Instrument mounting structure

Abstract

A structure for mounting an instrument to a recessed instrument panel within the recess thereof is disclosed. The instrument panel recess is formed on its inner surface with hook means. At least one lock device is fixedly secured on the instrument. The lock device includes a base plate secured on the instrument, a lock member supported on the base plate for sliding movement at an angle with respect to the direction of insertion of the instrument into and out of engagement with the hook member, and a snap-action mechanism secured on the base plate and coupled to the lock member. The snap-action mechanism has its condition changed so as to hold the lock member in engagement with the hook member under a force when the instrument is advanced into the recess to a predetermined position and returned to its original condition so as to bring the lock member out of engagement with the hook member when the instrument is retracted against the force from the predetermined position.

Dependencies are inferred from the claim text.