U.S. patent application number 11/068118 was filed with the patent office on 2005-08-04 for fastening assemblies and components thereof.
This patent application is currently assigned to Pilgrim Screw Corporation. Invention is credited to Attanasio, Gerard E..
Application Number | 20050169728 11/068118 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 34199194 |
Filed Date | 2005-08-04 |
United States Patent
Application |
20050169728 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Attanasio, Gerard E. |
August 4, 2005 |
Fastening assemblies and components thereof
Abstract
A fastening assembly is provided. The fastening assembly
includes provision for a stud to be positioned in a plurality of
predetermined extended positions, minimizing the amount of
clearance required for removing a cover from a substructure.
Inventors: |
Attanasio, Gerard E.;
(Middlebury, CT) |
Correspondence
Address: |
SALTER & MICHAELSON
THE HERITAGE BUILDING
321 SOUTH MAIN STREET
PROVIDENCE
RI
029037128
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Assignee: |
Pilgrim Screw Corporation
|
Family ID: |
34199194 |
Appl. No.: |
11/068118 |
Filed: |
February 28, 2005 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
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Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
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11068118 |
Feb 28, 2005 |
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10137011 |
May 2, 2002 |
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6860689 |
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60288253 |
May 2, 2001 |
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60338930 |
Mar 14, 2002 |
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60352059 |
Jan 25, 2002 |
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Current U.S.
Class: |
411/352 |
Current CPC
Class: |
B64C 1/12 20130101; F16B
5/0208 20130101; F16B 21/186 20130101; Y10S 411/999 20130101 |
Class at
Publication: |
411/352 |
International
Class: |
F16B 021/18 |
Claims
What is claimed is:
1. A fastening assembly, comprising: a stud assembly including a
stud, a first sleeve that is matingly engageable with a second
sleeve, the second sleeve including an inwardly disposed channel
for receiving a substantially circular retaining ring, the
retaining ring including two oppositely disposed tabs protruding
toward the center of the retaining ring; and a receptacle assembly
including a bracket constructed and arranged to be secured to a
panel, an internally threaded nut, a retaining clamp for securing
the nut in the bracket, and a coil constructed and arranged to be
threaded into the nut, the bracket including a substantially planar
upper portion with a collar extending from the upper portion and
defining a bore for receiving the stud therethrough; wherein the
stud includes a base, a head, and a shank disposed therebetween,
the shank including an exterior surface having a threaded section
and a substantially smooth section adjacent the head end, the
exterior surface including at least two longitudinal channels
positioned opposite one another and extending from the base end
into the substantially smooth section, each channel including an
inner surface and opposing sidewalls substantially perpendicular to
the inner surface, and each channel including at least two
oppositely disposed engagement members for engaging the tabs of the
retaining ring.
2. The fastening assembly of claim 1, wherein the at least two
engagement members are defined by a plurality of lobes protruding
from the interior surface of the channel between the at least two
engagement members and between the sidewalls of the channels.
3. The fastening assembly of claim 1, wherein the at least two
engagement members are defined by a plurality of ribs protruding
from the interior surface of the channel between each of the
engagement members and between the sidewalls of the channels.
4. The fastening assembly of claim 1, wherein the internally
threaded nut includes a substantially planar portion and a sleeve
extending from a lower surface of the substantially planar portion,
and a plurality of channels extending from the substantially planar
portion to a base end of the sleeve.
5. The fastening assembly of claim 4, wherein the nut has a
substantially cylindrical external surface.
6. The fastening assembly of claim 4, wherein the nut has a
substantially hexagonal external surface and the channels are
disposed at the corners of the hexagon.
7. The fastening assembly of claim 1, wherein the substantially
planar portion of the bracket includes a first projecting
portion.
8. The fastening assembly of claim 7, wherein the bracket includes
two opposing sidewalls extending downwardly from the substantially
planar portion.
9. The fastening assembly of claim 8, wherein each sidewall
includes at least one slot for receiving an engaging portion of the
retaining clamp.
10. The fastening assembly of claim 8, wherein each sidewall
includes a sidewall extension.
11. The fastening assembly of claim 10, wherein the at least one
slot is disposed on the sidewall extension.
12. The fastening assembly of claim 11, wherein the bracket
includes two oppositely disposed tabs positioned substantially
parallel to and spaced apart from the planar portion.
13. The fastening assembly of claim 12, wherein each of the
oppositely disposed tabs extends from the opposing sidewalls.
14. The fastening assembly of claim 7, wherein the first projecting
portion includes a bore for receiving a fastening device for
securing the bracket to a panel.
15. The fastening assembly of claim 9, wherein the engaging portion
of the retaining clamp is an end of the retaining clamp.
16. The fastening assembly of claim 7, wherein the substantially
planar portion includes a second projecting portion opposite the
first projecting portion.
17. The fastening assembly of claim 16, wherein each of the first
and second projecting portions include a bore for receiving a
fastening device for securing the bracket to a panel.
18. The fastening assembly of claim 1, wherein the bracket includes
a recessed region disposed in an upper surface of the substantially
planar portion.
19. The fastening assembly of claim 18, wherein the substantially
planar upper portion of the nut is configured and dimensioned to be
received in the recessed region of the bracket.
20. The fastening assembly of claim 18, wherein the bracket
includes a cover extending from an underside of the substantially
planar portion.
21. The fastening assembly of claim 20, wherein the cover is
integrally formed with the bracket.
22. A fastening assembly, comprising: a stud assembly including a
stud, a first sleeve that is matingly engageable with a second
sleeve, the second sleeve including an inwardly disposed channel
for receiving a substantially circular retaining ring, the
retaining ring including two oppositely disposed tabs protruding
toward the center of the retaining ring; and a receptacle assembly
including a bracket constructed and arranged to be secured to a
panel, an internally threaded nut, a retaining clamp for securing
the nut in the bracket, and a coil constructed and arranged to be
threaded into the nut, the bracket including a substantially planar
upper portion with a collar extending upwardly from an upper
surface of the upper portion, the collar defining a bore for
receiving the stud therethrough, the substantially planar upper
portion further including at least one bore for receiving a
fastener therethrough for attaching the bracket to a cover; wherein
the internally threaded nut includes a substantially planar support
and a body portion having an outer surface, an upper end adjacent
the substantially planar support, and a lower end distal the
substantially planar support, the body portion including a
plurality of flanges defined by a plurality of spaced apart
channels.
23-40. (canceled)
41. A fastening assembly, comprising: a stud assembly including a
stud, a first sleeve that is matingly engageable with a second
sleeve, the second sleeve including an inwardly disposed channel
for receiving a substantially circular retaining ring, the
retaining ring including two oppositely disposed tabs protruding
toward the center of the retaining ring; and a receptacle assembly
including a bracket constructed and arranged to be secured to a
panel, an internally threaded nut, a retaining clamp for securing
the nut in the bracket, and a coil constructed and arranged to be
threaded into the nut, the bracket including a substantially planar
upper portion with a collar extending upwardly from an upper
surface of the upper portion, the collar defining a bore for
receiving the stud therethrough, the substantially planar upper
portion further including a bore for receiving a fastener
therethrough for attaching the bracket to a cover; wherein the
bracket includes two opposing sidewalls extending downwardly from
the substantially planar portion, two oppositely disposed tabs
extending from the sidewall and positioned substantially parallel
to and spaced apart from the planar portion, each sidewall
including a sidewall extension with at least one slot for receiving
an engaging portion of the retaining clamp.
42-46. (canceled)
Description
RELATED CASES
[0001] Priority is hereby claimed under 35 U.S.C. .sctn. 119(e) to
commonly owned and co-pending U.S. Provisional Patent Application
No. 60/288,253, filed on May 2, 2001; to commonly owned and
co-pending U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 60/338,930,
filed on Dec. 6, 2001; and to commonly owned and co-pending U.S.
Provisional Patent Application No. 60/352,059, filed on Jan. 24,
2002, each of which is incorporated herein by reference in its
entirety.
BACKGROUND
[0002] 1. Technical Field
[0003] This disclosure relates generally to a fastening assembly
and components of the fastening assembly and, more particularly, to
a structural fastener assembly and components of such a fastening
assembly, which may be for attaching a cover or panel to a
substructure, particularly in high stress environments.
[0004] 2. Related Art
[0005] A variety of fastener assemblies are known for attaching a
panel to a substructure, for example, such as attaching a panel to
an aircraft structure. Such fastening assemblies are typically
designed for use in high stress environments, such as to protect
aircraft access panels, and when used in such environments, are
referred to as structural fasteners or structural fastening
assemblies. Such structural fastening assemblies must be able to
maintain secure attachment of the panel to the substructure panel
during conditions of excessive vibration and high loads applied to
the panel during flight.
[0006] The studs of captive fastening assemblies remain captive in
the stud assembly when the panel is removed. Therefore, when the
panels are removed from the substructure, the studs remain with the
cover, maintaining the position of the studs relative to the panel
and eliminating the problem of stud loss or displacement. In
general, the studs of captive fastening assemblies only can be
extended from the stud assembly to one position. This is
problematic when the clearance required to remove a panel is
minimal. In such situations, the studs must be removed from the
fastening assembly, which is problematic because it is easy to
lose, drop and confuse the studs, and thereafter it is difficult to
tell which fasteners the studs belong to when reattaching the panel
to the substructure. One way this has been addressed is to use
studs of varying length so that the amount of stud exposed
underneath the panel after the stud is extended can be varied.
[0007] Many existing captive fastening assemblies are also quite
delicate and are unable to withstand the force associated with the
use of pneumatic drills, which increases the amount of time
required to remove and re-install panels. Some fastening assemblies
have reduced life due to breakage of retaining rings, as well as
other components of the assemblies. When the retaining ring breaks,
depending on the design of the fastener, it often may result in the
screw or stud falling out of the assembly, defeating the purpose of
using a "captive" fastener assembly. Another common type of failure
is due to "foreign object debris" (FOD), which is common in
fastening assemblies that include a hole in the stud or screw which
becomes filled with debris over time.
SUMMARY
[0008] The present disclosure provides a fastening assembly that
includes a "hold-out" feature that allows a stud to be removed or
extended from a fastening assembly at several predetermined
positions, allowing panels to be removed while retaining the
positions of the screws. This is especially desirable when removing
curved panels from a curved substructure, for example, when it is
desirable to have the studs on the curved portions of the cover
removed or extended by a greater amount than those on the flat or
planar portion of the cover to provide additional clearance when
removing the cover from the substructure. Another feature of the
present disclosure is the provision of a fastener with evenly
distributed forces along the grommet assembly, rather that
localized distribution of force at the tip of a stud. This results
in a secure fit of the stud within the grommet assembly and
decreases the chance that the stud may be inadvertently released
from its captive position.
[0009] The fastening assemblies of the present disclosure may also
be configured and dimensioned to have a reduced "footprint" for use
in relatively small and/or inaccessible areas.
[0010] In one embodiment, the present disclosure is directed to a
fastening assembly that includes a stud that may be positioned in a
plurality of predetermined extended positions while being
maintained in a captive position within the stud assembly. The
fastening assembly includes a grommet assembly for attachment to a
cover, which includes a retaining ring having inwardly extending
tabs. A plurality of engagement members, which may be lobes or
ribs, are disposed within longitudinally extending channels of a
stud. The lobes or ribs engage with the tabs of the retaining ring.
As the stud is inserted or removed, the tabs slide within the
channels of the stud, engaging successive lobes or ribs. Such a
structure allows the stud to remain captive in the stud assembly
during removal of a cover from a panel, and further allows the stud
to have several extended predetermined positions. This is
advantageous when the clearance between the panel and the cover is
minimal, and it is desirable to remove the stud as far as possible
from the stud assembly while maintaining the stud in a captive
position.
[0011] In another embodiment, the fastening assembly includes a nut
that includes a plurality of flanges. Preferably, the nut is
constructed form a material having a memory, such as a shape memory
alloy, which allows it to flex or spring back to its original shape
after being subjected to a force. The construction and material of
the nut allows the force exerted on a stud when it is inserted into
a grommet assembly to be distributed substantially evenly along the
length of the nut, rather than being localized at one end of the
nut.
[0012] In another embodiment, the fastening assembly includes a
receptacle that may be attached to a cover using a single bolt or
rivet, and in which the nut is secured into the receptacle with
tabs at one end and with a retaining clamp positioned substantially
perpendicular to the cover at the opposing end.
[0013] In another embodiment, the fastening assembly includes a
receptacle that includes a sealed nut unit, which allows the
fastening assembly to be used in regions in which there is a
pressure differential.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0014] In the drawings:
[0015] FIG. 1 is an exploded view of one embodiment of a fastening
assembly according to the present disclosure;
[0016] FIG. 2 is an exploded view of the stud assembly of the
fastening assembly shown in FIG. 1;
[0017] FIG. 2A is a sectional view showing the engagement of the
upper and lower sleeves of the stud assembly;
[0018] FIG. 2B is a sectional view showing the engagement of the
retaining ring inserted into the channel of the lower sleeve of the
stud assembly;
[0019] FIG. 3 is a perspective view of the stud shown in the stud
assembly shown in FIG. 2;
[0020] FIG. 4 is a sectional view of the stud shown in FIG. 2;
[0021] FIG. 5 is a side view of the stud shown in FIG. 2;
[0022] FIG. 6 is an exploded view of the receptacle of the
fastening assembly shown in FIG. 1;
[0023] FIG. 6A is a side schematic view of the receptacle
assembly;
[0024] FIG. 7 is a perspective view of the fastening assembly of
FIG. 1 in an assembled configuration;
[0025] FIG. 8 is a sectional view of the fastening assembly of FIG.
7 with the stud in a first position;
[0026] FIG. 9 is a sectional view of the fastening assembly of FIG.
7 with the stud in a second position;
[0027] FIG. 10 is a sectional view of the fastening assembly of
FIG. 7 with the stud in a third position;
[0028] FIG. 11 is an exploded view of another embodiment of a
fastening assembly according to the present disclosure;
[0029] FIG. 12 is an exploded view of the stud assembly of the
fastening assembly shown in FIG. 11;
[0030] FIG. 13 is a perspective view of the stud shown as part of
the stud assembly shown in FIG. 12;
[0031] FIG. 14 is a side view of the stud shown in FIG. 13;
[0032] FIG. 15 is another side view of the stud shown in FIG.
13;
[0033] FIG. 16 is a perspective view of the fastening assembly of
FIG. 11 in an assembled configuration;
[0034] FIG. 17 is a sectional view of the fastening assembly of
FIG. 16 with the stud in a first position;
[0035] FIG. 18 is a schematic view of the fastening assembly of
FIG. 17 with the stud in a second position;
[0036] FIG. 19 is an exploded view of another embodiment of a
fastening assembly according to the present disclosure, which
includes another embodiment of a nut;
[0037] FIG. 20 is an exploded view of the receptacle assembly of
the fastening assembly shown in FIG. 19;
[0038] FIG. 21 is a perspective view of the nut shown as part of
the receptacle assembly shown in FIG. 19;
[0039] FIG. 22 is a sectional view of the nut shown in FIG. 19;
[0040] FIG. 23 is a perspective view of the fastening assembly of
FIG. 19 in an assembled configuration;
[0041] FIG. 24 is a sectional view showing the operation of the
fastening assembly of FIG. 19 as the stud is inserted in to the
nut;
[0042] FIG. 25 is an exploded view of another embodiment of a
fastening assembly according to the present disclosure which is
particularly adapted for smaller dimensions;
[0043] FIG. 26 is an exploded view of the receptacle assembly of
the fastening assembly shown in FIG. 25;
[0044] FIG. 27 is a top perspective view of the receptacle assembly
shown in FIG. 26 in an assembled configuration;
[0045] FIG. 28 is a bottom perspective view of the receptacle
assembly shown in FIG. 26 in an assembled configuration;
[0046] FIG. 29 is a perspective view showing the fastening assembly
of FIG. 25 in an assembled configuration;
[0047] FIG. 30 is an exploded view of another embodiment of a
fastening assembly according to the present disclosure which
includes a pressure seal;
[0048] FIG. 31 is an exploded view of the receptacle assembly of
the fastening assembly shown in FIG. 30;
[0049] FIG. 32 is a perspective view of the bracket and nut of the
fastening assembly shown FIG. 31;
[0050] FIG. 33 is a perspective view of the stud and receptacle
assemblies shown in FIG. 30, each attached to a panel;
[0051] FIG. 34 is a perspective view of another embodiment of a
bracket;
[0052] FIG. 35 is an exploded view of the bracket of FIG. 34;
[0053] FIG. 36 is a bottom perspective view of the bracket of FIG.
34;
[0054] FIG. 37 is a bottom perspective view of the bracket of FIG.
34;
[0055] FIG. 38 is a bottom perspective view of the bracket of FIG.
34;
[0056] FIG. 39 is a perspective view of another embodiment of a
non-unitary bracket;
[0057] FIG. 40 is an exploded perspective view of the bracket shown
in FIG. 39;
[0058] FIG. 41 is a perspective view of the bracket portion of the
bracket shown in FIG. 40;
[0059] FIG. 42 is a top view of the bracket portion shown in FIG.
41;
[0060] FIG. 43 is a side view of the bracket portion shown in FIG.
41;
[0061] FIG. 44 is a perspective view of another embodiment of a
non-unitary bracket;
[0062] FIG. 45 is an exploded perspective view of the bracket shown
in FIG. 44;
[0063] FIG. 46 is a perspective view of another embodiment of a
nut;
[0064] FIG. 47 is a top view of the nut of FIG. 46;
[0065] FIG. 48 is a schematic side view of the nut of FIG. 47;
[0066] FIG. 49 is a perspective view of the nut element of FIG.
48;
[0067] FIG. 50 is an exploded view of another embodiment of a
fastening assembly according to the present disclosure, including
the bracket shown in FIGS. 34-38 and the nut shown in FIGS.
46-49;
[0068] FIG. 51 is an exploded view of the receptacle assembly of
the fastening assembly shown in FIG. 50;
[0069] FIG. 52 is a side schematic view of the receptacle assembly
shown in FIG. 51, shown in an assembled configuration;
[0070] FIG. 53 is a perspective view of the fastening assembly
shown in FIG. 51, attached to a cover and substructure; and
[0071] FIG. 54 is a side schematic view of the fastening assembly
shown in FIG. 50, showing the stud in one predetermined extended
position.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS
[0072] The present disclosure is directed to a fastening assembly
that may be used in high stress environments for attaching a cover
to a panel, such as covers used to close access openings in panels
of an aircraft. In some embodiments, the present fastening
assemblies may include stud assemblies that allow the stud to be
positioned in several predetermined extended positions while
remaining captive within the stud assembly. Such a feature is
useful, for example, when curved covers are attached to curved
panels using a plurality of fastening assemblies, each of which may
require different stud clearances in order to remove the cover from
the panel. In some embodiments, the fastening assembly may include
a nut that provides even distribution of stress along the nut. In
other embodiments, the fastening assembly may be configured and
dimensioned to be attached to a panel using a single bolt or rivet,
which allows the fastening assembly to be used in otherwise
inaccessible regions. In other embodiments, the fastening assembly
may include a sealed housing allowing it to be used where pressure
differentials occur.
[0073] One embodiment of a fastening assembly according to the
present disclosure is indicated generally at 10 in FIG. 1. As
shown, fastening assembly 10 includes a stud assembly indicated
generally at 12 and a receptacle assembly indicated generally at
14. Stud assembly 12 is illustrated in greater detail in FIG. 2. As
shown, stud assembly 12 includes a stud 14, an upper sleeve 16, a
lower sleeve 18, and a retaining ring 20.
[0074] Upper sleeve 16 has a substantially cylindrical wall
defining an opening 16a having a diameter sized and configured to
receive stud 14 therein. Upper sleeve 16 has a substantially smooth
interior surface 22 and a threaded exterior surface 24. A flange 26
extends outwardly from one end of an opening 16a.
[0075] Lower sleeve 18 also has a substantially cylindrical wall
defining an opening 18a sized and dimensioned to receive upper
sleeve 16 therein. Lower sleeve 18 has a substantially smooth
exterior surface 33 and a threaded interior surface 32 with a
plurality of channels 34 extending from annular lip 30 to an upper
end 28. Lower sleeve 18 also includes an annular lip 30 defining an
interior channel 31 (see FIG. 2A) sized and dimensioned to receive
retaining ring 20 therein.
[0076] Retaining ring 20 preferably has a substantially planar
circular shape and includes two opposed inwardly protruding tabs 40
and a slot 42 that allow it to be compressed while being inserted
into the interior channel 31 of lower sleeve 18.
[0077] As shown in FIG. 2A, when assembled, lower sleeve 18 is
inserted into an aperture (not illustrated) such as a cover 92, and
upper sleeve 16 is threaded into lower sleeve 18. Retaining ring 20
is then inserted into interior channel 31 of lower sleeve 18.
[0078] Stud 14 of stud assembly 12 is shown in greater detail in
FIGS. 3-5. As shown, stud 14 is substantially symmetrical in
construction, and includes a shank portion 44 having a threaded
exterior surface 46 and a head 48 which includes a recess 50 for
receiving a tool. Shank portion 44 includes two engagement sections
52 which may be recessed, as shown in the present embodiment, where
engagement section 52 is defined by a channel. For ease of
illustration, engagement sections 52 will be referred to
hereinafter as channels.
[0079] Preferably, each channel 52 includes at least two engagement
members 58 adapted to engage the inwardly protruding tabs 40 of
retaining ring 20 when the stud and fastening assemblies are
assembled together. In the present embodiment, channel 52 includes
three engagement members 58a,b,c that protrude outwardly from an
inner surface 54 of each channel 52. In the present embodiment,
engagement members 58a,b,c have a generally arcuate shape, such as
a lobe. For ease of illustration, engagement members 58a,b,c will
be referred to hereinafter as lobes.
[0080] Each lobe 58a,b,c includes a shoulder 60a,b,c and a
substantially smooth continuous section 62 that extends to and
intersects an adjacent shoulder. As will be shown in greater detail
below, tabs 40 of retaining ring 20 may be repositioned to engage
each shoulder 60a,b,c, in order to position stud 14 in a plurality
of predetermined engaged positions. Tabs 40 may be moved over
surfaces 62 to a predetermined engaged position different than the
first, by retracting or inserting stud 14 longitudinally in the
fastening assembly until tabs 40 engage a different shoulder
60a,b,c.
[0081] Receptacle assembly 14 is illustrated in greater detail in
FIG. 6. As shown, receptacle assembly 14 includes a bracket 70, a
retaining clamp 72, a nut 74, and a spring or coil 76. Bracket 70
includes a substantially planar upper portion 78 having an upper
surface 78a and a lower surface 78b. Two opposed sidewalls 80
extend downwardly from upper portion 78. The substantially planar
upper portion 78 includes opposed projections 81 extending
outwardly therefrom. Each projection 81 includes a rivet bore 82
for securing bracket 70 to, for example, panel 94. Extending
upwardly from upper portion 78 is a collar 84 which defines a
bracket opening 85 for receiving stud 14 therethrough. Each
sidewall 80 includes at least one slot 86 for receiving retaining
clamp 72 as will be described in greater detail below. Bracket 70
may be unitary, as shown, or may be assembled from different
components, as will be described in greater detail below. In
addition, the length of collar 84 may vary in order to accommodate
different substructure thicknesses, such as airframe
thicknesses.
[0082] Retaining clamp 72 preferably has a substantially planar
diamond or square shape with three closed corners 73a,b,c, and one
open corner 73d. Two of the closed corners 73a,b act as engagement
members for engaging slots 86 of bracket 70. Open corner 73d allows
the retaining clamp to be compressed when being inserted into slots
86 of bracket 70.
[0083] Nut 74 includes a substantially planar upper portion 88 from
which a barrel 90 having an internal bore 90a extends downwardly.
Upper portion 88 includes an upper surface 88a and a lower surface
88b. Barrel 90 includes a threaded interior surface 92 and an
exterior surface 94 that may be substantially cylindrical, or may
have a substantially hexagonal shape as shown. Upper portion 88
includes opposing arcuate channels 96 that correspond substantially
with rivet bores 82 of bracket 70. Threaded interior surface 92 of
internal bore 90a is dimensioned and configured to receive coil 76,
and thereafter to receive stud 14. Preferably, coil 76 may have a
substantially diamond-shaped cross section which defines, for each
coil, opposite, pointed side edges which are received within the
grooves defining the female internal threads of bore 90a.
[0084] When assembled, as shown in FIG. 6A, collar 84 of bracket 70
is inserted into an aperture (not illustrated) of a substructure
such as panel 94, and attached thereto by rivets inserted into
bores 82. FIG. 7 shows the receptacle assembly securing a cover to
panel 94. Thereafter, nut 74 is slidably inserted into bracket 70
between opposing sidewalls 80, retaining clamp 72 is placed around
barrel 90 and engaging corners 73a,b of retaining clamp 72 are
engaged with slots 86 of bracket 70. Coil 76 then may be threaded
into interior surface 92 of bore 90a.
[0085] FIGS. 8-10 show the three extended positions of stud 14. As
shown in FIG. 8, tabs 40 of retaining ring 20 engages stud 14 at
shoulder 60c in order to maintain stud 14 in an extended first
captive position.
[0086] As shown in FIG. 9, retaining ring 20 is engaging with
shoulder 60b of second lobe 58 in order to maintain stud 14 in a
second extended captive position. As shown in FIG. 10, tabs 40 of
retaining ring 20 engages shoulder 60a of stud 14 in order to
maintain stud 14 in a third extended captive position.
[0087] Thus, one aspect of the present disclosure is the provision
of a stud assembly that allows a stud to be positioned in at least
three extended positions while remaining captive in the stud
assembly.
[0088] Another embodiment of a fastening assembly according to the
present disclosure is indicated generally at 110 in FIG. 13. Where
elements are the same or substantially similar to those in the
previous embodiment, they are preceded by the number "1." As shown,
fastening assembly 110 includes a stud assembly indicated generally
at 112 and a receptacle assembly indicated generally at 114.
[0089] Stud assembly 112 is illustrated in greater detail in FIG.
12. As shown, stud assembly 112 includes a stud 114, an upper
sleeve 116, a lower sleeve 118, and a retaining ring 120 adapted to
be received into lower sleeve 118. With the exception of stud 114,
the remaining elements of stud assembly 112 are substantially the
same as in the previous embodiment and their description will not
be repeated herein.
[0090] Stud 114 of stud assembly 112 is shown in greater detail in
FIGS. 13-15. As shown, stud 114 is substantially symmetrical in
construction, and includes a shank portion 144 having a threaded
exterior surface 146 and a head 148 which includes a recess 150 for
receiving a tool (not illustrated). Shank portion 144 includes two
engagement sections 152 which are, in the present embodiment,
channels. Engagement sections 152 may be recessed, as shown in the
present embodiment, where engagement section 152 is defined by a
channel. For ease of illustration, engagement sections 152 will be
referred to hereinafter as channels.
[0091] Preferably, each channel 152 includes at least two
engagement members 158 adapted to engage the inwardly protruding
tabs 140 of retaining ring 120 when the stud and fastening
assemblies are assembled together. In the present embodiment,
channels 152 includes a plurality of engagement members 158 that
protrude outwardly from an inner surface 154 of each channel 152,
between which are disposed grooves 160. In the present embodiment,
engagement members 158 are teeth having a generally arcuate shape.
For ease of illustration, engagement members 158 will be referred
to hereinafter as teeth.
[0092] As will be shown in greater detail below, tabs 140 of
retaining ring 120 may be repositioned to engage each groove 160 in
order to position stud 114 in a plurality of captive, engaged
positions. Tabs 140 may be moved over teeth 158 to a different
engaged position by retracting or inserting stud 144 longitudinally
in the fastening assembly, allowing tabs 140 to engage a different
tooth 158.
[0093] As shown in FIG. 16, when attaching a cover to a panel,
fastening assembly is assembled in a similar manner as in the
previous embodiment.
[0094] As shown in FIGS. 17-18, when assembled, rib 120 engages
engaging portion 160 of stud 114 in order to position stud 114 in a
plurality of predetermined, extended captive positions.
[0095] Thus, another aspect of the present disclosure is the
provision of a receptacle assembly that allows a stud to be
positioned in a plurality of predetermined, extended positions
while remaining captive in the stud assembly.
[0096] Another embodiment of a fastening assembly according to the
present disclosure is indicated generally at 210 in FIG. 19. Where
elements are similar to those in the previous embodiment are
similar, they are preceded by the number "2." As shown, fastening
assembly 210 includes a stud assembly indicated generally at 212
and a receptacle assembly indicated generally at 214.
[0097] Receptacle assembly 214 is illustrated in greater detail in
FIG. 20. As shown, receptacle assembly 214 includes a bracket 270,
a retaining clamp 272, a nut 274, and a spring or coil 276. With
the exception of nut 274, the remaining elements of receptacle
assembly 214 are the same as in the first and second embodiment and
their description will not be repeated herein.
[0098] As shown in FIGS. 21 and 22, nut 274 includes a
substantially planar upper portion 288 having an upper surface 288a
and a lower surface 288bm from which a barrel 290 extends
downwardly. Barrel 290 has an axially disposed bore 290a with a
threaded interior surface 292 and an exterior surface 294 that may
be substantially cylindrical, or may have a substantially hexagonal
shape as shown. Upper portion 288 includes opposing arcuate
channels 296 that correspond substantially with rivet bores 282 of
bracket 270. Barrel 274 includes a plurality of spaced apart
channels 297 defining flanges 298. Channels 297 may extend all the
way to upper portion 288 but, in the present embodiment, they
terminate adjacent to and spaced apart from the upper portion.
Preferably, nut 274 may be formed from any material having a
memory, such as a shape memory alloy.
[0099] When assembled, as shown in FIG. 23, nut 274 is inserted
into bracket 270, retaining clamp 272 is positioned around barrel
290, and engaging corners 273 of the retaining clamp 270 are
engaged in slots 286 of bracket 270. Spring 276 is threaded into
interior surface 292 of barrel 290.
[0100] As shown in FIG. 24, the force exerted when stud 214 is
driven into barrel 290 causes coil 272 to expand, which in turn
causes flanges 298 to extend outwardly as shown by the arrows. In
between turns of the tool, or when stud 214 is completely inserted
into barrel 290, the force on spring 272 is interrupted or stopped
completely, and flanges 298 spring back to their original position
because they are formed from a material having a memory. As a
result, the distribution of force is substantially evenly
distributed along barrel 290 instead of being concentrated at, for
example, the lower end of the barrel. The present nut may be used
with either of the previously described stud and/or fastening
assemblies.
[0101] Thus, another aspect of the present disclosure is the
provision of a receptacle assembly that provides even distribution
of stress along the barrel of the receptacle assembly.
[0102] Another embodiment of a fastening assembly according to the
present disclosure is indicated generally at 310 in FIG. 26. Where
elements are similar to those in the previous embodiment are
similar, they are preceded by the number "3." As shown, fastening
assembly 310 includes a stud assembly indicated generally at 312
and a receptacle assembly indicated generally at 314.
[0103] Receptacle assembly 314 is illustrated in greater detail in
FIGS. 27-28. As shown, receptacle assembly 314 includes a bracket
370, a retaining clamp 372, a nut 374, and a spring or coil 376. As
shown, bracket 370 includes a substantially planar upper portion
378 from which two opposed sidewalls 380 extend downwardly. The
substantially planar upper portion 378 includes a projection 381
extending outwardly from one end. Projection 381 includes a rivet
bore 382 for securing bracket 370 to, for example, a panel.
Extending upwardly from upper portion 378 is a collar 384 which
defines a bracket opening 385 for receiving stud 314 therethrough.
Each sidewall 380 includes at least one slot 386 for receiving
retaining clamp 72 as will be described in greater detail below. As
best seen in FIG. 28, two opposed inwardly projecting engagement
tabs 379 extend from each sidewall 380 opposite projection 381 and
parallel to upper portion 378.
[0104] In the present embodiment, retaining clamp 372 preferably
has a substantially U-shape with outwardly extending opposing upper
tips 373. Tips 373 act as engagement members for engaging slots 386
of bracket 370.
[0105] Nut 374 includes a substantially planar upper portion 388
having an upper surface 388a and a lower surface 388b, from which a
barrel 390 extends downwardly. Barrel 390 includes an axially
disposed bore 390a having a threaded interior surface 392 and an
exterior surface 394 that may be substantially cylindrical, or may
have a substantially hexagonal shape as shown. Upper portion 388
includes an arcuate channel 396 corresponding substantially with a
rivet bore 382 of bracket 370. Barrel 390 includes a plurality of
spaced apart channels 397 defining flanges 398. As in the previous
embodiment, nut 374 preferably may be formed from any material
having a memory, such as a shape memory alloy.
[0106] To assemble receptacle assembly 314, as shown in FIGS.
27-28, nut 374 is slidably inserted into bracket 370 between
opposing sidewalls 380 until nut 374 abuts engagement tabs 379.
Tips 373 of retaining clamp 372 may then be engaged with slots 386.
As shown, when assembled, opposing sidewalls 380 limit lateral
movement of nut 374, engagement tabs 379 limit longitudinal
movement of nut 373 in one direction, and retaining clamp 372
limits longitudinal movement of nut 374 in the opposite direction.
Coil 376 then may be threaded into interior surface 392 of barrel.
390.
[0107] FIG. 29 illustrates a perspective view of stud assembly 312
and receptacle assembly 314 holding a cover 392 to a panel 394.
[0108] Another embodiment of a fastening assembly according to the
present disclosure is indicated generally at 410 in FIG. 30. Where
elements are similar to those in the previous embodiment are
similar, they are preceded by the number "4." As shown, fastening
assembly 410 includes a stud assembly indicated generally at 412
and a receptacle assembly indicated generally at 414.
[0109] Receptacle assembly 414 is illustrated in greater detail in
FIGS. 31-32. As shown, receptacle assembly 414 includes a bracket
470, a seal unit 472, a nut 474, and a coil 476. As shown, bracket
470 includes a substantially planar upper portion 478 having an
upper surface 478a and a lower surface 478b, and including opposed
projections 481 extending outwardly therefrom. Each projection 481
includes a rivet bore 482 for securing bracket 470 to, for example,
a panel. Extending upwardly from upper portion 478 is a collar 484
which defines a bracket opening 485 for receiving stud 414
therethrough.
[0110] Nut 474 includes a substantially planar upper portion 486
from which a barrel 490 extends downwardly. Barrel 490 includes an
axial bore 490a having a threaded interior surface 492 and an
exterior surface 494 that may be substantially cylindrical, or may
have a substantially hexagonal shape as shown.
[0111] Seal unit 472 includes a substantially square planar upper
portion 500 with projections 481 a that correspond with projections
481 of bracket 470, and rivet bores 482a that correspond
substantially with rivet bores 482 of bracket 470. Seal unit also
includes a substantially square recessed region 502, from which a
closed cap 504 extends downwardly.
[0112] When assembled, as shown in FIGS. 32 and 33, bracket 470 and
nut 474 are positioned adjacent one another, and upper portion 486
of nut 470 is positioned in recessed region 502 of seal unit 422.
Coil 476 may then be threaded into interior surface 492 of bore
490a.
[0113] Thus, one aspect of the present disclosure is the provision
of a receptacle assembly that includes a vacuum seal. This allows
the receptacle assembly to be used in areas where pressure
differentials occur, such as frequently occurs in aircraft.
[0114] When used as structural components, the foregoing fastening
assemblies may be formed from materials capable of withstanding
high stress, such as steel. Individual components may be formed
from other materials such as structural plastics, composites, shape
memory alloys, and the like. In a preferred embodiment, the nut may
be formed from a polyamide available under the product name
VESPEL.RTM.. In other preferred embodiments, structural plastics
such as fiber reinforced polymers also may be used for certain
components to reduce the weight of the assembly. One type of
material is a fiberglass reinforced polymer that includes about 30
percent to about 60 percent, by weight, of fiberglass. This
concentration may vary, of course, depending upon the matrix
polymer, the source of the material, the type of fiber, etc.
[0115] As mentioned previously, the bracket of each of the
foregoing receptacle assemblies may be unitary or may be assembled
from separate components. In addition, the length of the collars
may vary in order to accommodate different panel thicknesses. When
the foregoing brackets are unitary, they are typically formed by
die casting, which necessitates the formation of a different cast
for each desired bracket, and each collar length. One way around
this problem is to form a single cast for each type of bracket,
using the longest collar length, and achieving shorter collar
lengths by grinding off part of the collar. Each of the foregoing
is time consuming and expensive.
[0116] One method of reducing manufacturing costs and tailoring the
length of the collar according to specific dimensions is to form
the bracket as two separate components. One example of such a
bracket 570 (which similar in construction to the bracket shown in
FIGS. 25-30), is illustrated in FIGS. 34-38. Bracket 570 includes a
bracket portion 570a and a removable collar 584 that mates or is
friction fitted with bracket portion 570a.
[0117] FIG. 34 shows bracket portion 570a and a collar 584 in
assembled configuration. As shown in exploded view in FIG. 35,
collar 584 is substantially cylindrical, and includes an inner bore
585 for receiving a stud therethrough, as in previous embodiments.
Collar 584 also includes a circumferential flange 584a extending
radially outwardly at one end. Collar 584 has a length "L" that may
vary depending upon the thickness of the panel to which the
receptacle assembly will be attached. In general, collar 584 may
vary in length from about 0.010 inch to about 0.20 inch, more
preferably about 0.025 inch to about 0.125 inch. Bracket 570a may
be used with any collar 584, regardless of its' length "L." As a
result, by manufacturing different collars with different lengths
"L," it is possible to eliminate manufacturing steps otherwise
required to grind the collar to a desired length as may be required
when a unitary bracket is manufactured using other methods.
[0118] Referring to FIGS. 36-38, bracket portion 570a includes
substantially planar upper portion 578 having upper and lower
surfaces 578a,b with two opposed sidewalls 580 extending
perpendicularly therefrom. A bore 577 extends from upper surface
578a through lower surface 578b to define a bracket opening for
receiving collar 584. Bore 577 includes a recess 577a against which
flange 584a rests or is friction fitted with, when assembled. As in
previous embodiments, the substantially planar upper portion 578
includes a projection 581 extending outwardly from one end.
Projection 581 includes a rivet bore 582 for securing bracket 570
to, for example, a panel. Each sidewall 580 includes at least one
slot 586 for receiving retaining clamp 572. Two opposed inwardly
projecting engagement tabs 579 extend from each sidewall 580
opposite projection 581 and parallel to upper portion 578. As in a
previous embodiment, retaining clamp 572 preferably has a
substantially U-shape with outwardly extending opposing upper tips
573. Tips 573 act as engagement members for engaging slots 586 of
bracket portion 570.
[0119] FIGS. 39-43 show a non-unitary bracket configuration adapted
for use in the fastening assemblies shown in FIGS. 1-24, provided
the diamond-shaped retaining ring is replaced with a U-shaped
retaining ring as shown in some of the foregoing embodiments. Where
elements are similar to those in the previous embodiment are
similar, they are preceded by the number "6."
[0120] FIGS. 44-45 show a non-unitary bracket configuration adapted
for use in the fastening assemblies shown in FIGS. 30-33. Where
elements are similar to those in the previous embodiment are
similar, they are preceded by the number "7."
[0121] Referring now to FIGS. 46-49 taken together, an alternative
and lower cost nut 874 is illustrated herein. Where elements are
similar to those in the previous embodiment are similar, they are
preceded by the number "8."
[0122] As shown, nut 874 includes a substantially planar upper
portion 888 having upper and lower surfaces 888a,b. Upper portion
888 includes an arcuate channel 896 that corresponds substantially
with the rivet bore of a bracket (not illustrated). A barrel 890
having an end 899 extends from lower surface 888b. Barrel 890
includes a sidewall 894 defining an axial bore 890a that may be
substantially cylindrical as shown, or other shapes such as, for
example, hexagonal. Bore 890a includes a threaded interior surface
892 extending from upper portion 888 at least partially to opposing
end 899, terminating in a recessed region 891 for receiving
cylindrical nut element 874a therein. To assemble nut 874, nut
element is positioned in recessed region 891, and the edge of
sidewall 894 is crimped or bent downwardly toward nut element 874a,
which restricts the movement of the nut element in the nut.
Thereafter, indentations 893 may be formed in the downwardly bent
surface, which indentations function as anti-rotation dimples.
[0123] It will be apparent from the present disclosure that it is
possible to adapt nut 874 for use in any of the other embodiments
described herein by varying the shape of the upper planar portion
888. When using the present nut in any of the foregoing fastening
assemblies, it is not necessary to use the spring or coil as used
in previous embodiments. Preferably in the present embodiment, nut
element 874a may be formed from a non-metal material with a high
memory value. One preferred material is VESPEL. Use of a non-metal
material eliminates the problem of wear between the surfaces of the
coil and the stud and inner threaded surface of the barrel. In
addition, use of the non-metal material with a high memory value
provide an alternative method for achieving a high prevailing
torque and breakaway torque. This provides high reusability of the
assembly, especially in high vibrations areas.
[0124] A preferred embodiment of a fastening assembly according to
the present disclosure is indicated generally at 910 in FIG. 50.
Where elements are similar to those in the previous embodiment are
similar, they are preceded by the number "9." As shown, fastening
assembly 910 includes a stud assembly indicated generally at 912
and a receptacle assembly indicated generally at 914. The present
embodiment is illustrated using the stud assembly illustrated in
FIGS. 1-10 (and others), but it will be apparent that the stud
assembly illustrated in FIGS. 11-18 may be used as well.
[0125] Receptacle assembly 914 is illustrated in greater detail in
FIGS. 27-28. As shown, receptacle assembly 914 includes a bracket
970, a retaining clamp 972 and a nut 974 (including nut element
974a). As shown, bracket 970 includes a substantially planar upper
portion 978 from which two opposed sidewalls 980 extend
perpendicularly therefrom. The substantially planar upper portion
978 includes a projection 981 extending outwardly from one end.
Projection 981 includes a rivet bore 982 for securing bracket 970
to, for example, a panel. Bracket 970 also includes a collar 984
which, when inserted into bracket 970, extends upwardly from upper
portion 978 to define a bracket opening 985 for receiving stud 914
therethrough. Each sidewall 980 includes at least one slot 986 for
receiving retaining clamp 972 as will be described in greater
detail below. Two opposed inwardly projecting engagement tabs 979
extend from each sidewall 980 opposite projection 981 and parallel
to upper portion 978.
[0126] In the present embodiment, retaining clamp 972 preferably
has a substantially U-shape with outwardly extending opposing upper
tips 973. Tips 973 act as engagement members for engaging slots 986
of bracket 970.
[0127] As shown, nut 974 includes a substantially planar upper
portion 988 having upper and lower surfaces 988a,b. Upper portion
988 includes an arcuate channel 996 that corresponds substantially
with rivet bore 982 of bracket 970. A barrel 990 having an end 999
extends from lower surface 988b. Barrel 990 includes a sidewall 994
that may be substantially cylindrical as shown, or other shapes
such as, for example, hexagonal. Barrel 990 also a threaded
interior surface 992 extending from upper portion 988 at least
partially to opposing end 999, terminating in a recessed region 991
for receiving cylindrical nut element 974a therein.
[0128] To assemble receptacle assembly 914, nut 974 is slidably
inserted into bracket 970 between opposing sidewalls 980 until nut
974 abuts engagement tabs 979. Tips 973 of retaining clamp 972 may
then be engaged with slots 986.
[0129] FIG. 53 illustrates a perspective view of stud assembly 912
and receptacle assembly 914 holding a cover 992 to a panel 994. As
shown, when assembled, opposing sidewalls 980 limit lateral
movement of nut 974, engagement tabs 979 limit longitudinal
movement of nut 973 in one direction, and retaining clamp 972
limits longitudinal movement of nut 974 in the opposite
direction.
[0130] FIG. 54 illustrates the stud engaged by retaining ring in a
first predetermined position.
[0131] Although particular embodiments of the disclosure have been
described in detail for purposes of illustration, various changes
and modifications may be made without departing from the scope and
spirit of the disclosure. For example, all combinations and
permutations of the studs, brackets, receptacles, stud assemblies
and receptacle assemblies may be interchanged with each other,
perhaps with minor modifications as will be apparent from the
present disclosure.
* * * * *