fixationstab

Fixationstab is a term used in manufacturing and design to describe a small protruding element that serves as a temporary or permanent anchor to fix, orient, or register a component during processing. The design is intended to improve alignment, stability, and repeatability in workflows that require precise positioning.

Geometries vary: straight or L-shaped tabs, curved hooks, or flat anchors. They may be integrated into a substrate during fabrication or attached as removable accessories. Common materials include stainless steel, aluminum, brass, or high-strength polymers, often with surface treatments such as electroplating, passivation, or laser-etched markings for identification.

In use, fixationstabs function as fixtures or locators by engaging with corresponding features on mating parts, jigs, or fixtures. They can be designed to be self-locating, passively guiding the component into position, or require active clamping. For removable versions, quick-release mechanisms or breakaway designs are employed to allow easy removal without damage.

Applications span electronics assembly (holding boards during soldering or inspection), sheet metal and plastic fabrication (registering parts for punching or welding), packaging and labeling (straightening and aligning materials), and biomedical workflows (temporarily stabilizing tissue specimens or implants during processing).

Considerations when using fixationstabs include material compatibility, tolerance stack-up, interference with other features, ease of removal, and impact on recyclability. Proper design minimizes marks and residuals, and ensures that tabs are positioned to avoid interference with function or aesthetics.

See also: fixture, clamp, locator pin, alignment tab, breakaway tab.