This manual will guide you through the basics of snap-fit design, including: types of snap-fit designs and their applications; how to calculate the strength of the unit and amount of force needed for assembly; and the three common causes of failure in snap-fits and how to overcome them.

Why use snap-fits? This chapter will give you a thumbnail sketch of the benefits of snap-fits and the materials used to make them. Snap-fits are the simplest, quickest and most costeffective method of assembling two parts. When designed properly, parts with snap-fits can be assembled and disassembled numerous times without any adverse effect on the assembly. Snap-fits are also the most environmentally friendly form of assembly because of their ease of disassembly, making components of different materials easy to recycle.