferably, the tangs in association with each of the mated apertures are formed of a spring metal adapted to provide radially inwardly directed forces against threaded shanks of associated bolts. To enhance effectiveness of bolt retention, the bolt-contacting portion of each U-shaped tab has an axial length greater than the axial thickness of the apertures.

Abstract: A heat dissipation device includes a heat sink (80) and an assembling device for securing the heat sink to a, chip (90) mounted on a printed circuit board (100). The heat sink has a pair of ears (82) each defining an aperture (84) therein. The assembling device includes a clip (70), a pair of sleeves (50) each defining a cavity (62) therethrough, and a pair of springs (60). Each sleeve extends through the aperture of a corresponding ear of the heat sink, and the springs are disposed respectively between the ears and an end of the sleeves. The clip has a pair of posts (66) for extending through the printed circuit board to engage with the corresponding cavities.

Abstract: A retainer clip for retaining components on a shaft eliminates the need for a threaded shaft and a hex nut to retain the components on the shaft. The retaining clip includes a main body having a through hole for accommodating the shaft, a plurality of teeth for engaging the shaft and projecting radially inwardly from the main body and a plurality of spring members projecting in a direction transverse to the main body.

Abstract: The fastener includes a post element, a blind aperture pivot assembly with a blind aperture into which the post element is inserted, and a rigid fastening member. The rigid fastening member secures around the post. The inclined rotationally symmetric wall deflects upon insertion into the blind aperture, but then interferes with the walls of the blind aperture to resist withdrawal.

Abstract: A locking device and its assemblage are provided for confining an object. The locking device is used to confine the object having an end having a recess having a defining surface to prevent the object from being displaced in a direction. The locking device is a geometrically closed-loop body having a hollow or cut out portion, and having a flexibility so that upon being applied with an external force, the object will pass through the hollow portion and the end will thus be confined by the locking device while the force disappears. A simple process can be used to assemble and disassemble the locking assemblage.

Abstract: A retainer clip for retaining components on a shaft eliminates the need for a threaded shaft and a hex nut to retain the components on the shaft. The retaining clip includes a main body having a through hole for accommodating the shaft, a plurality of teeth for engaging the shaft and projecting radially inwardly from the main body and a plurality of spring members projecting in a direction transverse to the main body.

Abstract: A self-tightening clip having a planar member and at least one retention member attached to the planar member. The planar member includes an inner perimeter, an outer perimeter, and defines a central axis. The least one retention member including a planar leg portion and a planar hook portion. The leg portion extends from the inner perimeter in a first direction along the central axis. The hook portion projects from the leg portion toward the central axis in a second direction, which is opposite the first direction along the central axis. The hook portion is acute to the central axis and has a free end located on an imaginary perimeter concentric to the inner perimeter of the planar member. The central axis and a plane passing through the hook portion of the at least one retention member form an angle in the range of approximately 20°-30°.

Abstract: An attachment connection (18) for securing a vehicle trim component (16) to a vehicle body sheet metal panel (20) includes an attachment projection (22) extending from the trim component with an attachment formation (24) molded in situ thereon from a softer material. An opening (26) in the sheet metal panel (20) includes a cantilevered leaf spring (28) having a terminal end (30) that is engaged with the softer attachment formation (24) upon insertion of the attachment projection into the opening to thereby provide securement of the trim component. The leaf spring (28) has a curved section (32) to provide enhanced spring action thereof and its terminal end (30) preferably has a curved shape that engages the attachment formation (24) on the attachment projection (22).

Abstract: A self tightening planar member and at least one retention member attached to the planar member. The planar member includes an inner perimeter, an outer perimeter, and defines a central axis. The least one retention member including a planar leg portion and a planar hook portion. The leg portion extends from the inner perimeter in a first direction along the central axis. The hook portion projects from the leg portion toward the central axis in a second direction, which is opposite the first direction along the central axis. The hook portion is acute to the central axis and has a free end located on an imaginary perimeter concentric to the inner perimeter of the planar member. The central axis and a plane passing through the hook portion of the at least one retention member form an angle in the range of approximately 20°-30°.

Abstract: A push nut fastener has first and second gripping openings. The first gripping opening is substantially circular and the second gripping opening is substantially rectangular. The substantially circular gripping opening has a plurality of blades or finger-like engagement portions extending from the outer circumference of the substantially circular gripping opening towards the center of the substantially circular gripping opening. The substantially rectangular gripping opening has a plurality of blades or finger-like engagement portions extending from the outer perimeter of the substantially rectangular gripping opening towards the center of the substantially rectangular gripping opening. The substantially rectangular gripping opening includes at least two blades or finger-like engagement portions, a respective blade extending from each of two opposing sides of the substantially rectangular gripping opening. The push nut may have flanges formed at two opposing ends of the member.

Abstract: In a fastening element (1) for fastening insulating sheets and if necessary sealing sheets to a solid base there are provided a screw (5) and a large-surface washer (6), wherein the screw (5) has a drilling point (7), a screw shank (9) provided at least partly with a threaded region (8) as well as a screw head (10). The washer has a central hole (21) for introducing the screw shank. A tubular extension (20) aligned axially parallel to the screw shank (9) to be inserted adjoins the central hole (21) in the washer (6). Sections or parts of this extension (20) engage by plastic deformation in the threaded region (8) of the screw shank (9) to achieve preassembled retention of the washer (6) and screw (5).

Abstract: An annular locking element is provided for engaging a cylindrical object to lock the object to a plate. The locking element comprises a circular element region formed to be an interrupted circle and being adapted to engage a first contact surface on the cylindrical object. A plurality of spring tongues extends radially from the element region and are bent outwardly from the element region. A plurality of support elements also extend from the element region and are adapted to engage a second contact surace on the cylindrical object.

Abstract: An elastic fastening ring that can be mounted in a self-clamping manner on a bearing part should have a simple design, a reliable operation and at the same time the function of an axial spring element. For this purpose, the disclosed fastening ring consists of a washer with a sinuous ring-shaped band whose length may be elastically changed in the circumferential direction over its whole radial width.

Abstract: The disclosure involves the combination of a vehicle chassis such as that used on a construction machine, e.g., a loader/backhoe. The chassis has a channel and a holding tank, e.g., a hydraulic oil tank, supported on the channel by first and second tank mounting ears. In the improvement, the channel includes a panel having outer and inner surfaces and first and second mounting plates are against the inner surface. First and second mounting fasteners extend through the first and second tank mounting ears, respectively, through the chassis panel and into the first and second mounting plates, respectively. A new method for mounting a holding tank to a vehicle chassis is also disclosed.

Abstract: A threaded fastener has a nut, a lower neck disposed on a bottom of the nut, a cage recess formed on the lower neck, the cage recess having a flat face and a bevel face, a cushion having a through hole, and the lower neck inserted in the through hole. The cushion encloses the cage recess.

Abstract: A pivot device for use with a notebook computer has a keyed washer and an axle corresponding to the keyed washer. The keyed washer has a keyed opening defined therein and a plurality of keys formed on an inner periphery defining the keyed opening. The axle has a plurality of slots defined in an end thereof, such that when the axle is inserted into the keyed washer, the keys will be forced into one of the corresponding slots and thus a secure connection between the axle and the keyed washer is achieved.

Abstract: A tearable and disposable retainer for temporarily holding and positioning an apertured element such as a washer in place along the length of an elongated, generally cylindrical part. The retainer of the present invention includes a singular, generally planar member made from a manually tearable material. The retainer member defines a generally centralized hole or opening with a series of cuts or slits radially extending therefrom. A series of angularly shaped segments are defined between the slits, with each angularly shaped segment having a formed arcuate edge at a distal end thereof for frictionally engaging the outer cylindrical surface of the part over which the washer is loosely fitted.

Abstract: A push nut formed of an annular rim and an elastic prong member having a fragile portion capable of being easily bent with a pushing force can be easily engaged with a rod-shaped article such as a shaft, consequently to firmly secure the rod-shaped article onto a frame of an electrical appliance or the like. The fragile portion of the prong member is formed by one or more slots, thin-walled parts, or grooves. The push nut engaged with the rod-shaped article can easily be disengaged by pressing down the prong member with a cylindrical tool to bend the prong member at the fragile portion, so that the rod-shaped article can be freed from the frame of the electrical appliance with little damage and can be reused effectively.

Abstract: A pushnut fastener for use in conjunction with a cylindrical shaft having a pair of opposed flat surfaces extending therealong. The pushnut has an opening that complements the shape of the shaft and includes arcuate blades that are, in assembly, biased in contact with the arcuate surfaces of the shaft and straight blades that are biased in contact with the flat surfaces of the shaft. In a relaxed condition, the straight blades are generally parallel with the horizontally disposed base of the nut and the arcuate shaped blades are set at an angle of about 45.degree. with the base.

Abstract: A flat plate is used to cover a mounting hole in a masonry wall face and is held in place by a set of wire hooks. The hooks are able to slide into holes in the plate and catch onto the interior surface of the wall in order to hold a clearance hole in the plate concentrically with respect to the mounting hole. An anchor bolt is supported at the center of the mounting hole by the clearance hole in the plate while grout is poured into the masonry blocks thereby assuring that the bolt is positioned properly in accordance with building code.

Abstract: A polymeric inventory control collar locking ring for securing an inventory control collar around the cylindrical neck of a storage container comprising a circular disc with a central opening sized to fit around the neck of the storage container and a plurality of inwardly disposed flexible tabs spaced equally around the perimeter of the central opening. The tabs are formed integrally with the disc and extend radially inward into the central opening, having a distance of projection sufficient to engage the neck of said storage container.

Abstract: A stress plate for use with a threaded fastener for securing relatively soft insulation to a solid base, such as in a roofing environment, includes a generally planar main body, and a hole on the main body configured for receiving the fastener. The plate is configured so that the hole is angled relative to a vertical axis of the plate for accommodating threads of the fastener so that the fastener is maintained in a generally perpendicular orientation to the main body upon the engagement of the threads of the fastener in the hole. In the preferred embodiment, the threads of the fastener have a helix angle, and the hole, which is formed in a conical depression in the plate, is angled at the same angle as the threads of the fastener.

Abstract: A clip is installable on the edge area of a panel to assume a tight or floating condition centered on a fastener hole in the panel. The clip includes at least one prong or similar gripper mechanism designed to hold the clip-panel in place on a fastener while the fastener is being tightened. The clip further includes a pressure limiting mechanism for limiting the pressure exerted by the clip walls on the panel when the fastener is in its final tightened position. The clip can also be used as a fastener means.

Abstract: In a fastening arrangement for a sensor (1) which can be inserted through a bore (3) in a wall (2) of a housing and is sealed and held releasably by means of an O-ring (10) and a cup-spring-like retaining ring (11), the sensor (1), together with the cup-spring-like retaining ring (11) seated on a shoulder (7), can be forced in axially with the cylindrical outer circumference (12) of the retaining ring (11) in clamping engagement with the enlarged portion (4) of the bore (2) in the wall, the O-ring (10) can be axially loaded between the shoulder (7) and the step (5) which terminates the enlarged portion (4), and the sensor (1) can be fixed axially by the inner circumference (13) of the retaining ring clamping its cylindrical shaft (6).

Abstract: A push-on fixer for screw engagement in which a plurality of radially extending notches are formed in a circumferential edge region of a circular hole formed at a center portion of a thin discoid body, and a plurality of inner plate spring pieces are formed on the circumferential edge region of the circular hole so as to allow insertion of an aiming screw into the circular hole and so as to clamp the inserted aiming screw, is provided. An aiming screw is inserted into an aiming screw insertion hole of a lamp body of an automobile head lamp, and is retained so as to be prevented from coming out of the lamp body. A plurality of outer plate spring pieces which press against a push-on fixer abutment surface of the lamp body and a plurality of clamp release claws for releasing the clamping of the screw by the screw clamp plate spring pieces are formed on the outer circumferential edge of the thin discoid body.