Covered Removable Clip

Abstract

A removable clip for coupling a first component to a second component is disclosed. The clip includes a top plate having a tool opening and a cover formed on the top plate that selectively covers the tool opening. The cover is bendable or removable to permit tool access for clip removal while providing a substantially continuous outer surface when installed. A pair of resilient retention legs extends from the top plate and engages the first and second components to secure the clip in place. Upon bending or removal of the cover, a tool may be inserted through the tool opening to disengage the retention legs and remove the clip. In some examples, the clip is formed as a stamped-metal component and may further include resilient spring arms configured to maintain panel compression and reduce noise, vibration, and rattle between the coupled components.

Dependencies are inferred from the claim text.