Indexing pins, indexing fixtures, and methods of aligning first and second bodies of a structure

Abstract

The present invention relates to an indexing pin, an indexing fixture, and a method of aligning a first and second body of a structure. An indexing pin (100) includes a central axis (154). The indexing pin also includes a threaded portion (126) extending along the central axis (154). The indexing pin also includes a rod (148) extending along the central axis (154) relative to the threaded portion (126). The indexing pin (100) also includes a cylindrical surface (104) extending between the threaded portion (126) and the rod (148) along the central axis (154). The indexing pin (100) also includes a tapered surface (112) extending between the threaded portion (126) and the cylindrical surface (104). The indexing pin (100) also includes a flange (136) located between the rod (148) and the cylindrical surface (104).

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present disclosure relates to indexing pins, indexing fixtures, and methods of aligning first and second bodies of a structure using the indexing pins and indexing fixtures. Background Art

[0002] Various manufactured structures include at least two structures connected together using mechanical fasteners. The assembly of such structures typically involves arranging the structures into a stack, machining openings through the stack, and installing fasteners through the machined openings to connect the structures together in the stacked configuration. However, certain types of structures used in the aerospace industry, such as composite structures, can be susceptible to unwanted electromagnetic environmental effects (EME) such as electrostatic discharge and lightning strikes. To combat EME, after machining openings through the stack, the structures are separated for one or more finishing operations such as deburring. Thereafter, the structures are reassembled into the stacked configuration. However, it is often difficult to properly align the openings previously machined into the structures for fastener installation. During fastener installation, misalignment of the openings can cause damage to one or more of the structures. To prevent damage to the structures, fastener sleeves can be used in the machined openings. However, the use of fastener sleeves increases the weight, component count, and manufacturing cost of the structure. Summary of the Invention

[0003] Therefore, an apparatus and method directed to addressing at least the above-mentioned problems would be of practical use.

[0004] The following is a non-exclusive list of examples that may or may not be claimable according to the present invention.

[0005] One example of the subject matter according to the present invention relates to an indexing pin comprising a central axis and a threaded portion extending along the central axis. The indexing pin further comprises a rod extending along the central axis opposite the threaded portion. The indexing pin further comprises a cylindrical surface extending along the central axis between the threaded portion and the rod. The indexing pin further comprises a tapered surface extending between the threaded portion and the cylindrical surface. The indexing pin further comprises a flange located between the rod and the cylindrical surface.

[0006] The indexing pin aligns a first body of a structure with a second body of the structure by urging the first opening of the first body to align with the second opening of the second body when the indexing pin is inserted through a first one of the first openings and a corresponding second one of the second openings.

[0007] Another example of the subject matter according to the present invention relates to an indexing fixture comprising an indexing pin. The indexing pin comprises a central axis and a threaded portion extending along the central axis. The indexing pin further comprises a rod extending along the central axis. The indexing pin further comprises a cylindrical surface extending along the central axis between the threaded portion and the rod. The indexing pin further comprises a tapered surface extending between the threaded portion and the cylindrical surface. The indexing pin further comprises a flange located between the rod and the cylindrical surface. The indexing fixture further comprises a nut configured to be threadedly coupled to the threaded portion of the indexing pin. The indexing fixture further comprises a protective clamping member having an outer protective clamping member diameter and configured to be coupled to the nut and configured to be located between the nut and the flange.

[0008] The indexing pin aligns a first body of a structure with a second body of the structure by aligning the first opening of the first body with the second opening of the second body when the indexing pin is inserted through one of the first openings and a corresponding one of the second openings. After aligning the structures, the nut clamps the first and second bodies together between the indexing pin and the protective clamping member. The protective clamping member protects the second surface of the second body when the nut is preloaded against the protective clamping member.

[0009] Another example of the subject matter according to the present invention relates to a method for aligning a first body with a second body of a structure. The first body includes a first body first surface, a first body second surface opposite the first body first surface, and a first opening extending between (and including) the first body first surface and the first body second surface. The second body includes a second body first surface, a second body second surface opposite the second body first surface, and a second opening extending between (and including) the second body first surface and the second body second surface. The method includes preparing indexing pins for use. Each of the indexing pins includes a central axis. Each of the indexing pins also includes a threaded portion extending along the central axis. Each of the indexing pins also includes a rod extending along the central axis. Each of the indexing pins also includes a cylindrical surface extending along the central axis between the threaded portion and the rod. Each of the indexing pins also includes a tapered surface extending between the threaded portion and the cylindrical surface. Each of the indexing pins also includes a flange located between the rod and the cylindrical surface. At least a portion of the flange is larger than a diameter of any of the first openings. The method also includes orienting the first body such that each of the first openings extends vertically and the first surface of the first body faces upward. The method also includes inserting each of the indexing pins into a corresponding one of the first openings of the first body using a clearance fit such that a portion of the cylindrical surface of each of the indexing pins is located within the corresponding one of the first openings and a portion of the cylindrical surface of each of the indexing pins extends past the first body second surface. The method also includes orienting the second body such that each of the second openings extends vertically and the first surface of the second body faces the first body second surface. The method also includes aligning each of the second openings of the second body with a corresponding one of the indexing pins extending through the second surface of the first body such that, when viewed in plan, the threaded portion of each of the indexing pins is surrounded by and spaced apart from a second wall of the corresponding one of the second openings of the second body. The method additionally includes moving the first and second bodies toward each other a first distance until the threaded portion of each of the indexing pins extending through the second surface of the first body is inserted into a corresponding one of the second openings of the second body.The method also includes moving the first body and the second body toward each other a second distance until at least a portion of the tapered surface of each of the indexing pins is inserted into a corresponding second opening of the second openings of the second body, while: allowing the first body and the second body to move relative to each other in a direction perpendicular to the central axis of each of the indexing pins; and applying a downward force to each of the indexing pins, the downward force being sufficient to cause at least a portion of the tapered surface of each of the indexing pins to be inserted into a corresponding second opening of the second openings of the second body once the first body and the second body are moved toward each other the second distance. The method also includes moving the first body and the second body toward each other a third distance until a portion of the cylindrical surface of each of the indexing pins is inserted into a corresponding second opening of the second openings of the second body, and at the same time: allowing the first body and the second body to move relative to each other in a direction perpendicular to the central axis of each of the indexing pins; and applying a downward force to each of the indexing pins, the magnitude of the downward force being sufficient to cause the portion of the cylindrical surface of each of the indexing pins to be inserted into a corresponding second opening of the second opening of the second body once the first body and the second body are moved toward each other the third distance. The method also includes moving the first body and the second body toward each other a fourth distance until the first body second surface contacts the second body first surface and the threaded portion of each of the indexing pins extends past the second body second surface, while applying a downward force to each of the indexing pins, the downward force being sufficient to cause the threaded portion of each of the indexing pins to extend past the second body second surface once the first body and the second body are moved toward each other the fourth distance.

[0010] The method facilitates aligning the first body of the structure with the second body of the structure by causing the first opening of the first body to align with the second opening of the second body as the first body and the second body are moved into contact with each other and each of the indexing pins is inserted through one of the first openings and a corresponding one of the second openings.

[0011] Another example of the subject matter according to the present invention relates to a method for aligning a first body with a second body of a structure. The first body includes a first body first surface, a first body second surface opposite the first body first surface, and a first opening extending between (and including) the first body first surface and the first body second surface. The second body includes a second body first surface, a second body second surface opposite the second body first surface, and a second opening extending between (and including) the second body first surface and the second body second surface. The method includes preparing indexing pins for use. Each of the indexing pins includes a central axis. Each of the indexing pins also includes a threaded portion extending along the central axis. Each of the indexing pins also includes a shaft extending along the central axis. Each of the indexing pins further includes a cylindrical surface extending along the central axis between the threaded portion and the shaft. Each of the indexing pins also includes a tapered surface extending between the threaded portion and the cylindrical surface. Each of the indexing pins also includes a flange located between the shaft and the cylindrical surface. At least a portion of the flange is larger than the diameter of any one of the first openings. The method also includes orienting the second body so that each of the second openings extends vertically and the second body first surface faces upward. The method also includes orienting the first body so that each of the first openings extends vertically and the first body second surface faces the second body first surface. The method also includes aligning each of the first openings of the first body with a corresponding one of the second openings of the second body so that, when viewed in plan, the circumferential closed profile formed by the first wall of each of the first openings of the first body and the second wall of the corresponding one of the second openings of the second body is large enough to accommodate the threaded portion of any one of the indexing pins using a clearance fit. The method also includes moving the first body and the second body toward each other until the first body second surface contacts the second body first surface. The method also includes inserting each of the indexing pins into a corresponding one of the first openings of the first body using a clearance fit until a portion of the cylindrical surface of each of the indexing pins is located in a corresponding one of the first openings of the first body, and at least a portion of the tapered surface of each of the indexing pins is inserted into a corresponding one of the second openings of the second body.The method also includes applying a downward force to each of the indexing pins while allowing the first body and the second body to move relative to each other in a direction perpendicular to the central axis of each of the indexing pins, the downward force being sufficient to cause the portion of the cylindrical surface of each of the indexing pins to be inserted into a corresponding one of the second openings of the second body and the threaded portion of each of the indexing pins to extend through the second surface of the second body.

[0012] The method facilitates aligning the first body of the structure with the second body of the structure by causing the first opening of the first body to align with the second opening of the second body when the first body and the second body are in contact with each other and each of the indexing pins is inserted through one of the first openings and a corresponding one of the second openings. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0013] Having generally described one or more examples of the present invention, reference will now be made to the drawings, which are not necessarily drawn to scale and in which like reference characters designate the same or similar parts throughout the several views, and in which:

[0014] Figure 1A and Figure 1B Common is a block diagram of an indexing fixture according to one or more examples of the present disclosure;

[0015] Figure 2 According to one or more examples of the present disclosure Figure 1A and Figure 1B A schematic perspective view of an indexing pin of an indexing fixture;

[0016] Figure 3 According to one or more examples of the present disclosure Figure 1A and Figure 1B Schematic diagram of the indexing pin of the indexing fixture;

[0017] Figure 4 According to one or more examples of the present disclosure Figure 1A and Figure 1B Schematic diagram of the indexing pin of the indexing fixture;

[0018] Figure 5A According to one or more examples of the present disclosure Figure 1A and Figure 1B A schematic perspective view of an indexing pin of an indexing fixture;

[0019] Figure 5B According to one or more examples of the present disclosure Figure 1A and Figure 1B A schematic perspective view of an indexing pin of an indexing fixture;

[0020] Figure 6A According to one or more examples of the present disclosure Figure 1A and Figure 1B A schematic perspective view of an indexing pin of an indexing fixture;

[0021] Figure 6B According to one or more examples of the present disclosure Figure 1A and Figure 1B A schematic perspective view of an indexing pin of an indexing fixture;

[0022] Figure 7 According to one or more examples of the present disclosure Figure 1A and Figure 1B A schematic top plan view of an indexing pin of an indexing fixture;

[0023] Figure 8 According to one or more examples of the present disclosure Figure 1A and Figure 1B A schematic bottom plan view of an indexing pin of an indexing fixture;

[0024] Figure 9 According to one or more examples of the present disclosure Figure 8 A schematic partial view of an indexing pin of an indexing fixture;

[0025] Figure 10 According to one or more examples of the present disclosure Figure 1A and Figure 1B A schematic partial view of the sleeve, barrel and annular plunger of the device;

[0026] Figure 11 According to one or more examples of the present disclosure Figure 1A and Figure 1B A schematic perspective view of an indexing fixture;

[0027] Figure 12 According to one or more examples of the present disclosure Figure 1A and Figure 1B Schematic environmental view of the indexing fixture;

[0028] Figure 13 According to one or more examples of the present disclosure Figure 1A and Figure 1B A schematic cross-sectional view of a protective clamping member of an indexing fixture;

[0029] Figure 14 According to one or more examples of the present disclosure Figure 1A and Figure 1BA schematic partial cross-sectional view of a protective clamping member of an indexing fixture;

[0030] Figure 15 According to one or more examples of the present disclosure Figure 1A and Figure 1B A schematic cross-sectional view of a protective clamping member of an indexing fixture;

[0031] Figure 16 According to one or more examples of the present disclosure Figure 1A and Figure 1B A schematic cross-sectional view of a protective clamping member of an indexing fixture;

[0032] Figure 17 According to one or more examples of the present disclosure Figure 1A and Figure 1B A schematic environmental cross-sectional view of an indexing fixture;

[0033] Figure 18 According to one or more examples of the present disclosure Figure 1A and Figure 1B A schematic environmental cross-sectional view of an indexing fixture;

[0034] Figure 19 According to one or more examples of the present disclosure Figure 1A and Figure 1B A schematic environmental cross-sectional view of an indexing fixture;

[0035] Figure 20 According to one or more examples of the present disclosure Figure 1A and Figure 1B A schematic environmental cross-sectional view of an indexing fixture;

[0036] Figure 21 According to one or more examples of the present disclosure Figure 1A and Figure 1B A schematic environmental view of an indexing pin of an indexing fixture;

[0037] Figure 22 According to one or more examples of the present disclosure Figure 1A and Figure 1B A schematic environmental view of an indexing pin of an indexing fixture;

[0038] Figure 23 According to one or more examples of the present disclosure Figure 1A and Figure 1B A schematic environmental view of an indexing pin of an indexing fixture;

[0039] Figure 24 According to one or more examples of the present disclosure Figure 1A and Figure 1BA schematic environmental view of an indexing pin of an indexing fixture;

[0040] Figure 25 According to one or more examples of the present disclosure Figure 1A and Figure 1B A schematic environmental view of an indexing pin of an indexing fixture;

[0041] Figure 26 According to one or more examples of the present disclosure Figure 1A and Figure 1B A schematic environmental view of an indexing pin of an indexing fixture;

[0042] Figure 27 According to one or more examples of the present disclosure Figure 1A and Figure 1B A schematic environmental view of an indexing pin of an indexing fixture;

[0043] Figure 28 According to one or more examples of the present disclosure Figure 1A and Figure 1B A schematic environmental view of an indexing pin of an indexing fixture;

[0044] Figure 29 According to one or more examples of the present disclosure Figure 1A and Figure 1B Schematic environmental view of the indexing fixture;

[0045] Figure 30 According to one or more examples of the present disclosure Figure 1A and Figure 1B Schematic environmental view of the indexing fixture;

[0046] Figure 31 According to one or more examples of the present disclosure Figure 1A and Figure 1B Schematic environmental view of the indexing fixture;

[0047] Figure 32 According to one or more examples of the present disclosure Figure 1A and Figure 1B A schematic environmental view of an indexing pin of an indexing fixture;

[0048] Figure 33 According to one or more examples of the present disclosure Figure 1A and Figure 1B A schematic bottom plan environmental view of an indexing pin of an indexing fixture;

[0049] Figure 34 According to one or more examples of the present disclosure Figure 1A and Figure 1BA schematic environmental view of an indexing pin of an indexing fixture;

[0050] Figure 35 According to one or more examples of the present disclosure Figure 1A and Figure 1B A schematic environmental view of an indexing pin of an indexing fixture;

[0051] Figure 36 According to one or more examples of the present disclosure Figure 1A and Figure 1B A schematic environmental view of an indexing pin of an indexing fixture;

[0052] Figure 37 According to one or more examples of the present disclosure Figure 1A and Figure 1B A schematic environmental view of an indexing pin of an indexing fixture;

[0053] Figure 38 According to one or more examples of the present disclosure Figure 1A and Figure 1B A schematic environmental view of an indexing pin of an indexing fixture;

[0054] Figure 39 According to one or more examples of the present disclosure Figure 1A and Figure 1B A schematic environmental view of an indexing pin of an indexing fixture;

[0055] Figure 40 According to one or more examples of the present disclosure Figure 1A and Figure 1B A schematic environmental view of an indexing pin of an indexing fixture;

[0056] Figure 41A 、 Figure 41B and Figure 41C Common is the use of one or more examples according to the present disclosure Figure 1A and 1B A block diagram of a method for aligning a first body and a second body of a structure using an indexing fixture;

[0057] Figure 42A 、 Figure 42B and Figure 42C Common is the use of one or more examples according to the present disclosure Figure 1A and 1B A block diagram of a method for aligning a first body and a second body of a structure using an indexing fixture;

[0058] Figure 43 is a block diagram of the aircraft manufacturing and maintenance methods; and

[0059] Figure 44is a schematic illustration of an aircraft. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0060] In the above reference Figure 1A and Figure 1B , the solid lines connecting the various elements and / or components (if any) may represent mechanical, electrical, fluid, optical, electromagnetic and other connectors and / or combinations thereof. As used herein, "connected" means directly as well as indirectly associated. For example, component A may be directly associated with component B, or may be indirectly associated with it, for example, by means of other component C. It should be understood that not all relationships between the various elements disclosed must be represented. Therefore, there may also be connections other than those depicted in the block diagram. The dotted lines (if any) connecting the boxes specifying the various elements and / or components represent connections that have functions and purposes similar to those represented by the solid lines; however, the connections represented by the dotted lines may be provided selectively or may be related to alternative examples of the present disclosure. Similarly, the elements and / or components (if any) represented by dotted lines indicate alternative examples of the present disclosure. Without departing from the scope of the present disclosure, one or more elements shown by solid and / or dotted lines may be omitted in a particular example. Environmental elements (if any) are represented by dotted lines. For clarity, virtual (imaginary) elements may also be shown. Those skilled in the art will understand that Figure 1A and Figure 1B Some of the features exemplified in the can be combined in various ways without necessarily including Figure 1A and Figure 1B , other features described in the accompanying drawings and / or the accompanying disclosure, even if this combination or these combinations are not explicitly illustrated herein. Similarly, additional features not limited to the examples presented may be combined with some or all of the features shown and described herein.

[0061] In the above reference Figures 41A to 41C 、 Figures 42A to 42C as well as Figure 43 In the present disclosure, blocks may represent operations and / or portions thereof, and the lines connecting the various blocks do not imply any particular order or dependency of the operations or portions thereof. Blocks represented by dashed lines indicate alternative operations and / or portions thereof. Dashed lines connecting the various blocks, if any, indicate alternative dependencies of the operations or portions thereof. It will be understood that not all dependencies between the various operations disclosed are necessarily represented. Figures 41A to 41C 、 Figures 42A to 42C as well as Figure 43 The attached disclosure describing the operation of the method set forth herein should not be construed as necessarily determining the sequence in which the operations will be performed. Specifically, although an exemplary sequence is indicated, it is understood that the sequence of operations may be modified when appropriate. Therefore, certain operations may be performed in different orders or simultaneously. In addition, it will be appreciated by those skilled in the art that not all operations described need to be performed.

[0062] In the following description, numerous specific details are set forth to provide a thorough understanding of the disclosed concepts, but these concepts can be practiced without some or all of these details. In other instances, details of well-known devices and / or processes have been omitted to avoid unnecessarily obscuring the present disclosure. Although some concepts will be described in conjunction with specific examples, it should be understood that these examples are not intended to be limiting.

[0063] Unless otherwise indicated, the terms "first," "second," etc., are used herein merely as labels and are not intended to impose order, position, or hierarchy requirements on the items to which these terms refer. Furthermore, reference to an item, for example, "second," does not require or preclude the presence of, for example, a "first" or lower-numbered item and / or, for example, a "third" or higher-numbered item.

[0064] Reference herein to "one example" means that one or more features, structures, or characteristics described in connection with the example are included in at least one implementation. The phrase "one example" in various places in the specification may or may not refer to the same example.

[0065] As used herein, a system, device, structure, article, element, component, or hardware that is “configured to” perform a specified function is indeed capable of performing the specified function without any changes, rather than merely being likely to perform the specified function after further modification. In other words, a system, device, structure, article, element, component, or hardware that is “configured to” perform a specified function is specifically selected, created, implemented, utilized, programmed, and / or designed for the purpose of performing the specified function. As used herein, “configured to” refers to existing characteristics of a system, device, structure, article, element, component, or hardware that enable the system, device, structure, article, element, component, or hardware to perform the specified function without further modification. For purposes of this disclosure, additionally or alternatively, a system, device, structure, article, element, component, or hardware that is described as “configured to” perform a particular function may be described as “adapted to” and / or “operable to” perform that function.

[0066] The following provides illustrative, non-exclusive examples of subject matter that may or may not be claimed in accordance with the present disclosure.

[0067] Overall reference Figure 1A and Figure 1B and in particular, for example Figures 2 to 10 、 Figures 21 to 28 as well as Figures 32 to 40, an indexing pin 100 is disclosed. The indexing pin 100 includes a central axis 154 and a threaded portion 126 extending along the central axis 154. The indexing pin 100 also includes a rod 148 extending along the central axis 154 opposite the threaded portion 126. The indexing pin 100 also includes a cylindrical surface 104 extending along the central axis 154 between the threaded portion 126 and the rod 148. The indexing pin 100 further includes a tapered surface 112 extending between the threaded portion 126 and the cylindrical surface 104. The indexing pin 100 also includes a flange 136 located between the rod 148 and the cylindrical surface 104. The previous subject matter of this paragraph characterizes Example 1 of the present disclosure.

[0068] The indexing pin 100 aligns the first body 302 of the structure 300 with the second body 304 of the structure 300 by facilitating alignment of the first opening 306 of the first body 302 with the second opening 308 of the second body 304 when the indexing pin 100 is inserted through one of the first openings 306 and a corresponding one of the second openings 308 .

[0069] For the purposes of this disclosure, the term "along" with reference to extending along an axis means coincident with or parallel to the axis.

[0070] For purposes of this disclosure, the phrase “one of the first openings 306 and a corresponding one of the second openings 308 ” refers to corresponding to each other and to the indexing pin 100 and to be aligned with each other for insertion into the first openings 306 and the second openings 308 of the indexing pin 100 when the first body 302 and the second body 304 are positioned and aligned relative to each other.

[0071] Overall reference Figure 1A and Figure 1B and in particular Figure 12 、 Figures 17 to 28 and Figures 32 to 40 According to examples disclosed herein, structure 300 includes a first body 302 and a second body 304. First body 302 includes a first body first surface 330 and a first body second surface 334 opposite first body first surface 330. First opening 306 extends between (and including) first body first surface 330 and first body second surface 334. In other words, first opening 306 extends through first body 302. Second body 304 includes a second body first surface 332 and a second body second surface 336 opposite second body first surface 332. Second opening 308 extends between (and including) second body first surface 332 and second body second surface 336. In other words, second opening 308 extends through second body 304.

[0072] like Figures 21 to 28 as well as Figures 32 to 40 As illustrated in FIG, alignment of the structure 300 is achieved by appropriately aligning the first opening 306 and the second opening 308 relative to each other when the first body 302 and the second body 304 are positioned relative to each other, such as in a stacked configuration where the first body second surface 334 of the first body 302 contacts the second body first surface 332 of the second body 304.

[0073] In one or more examples, first body 302 and second body 304 include or are formed of a composite material, such as a fiber-reinforced polymer composite. In one or more examples, first body 302 and second body 304 include or are formed of a metallic material. In one or more examples, first body 302 and second body 304 include or are formed of a plastic material, such as a thermoplastic material.

[0074] In one or more examples, structure 300 is part of, or forms a portion of, a substructure or component of a larger manufactured structure or assembly. In one or more examples, structure 300 is part of, or forms a portion of, a vehicle structure, such as an aerospace vehicle, a spacecraft, a marine vehicle, a land vehicle, etc. In one or more examples, structure 300 is part of, or forms a portion of, an independent structure, such as a building, an antenna, a satellite, a rocket, etc.

[0075] In one or more examples, during assembly of structure 300, first body 302 and second body 304 are initially arranged in a stacked configuration, also referred to herein as a stack. First opening 306 and second opening 308 are machined (e.g., drilled) from the stack of arranged first and second bodies 302, 304. After forming first opening 306 and second opening 308, first and second bodies 302, 304 are separated so that one or more finishing operations can be performed on first and / or second bodies 302, 304. One example of such a finishing operation includes a deburring process that removes unwanted material from first and second bodies 302, 304, such as material surrounding first and second openings 306, 308, respectively. Removing such unwanted material can mitigate undesirable electromagnetic environmental effects (EME) on structure 300 during use, such as those from electrostatic discharge and lightning strikes. Mitigating undesirable EME can be particularly beneficial when structure 300 is used in aerospace applications.

[0076] like Figures 21 to 40, according to examples disclosed herein, the indexing pin 100 enables the first opening 306 and the second opening 308 to be realigned when the first body 302 and the second body 304 are rearranged back into a stacked configuration for final assembly of the structure 300. In one or more examples, the final assembly of the structure 300 includes installing a fastener through the aligned first opening 306 and the second opening 308, the structural coupling of the first body 302 and the second body 304, and the like.

[0077] like Figures 21 to 28 As illustrated in the figures, in one or more examples, with the indexing pin 100 positioned within one of the first openings 306, while inserting the indexing pin 100 through a corresponding one of the second openings 308 until the first body second surface 334 contacts the second body first surface 332, the indexing pin 100 causes one of the first openings 306 to align with a corresponding one of the second openings 308 as the first body 302 and the second body 304 move toward each other.

[0078] like Figures 32 to 40 As illustrated in FIG, in one or more examples, with the first body second surface 334 contacting the second body first surface 332 , the indexing pin 100 causes the first opening 306 to align with the second opening 308 when the indexing pin 100 is inserted through one of the first openings 306 and a corresponding one of the second openings 308 .

[0079] Thus, the plurality of indexing pins 100 can be used to facilitate alignment of selected ones of the first openings 306 with corresponding ones of the second openings 308. When the indexing pins 100 are used to align selected ones of the first openings 306 with corresponding ones of the second openings 308, unselected ones of the first openings 306 will be aligned with corresponding ones of the second openings 308, such that the first and second bodies 302, 304 are properly aligned for final assembly, such as installation of fasteners.

[0080] Advantageously, with all of the first openings 306 of the first body 302 aligned with all of the corresponding ones of the second openings 308 of the second body 304, the fasteners can be installed, for example, by inserting each of the fasteners through one of the first openings 306 and a corresponding one of the second openings 308, without damaging the first body 302 and / or the second body 304. Advantageously, the ability to install fasteners in appropriately pre-aligned ones of the first openings 306 and corresponding ones of the second openings 308 eliminates the need for fastener sleeves, which reduces processing time and costs in manufacturing the structure 300 and reduces the overall weight of the structure 300.

[0081] like Figures 2 to 6B , the cylindrical surface 104 forms or otherwise defines a main shaft or shank of the indexing pin 100 that extends between the shank 148 and the threaded portion 126 along a central axis 154 of the indexing pin 100. In one or more examples, the cylindrical surface 104 extends between the flange 136 and the tapered surface 112. The cylindrical surface 104 has a circular cross-sectional shape in a plane perpendicular to the central axis 154 of the indexing pin 100. The cylindrical surface 104 has a constant diameter along its length.

[0082] For the purposes of this disclosure, a "plane" used to reference the position, orientation, and / or shape of features and elements refers to a virtual reference plane that has physical properties but does not possess a physical form. For example, a virtual reference plane is an intangible or virtual plane, rather than a physical plane, with respect to which the position, orientation, and / or shape of, for example, other physical and / or intangible entities can be defined.

[0083] like Figures 21 to 28 as well as Figures 34 to 40 , the cylindrical surface 104 provides or serves as an indexing surface that contacts a portion of a first wall 310 of one of the first openings 306 when the indexing pin 100 is inserted into or through one of the first openings 306. Similarly, the cylindrical surface 104 provides or serves as an indexing surface that contacts a portion of a second wall 312 of a corresponding one of the second openings 308 when the indexing pin 100 is inserted into or through a corresponding one of the second openings 308 to facilitate a change in position of at least one of the first body 302 and the second body 304 relative to each other during alignment of the one of the first openings 306 and the corresponding one of the second openings 308 for insertion of the indexing pin 100 therethrough.

[0084] like Figures 2 to 6B , the tapered surface 112 forms or otherwise defines a lead-in portion of the indexing pin 100 that extends between the cylindrical surface 104 and the threaded portion 126 along a central axis 154 of the indexing pin 100. The tapered surface 112 has a circular cross-sectional shape in a plane perpendicular to the central axis 154 of the indexing pin 100. The tapered surface 112 has a diameter that varies along its length.

[0085] like Figure 32 and Figure 33As illustrated in FIG, when the indexing pin 100 is inserted into one of the first openings 306, the tapered surface 112 enables the indexing pin 100 to enter one of the first openings 306 without applying an impact load to the first body 302 (such as to an edge of a portion of the first body first surface 330 that defines a corresponding one of the first openings 306). Figure 22 、 Figure 27 、 Figure 35 、 Figure 38 and Figure 39 As illustrated in FIG, when the indexing pin 100 is inserted into one of the second openings 308, the tapered surface 112 enables the indexing pin 100 to enter one of the second openings 308 without applying an impact load to the second body 304 (such as, to an edge of a portion of the second body first surface 332 that defines a corresponding one of the second openings 308).

[0086] like Figures 2 to 6B , the rod 148 forms or otherwise defines an operator-engaging portion of the indexing pin 100 that extends opposite the threaded portion 126 along the central axis 154. In one or more examples, the rod 148 extends from the flange 136 opposite the cylindrical surface 104. In one or more examples, engagement of the rod 148, such as by an operator, prevents the indexing pin 100 from rotating about the central axis 154. In one or more examples, engagement of the rod 148, such as by an operator, enables the indexing pin 100 to be withdrawn from a corresponding one of the first openings 306 and the second opening 308, such as after alignment of the structure 300.

[0087] like Figures 2 to 6B As illustrated in FIG, the threaded portion 126 forms or otherwise defines a nut-engaging portion of the indexing pin 100 that extends opposite the cylindrical surface 104 along the central axis 154. In one or more examples, the threaded portion 126 extends from the tapered surface 112 opposite the cylindrical surface 104. The threaded portion 126 has a circular cross-sectional shape in a plane perpendicular to the central axis 154 of the indexing pin 100. The threaded portion 126 has a constant diameter along its length. The threaded portion 126 includes external threads.

[0088] like Figure 11 、 Figure 12 and Figures 29 to 31 As illustrated in FIG, the threaded portion 126 enables the nut 204 to be removably coupled to the indexing pin 100 such that, for example, the first and second bodies 302 and 304 are clamped together between the indexing pin 100 and the nut 204 after aligning the structure 300 with the indexing pin 100 .

[0089] Overall reference Figure 1A and 1Band in particular, for example Figures 2 to 6B , the rod 148 includes a first means 156 for providing complementary engagement with a first tool. The previous subject matter of this paragraph characterizes Example 2 of the present disclosure, wherein Example 2 also includes subject matter according to Example 1 above.

[0090] The first device 156 enables the use of a first tool (not shown) to engage the indexing pin 100 and remove the indexing pin 100 and / or prevent the indexing pin 100 from rotating about the central axis 154 .

[0091] In one or more examples, the complementary engagement of the first tool with the first device 156 enables, for example, removal of the indexing pin 100 from one of the first openings 306 and a corresponding one of the second openings 308 after aligning the structure 300. In one or more examples, the complementary engagement of the first tool with the first device 156 prevents, for example, the removal of the indexing pin 100 from one of the first openings 306 and the corresponding one of the second openings 308 after aligning the structure 300. Figure 11 ) is threadedly connected to the threaded portion 126. The indexing pin 100 is at the second end 152 ( Figure 2 ) rotates around the central axis 154.

[0092] Generally, the first device 156 includes or takes the form of any structural feature that provides complementary engagement with the first tool, and the first tool includes or takes the form of any instrument or instrument that engages a specific structural feature corresponding to the first device 156 and enables manipulation of the indexing pin 100. In one or more examples, the first device 156 is a hole formed in the rod 148 and partially extending through the rod 148, and the first tool is a pin or other shaft-like element configured to be inserted into the hole. In one or more examples, the first device 156 is at least one recess or slot formed in the rod 148 and partially extending through the rod 148, and the first tool is an edged element configured to matingly engage the at least one recess or slot. In one or more examples, the first device 156 is a through-hole formed in the rod 148 and extending completely through the rod 148, and the first tool is a pin or elongated shaft configured to be inserted through the through-hole.

[0093] Overall reference Figure 1A and 1B and in particular, for example Figures 3 to 6B , the rod 148 includes a second means 192 for providing complementary engagement with a second tool. The previous subject matter of this paragraph characterizes Example 3 of the present disclosure, wherein Example 3 also includes subject matter according to Example 1 or 2 above.

[0094] The second device 192 enables the use of a second tool (not shown) to engage the indexing pin 100 and prevent the indexing pin 100 from rotating about the central axis 154 .

[0095] In one or more examples, the complementary engagement of the second tool with the second device 192 prevents, for example, the nut 204 ( Figure 11 ) is threadedly connected to the threaded portion 126. The indexing pin 100 is at the second end 152 ( Figure 2 ) rotates around the central axis 154.

[0096] In general, the second device 192 includes or takes the form of any structural feature that provides complementary engagement with the second tool, and the second tool includes or takes the form of any implement or instrument that engages a specific structural feature corresponding to the second device 192 and enables manipulation of the indexing pin 100. In one or more examples, the second device 192 is different from the first device 156 and the second tool is different from the first tool. In one or more examples, the second device 192 includes a polygonal structure or a head with multiple planar sides that forms at least a portion of the rod 148 and has a polygonal cross-sectional shape in a plane perpendicular to the central axis 154, and the second tool is a wrench with a polygonal socket or pliers. In one or more examples, as Figures 5A to 6B , the second device 192 is a hexagonal head (e.g., a six-sided head) that forms at least a portion of the rod 148, and the second tool is a wrench or pliers configured to have a hexagonal socket that complementarily engages the hexagonal head. In one or more examples, the second device 192 is a square head (e.g., a four-sided head) that forms at least a portion of the rod 148, and the second tool is a square socket or pliers configured to complementarily engage the square head.

[0097] Overall reference Figure 1A and 1B and in particular, for example Figure 7 , the rod 148 includes a third means 194 for providing complementary engagement with a third tool. The previous subject matter of this paragraph characterizes Example 4 of the present disclosure, wherein Example 4 also includes subject matter according to any of Examples 1 to 3 above.

[0098] The third device 194 enables the use of a third tool (not shown) to engage the indexing pin 100 and prevent the indexing pin 100 from rotating about the central axis 154 .

[0099] In one or more examples, the complementary engagement of the third tool with the third device 194 prevents, for example, the nut 204 ( Figure 11 ) is threadedly connected to the threaded portion 126. The indexing pin 100 is at the second end 152 ( Figure 2 ) rotates around the central axis 154.

[0100] In general, the third device 194 includes or takes the form of any structural feature that provides complementary engagement with the third tool, and the third tool includes or takes the form of any instrument or instrument that engages a specific structural feature corresponding to the third device 194 and enables manipulation of the indexing pin 100. In one or more examples, the third device 194 is different from the first device 156 and the second device 192, and the third tool is different from the first tool and the second tool. In one or more examples, the third device 194 is a shaped drive cavity or receptacle formed in and partially extending through the end of the rod 148, and the third tool is a driver having a working end configured to complementarily engage the shaped drive cavity. Examples of formed drive cavities include slotted cavities (e.g., slot or crosshead), cross-shaped cavities (e.g., Phillips, Mortorq, Frearson, Pozidriv, French, Supadriv, Torq), internal polygonal cavities (e.g., square, safety hex, Robertson, double square, hexagonal, triangle, 12-point, 12-spline flange, Allen, double hexagonal), hexagonal (e.g., Torx, Safety Torx, male head, female head, multi-driver), trident cavities (e.g., TA or triangle, three-slot or T-slot, three-point, three-wing), or special cavities (e.g., Clutch A, Quadrex, Clutch G, Pentalobe, one-way, wrench head, Bristol).

[0101] Overall reference Figure 1A and Figure 1B and in particular, for example Figure 9 and Figure 10 , the tapered surface 112 has a taper angle 158 between 2 degrees and 10 degrees (inclusive) relative to the central axis 154. The previous subject matter of this paragraph characterizes Example 5 of the present disclosure, wherein Example 5 also includes subject matter according to any of Examples 1 to 4 above.

[0102] The tapered angle 158 of the tapered surface 112 provides a mechanical advantage to the indexing pin 100 when the indexing pin 100 is inserted into one of the second openings 308 .

[0103] like Figure 22 、 Figure 27 、 Figure 35 、 Figure 38 and Figure 39, when a downward force sufficient to insert the indexing pin 100 into one of the second openings 308 is applied to the indexing pin 100, the tapered angle 158 of the tapered surface 112 facilitates sliding insertion of the indexing pin 100 into the corresponding one of the second openings 308 while one of the first body 302 and the second body 304 moves relative to each other in a direction perpendicular to the central axis 154 of the indexing pin 100. With a portion of the cylindrical surface 104 of the indexing pin 100 positioned in one of the first openings 306 and at least a portion of the tapered surface 112 positioned within the corresponding one of the second openings 308, the movement of one of the first body 302 and the second body 304 relative to each other in a direction perpendicular to the central axis 154 of the indexing pin 100 appropriately positions the corresponding one of the second openings 308 for insertion of the portion of the cylindrical surface 104.

[0104] The taper angle 158 can be optimized based on various factors, such as the desired mechanical advantage, the desired longitudinal dimension (i.e., length) of the tapered surface 112, the amount of downward force applied to the indexing pin 100, and the material composition of the first body 302 and / or the second body 304. In one or more examples, a taper angle 158 between 2 degrees and 10 degrees, such as 2 degrees, optimizes the mechanical advantage of the tapered surface 112 while minimizing the longitudinal dimension of the tapered surface 112.

[0105] Overall reference Figure 1A and Figure 1B and in particular, for example Figure 9 and Figure 10 , tapered surface 112 has a maximum tapered surface diameter 122 and a minimum tapered surface diameter 124. Threaded portion 126 has a maximum threaded portion diameter 132. Cylindrical surface 104 has a cylindrical surface diameter 128. Maximum tapered surface diameter 122 is equal to cylindrical surface diameter 128. Minimum tapered surface diameter 124 is equal to or less than maximum threaded portion diameter 132. The previous subject matter of this paragraph characterizes Example 6 of the present disclosure, wherein Example 6 also includes subject matter according to any of Examples 1 to 5 above.

[0106] The relative diameters of tapered surface 112 and threaded portion 126 enable threaded portion 126 to be located within one of second openings 308 when at least a portion of tapered surface 112 is inserted into or located within one of second openings 308 .

[0107] For purposes of this disclosure, the maximum threaded portion diameter 132 is the major diameter of the threads of the threaded portion 126 .

[0108] like Figure 9 、 Figure 10 and Figures 32 to 35As illustrated in FIG, in a case where a portion of the cylindrical surface 104 of the indexing pin 100 is located in one of the first openings 306 and at least a portion of the tapered surface 112 contacts an edge formed by the second wall 312 and the second main body first surface 332 defining a portion of a corresponding one of the second openings 308, since the maximum threaded portion diameter 132 is smaller than the minimum tapered surface diameter 124, the threaded portion 126 can be passed through the second wall 312 ( Figure 33 ) completely surrounds without contacting the second wall 312.

[0109] Overall reference Figure 1A and Figure 1B and in particular, for example Figure 9 , tapered surface 112 extends from cylindrical surface 104 to threaded portion 126. The previous subject matter of this paragraph characterizes Example 7 of the present disclosure, wherein Example 7 also includes subject matter according to Example 6 above.

[0110] Terminating the tapered surface 112 at the threaded portion 126 provides a continuous transition between the threaded portion 126 and the tapered surface 112 of the indexing pin 100 .

[0111] The continuous transition between the tapered surface 112 and the threaded portion 126 prevents interference from any portion of the indexing pin 100 located between the threaded portion 126 and the tapered surface 112 due to edge contact formed by the second wall 312 and the second body first surface 332 (defining a portion of a corresponding one of the second openings 308) when the indexing pin 100 is inserted into one of the second openings 308.

[0112] Overall reference Figure 1A and Figure 1B and in particular, for example Figure 10 , the indexing pin 100 also includes an angle surface 180 extending from the tapered surface 112 to the threaded portion 126. The angle surface 180 is annular and has a curved cross-section in a plane containing the central axis 154. The tapered surface 112 has a maximum tapered surface diameter 122 and a minimum tapered surface diameter 124. The threaded portion 126 has a maximum threaded portion diameter 132. The cylindrical surface 104 has a cylindrical surface diameter 128. The maximum tapered surface diameter 122 is equal to the cylindrical surface diameter 128. The minimum tapered surface diameter 124 is greater than the maximum threaded portion diameter 132. The previous subject matter of this paragraph characterizes Example 8 of the present disclosure, wherein Example 8 also includes subject matter according to any of Examples 1 to 7 above.

[0113] The angled surface 180 provides a transition between the threaded portion 126 of the indexing pin 100 and the tapered surface 112 that limits linear movement of the nut 204 relative to the indexing pin 100 along the central axis 154 when the nut 204 is threadably coupled to the threaded portion 126 .

[0114] The angled surface 180 defines a transition between the threaded portion 126 and the tapered surface 112 of the indexing pin 100. The angled surface 180, which is annular and has a curved cross-section in a plane containing the central axis 154, enables an edge formed by the second wall 312 and the second body first surface 332 (defining a portion of a corresponding one of the second openings 308) to move to the tapered surface 112 when the indexing pin 100 is inserted into one of the second openings 308.

[0115] The minimum tapered surface diameter 124, defined by the angled surface 180 and larger than the maximum threaded portion diameter 132, limits linear movement of the nut 204 relative to the indexing pin 100 along the central axis 154. When the nut 204 is preloaded by threadably coupling the nut 204 with the threaded portion 126 to clamp the first and second bodies 302, 304 between the indexing pin 100 and the nut 204, limiting linear movement of the nut 204 relative to the indexing pin 100 along the central axis 154 prevents the nut 204 from binding against the end of the tapered surface 112 at the transition between the threaded portion 126 and the tapered surface 112 when the nut 204 is overtightened, for example.

[0116] Overall reference Figure 1A and Figure 1B and in particular, for example Figures 2 to 6B 、 Figures 17 to 28 、 Figure 36 and Figure 40 , flange 136 includes a frustoconical flange surface 162 located between rod 148 and cylindrical surface 104. Flange 136 also includes a planar flange surface 160 that extends perpendicular to central axis 154 from frustoconical flange surface 162 to cylindrical surface 104. The previous subject matter of this paragraph characterizes Example 9 of the present disclosure, wherein Example 9 also includes subject matter according to any of Examples 1 to 8 above.

[0117] The frustoconical flange surface 162 and the planar flange surface 160 enable the flange 136 to contact a portion of the first body first surface 330 surrounding a corresponding one of the first openings 306 when the indexing pin 100 is fully inserted into the corresponding one of the first openings 306 .

[0118] like Figures 21 to 24 、 Figure 32 and Figures 33 to 36As illustrated in FIG, in one or more examples, a portion of the first body first surface 330 surrounding a corresponding one of the first openings 306 is planar. Figure 21 and Figure 36 , in one or more examples, with a portion of the cylindrical surface 104 of the indexing pin 100 positioned within one of the first openings 306, the planar flange surface 160 enables the flange 136 of the indexing pin 100 to rest on a planar portion of the first body first surface 330 surrounding a corresponding one of the first openings 306. In other words, the planar flange surface 160 of the flange 136 provides a protruding head design for the indexing pin 100. In one or more examples, the planar flange surface 160 extends perpendicular to the central axis 154 between the frustoconical flange surface 162 and the cylindrical surface 104.

[0119] like Figures 25 to 28 and Figures 37 to 40 As illustrated in FIG, in one or more examples, a portion of the first body first surface 330 surrounding a corresponding one of the first openings 306 includes a countersunk hole 320. Figure 25 and Figure 40 , in one or more examples, with a portion of the cylindrical surface 104 of the indexing pin 100 positioned within one of the first openings 306, the frustoconical flange surface 162 enables the flange 136 to be received within the countersunk hole 320 of a corresponding one of the first openings 306 and seated on a portion of the first body first surface 330 surrounding the corresponding one of the first openings 306. In other words, the frustoconical flange surface 162 of the flange 136 provides a countersunk design for the indexing pin 100.

[0120] The frustoconical flange surface 162 of the flange 136 also centers the indexing pin 100 within a corresponding one of the first openings 306. Figures 25 to 28 and Figures 37 to 40 , with a portion of the cylindrical surface 104 of the indexing pin 100 positioned within one of the first openings 306, the frustoconical flange surface 162 of the flange 136 also provides a second indexing surface that engages a portion of the first body first surface 330 defining the counterbore 320 to center the indexing pin 100 relative to the corresponding one of the first openings 306. In other words, with the frustoconical flange surface 162 properly seated within the counterbore 320, the indexing pin 100 is centered within the corresponding one of the first openings 306. The engagement of the frustoconical flange surface 162 with the counterbore 320 coaxially aligns the central axis 154 of the indexing pin 100 with the fourth central axis 338 of the corresponding one of the first openings 306.

[0121] The frustoconical flange surface 162 of the flange 136 also prevents the indexing pin 100 from moving transversely to the fourth central axis 338 of the corresponding one of the first openings 306 when the indexing pin 100 is being inserted into the corresponding one of the second openings 308 .

[0122] Overall reference Figure 1A and Figure 1B and in particular, for example Figure 4 , conical flange surface 162 has a maximum frustoconical flange surface diameter 144 and a minimum frustoconical flange surface diameter 142. Planar flange surface 160 has a maximum planar flange surface diameter 138 that is equal to minimum frustoconical flange surface diameter 142. Cylindrical surface 104 has a cylindrical surface diameter 128. Maximum frustoconical flange surface diameter 144 is greater than cylindrical surface diameter 128. Minimum frustoconical flange surface diameter 142 is greater than cylindrical surface diameter 128. The previous subject matter of this paragraph characterizes Example 10 of the present disclosure, wherein Example 10 also includes subject matter according to Example 9 above.

[0123] The relative diameters of the frusto-conical flange surface 162 and the planar flange surface 160 enable the indexing pin 100 to be used with different configurations of first bodies 302 having different types of first openings 306 .

[0124] like Figure 17 、 Figures 20 to 24 、 Figure 32 、 Figures 34 to 36 As illustrated in FIG. 1 , in one or more examples, the planar flange surface 160 enables the indexing pin 100 to be used with a first body 302 that includes a portion of the first body first surface 330 surrounding a corresponding one of the first openings 306 that is planar. Figure 18 、 Figure 19 、 Figures 25 to 28 and Figures 37 to 40 As illustrated in FIG, in one or more examples, the planar flange surface 160 enables the indexing pin 100 to be used with a first body 302 that includes a portion of the first body first surface 330 surrounding a corresponding one of the first openings 306 having a countersunk hole.

[0125] Overall reference Figure 1A and Figure 1B and in particular, for example Figure 4 , frustoconical flange surface 162 extends from rod 148 to planar flange surface 160. Rod 148 has a rod dimension 178 measured perpendicular to central axis 154. Rod dimension 178 is equal to maximum frustoconical flange surface diameter 144. The previous subject matter of this paragraph characterizes Example 11 of the present disclosure, wherein Example 11 also includes subject matter according to Example 10 above.

[0126] Increasing the stem dimension 178 of the stem 148 to be equal to the maximum frusto-conical flange surface diameter 144 of the flange 136 increases the structural rigidity of the stem 148 .

[0127] In one or more examples, increasing the structural stiffness and strength of the rod 148 by increasing the rod size 178 corresponds to an increase in the load-bearing capacity of the first device 156 of the rod 148 when engaged by the first tool. In one or more examples, increasing the structural stiffness and strength of the rod 148 by increasing the rod size 178 corresponds to an increase in the load-bearing capacity of the second device 192 of the rod 148 when engaged by the second tool.

[0128] Overall reference Figure 1A and 1B and in particular, for example Figures 5A to 6B and Figure 8 , the threaded portion 126 includes fourth means 166 for providing complementary engagement with a fourth tool. The previous subject matter of this paragraph characterizes Example 12 of the present disclosure, wherein Example 12 also includes subject matter according to any of Examples 1 to 11 above.

[0129] The fourth device 166 enables the use of a fourth tool (not shown) to engage the indexing pin 100 and prevent the indexing pin 100 from rotating about the central axis 154 .

[0130] In one or more examples, the complementary engagement of the fourth tool with the fourth device 166 prevents, for example, the nut 204 ( Figure 11 ) is threadedly coupled to the threaded portion 126 at the first end 150 ( Figure 2 ) rotates around the central axis 154.

[0131] In general, the fourth device 166 includes or takes the form of any structural feature that provides complementary engagement with the fourth tool, and the third tool includes or takes the form of any instrument or apparatus that engages with a specific structural feature corresponding to the fourth device 166 and enables manipulation of the indexing pin 100. In one or more examples, the fourth device 166 is different from the first device 156, the second device 192, and the third device 194, and the fourth tool is different from the first tool, the second tool, and the third tool. In one or more examples, the fourth device 166 is the same as the third device 194, and the fourth tool is the same as the third tool. In one or more examples, the fourth device 166 is a shaped drive cavity or receptacle formed in and partially extending through the end of the threaded portion 126, and the fourth tool is a driver having a working end configured to complementarily engage the shaped drive cavity. Examples of formed drive cavities include slotted cavities (e.g., slot or crosshead), cross-shaped cavities (e.g., Phillips, Mortorq, Frearson, Pozidriv, French, Supadriv, Torq), internal polygonal cavities (e.g., square, safety hex, Robertson, double square, hexagonal, triangle, 12-point, 12-spline flange, Allen, double hexagonal), hexagonal (e.g., Torx, Safety Torx, male head, female head, multi-driver), trident cavities (e.g., TA or triangle, three-slot or T-slot, three-point, three-wing), or special cavities (e.g., Clutch A, Quadrex, Clutch G, Pentalobe, one-way, wrench head, Bristol).

[0132] Overall reference Figure 1A and 1B and in particular, for example Figure 5A 、 Figure 6A and Figure 20 , indexing pin 100 further includes a channel 172 formed in at least a portion of cylindrical surface 104 and extending helically about central axis 154. The previous subject matter of this paragraph characterizes Example 13 of the present disclosure, wherein Example 13 further includes subject matter according to any of Examples 1 to 12 above.

[0133] When the indexing pin 100 is inserted into one of the first openings 306 and a corresponding one of the second openings 308 , the channel 172 collects a portion of the amount of sealant 328 located within one of the first openings 306 and a corresponding one of the second openings 308 .

[0134] In one or more examples, when the indexing pin is inserted into a corresponding one of the first openings 306 and the second openings 308 and / or when the first and second bodies 302 and 304 are clamped together, a portion of the amount of sealant 328 located within the corresponding one of the first openings 306 and the second openings 308 is transported along the channel 172. Collecting the excess amount of sealant 328 in the channel 172 and / or transporting the amount of sealant 328 within the channel 172 along the cylindrical surface 104 prevents hydraulic locking between the cylindrical surface 104 and the corresponding one of the first openings 306 and / or the second openings 308 when the indexing pin 100 is inserted into the corresponding one of the first openings 306 and the second openings 308 and / or when the first and second bodies 302 and 304 are clamped together.

[0135] like Figure 20 As illustrated in FIG, in one or more examples, sealant 328 is applied to one or both of first body second surface 334 and second body first surface 332 and is located between first body 302 and second body 304. In one or more examples, sealant 328 is an adhesive that is used to bond first body 302 and second body 304 together after alignment of structure 300. In one or more examples, sealant 328 is an EME mitigating material. According to examples disclosed herein, upon contact between first body second surface 334 and second body first surface 332 and / or when first body 302 and second body 304 are clamped together, a certain amount of sealant 328 can be forced into first opening 306 and / or second opening 308.

[0136] The channel 172 enables, when the indexing pin 100 passes through one of the first openings 306 and / or when the first and second bodies 302, 304 are clamped together, a portion of the first quantity of sealant 328 located within one of the first openings 306 to fill the channel 172 and be transported along the channel 172 between the cylindrical surface 104 and the first wall 310 of the corresponding one of the first openings 306. The channel 172 also enables, when the indexing pin 100 passes through a corresponding one of the second openings 308 and / or when the first and second bodies 302, 304 are clamped together, a portion of the second quantity of sealant 328 located within the corresponding one of the second openings 308 to fill the channel 172 and be transported along the channel 172 between the cylindrical surface 104 and the second wall 312 of the corresponding one of the second openings 308.

[0137] According to the examples disclosed herein, the channel 172 can have any of a variety of different helix angles. Similarly, the channel 172 can have any of a variety of different widths and / or depths. The helix angle, width, and / or depth of the channel 172 can depend on various factors, including, but not limited to, the material properties of the sealant 328, the volume of the sealant 328 applied between the first body 302 and the second body 304, the volume of the amount of sealant 328 forced into a corresponding one of the first openings 306 and / or the second openings 308, etc.

[0138] In general, a portion of the quantity of sealant 328 located within one of the first openings 306 and / or a corresponding one of the second openings 308 is conveyed along the channel 172 in a direction opposite to the direction of insertion of the indexing pin 100 .

[0139] like Figure 5A and Figure 6A As illustrated in FIG, in one or more examples, the channel 172 terminates before the tapered surface 112. The channel 172 formed only in a portion of the cylindrical surface 104 and not also in a portion of the tapered surface 112 ensures that no channel 172 is formed on the tapered surface 112 that could cause the first wall 310 of the corresponding one of the first openings 306 and / or the second wall 312 of the corresponding one of the second openings 308 to become loose when the indexing pin 100 is inserted into a corresponding one of the first openings 306 and the second openings 308. Figure 20 ) damaged sharp edges.

[0140] Overall reference Figure 1A and Figure 1B and in particular, for example Figures 5A to 6B , the channel 172 includes a channel first end 182 and a channel second end 184 opposite the channel first end 182. The channel second end 184 is adjacent to the flange 136. The previous subject matter of this paragraph characterizes Example 14 of the present disclosure, wherein Example 14 also includes subject matter according to Example 13 above.

[0141] Extending the channel 172 to the flange 136 of the indexing pin 100 lengthens the channel 172 and provides a portion of increased volume for receiving a quantity of sealant 328 when the indexing pin 100 is inserted into a corresponding one of the first opening 306 and the second opening 308 .

[0142] The channel second end 184 of the channel 172 terminates at the flange 136 so that when the indexing pin 100 is inserted into one of the first openings 306 and a corresponding one of the second openings 308 and / or when the nut 204 is threadedly coupled to the threaded portion 126 to clamp the first and second bodies 302, 304 together ( Figure 20), it is possible for a portion of the amount of sealant 328 to be conveyed along the cylindrical surface 104 as far as the flange 136 of the indexing pin 100 , for example in a direction opposite to the insertion direction of the indexing pin 100 .

[0143] Overall reference Figure 1A and Figure 1B and in particular, for example Figure 5B and Figure 6B , the channel 172 is formed in at least a portion of the tapered surface 112. The previous subject matter of this paragraph characterizes Example 15 of the present disclosure, wherein Example 15 also includes the subject matter according to Example 14 above.

[0144] When the indexing pin 100 is inserted into one of the first openings 306 and a corresponding one of the second openings 308 , the channel 172 collects a portion of the amount of sealant 328 located within one of the first openings 306 and a corresponding one of the second openings 308 .

[0145] In one or more examples, when the indexing pin 100 is inserted into a corresponding one of the first openings 306 and the second openings 308, a portion of the quantity of sealant 328 located within the corresponding one of the first openings 306 and the second openings 308 is transferred along the channel 172. Collecting excess quantity of sealant 328 in the channel 172 and / or transferring the portion of the quantity of sealant 328 along the tapered surface 112 within the channel 172 prevents hydraulic locking between the tapered surface 112 and the corresponding one of the first openings 306 and / or the second openings 308 when the indexing pin 100 is inserted into the corresponding one of the first openings 306 and the second openings 308.

[0146] The channel 172 enables, when the indexing pin 100 passes through one of the first openings 306, a portion of the first quantity of sealant 328 located within one of the first openings 306 and / or a corresponding one of the second openings 308 to fill the channel 172 and be transported along the channel 172 between the tapered surface 112 and the first wall 310 of the corresponding one of the first openings 306. The channel 172 also enables, when the indexing pin 100 passes through the corresponding one of the second openings 308, a portion of the second quantity of sealant 328 located within the corresponding one of the second openings 308 to fill the channel 172 and be transported along the channel 172 between the tapered surface 112 and the second wall 312 of the corresponding one of the second openings 308.

[0147] The passage 172 also enables a portion of the amount of sealant 328 within the first opening 306 and / or the second opening 308 to be transferred from the tapered surface 112 to the cylindrical surface 104 when the indexing pin 100 is inserted into the first opening 306 and the second opening 308 .

[0148] In one or more examples, the channels 172 formed in both the portion of the cylindrical surface 104 and the portion of the tapered surface 112 provide a flow path for a portion of the amount of sealant 328 to exit the corresponding one of the second openings 308 at the second body second surface 336 when the indexing pin 100 is fully inserted into the corresponding one of the second openings 308 and / or when the first and second bodies 302, 304 are clamped together.

[0149] Overall reference Figure 1A and Figure 1B and in particular, for example Figure 5B and Figure 6B , the channel first end 182 is proximate to the threaded portion 126. The previous subject matter of this paragraph characterizes Example 16 of the present disclosure, wherein Example 16 also includes subject matter according to Example 14 or 15 above.

[0150] Terminating the channel first end 182 of the channel 172 proximate to (e.g., at or near) the threaded portion 126 provides a flow path for a portion of the sealant 328 located within one of the first openings 306 and / or a corresponding one of the second openings 308 to flow out of the channel 172 from the channel first end 182 and exit the corresponding one of the second openings 308 at the second body second surface 336 when the indexing pin 100 is fully inserted into the corresponding one of the second openings 308.

[0151] like Figures 3 to 6B 、 Figure 9 and Figure 10 As illustrated in FIG, in one or more examples, the diameter of the portion of the indexing pin 100 between the tapered surface 112 and the threaded portion 126 is smaller than the minimum tapered surface diameter 124 of the tapered surface 112 and smaller than the maximum threaded portion diameter 132 of the threaded portion 126. The reduced diameter of the portion of the indexing pin 100 between the tapered surface 112 and the threaded portion 126 forms an annular recessed portion of the indexing pin 100. In one or more examples, as Figure 5B and Figure 6B, the channel first end 182 terminates at and intersects the annular recessed portion of the indexing pin 100 between the tapered surface 112 and the threaded portion 126. When the indexing pin 100 is fully inserted into the corresponding one of the second openings 308, a portion of the amount of sealant 328 can exit the corresponding one of the second openings 308 at the second body second surface 336 by being transferred from the channel 172 to the annular recessed portion of the indexing pin 100.

[0152] The annular recessed portion of indexing pin 100 between tapered surface 112 and threaded portion 126 also provides a gap between tapered surface 112 and threaded portion 126 to prevent nut 204 from binding to the non-threaded portion of indexing pin 100 when nut 204 is threadably coupled to threaded portion 126 .

[0153] Overall reference Figure 1A and Figure 1B and in particular, for example Figure 6A and Figure 6B , indexing pin 100 further includes an annular recess 174 located between tapered surface 104 and flange 136. Channel second end 184 intersects annular recess 174. The previous subject matter of this paragraph characterizes Example 17 of the present disclosure, wherein Example 17 further includes subject matter according to any of Examples 14 to 16 above.

[0154] The annular recess 174 provides a portion of increased volume for receiving a quantity of the sealant 328 when the indexing pin 100 is inserted into one of the first openings 306 and a corresponding one of the second openings 308 .

[0155] For purposes of this disclosure, with respect to the passageway second end 184 intersecting the annular recess 174 , the term “intersecting” refers to the common junction of both the passageway 172 and the annular recess 174 .

[0156] In one or more examples, the channel first end 182 of the channel 172 terminates in the annular recess 172 such that when the indexing pin 100 is fully inserted into a corresponding one of the second openings 308 and / or when the nut 204 is threadably coupled with the threaded portion 126 to clamp the first and second bodies 302, 304 together ( Figure 20 ), an excess amount of sealant 328 located within one of the first openings 306 and / or a corresponding one of the second openings 308 can be conveyed out of the channel second end 184 and collected within the annular recess 174 .

[0157] Overall reference Figure 1A and Figure 1B and in particular, for example Figures 2 to 20 and Figures 29 to 31, discloses an indexing fixture 200. The indexing fixture 200 includes an indexing pin 100. The indexing pin 100 includes a central axis 154 and a threaded portion 126 extending along the central axis 154. The indexing pin 100 also includes a rod 148 extending along the central axis 154. The indexing pin 100 also includes a cylindrical surface 104 extending along the central axis 154 between the threaded portion 126 and the rod 148. The indexing pin 100 further includes a tapered surface 112 extending between the threaded portion 126 and the cylindrical surface 104. The indexing pin 100 also includes a flange 136 located between the rod 148 and the cylindrical surface 104. The indexing fixture 200 also includes a nut 204, which is configured to be threadably coupled to the threaded portion 126 of the indexing pin 100. The indexing fixture 200 additionally includes a protective clamping member 206 having an outer protective clamping member diameter 216 and configured to be coupled to the nut 204 and to be positioned between the nut 204 and the flange 136. The previous subject matter of this paragraph characterizes Example 18 of the present disclosure.

[0158] The indexing pin 100 aligns the first body 302 of the structure 300 with the second body 304 of the structure 300 by urging alignment of the first opening 306 of the first body 302 with the second opening 308 of the second body 304 when the indexing pin 100 is inserted through one of the first openings 306 and a corresponding one of the second openings 308. After the structure 300 is aligned, the nut 204 clamps the first body 302 and the second body 304 together between the indexing pin 100 and the protective clamping member 206. When the nut 204 is preloaded against the protective clamping member 206, the protective clamping member 206 protects the second body second surface 336 from damage.

[0159] For the purposes of this disclosure, the term "along" with reference to extending along an axis means coincident with or parallel to the axis.

[0160] For purposes of this disclosure, the phrase “a corresponding one of the first openings 306 and the second openings 308 ” means corresponding to each other to receive the indexing pin 100 and aligned with each other for insertion into the first openings 306 and the second openings 308 of the indexing pin 100 when the first body 302 and the second body 304 are positioned and aligned relative to each other.

[0161] Overall reference Figure 1A and Figure 1B and in particular Figure 12 、 Figures 17 to 28 and Figures 32 to 40According to examples disclosed herein, structure 300 includes a first body 302 and a second body 304. First body 302 includes a first body first surface 330 and a first body second surface 334 opposite first body first surface 330. First opening 306 extends between (and including) first body first surface 330 and first body second surface 334. In other words, first opening 306 extends through first body 302. Second body 304 includes a second body first surface 332 and a second body second surface 336 opposite second body first surface 332. Second opening 308 extends between (and including) second body first surface 332 and second body second surface 336. In other words, second opening 308 extends through second body 304.

[0162] like Figures 21 to 28 as well as Figures 32 to 40 As illustrated in the figure, alignment of the structure 300 is achieved by appropriately aligning the first opening 306 and the second opening 308 relative to each other when the first body 302 and the second body 304 are positioned relative to each other (such as in a stacked configuration where the first body second surface 334 of the first body 302 contacts the second body first surface 332 of the second body 304).

[0163] In one or more examples, first body 302 and second body 304 include or are formed of a composite material, such as a fiber-reinforced polymer composite. In one or more examples, first body 302 and second body 304 include or are formed of a metallic material. In one or more examples, first body 302 and second body 304 include or are formed of a plastic material, such as a thermoplastic material.

[0164] In one or more examples, structure 300 is part of, or forms a portion of, a substructure or component of a larger manufactured structure or assembly. In one or more examples, structure 300 is part of, or forms a portion of, a vehicle structure, such as an aerospace vehicle, a spacecraft, a marine vehicle, a land vehicle, etc. In one or more examples, structure 300 is part of, or forms a portion of, an independent structure, such as a building, an antenna, a satellite, a rocket, etc.

[0165] In one or more examples, during assembly of structure 300, first body 302 and second body 304 are initially arranged in a stacked configuration, also referred to herein as a stack. First opening 306 and second opening 308 are machined (e.g., drilled) through the stack of arranged first and second bodies 302, 304. After forming first and second openings 306, 308, first and second bodies 302, 304 are separated so that one or more finishing operations can be performed on first and / or second bodies 302, 304. One example of such a finishing operation includes a deburring process that removes unwanted material from first and second bodies 302, 304, such as material surrounding first and second openings 306, 308, respectively. Removing such unwanted material can mitigate undesirable electromagnetic environmental effects (EME) on structure 300 during use, such as those from electrostatic discharge and lightning strikes. Mitigating undesirable EME can be particularly beneficial when structure 300 is an aerospace structure.

[0166] like Figures 21 to 40 , according to examples disclosed herein, the indexing pin 100 enables the first opening 306 and the second opening 308 to be realigned when the first body 302 and the second body 304 are rearranged back into a stacked configuration for final assembly of the structure 300. In one or more examples, the final assembly of the structure 300 includes installing a fastener through the aligned first opening 306 and the second opening 308, the structural coupling of the first body 302 and the second body 304, and the like.

[0167] like Figures 21 to 28 As illustrated in the figures, in one or more examples, with the indexing pin 100 positioned within one of the first openings 306, while inserting the indexing pin 100 through a corresponding one of the second openings 308 until the first body second surface 334 contacts the second body first surface 332, the indexing pin 100 causes one of the first openings 306 to align with a corresponding one of the second openings 308 as the first body 302 and the second body 304 move toward each other.

[0168] like Figures 32 to 40 As illustrated in FIG, in one or more examples, with the first body second surface 334 contacting the second body first surface 332 , the indexing pin 100 causes the first opening 306 to align with the second opening 308 when the indexing pin 100 is inserted through one of the first openings 306 and a corresponding one of the second openings 308 .

[0169] Thus, the plurality of indexing pins 100 can be used to facilitate alignment of selected ones of the first openings 306 with corresponding ones of the second openings 308. When the indexing pins 100 are used to align selected ones of the first openings 306 with corresponding ones of the second openings 308, unselected ones of the first openings 306 will be aligned with corresponding ones of the second openings 308, such that the first and second bodies 302, 304 are properly aligned for final assembly, such as installation of fasteners.

[0170] Advantageously, with all of first openings 306 of first body 302 aligned with all of corresponding ones of second openings 308 of second body 304, fasteners may be installed, for example, by inserting each of the fasteners through one of first openings 306 and a corresponding one of second openings 308, without damaging first body 302 and / or second body 304. Advantageously, the ability to install fasteners in appropriately pre-aligned ones of first openings 306 and corresponding ones of second openings 308 eliminates the need for fastener sleeves, which reduces processing time and costs in manufacturing structure 300 and reduces the overall weight of structure 300.

[0171] like Figures 29 to 31 , according to examples disclosed herein, the indexing fixture 200 clamps the first and second bodies 302, 304 together in a stacked configuration, with the first and second openings 306 and 308 aligned with each other for final assembly of the structure 300, such as during installation of a fastener through aligned ones of the first and second openings 306, 308. In one or more examples, after installing the indexing pin 100 to align one of the first openings 306 with a corresponding one of the second openings 308, the first and second bodies 302, 304 are clamped together in the stacked configuration between the flange 136 of the indexing pin 100 and the protective clamping member 206 by positioning the protective clamping member 206 between the second body 304 and the nut 204 and threadably coupling the nut 204 to the threaded portion 126 of the indexing pin 100. Clamping the first and second bodies 302, 304 together prevents linear movement of the first and second bodies 302, 304 relative to each other in a direction perpendicular to the central axis 154 of the indexing pin 100 and maintains proper alignment of the first opening 306 with a corresponding one of the second openings 306 for installation of a fastener.

[0172] like Figures 2 to 6B, the cylindrical surface 104 forms or otherwise defines a main shaft or shank of the indexing pin 100 that extends between the shank 148 and the threaded portion 126 along a central axis 154 of the indexing pin 100. In one or more examples, the cylindrical surface 104 extends between the flange 136 and the tapered surface 112. The cylindrical surface 104 has a circular cross-sectional shape in a plane perpendicular to the central axis 154 of the indexing pin 100. The cylindrical surface 104 has a constant diameter along its length.

[0173] like Figures 21 to 28 as well as Figures 34 to 40 , the cylindrical surface 104 provides or serves as an indexing surface that contacts a portion of a first wall 310 of one of the first openings 306 when the indexing pin 100 is inserted into or through one of the first openings 306. Similarly, the cylindrical surface 104 provides or serves as an indexing surface that contacts a portion of a second wall 312 of a corresponding one of the second openings 308 when the indexing pin 100 is inserted into or through a corresponding one of the second openings 308 to facilitate a change in position of at least one of the first body 302 and the second body 304 relative to each other during alignment of the one of the first openings 306 and the corresponding one of the second openings 308 for insertion of the indexing pin 100 therethrough.

[0174] like Figures 2 to 6B , the tapered surface 112 forms or otherwise defines a lead-in portion of the indexing pin 100 that extends between the cylindrical surface 104 and the threaded portion 126 along a central axis 154 of the indexing pin 100. The tapered surface 112 has a circular cross-sectional shape in a plane perpendicular to the central axis 154 of the indexing pin 100. The tapered surface 112 has a diameter that varies along its length.

[0175] like Figure 32 and Figure 33 As illustrated in FIG, when the indexing pin 100 is inserted into one of the first openings 306, the tapered surface 112 enables the indexing pin 100 to enter one of the first openings 306 without applying an impact load to the first body 302 (such as to an edge of a portion of the first body first surface 330 that defines a corresponding one of the first openings 306). Figure 22 、 Figure 27 、 Figure 35 、 Figure 38 and Figure 39As illustrated in FIG, when the indexing pin 100 is inserted into one of the second openings 308, the tapered surface 112 enables the indexing pin 100 to enter one of the second openings 308 without applying an impact load to the second body 304 (such as, to an edge of a portion of the second body first surface 332 that defines a corresponding one of the second openings 308).

[0176] like Figures 2 to 6B , the rod 148 forms or otherwise defines an operator-engaging portion of the indexing pin 100 that extends opposite the threaded portion 126 along the central axis 154. In one or more examples, the rod 148 extends from the flange 136 opposite the cylindrical surface 104. In one or more examples, engagement of the rod 148, such as by an operator applying a torque to the rod 148, prevents rotation of the indexing pin 100 about the central axis 154, such as when the nut 204 is threadably coupled to the threaded portion 126 of the indexing pin 100. In one or more examples, engagement of the rod 148, such as by an operator applying a pulling force, enables extraction of the indexing pin 100 from a corresponding one of the first openings 306 and the second opening 308, such as after alignment of the structure 300 or after final assembly of the structure 300.

[0177] like Figures 2 to 6B As illustrated in FIG, the threaded portion 126 forms or otherwise defines a nut-engaging portion of the indexing pin 100 that extends opposite the cylindrical surface 104 along the central axis 154. In one or more examples, the threaded portion 126 extends from the tapered surface 112 opposite the cylindrical surface 104. The threaded portion 126 has a circular cross-sectional shape in a plane perpendicular to the central axis 154 of the indexing pin 100. The threaded portion 126 has a constant diameter along its length. The threaded portion 126 includes external threads.

[0178] like Figure 11 、 Figure 12 、 Figures 17 to 20 and Figures 29 to 31 , the threaded portion 126 enables the nut 204 to be removably coupled to the indexing pin 100 to clamp the first and second bodies 302, 304 together between the indexing pin 100 and the nut 204, for example, after aligning the structure 300. When the nut 204 is threadedly coupled with the threaded portion 126 and preloaded against the protective clamping member 206 along the central axis 154 under a force within a predetermined range, the first and second bodies 302, 304 are clamped between the flange 136 of the indexing pin 100 and the protective clamping member 206.

[0179] Overall reference Figure 1A and Figure 1B and in particular, for example Figures 11 to 13 and Figures 15 to 20 When the nut 204 is threadedly coupled to the threaded portion 126 of the indexing pin 100, the nut 204 has a second central axis 208 that coincides with the central axis 154 of the indexing pin 100. When the protective clamping member 206 is coupled to the nut 204, the nut 204 and the protective clamping member 206 are rotatable relative to each other. The previous subject matter of this paragraph characterizes Example 19 of the present disclosure, wherein Example 19 also includes the subject matter according to Example 18 above.

[0180] The nut 204 and the protective clamping member 206 being freely rotatable relative to each other enable the protective clamping member 206 to remain rotationally fixed relative to the nut 204 and relative to the second body 304 about the second center axis 208 when the first body 302 and the second body 304 are clamped together between the flange 136 of the indexing pin 100 and the protective clamping member 206.

[0181] According to examples disclosed herein, when the first and second bodies 302 and 304 are clamped together between the flange 136 of the indexing pin 100 and the protective clamping member 206, the protective clamping member 206 is positioned between the nut 204 and the second body second surface 336 of the second body 304. When the nut 204 is threadedly coupled with the threaded portion 126 of the indexing pin 100, the second center axis 208 coincides with the center axis 154 of the indexing pin 100. When the nut 204 is threadedly coupled with the threaded portion 126 of the indexing pin 100, the protective clamping member 206 spaces the nut 204 from the second body second surface 336 such that the nut 204 never comes into direct contact with the second body second surface 336 during clamping. With the protective clamping member 206 in contact with the second body second surface 336, the nut 204 is rotated about the second central axis 208 to threadably couple the nut 204 with the threaded portion 126 of the indexing pin 100 and preload the nut 204 against the protective clamping member 206 along the central axis 154. While the nut 204 rotates relative to the protective clamping member 206 about the second central axis 208, the protective clamping member 206 remains rotationally fixed relative to the second body second surface 336 about the second central axis 208 to prevent a portion of the second body second surface 336 surrounding a corresponding one of the second openings 308 from being damaged due to friction generated by the contact between the rotating bodies.

[0182] Overall reference Figure 1A and Figure 1B and in particular, for example Figures 11 to 13 and Figures 15 to 20When the protective clamping member 206 is coupled to the nut 204, the nut 204 can bi-directionally rotate relative to the protective clamping member 206 about the second central axis 208 without moving relative to the protective clamping member 206 along the second central axis 208. The previous subject matter of this paragraph characterizes Example 20 of the present disclosure, wherein Example 20 also includes the subject matter according to Example 19 above.

[0183] The nut 204 and the protective clamping member 206 are capable of bi-directional rotation relative to each other without moving relative to each other along the second center axis 208, so that the nut 204 can be removably coupled to the threaded portion 126 of the indexing pin 100 without the nut 204 changing position relative to the protective clamping member 206 along the second center axis 208.

[0184] For purposes of this disclosure, the term “bi-directional” refers to clockwise and counterclockwise rotational movement of the nut 204 relative to the protective clamping member 206 about the second central axis 208 .

[0185] Overall reference Figure 1A and Figure 1B and in particular, for example Figures 13 to 16 When the protective clamping member 206 is coupled to the nut 204, the nut 204 and the protective clamping member 206 are frictionally coupled to each other. The previous subject matter of this paragraph characterizes Example 21 of the present disclosure, wherein Example 21 also includes subject matter according to Example 19 or 20 above.

[0186] The frictionally coupled nut 204 and protective clamping member 206 together prevent the nut 204 from accidentally separating from the protective clamping member 206 while allowing the nut 204 and protective clamping member 206 to freely rotate relative to each other.

[0187] Preventing accidental separation of the nut 204 and the protective clamping member 206 reduces or prevents the presence of unwanted foreign object debris (FOD) during assembly of the structure 300. The nut 204 and the protective clamping member 206 are frictionally coupled together using any of a variety of different types of friction coupling techniques that allow the nut 204 and the protective clamping member 206 to freely rotate relative to each other about the second center axis 208.

[0188] Overall reference Figure 1A and Figure 1B and in particular, for example Figures 13 to 16When protective clamping member 206 is coupled to nut 204 and nut 204 is preloaded against protective clamping member 206 along central axis 154 under a force within a predetermined range, nut 204 can bi-directionally rotate relative to protective clamping member 206 about second central axis 208 without moving relative to protective clamping member 206 along second central axis 208. The previous subject matter of this paragraph characterizes Example 22 of the present disclosure, wherein Example 22 also includes subject matter according to any of Examples 19 to 21 above.

[0189] The nut 204 and the protective clamping member 206 can rotate in both directions relative to each other without moving relative to each other along the second center axis 208, so that the nut 204 is preloaded against the protective clamping member 206 under the action of a force within a predetermined range, and the force within the predetermined range is sufficient to fully clamp the first body 302 and the second body 304 together.

[0190] In one or more examples, the relative positions of the nut 204 and the protective clamping member 206 along the second central axis 208 are fixed relative to each other with the nut 204 frictionally coupled together with the protective clamping member 206. Bi-directional rotation of the nut 204 relative to the protective clamping member 206 about the second central axis 208 enables the nut 204 to be threadably coupled with the threaded portion 126 of the indexing pin 100 and to be preloaded against the protective clamping member 206 to clamp the first body 302 and the second body 304 between the flange 136 of the indexing pin 100 and the protective clamping member 206. Bi-directional rotation of the nut 204 relative to the protective clamping member 206 about the second central axis 208 also enables the nut 204 to be removed from the threaded portion 126 of the indexing pin 100 after aligning one of the first openings 306 with a corresponding one of the second openings 308 to facilitate removal of the indexing pin 100.

[0191] Overall reference Figure 1A and Figure 1B and in particular, for example Figures 11 to 20 , the nut 204 is made of metal. The previous subject matter of this paragraph characterizes Example 23 of the present disclosure, wherein Example 23 also includes subject matter according to any one of Examples 19 to 22 above.

[0192] Forming the nut 204 from metal provides the nut 204 with sufficient strength to be preloaded against the protective clamping member 206 under a predetermined range of forces sufficient to adequately clamp the first and second bodies 302, 304 together and provides sufficient durability for repeated use.

[0193] Overall reference Figure 1A and Figure 1B and in particular, for example Figures 11 to 20, the protective clamping member 206 is made of plastic. The previous subject matter of this paragraph characterizes Example 24 of the present disclosure, wherein Example 24 also includes subject matter according to any of Examples 19 to 23 above.

[0194] The protective clamping member 206 made of plastic provides a protective clamping member 206 that is sufficiently resilient to be preloaded by the nut 204 under the action of a predetermined range of forces sufficient to fully clamp the first body 302 and the second body 304 together and has sufficient compliance so as not to damage the second surface 336 of the second body when preloaded.

[0195] Overall reference Figure 1A and Figure 1B and in particular, for example Figures 11 to 13 and Figures 15 to 20 The nut 204 includes a head 212 and a barrel 210 having an outer barrel diameter 218. The nut 204 also includes a snap ring 220 located between the head 212 and the barrel 210 and having a maximum snap ring dimension 222 measured in a direction transverse to the second center axis 208. The maximum snap ring dimension 222 is greater than the outer barrel diameter 218 and the outer protective clamping member diameter 216. The nut 204 also includes a through passage 262 extending through the barrel 210 and including internal threads 260. The previous subject matter of this paragraph characterizes Example 25 of the present disclosure, wherein Example 25 also includes subject matter according to any of Examples 19 to 24 above.

[0196] The head 212 , snap ring 220 , barrel 210 , and through passage 262 of the nut 204 provide a structural interface for coupling the nut 204 with the protective clamping member 206 and removably coupling the nut 204 with the threaded portion 126 of the indexing pin 100 .

[0197] The head 212 forms or otherwise defines an operator-engaging portion of the nut 204. In one or more examples, the head 212 extends along the second central axis 208. In one or more examples, engagement of the head 212, such as by an operator applying torque to the head 212, causes the nut 204 to rotate about the second central axis 208, such as when the nut 204 is threadedly coupled with the threaded portion 126 of the indexing pin 100.

[0198] The barrel 212 forms or otherwise defines a protective clamping member interface portion of the nut 204. In one or more examples, the barrel 212 extends opposite the head 212 along the second central axis 208. In one or more examples, the barrel 210 is configured to engage and frictionally couple with the protective clamping member 206. In one or more examples, the barrel 210 has a circular cross-sectional shape in a plane perpendicular to the second central axis 208 of the nut 204 and has a constant diameter along its length.

[0199] The snap ring 220 forms or otherwise defines a protective clamping member engaging portion of the nut 204. In one or more examples, the snap ring 220 extends between the head 212 and the barrel 210 along the second central axis 208. A maximum snap ring dimension 222 of the snap ring 220 is greater than the outer barrel diameter 218 of the barrel 210, such that the snap ring 220 extends outwardly from the barrel 210 perpendicular to the second central axis 208. With the nut 204 coupled to the protective clamping member 206, the snap ring 220 is configured to contact the protective clamping member 206 when the nut 204 is threadedly coupled to the threaded portion 126 of the indexing pin 100 and be preloaded against the protective clamping member 206 to clamp the first and second bodies 302 and 304 between the flange 136 of the indexing pin 100 and the protective clamping member 206.

[0200] In one or more examples, the snap ring 220 also forms or otherwise defines another operator-engaged portion of the nut 204. In one or more examples, engagement of the snap ring 220, such as by an operator manually applying torque to the snap ring 220, causes the nut 204 to rotate about the second central axis 208, such as when the nut 204 is threadedly coupled with the threaded portion 126 of the indexing pin 100.

[0201] The through-passage 262 forms or otherwise defines an indexing pin engaging portion of the nut 204. The through-passage 262 extends through the barrel 210 along the second central axis 208. The through-passage 262 is configured to receive the threaded portion 126 of the indexing pin 100 when the nut 204 is threadably coupled to the indexing pin 100. The internal threads 260 are configured to matingly engage the threaded portion 126 of the indexing pin 100 when the nut 204 is threadably coupled to the indexing pin 100.

[0202] like Figure 16As illustrated in FIG, in one or more examples, the through passage 262 extends only through the barrel 210, and not through the head 212 (i.e., the head 212 is a solid member). This configuration of the nut 204 prevents the nut 204 from being over-tightened when the nut 204 is threadedly coupled to the threaded portion 126 of the indexing pin 100 by providing a physical stop that limits movement of the nut 204 along the central axis 154 of the indexing pin 100 when the end of the threaded portion 126 contacts the head 212.

[0203] Overall reference Figure 1A and Figure 1B and in particular, for example Figures 11 to 13 and Figures 15 to 20 , the outer protective clamping member diameter 216 of the protective clamping member 206 is less than half the maximum snap ring size 222 of the snap ring 220 of the nut 204. The previous subject matter of this paragraph characterizes Example 26 of the present disclosure, wherein Example 26 also includes subject matter according to Example 25 above.

[0204] The outer protective clamping member diameter 216 is less than half the maximum snap ring size 222 to facilitate manual engagement of the snap ring 220 when the nut 204 is threadedly coupled to the threaded portion 126 of the indexing pin 100 .

[0205] With the nut 204 coupled with the protective clamping member 206, the outer protective clamping member diameter 216 of the protective clamping member 206 is less than half the maximum clamping ring dimension 222 of the snap ring 220, which positions the portion of the snap ring 220 outside the protective clamping member 206 perpendicular to the second center axis 208. For example, when threading the nut 204 to the threaded portion 126 of the indexing pin 100, the portion of the snap ring 220 outside the protective clamping member 206 provides an interface for manual engagement by an operator.

[0206] Overall reference Figure 1A and Figure 1B and in particular, for example Figure 11 and Figure 12 , the snap ring 220 of the nut 204 includes a knurled surface 232. The previous subject matter of this paragraph characterizes Example 27 of the present disclosure, wherein Example 27 also includes subject matter according to Example 25 or 26 above.

[0207] The knurled surface 232 provides a friction interface for hand-tightening the nut 204 to the indexing pin 100 when the first body 302 and the second body 304 are clamped together.

[0208] In one or more examples, at least a portion of the annular sidewall of the snap ring 220 (circumscribes the second central axis 208) includes a knurled surface 232. The knurled surface 232 includes any of various types of knurl patterns formed on the outer surface of the annular sidewall of the snap ring 220.

[0209] Overall reference Figure 1A and 1B and in particular, for example Figure 11 and Figure 12 The head 212 of the nut 204 includes fifth means 264 for providing complementary engagement with a fifth tool. The previous subject matter of this paragraph characterizes Example 28 of the present disclosure, wherein Example 28 also includes subject matter according to any of Examples 25 to 27 above.

[0210] The fifth device 264 enables a fifth tool (not shown) to be used to engage the head 212 and rotate the nut 204 about the second center axis 208 when the nut 204 is threadably coupled to the threaded portion 126 of the indexing pin 100 .

[0211] In one or more examples, the complementary engagement of the fifth tool with the fifth device 264 causes the nut 204 to be threadedly engaged with the first end 150 (150) of the indexing pin 100 when the nut 204 is threadedly coupled to the threaded portion 126. Figure 2 ) rotates around the second central axis 208.

[0212] In general, the fifth device 264 includes or takes the form of any structural feature that provides complementary engagement with the fifth tool, and the fifth tool includes or takes the form of any implement or instrument that engages a specific structural feature corresponding to the fifth device 264 and enables manipulation of the nut 204. In one or more examples, the fifth device 264 is a polygonal structure or a head having multiple planar sides that form at least a portion of the head and has a polygonal cross-sectional shape in a plane perpendicular to the second center axis 208, and the fifth tool is a wrench with a polygonal socket or pliers. In one or more examples, as Figure 11 and Figure 12 As illustrated in FIG, the fifth device 164 includes a hexagonal head (eg, a six-sided head) forming at least a portion of the head 212, and the fifth tool is a wrench configured with a hexagonal socket or pliers that complementarily engage the hexagonal head.

[0213] In one or more examples, a fifth tool for complementary engagement with the fifth feature 264 of the head 212 of the nut 204 and a fourth tool for complementary engagement with the fourth feature 166 of the threaded portion 126 of the indexing pin 100 are integrated into the same combination tool. This combination tool is configured to engage specific structural features corresponding to both the fifth feature 264 and the fourth feature 166 to simultaneously manipulate the nut 204 and the indexing pin 100.

[0214] Overall reference Figure 1A and Figure 1B and in particular, for example Figure 13 、 Figure 15 and Figures 17 to 20 , through-passage 262 extends through the collar 220 of the nut 204. The previous subject matter of this paragraph characterizes Example 29 of the present disclosure, wherein Example 29 also includes subject matter according to any of Examples 25 to 28 above.

[0215] The through passage 262 extending through the collar 220 of the nut 204 increases the adjustability of the nut 24 relative to the indexing pin 100 and enables the threaded portion 126 of the indexing pin 100 to extend further through the nut 204 when the nut 204 is threadably coupled thereto.

[0216] Overall reference Figure 1A and Figure 1B and in particular, for example Figure 13 、 Figure 15 and Figures 17 to 20 , through-passage 262 extends through head 212 of nut 204. The previous subject matter of this paragraph characterizes Example 30 of the present disclosure, wherein Example 30 also includes subject matter according to any of Examples 25 to 29 above.

[0217] The through passage 262 extending through the head 212 of the nut 204 increases adjustability of the nut 24 relative to the indexing pin 100 and enables the threaded portion 126 of the indexing pin 100 to extend through the nut 204 when the nut 204 is threadably coupled thereto.

[0218] In one or more examples, the through passage 262 extending through the head 212 of the nut 204 also enables a fourth tool (not shown) to access the fourth device 166 of the indexing pin 100 through the head 212 of the nut 204 when the nut 204 is threadedly coupled to the threaded portion 126 of the indexing pin 100.

[0219] Overall reference Figure 1A and Figure 1B and in particular, for example Figure 13 and Figures 15 to 20, the internal thread 260 of the through-passage 262 extends along the entirety of the through-passage 262. The previous subject matter of this paragraph characterizes Example 31 of the present disclosure, wherein Example 31 also includes the subject matter according to Example 30 above.

[0220] The internal thread 260 extends along the entire through passage 262 , thereby increasing the mating interface between the nut 204 and the threaded portion 126 of the indexing pin 100 when the nut 204 is threadably coupled to the threaded portion 126 of the indexing pin 100 .

[0221] Overall reference Figure 1A and Figure 1B and in particular, for example Figures 13 to 20 , the indexing fixture 200 also includes an O-ring 228 having a circumferential closed surface 278 located in a plane containing the second central axis 208 of the nut 204. The protective clamping member 206 is cup-shaped and includes a third central axis 272 and a bottom 274 including an opening 240. The protective clamping member 206 also includes a cylindrical wall 276 extending from the bottom 274 along the third central axis 272. The protective clamping member 206 further includes an inner recess 224, which is at least partially defined by the cylindrical wall 276 and is communicatively coupled to the opening 240. The protective clamping member 206 also includes an inner annular groove 230 formed in the cylindrical wall 276. The nut 204 also includes an outer annular groove 226 formed in the barrel 210 of the nut 204. When protective clamping member 206 is coupled to nut 204, barrel 210 of nut 204 is positioned within inner recess 224 of protective clamping member 206 with a clearance fit, a portion of circumferential closing surface 278 of O-ring 228 is positioned within outer annular groove 226, and another portion of circumferential closing surface 278 of O-ring 228 is positioned within inner annular groove 230. The previous subject matter of this paragraph characterizes Example 32 of the present disclosure, wherein Example 32 also includes subject matter according to any of Examples 25 to 31 above.

[0222] The bottom 274, cylindrical wall 276, and inner recess 224 of the protective clamping member 206 provide a structural interface for coupling the protective clamping member 206 with the nut 204. The inner annular groove 230, outer annular groove 226, and O-ring 228 provide a frictional coupling of the nut 204 and the protective clamping member 206 while allowing the nut 204 and the protective clamping member 206 to freely rotate relative to each other about the second center axis 208.

[0223] For purposes of this disclosure, the term "clearance fit" has its ordinary meaning as known to those skilled in the art and refers to a machined fit in which an opening is larger than an element positioned therein, thereby enabling sliding and / or rotation of the two components when assembled.

[0224] For the purposes of this disclosure, a "plane" used to reference the position, orientation, and / or shape of features and elements refers to a virtual reference plane that has the properties of a physical entity without possessing a physical form. For example, a virtual reference plane is an intangible or virtual plane, rather than a physical plane, with respect to which the position, orientation, and / or shape of, for example, other physical and / or intangible entities can be defined.

[0225] The bottom portion 274 forms or otherwise defines a second body engagement portion of the protective clamping member 206. With the nut 204 coupled with the protective clamping member 206, the bottom portion 274 is configured to contact the second body second surface 336 of the second body 304 when the nut 204 is threadedly coupled with the threaded portion 126 of the indexing pin 100 and preloaded against the protective clamping member 206. In one or more examples, the bottom portion 274 has a circular cross-sectional shape in a plane perpendicular to the third central axis 272.

[0226] The opening 240 enables the threaded portion 126 of the indexing pin 100 to enter the inner recess 224 of the protective clamping member 206 when the nut 204 is threadedly coupled to the threaded portion 126. The opening 240 is coaxially aligned with the third center axis 272.

[0227] The cylindrical wall 276 defines or otherwise forms a nut-engaging portion of the protective clamping member 206. The cylindrical wall 276 extends from the base 274 along the third central axis 272 and surrounds the third central axis 272. In one or more examples, when the nut 204 and the protective clamping member 206 are coupled together, the snap ring 220 of the nut 204 contacts the end of the cylindrical wall 276 when the nut 204 is threadedly coupled to the threaded portion 126 of the indexing pin 100 and preloaded against the protective clamping member 206. The cylindrical wall 276 spaces the nut 204 from the second body 304 and prevents the nut 204 from contacting the second body second surface 336 of the second body 304. The cylindrical wall 276 has a circular cross-sectional shape in a plane perpendicular to the third central axis 272 of the protective clamping member 206. The cylindrical wall 276 has a constant diameter along its length.

[0228] The inner recess 224 forms or otherwise defines a nut-receiving portion of the protective clamping member 206, which enables the nut 204 to be removably coupled to the protective clamping member 206. The inner recess 224 extends along the third central axis 272 and is communicatively coupled to the opening 240. When the nut 204 and the protective clamping member 206 are coupled together, the inner recess 224 receives the barrel 210 of the nut 204 with a clearance fit. When the nut 204 and the protective clamping member 206 are coupled together, the opening 240 enables the threaded portion 126 of the indexing pin 100 to be received within the inner recess 224 when the nut 204 is threadably coupled to the threaded portion 126. The inner recess 224 is defined by a bottom 274 and a cylindrical wall 276.

[0229] The O-ring 228 frictionally couples the nut 204 and the protective clamping member 206 together to prevent accidental separation of the nut 204 and the protective clamping member 206 while enabling the nut 204 and the protective clamping member 206 to rotate relative to each other about the second center axis 208, thereby preventing foreign object debris (FOD).

[0230] With the nut 204 and the protective clamping member 206 coupled together, each of the outer annular groove 226 and the inner annular groove 230 receives at least a portion of the circumferential closed surface 278 of the O-ring 228. The outer annular groove 226 and the inner annular groove 230 are configured to enable the nut 204 and the protective clamping member 206 to freely rotate relative to each other about the second central axis 208. The outer annular groove 226 and the inner annular groove 230 are configured to prevent the O-ring 228 from linearly moving relative to each of the nut 204 and the protective clamping member 206 along the second central axis 208, thereby preventing the nut 204 from linearly moving relative to the protective clamping member 206 along the second central axis 208.

[0231] like Figure 14 As best illustrated in FIG, with the nut 204 coupled to the protective clamping member 206, the cross-sectional diameter of the circumferential closure surface 278 of the O-ring 228 is greater than half the cross-sectional dimension of the cross-sectional area defined by the combination of the outer annular groove 226 and the inner annular groove 230, which are located in the same plane as the circumferential closure surface 278 of the O-ring 228. This configuration of the outer annular groove 226 and the inner annular groove 230 keeps the O-ring 228 captured to prevent accidental separation of the nut 204 from the protective clamping member 206 while allowing the nut 204 and the protective clamping member 206 to freely rotate relative to each other about the second center axis 208. This configuration of the outer annular groove 226 and the inner annular groove 230 also enables forced (i.e., intentional) separation of the nut 204 from the protective clamping member 206.

[0232] In one or more examples, when the nut 204 and the protective clamping member 206 are coupled together, the O-ring 228 positions the nut 204 relative to the protective clamping member 206 such that the second center axis 208 of the nut 204 coincides with the third center axis 272 of the protective clamping member 206. In one or more examples, when the nut 204 and the protective clamping member 206 are coupled together, the O-ring 228 positions the nut 204 relative to the protective clamping member 206 such that the second center axis 208 of the nut 204 is parallel to the third center axis 272 of the protective clamping member 206.

[0233] Additionally, the use of both the outer and inner annular grooves 226 , 230 , along with the O-ring 228 , also enables a snap-fit ​​connection that provides tactile verification that the nut 204 and protective clamping member 206 are interlocked.

[0234] Overall reference Figure 1A and Figure 1B and in particular, for example Figure 13 、 Figure 15 and Figure 16 When protective clamping member 206 is coupled to nut 204, barrel 210 of nut 204 is spaced apart from bottom 274 of protective clamping member 206 to form gap 234. The previous subject matter of this paragraph characterizes Example 33 of the present disclosure, wherein Example 33 also includes subject matter according to Example 32 above.

[0235] The barrel 210 is spaced apart from the base 274 to form a gap 234 that enables a portion of the indexing pin 100 to be received by the protective clamping member 206 when the nut 204 is threadably coupled to the indexing pin 100 .

[0236] In one or more examples, Figures 17 to 20 As illustrated in the figure, when the nut 204 is coupled to the protective clamping member 206, a portion of the tapered surface 112 can be received within a portion of the inner recess 224 of the protective clamping member 206 formed by the gap 234 between the barrel 210 of the nut 204 and the bottom 274 of the protective clamping member 206 when the nut 204 is threadedly coupled to the threaded portion 126 of the indexing pin 100 and preloaded against the protective clamping member 206.

[0237] In one or more examples, the gap 234 also allows the protective clamping member 206 to elastically return to the protective clamping member 206 when the nut 204 is preloaded against the protective clamping member 206 under the action of a force within a predetermined range, thereby firmly clamping the first body 302 and the second body 304 between the flange 136 of the indexing pin 100 and the protective clamping member 206. In other words, the portion of the protective clamping member 206 that defines the gap 234 acts as a spring to provide the clamping compression force. Increasing the size of the gap 234 provides a greater compression length, which increases the elasticity to form a better clamp.

[0238] Overall reference Figure 1A and Figure 1B and in particular, for example Figure 12 、 Figure 13 、 Figure 15 and Figure 16 , bottom 274 includes an outer surface 244 surrounding opening 240. Protective clamping member 206 also includes a second O-ring 266 located on outer surface 244 of bottom 274. The previous subject matter of this paragraph characterizes Example 34 of the present disclosure, wherein Example 34 also includes subject matter according to Examples 32 or 33 above.

[0239] The outer surface 244 provides a contact interface between the protective clamping member 206 and the second body 304. The second O-ring 266 prevents rotation of the protective clamping member 206 relative to the second body 304 when the nut 204 is removably coupled to the indexing pin 100.

[0240] In one or more examples, with the nut 204 coupled with the protective clamping member 206, when the nut 204 is threadedly coupled to the threaded portion 126 of the indexing pin 100 and preloaded against the protective clamping member 206, at least a portion of the outer surface 244 contacts a portion of the second body second surface 336 and the second O-ring 266 engages a portion of the second body second surface 336 of the second body 304 surrounding a corresponding one of the second openings 308. The engagement between the second O-ring 266 and the second body second surface 336 provides a frictional force sufficient to resist rotation of the protective clamping member 206 relative to the second body second surface 336 about the second central axis 208 when the nut 204 is rotated relative to the protective clamping member 206.

[0241] Overall reference Figure 1A and Figure 1B and in particular, for example Figure 13 、 Figures 16 to 18 and Figure 20 , the outer surface 244 of the bottom 274 is planar. The previous subject matter of this paragraph characterizes Example 35 of the present disclosure, wherein Example 35 also includes subject matter according to Example 34 above.

[0242] The planar outer surface 244 of the bottom portion 274 enables the protective clamping member 206 to be in substantially flush contact with the second body second surface 336 of the second body 304 when the portion of the second body second surface 336 surrounding the corresponding one of the second openings 308 is planar.

[0243] In one or more examples, the portion of the second body first surface 332 surrounding the corresponding one of the second openings 308 is planar. In one or more examples, the planar outer surface 244 of the bottom 274 enables a portion of the protective clamping member 206 to abut the portion of the second body first surface 332 surrounding the corresponding one of the second openings 308 that is planar when the nut 204 is threadedly coupled with the threaded portion 126 of the indexing pin 100 and preloaded against the protective clamping member 206.

[0244] Overall reference Figure 1A and Figure 1B and in particular, for example Figure 15 and Figure 19 , the barrel 210 of the nut 204 includes a frustoconical barrel portion 254. The inner recess 224 includes a frustoconical recess 256 that is complementary to the frustoconical barrel portion 254. The outer surface 244 of the bottom 274 is frustoconical. The previous subject matter of this paragraph characterizes Example 36 of the present disclosure, wherein Example 36 also includes the subject matter of Example 34 above.

[0245] The frustoconical outer surface 244 of the bottom portion 274 allows the protective clamping member 206 to be in substantially flush contact with the second body second surface 336 of the second body 304 when a portion of the second body second surface 336 surrounding a corresponding one of the second openings 308 includes a second countersunk hole 322. The frustoconical recess 256 receives the frustoconical barrel portion 254 to substantially center the nut 204 relative to the protective clamping member 206.

[0246] For purposes of this disclosure, the term "complementary" describes geometric shapes that fit precisely together in a hand-glove arrangement, like a stem and receiver or a tenon and mortise.

[0247] like Figures 29 to 31, in one or more examples, with the nut 204 and protective clamping member 206 coupled together, the frustoconical barrel portion 254 of the barrel 210 of the nut 204 is received by the frustoconical recess 256 of the inner recess 224 of the protective clamping member 206. The complementary engagement between the frustoconical barrel portion 254 of the barrel 210 and the frustoconical recess 256 of the inner recess 224 centers the nut 204 relative to the protective clamping member 206 when the nut 204 and protective clamping member 206 are coupled together. In other words, with the nut 204 and protective clamping member 206 coupled together and the nut 204 threadedly coupled to the threaded portion 126 of the indexing pin 100 and preloaded against the protective clamping member 206, the second center axis 208 of the nut 204 is positioned to coincide with the third center axis 272 of the protective clamping member 206 when the frustoconical barrel portion 254 of the barrel 210 is properly seated within the frustoconical recess 256 of the inner recess 224. The engagement of the frustoconical barrel portion 254 with the frustoconical recess 256 coaxially aligns the second center axis 208 of the nut 204 with the third center axis 272 of the protective clamping member 206.

[0248] like Figures 29 to 31 , in one or more examples, a portion of the second body first surface 332 surrounding a corresponding one of the second openings 308 includes a second countersunk hole 322. In one or more examples, the outer surface 244 of the bottom portion 274 is frustoconical so that when the nut 204 is threadedly coupled to the threaded portion 126 of the indexing pin 100 and preloaded against the protective clamping member 206, a portion of the protective clamping member 206 can abut and be received within the second countersunk hole 322 of the corresponding one of the second openings 308. When the nut 204 and the protective clamping member 206 are coupled together, the complementary engagement between the outer surface 244 of the bottom portion 274 and the countersunk hole 320 centers the protective clamping member 206 within the corresponding one of the second openings 308. In other words, with the nut 204 coupled to the protective clamping member 206 and the nut 204 threadedly coupled to the threaded portion 126 of the indexing pin 100 and preloaded against the protective clamping member 206, the third central axis 272 of the protective clamping member 206 is positioned to coincide with the fifth central axis 340 of the corresponding one of the second openings 308 when the outer surface 244 of the bottom 274 is properly seated within the second countersunk bore 322. The engagement of the outer surface 244 of the bottom 274 with the second countersunk bore 322 coaxially aligns the third central axis 272 of the protective clamping member 206 with the fifth central axis 340 of the corresponding one of the second openings 308.

[0249] like Figures 17 to 20 and Figures 29 to 31 As illustrated in the figure, according to the example disclosed herein, when the nut 204 is connected to the protective clamping member 206 and the nut 204 is threadedly connected to the threaded portion 126 of the indexing pin 100 and is preloaded against the protective clamping member 206, the complementary engagement between the outer surface 244 of the bottom 274 and the countersunk hole 320 positions the third center axis 272 of the protective clamping member 206 and the fifth center axis 340 of a corresponding one of the second openings 308 (i.e., centers the protective clamping member 206 relative to the corresponding one of the second openings 308). With the nut 204 coupled to the protective clamping member 206 and the nut 204 threadedly coupled to the threaded portion 126 of the indexing pin 100 and preloaded against the protective clamping member 206, the complementary engagement between the frustoconical barrel portion 254 of the barrel 210 and the frustoconical recess 256 of the inner recess 224 positions the second center axis 208 of the nut 204 and the third center axis 272 of the protective clamping member 206 to coincide with each other (i.e., centers the nut 204 relative to the protective clamping member 206), and therefore, positions the second center axis 208 of the nut 204 and the fifth center axis 340 of a corresponding one of the second openings 308 to coincide with each other (i.e., centers the nut 204 relative to the protective clamping member 206).

[0250] like Figures 17 to 20 and Figures 29 to 31As illustrated in FIG, in one or more examples, the indexing pin 100 includes a flange 136 having a frustoconical flange surface 162, the barrel 210 of the nut 204 includes a frustoconical barrel portion 254, the inner recess 224 of the protective clamping member 206 includes a frustoconical recess 256, and the outer surface 244 of the bottom 274 of the protective clamping member 206 is frustoconical. In this construction, with the nut 204 coupled to the protective clamping member 206 and the nut 204 threadedly coupled to the threaded portion 126 of the indexing pin 100 and preloaded against the protective clamping member 206, the center axis 154 of the indexing pin 100, the fourth center axis 338 of a corresponding one of the first openings 306, the second center axis 208 of the nut 204, the third center axis 272 of the protective clamping member 206, and the fifth center axis 340 of a corresponding one of the second openings 30 are positioned to coincide with each other. In other words, in this construction, when the indexing pin 100 is inserted through one of the first openings 306 and a corresponding one of the second openings 308, the nut 204 is connected to the protective clamping member 206 and the nut 204 is threadedly connected to the threaded portion 126 of the indexing pin 100 and is preloaded against the protective clamping member 206 to clamp the first body 302 and the second body 304 together between the flange 136 of the indexing pin 100 and the protective clamping member 206, the fourth center axis 338 of one of the first openings 306 and the fifth center axis 340 of the corresponding one of the second openings 308 are caused to be coaxially aligned with each other.

[0251] Overall reference Figure 1A and Figure 1B and in particular, for example Figure 13 、 Figure 15 and Figure 16 , the protective clamping member 206 further includes an annular surface 236, an opposing bottom portion 274 of the protective clamping member 206. When the protective clamping member 206 is coupled to the nut 204 and the nut 204 is preloaded against the protective clamping member 206 along the second center axis 208, the annular surface 236 contacts the snap ring 220 of the nut 204. The previous subject matter of this paragraph characterizes Example 37 of the present disclosure, wherein Example 37 also includes subject matter according to any of Examples 32 to 36 above.

[0252] Annular surface 236 provides a contact surface between protective clamping member 206 and nut 204. The contacting engagement between annular surface 236 and snap ring 220 limits linear movement of nut 204 relative to protective clamping member 206 along second central axis 208 while allowing nut 204 and protective clamping member 206 to rotate relative to each other about second central axis 208.

[0253] In one or more examples, the annular surface 258 forms or otherwise defines at least a portion of one end of the cylindrical wall 276 of the protective clamping member 206. In one or more examples, the annular surface 258 is configured to reduce friction between the annular surface 258 and a portion of the surface of the snap ring 220 that contacts the annular surface 258 due to rotation of the nut 204 relative to the protective clamping member 206. In one or more examples, the annular surface 258 is highly polished to reduce friction caused by contact between the annular surface 258 and the snap ring 220 as they rotate relative to each other. In one or more examples, the annular surface 258 includes a friction-reducing coating to reduce friction caused by contact between the annular surface 258 and the snap ring 220 as they rotate relative to each other.

[0254] Overall reference Figure 41A 、 Figure 41B and Figure 41C and in particular, for example Figures 2 to 10 and Figures 21 to 31, a method 1000 for aligning a first body 302 with a second body 304 of a structure 300 is disclosed. The first body 302 includes a first body first surface 330, a first body second surface 334 opposite the first body first surface 330, and a first opening 306 extending between (and including) the first body first surface 330 and the first body second surface 334. The second body 304 includes a second body first surface 332, a second body second surface 336 opposite the second body first surface 332, and a second opening 308 extending between (and including) the second body first surface 332 and the second body second surface 336. The method 1000 includes (block 1002) preparing the indexing pins 100 for use. According to the method 1000, each of the indexing pins 100 includes a central axis 154 and a threaded portion 126 extending along the central axis 154. Each of the indexing pins 100 further includes a shank 148 extending along the central axis 154. Each of the indexing pins 100 further includes a cylindrical surface 104 extending along the central axis 154 between the threaded portion 126 and the shank 148. Each of the indexing pins 100 further includes a tapered surface 112 extending between the threaded portion 126 and the cylindrical surface 104. Each of the indexing pins 100 further includes a flange 136 located between the shank 148 and the cylindrical surface 104. At least a portion of the flange 136 is larger than a diameter of any of the first openings 306. The method 1000 further includes (block 1004) orienting the first body 302 such that each of the first openings 306 extends vertically and the first body first surface 330 faces upward. The method 1000 further includes (block 1006) inserting each of the indexing pins 100 into a corresponding one of the first openings 306 of the first body 302 using a clearance fit such that a portion of the cylindrical surface 104 of each of the indexing pins 100 is located within a corresponding one of the first openings 306 and a portion of the cylindrical surface 104 of each of the indexing pins 100 extends past the first body second surface 334. The method 1000 further includes (block 1008) orienting the second body 304 such that each of the second openings 308 extends vertically and the second body first surface 332 faces the first body second surface 334. The method 1000 also includes (box 1010) aligning each of the second openings 308 of the second body 304 with a corresponding one of the indexing pins 100 extending through the second surface 334 of the first body so that, when viewed in plan, the threaded portion 126 of each of the indexing pins 100 is surrounded by and spaced apart from the second wall 312 of the corresponding one of the second openings 308 of the second body 304.The method 1000 also includes (block 1012 ) moving the first and second bodies 302 , 304 toward each other a first distance until the threaded portion 126 of each of the indexing pins 100 extending through the first body second surface 334 is inserted into a corresponding one of the second openings 308 of the second body 304 . Method 1000 further includes (box 1014) moving the first body 302 and the second body 304 toward each other a second distance until at least a portion of the tapered surface 112 of each indexing pin 100 is inserted into a corresponding one of the second openings 308 of the second body 304, while: (box 1016) allowing the first body 302 and the second body 304 to move relative to each other in a direction perpendicular to the central axis 154 of each indexing pin 100; (box 1018) applying a downward force to each of the indexing pins 100 of a magnitude sufficient to cause at least a portion of the tapered surface 112 of each indexing pin 100 to be inserted into a corresponding one of the second openings 308 of the second body 304 once the first body 302 and the second body 304 are moved toward each other the second distance. Method 1000 also includes (box 1020) moving the first body 302 and the second body 304 toward each other a third distance until a portion of the cylindrical surface 104 of each indexing pin 100 is inserted into a corresponding one of the second openings 308 of the second body 304, while: (box 1022) allowing the first body 302 and the second body 304 to move relative to each other in a direction perpendicular to the central axis 154 of each indexing pin 100; (box 1024) applying a downward force to each of the indexing pins 100 sufficient to cause a portion of the cylindrical surface 104 of each indexing pin 100 to be inserted into a corresponding one of the second openings 308 of the second body 304 once the first body 302 and the second body 304 are moved toward each other the third distance. The method 1000 also includes (block 1026) moving the first body 302 and the second body 304 toward each other a fourth distance until the first body second surface 334 contacts the second body first surface 332 and the threaded portion 126 of each of the indexing pins 100 extends past the second body second surface 336, while (block 1028) applying a downward force to each of the indexing pins 100 sufficient to cause the threaded portion 126 of each of the indexing pins 100 to extend past the second body second surface 336 once the first body 302 and the second body 304 are moved toward each other the fourth distance. The previous subject matter of this paragraph characterizes Example 38 of the present disclosure.

[0255] Method 1000 facilitates aligning first body 302 of structure 300 with second body 304 of structure 300 by causing first opening 306 of first body 302 to align with second opening 308 of second body 304 as first body 302 and second body 304 are moved into contact with each other and each of indexing pins is inserted through a corresponding one of first openings 306 and second openings 308.

[0256] For the purposes of this disclosure, the term "along" with reference to extending along an axis means coincident with or parallel to the axis.

[0257] For purposes of this disclosure, the phrases “a corresponding one of the first openings 306 ” and “a corresponding one of the second openings 308 ” refer to corresponding ones of each other and aligned with each other when the first and second bodies 302 , 304 corresponding to each of the indexing pins 100 are positioned and aligned relative to each other for insertion into one of the first openings 306 and one of the second openings 308 of the indexing pin 100 .

[0258] For purposes of this disclosure, the term "clearance fit" has its ordinary meaning as known to those skilled in the art and refers to a machined fit in which an opening is larger than an element positioned therein, thereby enabling sliding and / or rotation of the two components when assembled.

[0259] like Figures 21 to 28 As illustrated in the figure, when the first body 302 and the second body 304 are moved relative to each other, such as to a stacked configuration in which the first body second surface 334 of the first body 302 contacts the second body first surface 332 of the second body 304 and each of the indexing pins 100 is inserted into one of the first openings 306 and a corresponding one of the second openings 308, alignment of the structure 300 is achieved by aligning the first opening 306 and the second opening 308 relative to each other and the indexing pins 100.

[0260] In one or more examples, first body 302 and second body 304 include or are formed of a composite material, such as a fiber-reinforced polymer composite. In one or more examples, first body 302 and second body 304 include or are formed of a metallic material. In one or more examples, first body 302 and second body 304 include or are formed of a plastic material, such as a thermoplastic material.

[0261] In one or more examples, structure 300 is part of, or forms a portion of, a substructure or component of a larger manufactured structure or assembly. In one or more examples, structure 300 is part of, or forms a portion of, a vehicle structure, such as an aerospace vehicle, a spacecraft, a marine vehicle, a land vehicle, etc. In one or more examples, structure 300 is part of, or forms a portion of, an independent structure, such as a building, an antenna, a satellite, a rocket, etc.

[0262] In one or more examples, during assembly of structure 300, first body 302 and second body 304 are initially arranged in a stacked configuration, also referred to herein as a stack. First opening 306 and second opening 308 are machined (e.g., drilled) through the stack of arranged first and second bodies 302, 304. After forming first and second openings 306, 308, first and second bodies 302, 304 are separated so that one or more finishing operations can be performed on first and / or second bodies 302, 304. One example of such a finishing operation includes a deburring process that removes unwanted material from first and second bodies 302, 304, such as material surrounding first and second openings 306, 308, respectively. Removing such unwanted material can mitigate undesirable electromagnetic environmental effects (EME) on structure 300 during use, such as those from electrostatic discharge and lightning strikes. Mitigating undesirable EME can be particularly beneficial when structure 300 is an aerospace structure.

[0263] like Figures 21 to 28 , according to examples disclosed herein, the indexing pin 100 enables the first opening 306 and the second opening 308 to be realigned when the first body 302 and the second body 304 are rearranged back into a stacked configuration for final assembly of the structure 300. In one or more examples, the final assembly of the structure 300 includes installing a fastener through the aligned first opening 306 and the second opening 308, the structural coupling of the first body 302 and the second body 304, and the like.

[0264] like Figures 21 to 28 As illustrated in the figures, in one or more examples, with each of the indexing pins 100 positioned within one of the first openings 306, while each of the indexing pins 100 is inserted through a corresponding one of the second openings 308 until the first body second surface 334 contacts the second body first surface 332, each of the indexing pins 100 causes one of the first openings 306 to align with a corresponding one of the second openings 308 as the first body 302 and the second body 304 move toward each other.

[0265] Thus, a plurality of indexing pins 100 may be used to facilitate alignment of selected ones of the first openings 306 with corresponding selected ones of the second openings 308. As the indexing pins 100 are used to align selected ones of the first openings 306 with corresponding selected ones of the second openings 308, unselected ones of the first openings 306 will be aligned with corresponding unselected ones of the second openings 308, such that the first and second bodies 302, 304 are properly aligned for final assembly, such as installation of fasteners.

[0266] Advantageously, with all of first openings 306 of first body 302 aligned with all of corresponding ones of second openings 308 of second body 304, fasteners may be installed, for example, by inserting each of the fasteners through one of first openings 306 and a corresponding one of second openings 308, without damaging first body 302 and / or second body 304. Advantageously, the ability to install fasteners in appropriately pre-aligned ones of first openings 306 and corresponding ones of second openings 308 eliminates the need for fastener sleeves, which reduces processing time and costs in manufacturing structure 300 and reduces the overall weight of structure 300.

[0267] like Figures 2 to 6B , the cylindrical surface 104 forms or otherwise defines a main shaft or shank of each of the indexing pins 100 that extends along the central axis 154 between the shank 148 and the threaded portion 126. In one or more examples, the cylindrical surface 104 extends between the flange 136 and the tapered surface 112. The cylindrical surface 104 has a circular cross-sectional shape in a plane perpendicular to the central axis 154 of the indexing pin 100. The cylindrical surface 104 has a constant diameter along its length.

[0268] For the purposes of this disclosure, a "plane" used to reference the position, orientation, and / or shape of features and elements refers to a virtual reference plane that has the properties of a physical entity without possessing a physical form. For example, a virtual reference plane is an intangible or virtual plane, rather than a physical plane, with respect to which the position, orientation, and / or shape of, for example, other physical and / or intangible entities can be defined.

[0269] like Figures 21 to 28 as well as Figures 34 to 40, the cylindrical surface 104 provides or serves as an indexing surface for each of the indexing pins 100 that contacts a portion of a first wall 310 of one of the first openings 306 when each of the indexing pins 100 is inserted into or through one of the first openings 306. Similarly, the cylindrical surface 104 provides or serves as an indexing surface for each of the indexing pins 100 that contacts a portion of a second wall 312 of a corresponding one of the second openings 308 when each of the indexing pins 100 is inserted into or through a corresponding one of the second openings 308 to facilitate a change in position of at least one of the first body 302 and the second body 304 relative to each other during alignment of the one of the first openings 306 and the corresponding one of the second openings 308 through which each of the indexing pins 100 is inserted.

[0270] like Figures 2 to 6B , the tapered surface 112 forms or otherwise defines a lead-in portion of each of the indexing pins 100 that extends along the central axis 154 between the cylindrical surface 104 and the threaded portion 126. The tapered surface 112 has a circular cross-sectional shape in a plane perpendicular to the central axis 154 of the indexing pin 100. The tapered surface 112 has a diameter that varies along its length.

[0271] When each of the indexing pins 100 is inserted into one of the first openings 306, the tapered surface 112 enables each of the indexing pins 100 to enter one of the first openings 306 without applying an impact load to the first body 302 (such as to an edge of a portion of the first body first surface 330 that defines a corresponding one of the first openings 306). Figure 22 and Figure 26 As illustrated in FIG, when each of the indexing pins 100 is inserted into one of the second openings 308, the tapered surface 112 enables each of the indexing pins 100 to enter one of the second openings 308 without applying an impact load to the second body 304 (such as, to an edge of a portion of the second body first surface 332 that defines a corresponding one of the second openings 308).

[0272] like Figures 2 to 6B, the rod 148 forms or otherwise defines an operator engagement portion of each of the indexing pins 100 that extends opposite the threaded portion 126 along the central axis 154. In one or more examples, the rod 148 extends from the flange 136 opposite the cylindrical surface 104. In one or more examples, engagement of the rod 148, such as by an operator, prevents the corresponding one of the indexing pins 100 from rotating about the central axis 154. In one or more examples, engagement of the rod 148, such as by an operator, enables the corresponding one of the indexing pins 100 to be withdrawn from the corresponding one of the first openings 306 and the second opening 308, such as after alignment of the structure 300.

[0273] like Figures 2 to 6B As illustrated in FIG, the threaded portion 126 forms or otherwise defines a nut-engaging portion of each of the indexing pins 100 that extends opposite the cylindrical surface 104 along the central axis 154. In one or more examples, the threaded portion 126 extends from the tapered surface 112 opposite the cylindrical surface 104. The threaded portion 126 has a circular cross-sectional shape in a plane perpendicular to the central axis 154 of the indexing pin 100. The threaded portion 126 has a constant diameter along its length. The threaded portion 126 includes external threads.

[0274] like Figure 11 、 Figure 12 and Figures 29 to 31 As illustrated in FIG, the threaded portion 126 enables each of the nuts 204 to be removably coupled to a corresponding one of the indexing pins 100 such that, for example, the first body 302 and the second body 304 are clamped together between each of the indexing pins 100 and a corresponding one of the nuts 204 after aligning the structure 300 with the indexing pin 100.

[0275] like Figures 21 to 28 , according to examples disclosed herein, each of the indexing pins 100 is inserted through one of the first openings 306 of the first body 302 and a corresponding one of the second openings 308 of the second body 304 such that the first opening 306 is aligned with the second opening 308 by moving the first body 302 and / or the second body 304 relative to each other in a direction perpendicular to the central axis 154 of each of the indexing pins 100. The first body 302 and / or the second body 304 are moved relative to each other in a direction perpendicular to the central axis 154 of each of the indexing pins 100 as each of the indexing pins 100 is inserted through one of the first openings 306 and the corresponding one of the second openings 308 such that the fourth central axis 338 of the corresponding one of the first openings 306 and the fifth central axis 340 of the corresponding one of the second openings 308 are brought closer to each other so as to coincide with each other.

[0276] In one or more examples, orienting (block 1004) the first body 302, orienting (block 1008) the second body 304, aligning (block 1010) each of the second openings 308 of the second body 304 with a corresponding one of the indexing pins 100, moving (block 1012) the first body 302 and the second body 304 toward each other by a first distance, (block 1014) the first body 302 and the second body 304 toward each other by a second distance, (block 1020) the first body 302 and the second body 304 toward each other by a third distance, and (block 1026) the first body 302 and the second body 304 toward each other by a fourth distance are performed using a material handling system, such as a robotic manipulator, having a dedicated end effector configured to handle the first body 302 and the second body 304. In one or more examples, such a material handling system can be manually controlled. In one or more examples, such a material handling system can be automatically controlled, for example, by computer numerical control, machine vision, or any other suitable automatic or preprogrammed machine control.

[0277] For the purposes of this disclosure, the term "second distance" refers to an additional distance relative to the "first distance." The term "third distance" refers to an additional distance relative to the "second distance." The term "fourth distance" refers to an additional distance relative to the "thirtieth distance."

[0278] In one or more examples, (block 1012) moving the first and second bodies 302, 304 toward each other a first distance is performed while maintaining alignment of each of the second openings 308 of the second body 304 with a corresponding one of the indexing pins 100 extending through the first body second surface 334 such that, when viewed in plan, the threaded portion 126 of each of the indexing pins 100 is surrounded by and spaced apart from the second wall 312 of the corresponding one of the second openings 308 of the second body 304.

[0279] In one or more examples, inserting (block 1006) each of the indexing pins 100 into a corresponding one of the first openings 306, applying (block 1018) a downward force to each of the indexing pins 100, applying (block 1024) a downward force to each of the indexing pins 100, and applying (block 1028) a downward force to each of the indexing pins 100 are performed using a material handling system, such as a robotic manipulator, having a dedicated end effector configured to handle the indexing pins 100. In one or more examples, such a material handling system can be manually controlled. In one or more examples, such a material handling system can be automatically controlled, for example, by computer numerical control, machine vision, or any other suitable automatic or preprogrammed machine control.

[0280] According to examples disclosed herein, (block 1006 ) each of the indexing pins 100 is inserted into a corresponding one of the first openings 306 , positioning each of the indexing pins 100 within a corresponding one of the first openings 306 such that the center axis 154 of each of the indexing pins 100 is axially aligned with the fourth center axis 338 of the corresponding one of the first openings 306 .

[0281] For the purposes of this disclosure, the term "axially aligned" means that two axes are parallel or coincident with each other. For the purposes of this disclosure, the term "coaxially aligned" means that two axes are coincident with each other.

[0282] Each of the indexing pins 100 is inserted into a corresponding one of the first openings 306 of the first body 302 using a clearance fit so that a portion of the cylindrical surface 104 of each of the indexing pins 100 is located in the corresponding one of the first openings 306 and the center axis 154 of each of the indexing pins 100 and the fourth center axis 338 of the corresponding one of the first openings 306 are parallel to each other, and the axial offset between the center axis 154 of each of the indexing pins 100 and the fourth center axis 338 of the corresponding one of the first openings 306 is less than or equal to half of the difference between the cylindrical surface diameter 128 of the cylindrical surface 104 of each of the indexing pins 100 and the first diameter of the corresponding one of the first openings 306.

[0283] According to the examples disclosed herein, the step of moving the first body 302 and the second body 304 toward each other a fourth distance (box 1026) while applying a downward force to each of the indexing pins 100 (box 1028) positions each of the indexing pins 100 within a corresponding one of the second openings 308 such that the center axis 154 of each of the indexing pins 100 is coaxially aligned with the fifth center axis 340 of the corresponding one of the second openings 308.

[0284] Each of the indexing pins 100 is inserted into a corresponding one of the second openings 308 of the second body 304 using a clearance fit so that a portion of the cylindrical surface 104 of each of the indexing pins 100 is located in the corresponding one of the second openings 308 and the central axis 154 of each of the indexing pins 100 and the fifth central axis 340 of the corresponding one of the second openings 308 are parallel to each other, and the axial offset between the central axis 154 of each of the indexing pins 100 and the fifth central axis 340 of the corresponding one of the second openings 308 is less than or equal to half of the difference between the cylindrical surface diameter 128 of the cylindrical surface 104 of each of the indexing pins 100 and the second diameter of the corresponding one of the second openings 308.

[0285] According to the examples disclosed herein, when the cylindrical surface 104 of each of the indexing pins 100 is located in one of the first openings 306 and a corresponding one of the second openings 308, the axial offset between the fourth center axis 338 of one of the first openings 306 and the fifth center axis 340 of the corresponding one of the second openings 308 is less than or equal to the difference between the cylindrical surface diameter 128 of the cylindrical surface 104 of each of the indexing pins 100 and one of the first diameter of the corresponding one of the first openings 306 or the second diameter of the corresponding one of the second openings 308.

[0286] Overall reference Figure 41A 、 Figure 41B and Figure 41C and in particular, for example Figures 2 to 6B 、 Figure 18 、 Figure 19 、 Figures 25 to 28 and Figures 37 to 40 According to method 1000, portions of the first body first surface 330 surrounding the first opening 306 are countersunk holes 320. The flange 136 of each of the indexing pins 100 includes a frustoconical flange surface 162 located between the cylindrical surface 104 of each of the indexing pins 100 and the rod 148. According to method 1000, (block 1006) inserting each of the indexing pins 100 into a corresponding one of the first openings 306 includes (block 1030) abutting the frustoconical flange surface 162 of each of the indexing pins 100 against a corresponding one of the countersunk holes 320. The previous subject matter of this paragraph characterizes Example 39 of the present disclosure, wherein Example 39 also includes subject matter according to Example 38 above.

[0287] The method 1000 facilitates using each of the indexing pins 100 with a first body 302 having a portion of the first body first surface 330 including the counterbore 320 surrounding the first opening 306 .

[0288] The frustoconical flange surface 162 of the flange 136 provides a countersunk design for the indexing pins 100. The mating engagement of the frustoconical flange surface 162 with the countersunk bore 320 positions the central axis 154 of each of the indexing pins 100 to coincide with the fourth central axis 338 of the corresponding one of the first openings 306. The frustoconical flange surface 162 of the flange 136 prevents each of the indexing pins 100 from moving within the corresponding one of the first openings 306 in a direction transverse to the fourth central axis 338 of the corresponding one of the first openings 306 when each of the indexing pins 100 is being inserted into the corresponding one of the second openings 308.

[0289] like Figures 25 to 28As illustrated in FIG, in one or more examples, a portion of the first body first surface 330 surrounding a corresponding one of the first openings 306 includes a countersunk hole 320. Figure 25 and Figure 40 , in one or more examples, with a portion of the cylindrical surface 104 of each of the indexing pins 100 positioned within one of the first openings 306, the frustoconical flange surface 162 enables the flange 136 to be received within the countersunk hole 320 of a corresponding one of the first openings 306 and seated on a portion of the first body first surface 330 surrounding the corresponding one of the first openings 306. In other words, the frustoconical flange surface 162 of the flange 136 provides a countersunk design for each of the indexing pins 100.

[0290] like Figures 25 to 28 , with the portion of the cylindrical surface 104 of each of the indexing pins 100 positioned within one of the first openings 306, the frustoconical flange surface 162 of the flange 136 also provides a second indexing surface that engages the portion of the first body first surface 330 defining the counterbore 320 to center each of the indexing pins relative to a corresponding one of the first openings 306. In other words, with the frustoconical flange surface 162 properly seated within the counterbore 320, each of the indexing pins 100 is centered within a corresponding one of the first openings 306, and the engagement of the frustoconical flange surface 162 with the counterbore 320 coaxially aligns the central axis 154 of each of the indexing pins 100 with the fourth central axis 338 of the corresponding one of the first openings 306.

[0291] Overall reference Figure 41A 、 Figure 41B and Figure 41C and in particular, for example Figures 2 to 6B 、 Figure 17 、 Figures 20 to 24 According to method 1000, portions of the first body first surface 330 surrounding the first opening 306 are planar. The flange 136 of each of the indexing pins 100 includes a planar flange surface 160 located between the cylindrical surface 104 of each of the indexing pins 100 and the rod 148 and oriented transverse to the central axis 154 of each of the indexing pins 100. According to method 1000, (block 1006) inserting each of the indexing pins 100 into a corresponding one of the first openings 306 includes (block 1032) abutting the planar flange surface 160 of each of the indexing pins 100 against a corresponding one of the portions of the first body first surface 330 surrounding the first opening 306. The previous subject matter of this paragraph characterizes Example 40 of the present disclosure, wherein Example 40 also includes subject matter according to Example 38 above.

[0292] The method 1000 facilitates using each of the indexing pins 100 with a first body 302 having a portion of the first body first surface 330 surrounding the first opening 306 that is planar.

[0293] The planar flange surface 160 enables the flange 136 to contact a portion of the first body first surface 330 surrounding the corresponding one of the first openings 306, which portion is planar, when each of the indexing pins 100 is fully inserted into the corresponding one of the first openings 306. The planar flange surface 160 of the flange 136 allows each of the indexing pins 100 to move within the corresponding one of the first openings 306 in a direction transverse to the fourth center axis 338 of the corresponding one of the first openings 306 when each of the indexing pins 100 is being inserted into the corresponding one of the second openings 308.

[0294] like Figures 21 to 24 As illustrated in FIG, in one or more examples, a portion of the first body first surface 330 surrounding a corresponding one of the first openings 306 is planar. Figure 21 , in one or more examples, with a portion of the cylindrical surface 104 of each of the indexing pins 100 positioned within a corresponding one of the first openings 306, the planar flange surface 160 enables the flange 136 of each of the indexing pins 100 to rest on a planar portion of the first body first surface 330 surrounding the corresponding one of the first openings 306. In other words, the planar flange surface 160 of the flange 136 provides a raised head design for each of the indexing pins 100. In one or more examples, the planar flange surface 160 extends perpendicular to the central axis 154 between the frustoconical flange surface 162 and the cylindrical surface 104.

[0295] Overall reference Figure 41A 、 Figure 41B and Figure 41C and in particular, for example Figures 11 to 20 and Figures 29 to 31The method 1000 further includes (block 1034) threadably coupling nuts 204 coupled to corresponding ones of the protective clamping members 206 to the threaded portions 126 of corresponding ones of the indexing pins 100 such that the protective clamping members 206 are located between the nuts 204 and the second body second surface 336. The method 1000 further includes (block 1036) clamping the first body 302 and the second body 304 between the flange 136 of the indexing pin 100 and the protective clamping members 206 such that the nuts 204 are preloaded against the protective clamping members 206 along the central axis 154 of the indexing pin 100 under a force within a predetermined range. The previous subject matter of this paragraph characterizes Example 41 of the present disclosure, wherein Example 41 also includes subject matter according to any of Examples 38 to 40 above.

[0296] The method 2000 facilitates clamping the first body 302 and the second body 304 together between the flange 136 and the protective clamping member 206 of the indexing pin 100 to assemble the structure 300 .

[0297] Threading each of the nuts 204 to the threaded portion 126 of a corresponding one of the indexing pins 100 clamps the first body 302 and the second body 304 between the flange 136 of each of the indexing pins 100 and a corresponding one of the protective clamping members 206 to assemble the structure 300, such as to install a fastener in a corresponding one of the first opening 306 and the second opening 308.

[0298] like Figure 11 、 Figure 12 、 Figures 17 to 20 and Figures 29 to 31 , the threaded portion 126 enables each of the nuts 204 to be removably coupled to a corresponding one of the indexing pins 100 to clamp the first and second bodies 302, 304 together between each of the indexing pins 100 and a corresponding one of the protective clamping members 206, for example, after aligning the structure 300. When each of the nuts 204 is threadedly coupled with the threaded portion 126 and preloaded against the corresponding one of the protective clamping members 206 along the central axis 154 under a force within a predetermined range, the first and second bodies 302, 304 are clamped between the flange 136 of each of the indexing pins 100 and the corresponding one of the protective clamping members 206.

[0299] In one or more examples, manually performing (box 1034) threading the nut 204 connected to corresponding ones of the protective clamping members 206 to the threaded portion 126 of corresponding ones of the indexing pins 100, so that the protective clamping members 206 are located between the nut 204 and the second surface 336 of the second body.

[0300] Overall reference Figure 41A 、 Figure 41B and Figure 41C and in particular, for example Figures 29 to 31 According to method 1000, threading nuts 204 onto threaded portions 126 of corresponding ones of indexing pins 100 (block 1036) includes the steps of preventing rotation of indexing pin 100 relative to first body 302 and second body 304 (block 1038) and preventing rotation of protective clamping member 206 relative to second body second surface 336 (block 1040) while tightening nuts 204 onto threaded portions 126 of corresponding ones of indexing pins 100. The previous subject matter of this paragraph characterizes Example 42 of the present disclosure, wherein Example 42 also includes subject matter according to Example 41 above.

[0301] Each of the nuts 204 is rotated while preventing the corresponding one of the indexing pins 100 from rotating, so that each of the nuts 204 can be threadedly coupled with the threaded portion 126 of the corresponding one of the indexing pins 100 and preloaded against the corresponding one of the protective clamping members 206 to clamp the first body 302 and the second body 304 together between the flange 136 of each of the indexing pins 100 and the corresponding one of the protective clamping members 206. Preventing each of the protective clamping members 206 from rotating relative to the second-body second surface 336 prevents the second-body second surface 336 from being damaged during rotation of the corresponding one of the nuts 204.

[0302] Overall reference Figure 41A 、 Figure 41B and Figure 41C and in particular, for example Figures 2 to 8 、 Figure 11 and Figure 12According to method 1000, the shank 148 of each indexing pin 100 includes at least one of a first means 156 for providing complementary engagement with a first tool, a second means 192 for providing complementary engagement with a second tool, and a third means 194 for providing complementary engagement with a third tool. The threaded portion 126 of each indexing pin 100 includes a fourth means 166 for providing complementary engagement with a fourth tool. Each nut 204 includes a second central axis 208. Each nut 204 also includes a head 212 that includes a fifth means 264 for providing complementary engagement with a fifth tool. Each nut 204 also includes a barrel 210 having an outer barrel diameter 218. Each nut 204 also includes a snap ring 220 positioned between the head 212 and the barrel 210 and having a maximum snap ring dimension 222 measured in a direction transverse to the second central axis 208 and including a knurled surface 232. The maximum collar size 222 is larger than either the outer barrel diameter 218 or the outer protective clamping member diameter 216 of the protective clamping member 206. Each of the nuts 204 also includes a through passage 262 extending through the barrel 210 and including internal threads 260. According to method 1000, (box 1034) threading the nuts 204 to the threaded portions 126 of corresponding ones of the indexing pins 100 includes preparing to apply torque to the indexing pins 100 by one of (box 1044) manually engaging the rods 148 of each of the indexing pins 100, (box 1046) engaging the first device 156 of the rods 148 of each of the indexing pins 100 with a first tool, (box 1048) engaging the second device 192 of the rods 148 of each of the indexing pins 100 with a second tool, (box 1050) engaging the third device 194 of the rods 148 of each of the indexing pins 100 with a third tool, or (box 1052) engaging the fourth device 166 of the threaded portions 126 of each of the indexing pins 100 with a fourth tool. According to method 1000, threading the nuts 204 onto the threaded portions 126 of corresponding ones of the indexing pins 100 (block 1034) further includes preparing to apply torque to the nuts 204 by either manually engaging the knurled surface 232 of the retaining ring 220 of each of the nuts 204 (block 1056) or engaging the fifth device 264 of the head 212 of each of the nuts 204 with a fifth tool (block 1058) (block 1054). According to method 1000, threading the nuts 204 onto the threaded portions 126 of corresponding ones of the indexing pins 100 (block 1034) further includes applying torque to the indexing pin 100 and the nuts 204 by rotating the indexing pin 100 and the nuts 204 relative to each other in a predetermined direction (block 1080). The previous subject matter of this paragraph characterizes Example 43 of the present disclosure, wherein Example 43 also includes subject matter according to Example 42 above.

[0303] The first device 156 enables a first tool (not shown) to be used to engage each of the indexing pins 100 and remove each of the indexing pins 100 and / or prevent each of the indexing pins 100 from rotating about the central axis 154. The second device 192 enables a second tool (not shown) to be used to engage each of the indexing pins 100 and prevent each of the indexing pins 100 from rotating about the central axis 154. The third device 194 enables a third tool (not shown) to be used to engage each of the indexing pins 100 and prevent each of the indexing pins 100 from rotating about the central axis 154. The fourth device 166 enables a fourth tool (not shown) to be used to engage each of the indexing pins 100 and prevent each of the indexing pins 100 from rotating about the central axis 154. The head 212, the snap ring 220, the barrel 210, and the through-passage 262 of each of the nuts 204 provide a structural interface for coupling each of the nuts 204 to a corresponding one of the protective clamping members 206 and removably coupling each of the nuts 204 to the threaded portion 126 of a corresponding one of the indexing pins 100. When each of the nuts 204 is threadably coupled to the threaded portion 126 of the corresponding one of the indexing pins 100, the fifth means 264 enables the use of a fifth tool (not shown) to engage the head 212 and enable each of the nuts 204 to be rotated about the second central axis 208. When the first body 302 and the second body 304 are clamped together, the knurled surface 232 provides a friction interface for manually tightening each of the nuts 204 to the corresponding one of the indexing pins 100.

[0304] In one or more examples, the complementary engagement of the first tool with the first device 156 enables, for example, removal of each of the indexing pins 100 from one of the first openings 306 and a corresponding one of the second openings 308 after aligning the structure 300. In one or more examples, the complementary engagement of the first tool with the first device 156 prevents, for example, the removal of the indexing pins 100 from one of the first openings 306 and a corresponding one of the second openings 308 after aligning the structure 300. Figure 11 ) is threadedly coupled to the threaded portion 126 of the corresponding one of the indexing pins 100. Each of the indexing pins 100 is threadedly coupled to the threaded portion 126 of the corresponding one of the indexing pins 100. Figure 2 ) rotates around the central axis 154.

[0305] In general, the first device 156 includes or takes the form of any structural feature that provides complementary engagement with the first tool, and the first tool includes or takes the form of any instrument or device that engages a specific structural feature corresponding to the first device 156 and enables manipulation of any of the indexing pins 100. In one or more examples, the first device 156 is a hole formed in the rod 148 and partially extending through the rod 148, and the first tool is a pin or other shaft-like element configured to be inserted into the hole. In one or more examples, the first device 156 is at least one recess or slot formed in the rod 148 and partially extending through the rod 148, and the first tool is an edged element configured to matingly engage the at least one recess or slot. In one or more examples, the first device 156 is a through-hole formed in the rod 148 and extending completely through the rod 148, and the first tool is a pin or elongated shaft configured to be inserted through the through-hole.

[0306] In one or more examples, the complementary engagement of the second tool with the second device 192 prevents, for example, the nut 204 ( Figure 11 ) is threadedly coupled to the threaded portion 126 of the corresponding one of the indexing pins 100. Each of the indexing pins 100 is threadedly coupled to the threaded portion 126 of the corresponding one of the indexing pins 100. Figure 2 ) rotates around the central axis 154.

[0307] In general, the second device 192 includes or takes the form of any structural feature that provides complementary engagement with the second tool, and the second tool includes or takes the form of any implement or instrument that engages a specific structural feature corresponding to the second device 192 and enables manipulation of each of the indexing pins 100. In one or more examples, the second device 192 is different from the first device 156 and the second tool is different from the first tool. In one or more examples, the second device 192 includes a polygonal structure or a head having multiple planar faces that forms at least a portion of the rod 148 and has a polygonal cross-sectional shape in a plane perpendicular to the central axis 154, and the second tool is a wrench having a polygonal socket or pliers. In one or more examples, as Figures 5A to 6B , the second device 192 is a hexagonal head (e.g., a six-sided head) that forms at least a portion of the rod 148, and the second tool is a wrench or pliers configured to have a hexagonal socket that complementarily engages the hexagonal head. In one or more examples, the second device 192 is a square head (e.g., a four-sided head) that forms at least a portion of the rod 148, and the second tool is a square socket or pliers configured to complementarily engage the square head.

[0308] In one or more examples, the complementary engagement of the third tool with the third device 194 prevents, for example, the nut 204 ( Figure 11 ) is threadedly coupled to the threaded portion 126 of the corresponding one of the indexing pins 100. Each of the indexing pins 100 is threadedly coupled to the threaded portion 126 of the corresponding one of the indexing pins 100. Figure 2 ) rotates around the central axis 154.

[0309] In general, the third device 194 includes or takes the form of any structural feature that provides complementary engagement with the third tool, and the third tool includes or takes the form of any instrument or instrument that engages a specific structural feature corresponding to the third device 194 and enables manipulation of each of the indexing pins 100. In one or more examples, the third device 194 is distinct from the first device 156 and the second device 192, and the third tool is distinct from the first tool and the second tool. In one or more examples, the third device 194 is a shaped drive cavity or receptacle formed in and extending partially through the end of the rod 148, and the third tool is a driver having a working end configured to complementarily engage the shaped drive cavity. Examples of formed drive cavities include slotted cavities (e.g., slot or crosshead), cross-shaped cavities (e.g., Phillips, Mortorq, Frearson, Pozidriv, French, Supadriv, Torq), internal polygonal cavities (e.g., square, safety hex, Robertson, double square, hexagonal, triangle, 12-point, 12-spline flange, Allen, double hexagonal), hexagonal (e.g., Torx, Safety Torx, male head, female head, multi-driver), trident cavities (e.g., TA or triangle, three-slot or T-slot, three-point, three-wing), or special cavities (e.g., Clutch A, Quadrex, Clutch G, Pentalobe, one-way, wrench head, Bristol).

[0310] In one or more examples, the complementary engagement of the fourth tool with the fourth device 166 prevents, for example, the nut 204 ( Figure 11 ) is threadedly coupled to the threaded portion 126 of the corresponding one of the indexing pins 100. Each of the indexing pins 100 is threadedly coupled to the threaded portion 126 of the corresponding one of the indexing pins 100. Figure 2 ) rotates around the central axis 154.

[0311] In general, the fourth device 166 includes or takes the form of any structural feature that provides complementary engagement with the fourth tool, and the third tool includes or takes the form of any instrument or apparatus that engages with the specific structural feature corresponding to the fourth device 166 and enables manipulation of each of the indexing pins 100. In one or more examples, the fourth device 166 is distinct from the first device 156, the second device 192, and the third device 194, and the fourth tool is distinct from the first tool, the second tool, and the third tool. In one or more examples, the fourth device 166 is identical to the third device 194, and the fourth tool is identical to the third tool. In one or more examples, the fourth device 166 is a shaped drive cavity or receptacle formed in and partially extending through the end of the threaded portion 126, and the fourth tool is a driver having a working end configured to complementarily engage the shaped drive cavity. Examples of formed drive cavities include slotted cavities (e.g., slot or crosshead), cross-shaped cavities (e.g., Phillips, Mortorq, Frearson, Pozidriv, French, Supadriv, Torq), internal polygonal cavities (e.g., square, safety hex, Robertson, double square, hexagonal, triangle, 12-point, 12-spline flange, Allen, double hexagonal), hexagonal (e.g., Torx, Safety Torx, male head, female head, multi-driver), trident cavities (e.g., TA or triangle, three-slot or T-slot, three-point, three-wing), or special cavities (e.g., Clutch A, Quadrex, Clutch G, Pentalobe, one-way, wrench head, Bristol).

[0312] The head 212 forms or otherwise defines an operator-engaging portion of each of the nuts 204. In one or more examples, the head 212 extends along the second central axis 208. In one or more examples, engagement of the head 212, such as by an operator applying torque to the head 212, causes each of the nuts 204 to rotate about the second central axis 208, such as when each of the nuts 204 is threadedly coupled with the threaded portion 126 of a corresponding one of the indexing pins 100.

[0313] The barrel 212 forms or otherwise defines a protective clamping member interface portion of each of the nuts 204. In one or more examples, the barrel 212 extends opposite the head 212 along the second central axis 208. In one or more examples, the barrel 210 is configured to interface with and frictionally couple with a corresponding one of the protective clamping members 206. In one or more examples, the barrel 210 has a circular cross-sectional shape in a plane perpendicular to the second central axis 208 of the nut 204 and has a constant diameter along its length.

[0314] A snap ring 220 forms or otherwise defines a protective clamping member engagement portion of each of the nuts 204. In one or more examples, the snap ring 220 extends between the head 212 and the barrel 210 along the second central axis 208. The maximum snap ring dimension 222 of the snap ring 220 is greater than the outer barrel diameter 218 of the barrel 210, such that the snap ring 220 extends outwardly from the barrel 210 perpendicular to the second central axis 208. When each of the nuts 204 is coupled with a corresponding one of the protective clamping members 206, the snap ring 220 is configured to contact the corresponding one of the protective clamping members 206 when each of the nuts 204 is threadedly coupled with the threaded portion 126 of the corresponding one of the indexing pins 100 and preloaded against the corresponding one of the protective clamping members 206 to clamp the first and second bodies 302 and 304 between the flange 136 of each of the indexing pins 100 and the corresponding one of the protective clamping members 206.

[0315] In one or more examples, the snap ring 220 also forms or otherwise defines another operator-engaging portion of each of the nuts 204. In one or more examples, engagement of the snap ring 220, such as by an operator manually applying torque to the snap ring 220, causes each of the nuts 204 to rotate about the second center axis 208, such as when each of the nuts 204 is threadedly coupled with the threaded portion 126 of a corresponding one of the indexing pins 100.

[0316] A through-passage 262 forms or otherwise defines an indexing pin engaging portion of each of the nuts 204. The through-passage 262 extends through the barrel 210 along the second central axis 208. The through-passage 262 is configured to receive the threaded portion 126 of the corresponding one of the indexing pins 100 when each of the nuts 204 is threadably coupled with the corresponding one of the indexing pins 100. The internal threads 260 are configured to matingly engage the threaded portion 126 of the corresponding one of the indexing pins 100 when each of the nuts 204 is threadably coupled with the corresponding one of the indexing pins 100.

[0317] like Figure 16 , in one or more examples, the through-passage 262 extends only through the barrel 210, and not through the head 212 (i.e., the head 212 is a solid member). By providing a physical stop that limits movement of each of the nuts 204 along the central axis 154 of a corresponding one of the indexing pins 100 when the end of the threaded portion 126 contacts the head 212, this configuration of the nuts 204 prevents each of the nuts 204 from being overtightened when each of the nuts 204 is threadedly coupled to the threaded portion 126 of the corresponding one of the indexing pins 100.

[0318] like Figure 15 and Figures 17 to 20 As illustrated in FIG, in one or more examples, a through passage 262 extends through the retaining ring 220 and the head 212 of each of the nuts 204. The through passage 262 extending through the retaining ring 220 and the head 212 of each of the nuts 204 increases adjustability of each of the nuts 24 relative to a corresponding one of the indexing pins 100 and enables the threaded portion 126 of the corresponding one of the indexing pins 100 to extend through each of the nuts 204 when each of the nuts 204 is threadably coupled with the threaded portion 126 of the corresponding one of the indexing pins 100. In one or more examples, the through passage 262 extending through the head 212 also enables a fourth tool (not shown) to access the fourth device 166 of each of the indexing pins 100 through the head 212 of the corresponding one of the nuts 204 when each of the nuts 204 is threadably coupled with the threaded portion 126 of the corresponding one of the indexing pins 100.

[0319] like Figure 13 and Figures 15 to 20 As illustrated in FIG, in one or more examples, the internal threads 260 of the through-passage 262 extend along the entire through-passage 262. The internal threads 260 extend along the entire through-passage 262, thereby increasing the size of the mating interface between each of the nuts 204 and the threaded portion 126 of the corresponding one of the indexing pins 100 when each of the nuts 204 is threadedly coupled with the threaded portion 126 of the corresponding one of the indexing pins 100.

[0320] In one or more examples, the complementary engagement of the fifth tool and the fifth device 264 causes each of the nuts 204 to be threadedly engaged with the threaded portion 126 of the corresponding one of the indexing pins 100. Figure 2 ) rotates around the second central axis 208.

[0321] In general, the fifth device 264 includes or takes the form of any structural feature that provides complementary engagement with the fifth tool, and the fifth tool includes or takes the form of any implement or instrument that engages a specific structural feature corresponding to the fifth device 264 and enables manipulation of each of the nuts 204. In one or more examples, the fifth device 264 is a polygonal structure or a head having multiple planar faces that forms at least a portion of the head 212 and has a polygonal cross-sectional shape in a plane perpendicular to the second central axis 208, and the fifth tool is a wrench having a polygonal socket or pliers. In one or more examples, as Figure 11 and Figure 12As illustrated in FIG, the fifth device 164 is a hexagonal head (eg, a six-sided head) forming at least a portion of the head 212, and the fifth tool is a wrench configured with a hexagonal socket or pliers that complementarily engage the hexagonal head.

[0322] In one or more examples, the fifth tool for complementary engagement with the fifth device 264 of the head 212 of each of the nuts 204 and the fourth tool for complementary engagement with the fourth device 166 of the threaded portion 126 of each of the indexing pins 100 are integrated into the same combination tool. This combination tool is any instrument or apparatus configured to engage specific structural features corresponding to both the fifth device 264 and the fourth device 166 to simultaneously manipulate each of the nuts 204 and the corresponding one of the indexing pins 100.

[0323] In one or more examples, at least a portion of the annular sidewall of the snap ring 220 (around the second central axis 208) includes a knurled surface 232. The knurled surface 232 includes any of various types of knurl patterns formed on the outer surface of the annular sidewall of the snap ring 220.

[0324] Overall reference Figure 41A 、 Figure 41B and Figure 41C and in particular, for example Figures 13 to 20, method 1000 also includes (block 1060) coupling protective clamping members 206 to corresponding ones of the nuts 204. According to method 1000, each of the protective clamping members 206 is cup-shaped and includes a third central axis 272. Each of the protective clamping members 206 also includes a base 274 that includes an opening 240. Each of the protective clamping members 206 also includes a cylindrical wall 276 extending from the base 274 along the third central axis 272. Each of the protective clamping members 206 additionally includes an inner recess 224 that is at least partially defined by the cylindrical wall 276 and is communicatively coupled to the opening 240. Each of the protective clamping members 206 also includes an inner annular groove 230 formed in the cylindrical wall 276. The barrel 210 of each of the nuts 204 includes an outer annular groove 226. The protective clamping members of each pair of nuts 204 and corresponding ones of the protective clamping members 206 retain a captured O-ring 228 having a circumferential closed surface 278 located in a plane containing the second center axis 208 of the corresponding one of the nuts 204. According to the method 1000, (block 1060) coupling the protective clamping members 206 to the corresponding ones of the nuts 204 includes (block 1062) positioning the barrel 210 of each of the nuts 204 within the inner recess 224 of the corresponding one of the protective clamping members 206 using a clearance fit such that one portion of the circumferential closed surface 278 of the O-ring 228 is located within the outer annular groove 226 of the corresponding one of the nuts 204 and another portion of the circumferential closed surface 278 of the O-ring 228 is located within the inner annular groove 230 of the corresponding one of the protective clamping members 206. The previous subject matter of this paragraph characterizes Example 44 of the present disclosure, wherein Example 44 also includes subject matter according to Example 43 above.

[0325] The bottom 274, cylindrical wall 276, and inner recess 224 of each of the protective clamping members 206 provide a structural interface for coupling each of the protective clamping members 206 with a corresponding one of the nuts 204. The inner annular groove 230, outer annular groove 226, and O-ring 228 provide a frictional coupling of each of the nuts 204 with the corresponding one of the protective clamping members 206 while allowing each of the nuts 204 and the corresponding one of the protective clamping members 206 to freely rotate relative to each other about the second central axis 208.

[0326] The bottom portion 274 forms or otherwise defines a second body engagement portion of each of the protective clamping members 206. With each of the nuts 204 coupled to a corresponding one of the protective clamping members 206, the bottom portion 274 is configured to contact the second body second surface 336 of the second body 304 when each of the nuts 204 is threadedly coupled to the threaded portion 126 of the corresponding one of the indexing pins 100 and preloaded against the corresponding one of the protective clamping members 206. In one or more examples, the bottom portion 274 has a circular cross-sectional shape in a plane perpendicular to the third central axis 272.

[0327] The opening 240 allows the threaded portion 126 of each indexing pin 100 to enter the inner recess 224 of the corresponding one of the protective clamping members 206 when each of the nuts 204 is threadedly coupled with the threaded portion 126 of the corresponding one of the indexing pins 100. The opening 240 is coaxially aligned with the third central axis 272.

[0328] The cylindrical wall 276 defines or otherwise forms a nut-engaging portion of each of the protective clamping members 206. The cylindrical wall 276 extends from the base 274 along the third central axis 272 and surrounds the third central axis 272. In one or more examples, when each of the nuts 204 is coupled with a corresponding one of the protective clamping members 206, the snap ring 220 of each of the nuts 204 contacts an end of the cylindrical wall 276 of the corresponding one of the protective clamping members 206 when each of the nuts 204 is threadedly coupled with the threaded portion 126 of the corresponding one of the indexing pins 100 and preloaded against the corresponding one of the protective clamping members 206. The cylindrical wall 276 of each of the protective clamping members 206 spaces the corresponding one of the nuts 204 apart from the second body 304 and prevents the corresponding one of the nuts 204 from contacting the second body second surface 336 of the second body 304. The cylindrical wall 276 has a circular cross-sectional shape in a plane perpendicular to the third central axis 272 of the protective clamping member 206. The cylindrical wall 276 has a constant diameter along its length.

[0329] The inner recess 224 forms or otherwise defines a nut receiving portion of each of the protective clamping members 206, which enables each of the nuts 204 to be removably coupled to a corresponding one of the protective clamping members 206. The inner recess 224 extends along the third central axis 272 and is communicatively coupled to the opening 240. When each of the nuts 204 is coupled to the corresponding one of the protective clamping members 206, the inner recess 224 of each of the protective clamping members 206 receives the barrel 210 of the corresponding one of the nuts 204 with a clearance fit. When each of the nuts 204 is coupled to the corresponding one of the protective clamping members 206, the opening 240 enables the threaded portion 126 of each of the indexing pins 100 to be received within the inner recess 224 of the corresponding one of the protective clamping members 206 when each of the nuts 204 is threadably coupled to the threaded portion 126 of the corresponding one of the indexing pins 100. The inner recess 224 is defined by a bottom 274 and a cylindrical wall 276 .

[0330] The O-ring 228 frictionally couples each of the nuts 204 to a corresponding one of the protective clamping members 206 to prevent each of the nuts 204 from accidentally separating from the corresponding one of the protective clamping members 206 while allowing each of the nuts 204 and the corresponding one of the protective clamping members 206 to rotate relative to each other about the second center axis 208, thereby preventing foreign object debris (FOD).

[0331] With each of the nuts 204 coupled to a corresponding one of the protective clamping members 206, each of the outer annular groove 226 and the inner annular groove 230 receives at least a portion of the circumferential closed surface 278 of the O-ring 228. The outer annular groove 226 and the inner annular groove 230 are configured to enable each of the nuts 204 and the corresponding one of the protective clamping members 206 to freely rotate relative to each other about the second central axis 208. The outer annular groove 226 and the inner annular groove 230 are configured to prevent the O-ring 228 from linearly moving relative to each of the nuts 204 and the corresponding one of the protective clamping members 206 along the second central axis 208, thereby preventing each of the nuts 204 from linearly moving relative to the corresponding one of the protective clamping members 206 along the second central axis 208.

[0332] like Figure 14As best illustrated in FIG, with each of the nuts 204 coupled to a corresponding one of the protective clamping members 206, the cross-sectional diameter of the circumferential closure surface 278 of the O-ring 228 is greater than half the cross-sectional dimension of the cross-sectional area defined by the combination of the outer annular groove 226 and the inner annular groove 230, which combination lies in the same plane as the circumferential closure surface 278 of the O-ring 228. This configuration of the outer annular groove 226 and the inner annular groove 230 keeps the O-ring 228 captured to prevent accidental separation of each of the nuts 204 and the corresponding one of the protective clamping members 206 while allowing each of the nuts 204 and the corresponding one of the protective clamping members 206 to freely rotate relative to each other about the second center axis 208. This configuration of the outer annular groove 226 and the inner annular groove 230 also enables forcible (i.e., intentional) separation of each of the nuts 204 from the corresponding one of the protective clamping members 206.

[0333] In one or more examples, with each of the nuts 204 coupled to a corresponding one of the protective clamping members 206, the O-ring 228 positions each of the nuts 204 relative to the corresponding one of the protective clamping members 206 such that the second center axis 208 of each of the nuts 204 coincides with the third center axis 272 of the corresponding one of the protective clamping members 206. In one or more examples, with each of the nuts 204 coupled to each corresponding one of the protective clamping members 206, the O-ring 228 positions each of the nuts 204 relative to the corresponding one of the protective clamping members 206 such that the second center axis 208 of each of the nuts 204 is parallel to the third center axis 272 of the corresponding one of the protective clamping members 206.

[0334] Additionally, the use of both the outer annular groove 226 and the inner annular groove 230 along with the O-ring 228 also facilitates a snap-fit ​​connection that provides tactile verification that each of the nuts 204 is interlocked with a corresponding one of the protective clamping members 206 .

[0335] Overall reference Figure 41A 、 Figure 41B and Figure 41C and in particular, for example Figure 12 、 Figure 13 、 Figure 15 and Figure 16According to method 1000, each of the protective clamping members 206 further includes an outer surface 244 surrounding the opening 240 of the bottom 274. Each of the protective clamping members 206 further includes an annular surface 236 opposite the bottom 274. According to method 1000, (block 1036) clamping the first body 302 and the second body 304 between the flange 136 of the indexing pin 100 and the protective clamping members 206 includes (block 1064) abutting the outer surface 244 of the bottom 274 of each of the protective clamping members 206 with a portion of the second body second surface 336 surrounding a corresponding one of the second openings 308 and (block 1066) abutting the annular surface 236 of each of the protective clamping members 206 with the snap ring 220 of a corresponding one of the nuts 204. The previous subject matter of this paragraph characterizes Example 45 of the present disclosure, wherein Example 45 also includes subject matter according to Example 44 above.

[0336] The outer surface 244 provides a contact interface between each of the protective clamping members 206 and the second body 304. The annular surface 236 provides a contact surface between each of the protective clamping members 206 and a corresponding one of the nuts 204. The contacting engagement between the annular surface 236 of each of the protective clamping members 206 and the snap ring 220 of the corresponding one of the nuts 204 restricts linear movement of each of the nuts 204 relative to the corresponding one of the protective clamping members 206 along the second central axis 208 while allowing each of the nuts 204 and the corresponding one of the protective clamping members 206 to rotate relative to each other about the second central axis 208.

[0337] In one or more examples, with each of the nuts 204 coupled to a corresponding one of the protective clamping members 206, at least a portion of the outer surface 244 contacts a portion of the second body second surface 336 when each of the nuts 204 is threadedly coupled to the threaded portion 126 of the corresponding one of the indexing pins 100 and preloaded against the corresponding one of the protective clamping members 206.

[0338] In one or more examples, the annular surface 258 forms or otherwise defines at least a portion of an end of the cylindrical wall 276 of the protective clamping member 206. In one or more examples, the annular surface 258 is configured to reduce friction between the annular surface 258 and a surface portion of the snap ring 220 that contacts the annular surface 258 due to rotation of the nut 204 relative to the protective clamping member 206. In one or more examples, the annular surface 258 is highly polished to reduce friction caused by contact between the annular surface 258 and the snap ring 220 as they rotate relative to each other. In one or more examples, the annular surface 258 includes a friction-reducing coating to reduce friction caused by contact between the annular surface 258 and the snap ring 220 as they rotate relative to each other.

[0339] Overall reference Figure 41A 、 Figure 41B and Figure 41C and in particular, for example Figure 12 、 Figure 13 、 Figure 15 and Figure 16 According to method 1000, each of the protective clamping members 206 further includes a second O-ring 266 located on the outer surface 244 of the base 274. According to method 1000, (block 1040) preventing rotation of the protective clamping members 206 relative to the second body second surface 336 includes (block 1068) frictionally engaging the second O-ring 266 of each of the protective clamping members 206 with a portion of the second body second surface 336 surrounding a corresponding one of the second openings 308 and with the outer surface 244 of the base 274 of each of the protective clamping members 206. The previous subject matter of this paragraph characterizes Example 46 of the present disclosure, wherein Example 46 also includes subject matter according to Example 45 above.

[0340] The second O-ring 266 prevents each of the protective clamping members 206 from rotating relative to the second body 304 when each of the nuts 204 is removably connected to a corresponding one of the indexing pins 100 .

[0341] In one or more examples, with each of the nuts 204 coupled to a corresponding one of the protective clamping members 206, when each of the nuts 204 is threadedly coupled to the threaded portion 126 of the corresponding one of the indexing pins 100 and preloaded against the corresponding one of the protective clamping members 206, the second O-ring 266 engages a portion of the second body second surface 336 of the second body 304 surrounding the corresponding one of the second openings 308. The engagement between the second O-ring 266 and the second body second surface 336 provides a frictional force sufficient to resist rotation of each of the protective clamping members 206 relative to the second body second surface 336 about the second central axis 208 when each of the nuts 204 rotates relative to the corresponding one of the protective clamping members 206.

[0342] Overall reference Figure 41A 、 Figure 41B and Figure 41C and in particular, for example Figure 13 、 Figures 16 to 18 and Figure 20 According to method 1000, portions of second body second surface 336 surrounding second openings 308 are planar. The outer surface 244 of bottom 274 of each of protective clamping members 206 is planar. According to method 1000, clamping first body 302 and second body 304 between flange 136 of indexing pin 100 and protective clamping members 206 (block 1036) further includes placing the outer surface 244 of each of protective clamping members 206 against a portion of second body second surface 336 surrounding a corresponding one of second openings 308 (block 1070). The previous subject matter of this paragraph characterizes Example 47 of the present disclosure, wherein Example 47 also includes subject matter according to Examples 45 or 46 above.

[0343] The method 1000 facilitates using each of the protective clamping members 206 with a second body 304 having a portion of the second body second surface 336 surrounding the second opening 308 that is planar.

[0344] The planar outer surface 244 of the bottom 274 enables each of the protective clamping members 206 to be in substantially flush contact with the second body second surface 336 of the second body 304 when the portion of the second body second surface 336 surrounding the corresponding one of the second openings 308 is planar.

[0345] In one or more examples, the planar outer surface 244 of the bottom 274 enables a portion of each of the protective clamping members 206 to abut a portion of the planar second body first surface 332 surrounding a corresponding one of the second openings 308 when each of the nuts 204 is threadably coupled to the threaded portion 126 of a corresponding one of the indexing pins 100 and preloaded against a corresponding one of the protective clamping members 206.

[0346] Overall reference Figure 41A 、 Figure 41B and Figure 41C and in particular, for example Figure 15 、 Figure 19 and Figures 29 to 31 According to method 1000, portions of second body second surface 336 surrounding second opening 308 are second countersunk holes 322. The barrel 210 of each nut 204 includes a frustoconical barrel portion 254. The inner recess 224 of each protective clamping member 206 includes a frustoconical recess 256. The outer surface 244 of the bottom 274 of each protective clamping member 206 is frustoconical. When the nut 204 is coupled to a corresponding one of the protective clamping members 206, the frustoconical barrel portion 254 of each nut 204 is seated in the frustoconical recess 256 of the corresponding one of the protective clamping members 206. According to method 1000, clamping the first and second bodies 302, 304 between the flange 136 of the indexing pin 100 and the protective clamping members 206 (block 1036) further includes abutting the outer surface 244 of each of the protective clamping members 206 against a corresponding one of the second countersunk holes 322 (block 1072). The previous subject matter of this paragraph characterizes Example 48 of the present disclosure, wherein Example 48 also includes subject matter according to Examples 45 or 46 above.

[0347] The method 1000 facilitates applying each of the protective clamping members 206 to the second body 304 having a portion of the second body second surface 336 surrounding the second opening 308 that includes the second countersunk hole 322 .

[0348] For purposes of this disclosure, the term "complementary" describes geometric shapes that fit precisely together in a hand-glove arrangement, like a stem and receiver or a tenon and mortise.

[0349] The frustoconical outer surface 244 of the bottom portion 274 enables each of the protective clamping members 206 to be in substantially flush contact with the second body second surface 336 of the second body 304 when the portion of the second body second surface 336 surrounding the corresponding one of the second openings 308 includes the second countersunk hole 322. The frustoconical outer surface 244 of the bottom portion 274 prevents each of the protective clamping members 206 from moving in a direction transverse to the fifth central axis 340 of the corresponding one of the second openings 308 when each of the nuts 204 is threadedly coupled to the threaded portion 126 of the corresponding one of the indexing pins 100 and is preloaded against the corresponding one of the protective clamping members 206.

[0350] The frustoconical recess 256 receives the frustoconical barrel portion 254 to substantially center each of the nuts 204 relative to a corresponding one of the protective clamping members 206. Figures 29 to 31 As illustrated in FIG, in one or more examples, with each of the nuts 204 coupled to a corresponding one of the protective clamping members 206, the frustoconical barrel portion 254 of the barrel 210 of each of the nuts 204 is received by the frustoconical recess 256 of the inner recess 224 of the corresponding one of the protective clamping members 206. With each of the nuts 204 coupled to the corresponding one of the protective clamping members 206, when each of the nuts 204 is threadedly coupled to the threaded portion 126 of the corresponding one of the indexing pins 100 and preloaded against the corresponding one of the protective clamping members 206, the complementary engagement between the frustoconical barrel portion 254 of the barrel 210 and the frustoconical recess 256 of the inner recess 224 positions the second center axis 208 of each of the nuts 204 to coincide with the third center axis 272 of the corresponding one of the protective clamping members 206.

[0351] like Figures 29 to 31, in one or more examples, a portion of the second body first surface 332 surrounding a corresponding one of the second openings 308 includes a second countersunk hole 322. In one or more examples, the frustoconical outer surface 244 of the bottom portion 274 enables a portion of the protective clamping member 206 to abut and be received within the second countersunk hole 322 of the corresponding one of the second openings 308 when each of the nuts 204 is threadedly coupled with the threaded portion 126 of the corresponding one of the indexing pins 100 and preloaded against the corresponding one of the protective clamping members 206. With each of the nuts 204 coupled to a corresponding one of the protective clamping members 206, when each of the nuts 204 is threadedly coupled to the threaded portion 126 of the corresponding one of the indexing pins 100 and preloaded against the corresponding one of the protective clamping members 206, the complementary engagement between the outer surface 244 of the bottom 274 and the countersunk hole 320 positions the third center axis 272 of the protective clamping member 206 to coincide with the fourth center axis 338 of the corresponding one of the second openings 308.

[0352] like Figures 17 to 20 and Figures 29 to 31 As illustrated in the figure, according to the example disclosed herein, when each of the nuts 204 is connected to a corresponding one of the protective clamping members 206 and each of the nuts 204 is threadedly connected to the threaded portion 126 of the corresponding one of the indexing pins 100 and is preloaded against the corresponding one of the protective clamping members 206, the complementary engagement of the outer surface 244 of the bottom 274 with the countersunk hole 320 positions the third center axis 272 of each of the protective clamping members 206 and the fifth center axis 340 of the corresponding one of the second openings 308 (i.e., centers each of the protective clamping members 206 relative to the corresponding one of the second openings 308). With each of the nuts 204 coupled to a corresponding one of the protective clamping members 206 and each of the nuts 204 threadably coupled to the threaded portion 126 of the corresponding one of the indexing pins 100 and preloaded against the corresponding one of the protective clamping members 206, the complementary engagement between the frustoconical barrel portion 254 of the barrel 210 and the frustoconical recess 256 of the inner recess 224 positions the second center axis 208 of each of the nuts 204 and the third center axis 272 of the corresponding one of the protective clamping members 206 to coincide with each other (i.e., centers each of the nuts 204 relative to the corresponding one of the protective clamping members 206), thereby positioning the second center axis 208 of each of the nuts 204 and the fifth center axis 340 of the corresponding one of the second openings 308 to coincide with each other (i.e., centers the nut 204 relative to the corresponding one of the protective clamping members 206).

[0353] like Figures 17 to 20 and Figures 29 to 31 As illustrated in FIG, in one or more examples, each of the indexing pins 100 includes a flange 136 having a frustoconical flange surface 162, the barrel 210 of each of the nuts 204 includes a frustoconical barrel portion 254, the inner recess 224 of each of the protective clamping members 206 includes a frustoconical recess 256, and the outer surface 244 of the bottom 274 of each of the protective clamping members 206 is frustoconical. In this construction, with each of the nuts 204 coupled to a corresponding one of the protective clamping members 206 and each of the nuts 204 threadedly coupled to the threaded portion 126 of a corresponding one of the indexing pins 100 and preloaded against the corresponding one of the protective clamping members 206, the center axis 154 of each of the indexing pins 100, the fourth center axis 338 of the corresponding one of the first openings 306, the second center axis 208 of the corresponding one of the nuts 204, the third center axis 272 of the corresponding one of the protective clamping members 206, and the fifth center axis 340 of the corresponding one of the second openings 30 are positioned to coincide with each other. In other words, in this construction, when each of the indexing pins 100 is inserted through one of the first openings 306 and a corresponding one of the second openings 308, each of the nuts 204 is coupled to a corresponding one of the protective clamping members 206 and each of the nuts 204 is threadedly coupled to the threaded portion 126 of the corresponding one of the indexing pins 100 and preloaded against the corresponding one of the protective clamping members 206 to clamp the first body 302 and the second body 304 together between the flange 136 of the corresponding one of the indexing pins 100 and the corresponding one of the protective clamping members 206, the fourth center axis 338 of one of the first openings 306 and the fifth center axis 340 of the corresponding one of the second openings 308 are caused to be coaxially aligned with each other.

[0354] Overall reference Figure 41A 、 Figure 41B and Figure 41C and in particular, for example Figure 20According to method 1000, sealant 328 is located between first body second surface 334 and second body first surface 332. Each of indexing pins 100 also includes a channel 172 formed in at least a portion of cylindrical surface 104 and extending helically about central axis 154. According to method 1000, clamping first body 302 and second body 304 between flange 136 and protective clamping member 206 of indexing pin 100 (block 1036) further includes transferring (block 1074) at least a portion of the amount of sealant 328 forced into the interior of first opening 306 and second opening 308 along channel 172 of each of indexing pins 100. The previous subject matter of this paragraph characterizes Example 49 of the present disclosure, wherein Example 49 also includes subject matter according to any of Examples 44 to 48 above.

[0355] The method 1000 facilitates collecting a portion of the amount of sealant 328 located within the first opening 306 and the second opening 308 when each of the indexing pins 100 is inserted into the first opening 306 and the corresponding one of the second openings 308 and when the first body 302 and the second body 304 are clamped together.

[0356] like Figure 20 , in one or more examples, sealant 328 is applied to at least one of first body second surface 334 and second body first surface 332 and is located between first body 302 and second body 304. In one or more examples, sealant 328 is an adhesive that is used to bond first body 302 and second body 304 together after alignment of structure 300. According to examples disclosed herein, upon contact between first body second surface 334 and second body first surface 332, a certain amount of sealant 328 can be forced into first opening 306 and / or second opening 308.

[0357] In one or more examples, when the first and second bodies 302, 304 are clamped together between the flange 136 and the corresponding one of the protective clamping members 206 of each of the indexing pins 100, a portion of the amount of sealant 328 located within one of the first openings 306 and a corresponding one of the second openings 308 is transferred along the channel 172 of each of the indexing pins. Collecting excess amount of sealant 328 in the channel 172 and / or transferring the portion of the amount of sealant 328 along the cylindrical surface 104 within the channel 172 prevents hydraulic locking between the cylindrical surface 104 and a corresponding one of the first openings 306 and / or the second openings 308.

[0358] The channel 172 enables a portion of a quantity of sealant 328 located within one of the first openings 306 between the cylindrical surface 104 of each of the indexing pins 100 and the first wall 310 of a corresponding one of the first openings 306, and a portion of a quantity of sealant 328 located within one of the second openings 308 between the cylindrical surface 104 of each of the indexing pins 100 and the second wall 312 of a corresponding one of the second openings 308 to fill the channel 172 and be conveyed along the channel 172 when the first body 302 and the second body 304 are clamped together between the flange 136 of each of the indexing pins 100 and the corresponding one of the protective clamping members 206.

[0359] In one or more examples, the channel 172 can have any of a variety of different helix angles. Similarly, the channel 172 can have any of a variety of different widths and / or depths. The helix angle, width, and / or depth of the channel 172 can depend on various factors, including, but not limited to, the material properties of the sealant 328, the volume of the sealant 328 applied between the first body 302 and the second body 304, the volume of the amount of sealant 328 forced into a corresponding one of the first openings 306 and / or the second openings 308, etc.

[0360] In general, a portion of the quantity of sealant 328 located within one of the first openings 306 and / or a corresponding one of the second openings 308 is conveyed along the channel 172 in a direction opposite to the direction of insertion of the indexing pin 100 .

[0361] like Figure 5A and Figure 6A As illustrated in FIG, in one or more examples, the channel 172 terminates before the tapered surface 112. The channel 172 formed only in the cylindrical surface 104 and not also in the tapered surface 112 ensures that no channel 172 is formed on the tapered surface 112 that could cause the first wall 310 of the corresponding one of the first openings 306 and / or the second wall 312 of the corresponding one of the second openings 308 to become deformed when the indexing pin 10 is inserted into a corresponding one of the first openings 306 and the second openings 308. Figure 20 ) damaged sharp edges.

[0362] like Figures 5A to 6BAs illustrated in FIG, in one or more examples, the channel 172 includes a channel first end 182 and a channel second end 184 opposite the channel first end 182. The channel second end 184 is proximate to the flange 136. Extending the channel 172 to the flange 136 of a corresponding one of the indexing pins 100 lengthens the channel 172 and provides a portion of increased volume for receiving a quantity of sealant 328 when each of the indexing pins 100 is inserted into a corresponding one of the first openings 306 and the second openings 308. Terminating the channel second end 184 of the channel 172 at the flange 136 allows for the first body 302 and the second body 304 to be clamped together when each of the indexing pins 100 is inserted into a corresponding one of the first openings 306 and the second openings 308 and / or when each of the nuts 204 is threadably coupled to the threaded portion 126 of the corresponding one of the indexing pins 100 to clamp the first body 302 and the second body 304 together. Figure 20 ), it is possible for a portion of the amount of sealant 328 to be conveyed along the cylindrical surface 104 as far as the flange 136, for example in a direction opposite to the insertion direction of the corresponding one of the indexing pins 100.

[0363] Overall reference Figure 41A 、 Figure 41B and Figure 41C and in particular, for example Figure 6A 、 Figure 6B and Figure 20 According to method 1000, each of the indexing pins 100 further includes an annular recess 174 located between the cylindrical surface 104 and the flange 136. The channel 172 and the annular recess 174 of each of the indexing pins 100 intersect one another. Method 1000 also includes (block 1076) directing at least a portion of the amount of sealant 328 from the channel 172 of each of the indexing pins 100 into the annular recess 174 of each of the indexing pins 100. The previous subject matter of this paragraph characterizes Example 50 of the present disclosure, wherein Example 50 also includes subject matter according to Example 49 above.

[0364] The annular recess 174 provides an increased volume to receive a portion of the sealant 328 when each of the indexing pins 100 is inserted into one of the first openings 306 and a corresponding one of the second openings 308 and the first and second bodies 302 and 304 are clamped together between the flange 136 and a corresponding one of the protective clamping members 206 of each of the indexing pins 100.

[0365] For purposes of this disclosure, with respect to the intersection between the passageway second end 184 and the annular recess 174 , the term “intersection” refers to the common junction of both the passageway 172 and the annular recess 174 .

[0366] In one or more examples, the channel first end 182 of the channel 172 terminates at the annular recess 172 such that, when each of the nuts 204 is threadably coupled to the threaded portion 126 of a corresponding one of the indexing pins 100 to clamp the first body 302 and the second body 304 together between the flange 136 and the corresponding one of the protective clamping members 206 of each of the indexing pins 100, an excess portion of a certain amount of sealant 328 located within one of the first openings 306 and / or a corresponding one of the second openings 308 can be conveyed out of the channel second end 184 and collected within the annular recess 174 of the corresponding one of the indexing pins 100.

[0367] Overall reference Figure 41A 、 Figure 41B and Figure 41C and in particular, for example Figure 5B 、 Figure 6B and Figure 20 According to method 1000, a channel 172 is formed in at least a portion of the tapered surface 112 of each of the indexing pins 100. Method 1000 also includes (block 1078) directing at least a portion of the amount of sealant 328 from the channel 172 of each of the indexing pins 100 into a capture volume 238 formed between each of the nuts 204 and a corresponding one of the protective clamping members 206. The previous subject matter of this paragraph characterizes Example 51 of the present disclosure, wherein Example 51 also includes subject matter according to Examples 49 or 50 above.

[0368] Method 1000 facilitates transferring a portion of a quantity of sealant 328 within one of first openings 306 and a corresponding one of second openings 308 along passage 172 and receiving an excess portion of the quantity of sealant 328 transferred along passage 172 within capture volume 238 .

[0369] Collecting a portion of excess sealant 328 in the channel 172 and / or routing a portion of the sealant 328 along the tapered surface 112 within the channel 172 prevents hydraulic locking between the tapered surface 112 and one of the first openings 306 and / or a corresponding one of the second openings 308. In one or more examples, a portion of the sealant 328 located within one of the first openings 306 between the tapered surface 112 and the first wall 310 of each of the indexing pins 100 and within a corresponding one of the second openings 308 between the tapered surface 112 and the second wall 312 of each of the indexing pins 100 fills the channel 172 and is routed along the channel 172 when the first and second bodies 302, 304 are clamped together between the flange 136 and the protective clamping member 206 of each of the indexing pins 100.

[0370] The channels 172 also enable portions of the quantity of sealant 328 located within one of the first openings 306 and / or a corresponding one of the second openings 308 to pass from the tapered surface 112 to the cylindrical surface 104 or from the cylindrical surface 104 to the tapered surface 112. In one or more examples, the channels 172 formed in both the cylindrical surface 104 and the tapered surface 112 provide a flow path for portions of the quantity of sealant 328 to exit the corresponding one of the second openings 308 at the second body second surface 336 when each of the indexing pins 100 is fully inserted into the corresponding one of the second openings 308 and when the first and second bodies 302, 304 are clamped together.

[0371] like Figure 5B and Figure 6B , in one or more examples, the channel first end 182 is proximate the threaded portion 126. Terminating the channel first end 182 of the channel 172 proximate the threaded portion 126 (e.g., at or near the threaded portion 126) provides a flow path for a portion of the amount of sealant 328 located within one of the first openings 306 and / or a corresponding one of the second openings 308 to flow out of the channel 172 from the channel first end 182 of the corresponding one of the indexing pins 100 and exit the corresponding one of the second openings 308 at the second body second surface 336 when each of the indexing pins 100 is fully inserted into the corresponding one of the second openings 308 and the first and second bodies 302, 304 are clamped together.

[0372] like Figure 20 , in one or more examples, the capture volume 238 is defined by a portion of the inner recess 224 formed by the bottom 274, a portion of the cylindrical wall 276, and an end of the barrel 210. In one or more examples, when each of the indexing pins 100 is fully inserted into a corresponding one of the second openings 308 and the first body 302 and the second body 304 are clamped together between the flange 136 and the protective clamping member 206 of each of the indexing pins 100, a portion of the sealant 328, for example, exits the portion of the channel 172 formed in the tapered surface 112 from the channel first end 182 and fills the capture volume 238.

[0373] like Figures 3 to 6B 、 Figure 9 and Figure 10As illustrated in FIG, in one or more examples, the diameter of the portion of each of the indexing pins 100 between the tapered surface 112 and the threaded portion 126 is less than the minimum tapered surface diameter 124 of the tapered surface 112 and less than the maximum threaded portion diameter 132 of the threaded portion 126. The reduced diameter of the portion of each of the indexing pins 100 between the tapered surface 112 and the threaded portion 126 forms an annular recessed portion of each of the indexing pins 100. In one or more examples, as Figure 5B and Figure 6B , the channel first end 182 terminates at and intersects the annular recessed portion of each of the indexing pins 100 between the tapered surface 112 and the threaded portion 126. When each of the indexing pins 100 is fully inserted into a corresponding one of the second openings 308 and the first and second bodies 302 and 304 are clamped together, a portion of the amount of sealant 328 may exit the corresponding one of the second openings 308 at the second body second surface 336.

[0374] The annular recessed portion between the tapered surface 112 and the threaded portion 126 of each of the indexing pins 100 also provides a gap between the tapered surface 112 and the threaded portion 126 to prevent each of the nuts 204 from being coupled to the non-threaded portion of the corresponding one of the indexing pins 100 when each of the nuts 204 is threadably coupled to the threaded portion 126 of the corresponding one of the indexing pins 100.

[0375] Overall reference Figure 42A 、 Figure 42B and Figure 42C and in particular, for example Figures 2 to 10 and Figures 29 to 40, a method 2000 for aligning a first body 302 with a second body 304 of a structure 300 is disclosed. The first body 302 includes a first body first surface 330, a first body second surface 334 opposite the first body first surface 330, and a first opening 306 extending between (and including) the first body first surface 330 and the first body second surface 334. The second body 304 includes a second body first surface 332, a second body second surface 336 opposite the second body first surface 332, and a second opening 308 extending between (and including) the second body first surface 332 and the second body second surface 336. The method 2000 includes (block 2002) preparing an indexing pin 100 for use. According to the method 2000, each of the indexing pins 100 includes a central axis 154. Each of the indexing pins 100 also includes a threaded portion 126 extending along the central axis 154. Each indexing pin 100 also includes a shank 148 extending along a central axis 154. Each indexing pin 100 also includes a cylindrical surface 104 extending along the central axis 154 between the threaded portion 126 and the shank 148. Each indexing pin 100 further includes a tapered surface 112 extending between the threaded portion 126 and the cylindrical surface 104. Each indexing pin 100 also includes a flange 136 located between the shank 148 and the cylindrical surface 104. At least a portion of the flange 136 is larger than the diameter of any of the first openings 306. Method 2000 also includes (block 2004) orienting the second body 304 such that each of the second openings 308 extends vertically and the second body first surface 332 faces upward. Method 2000 also includes (block 2006) orienting the first body 302 such that each of the first openings 306 extends vertically and the first body second surface 334 faces the second body first surface 323. The method 2000 also includes (block 2008) aligning each of the first openings 306 of the first body 302 with a corresponding one of the second openings 308 of the second body 304 such that, when viewed in plan, the circumferential closed profile 342 formed by the first wall 310 of each of the first openings 306 of the first body 302 and the second wall 312 of the corresponding one of the second openings 308 of the second body 304 is large enough to receive the threaded portion 126 of any one of the indexing pins 100 with a clearance fit. The method 2000 additionally includes (block 2010) moving the first body 302 and the second body 304 toward each other until the first body second surface 334 contacts the second body first surface 332.The method 2000 further includes (block 2012) inserting each of the indexing pins 100 into a corresponding one of the first openings 306 of the first body 302 using a clearance fit until a portion of the cylindrical surface 104 of each of the indexing pins 100 is located in a corresponding one of the first openings 306 of the first body 302 and at least a portion of the tapered surface 112 of each of the indexing pins 100 is inserted into a corresponding one of the second openings 308 of the second body 304. The method 2000 further includes, while (block 2016) allowing the first body 302 and the second body 304 to move relative to each other in a direction perpendicular to the central axis 304 of each of the indexing pins 100, applying a downward force to each of the indexing pins 100 of a magnitude sufficient to cause the portion of the cylindrical surface 104 of each of the indexing pins 100 to be inserted into a corresponding one of the second openings 308 of the second body 304 and the threaded portion 126 of each of the indexing pins 100 to extend past the second body second surface 336. The previous subject matter of this paragraph characterizes Example 52 of the present disclosure.

[0376] The method 2000 facilitates aligning the first body 302 of the structure 300 with the second body 304 of the structure 300 by causing the first opening 306 of the first body 302 to align with the second opening 308 of the second body 304 when the first body 302 and the second body 304 are brought into contact with each other and each of the indexing pins is inserted through a corresponding one of the first openings 306 and a corresponding one of the second openings 308.

[0377] For the purposes of this disclosure, the term "along" with reference to extending along an axis means coincident with or parallel to the axis.

[0378] For purposes of this disclosure, the phrases “a corresponding one of the first openings 306 ” and “a corresponding one of the second openings 308 ” refer to one of the first openings 306 and one of the second openings 308 that correspond to each other and to each of the indexing pins 100 , that are aligned with each other for insertion into the indexing pins 100 when the first body 302 and the second body 304 are positioned and aligned relative to each other.

[0379] For purposes of this disclosure, the term "clearance fit" has its ordinary meaning as known to those skilled in the art and refers to a machined fit in which an opening is larger than an element positioned therein, thereby enabling sliding and / or rotation of the two components when assembled.

[0380] like Figures 32 to 40As illustrated in the figure, when the first body 302 and the second body 304 are positioned relative to each other, such as in a stacked configuration where the first body second surface 334 of the first body 302 contacts the second body first surface 332 of the second body 304, alignment of the structure 300 is achieved by appropriately aligning the first opening 306 and the second opening 308 relative to each other.

[0381] In one or more examples, first body 302 and second body 304 include or are formed of a composite material, such as a fiber-reinforced polymer composite. In one or more examples, first body 302 and second body 304 include or are formed of a metallic material. In one or more examples, first body 302 and second body 304 include or are formed of a plastic material, such as a thermoplastic material.

[0382] In one or more examples, structure 300 is part of, or forms a portion of, a substructure or component of a larger manufactured structure or assembly. In one or more examples, structure 300 is part of, or forms a portion of, a vehicle structure, such as an aerospace vehicle, a spacecraft, a marine vehicle, a land vehicle, etc. In one or more examples, structure 300 is part of, or forms a portion of, an independent structure, such as a building, an antenna, a satellite, a rocket, etc.

[0383] In one or more examples, during assembly of structure 300, first body 302 and second body 304 are initially arranged in a stacked configuration. First opening 306 and second opening 308 are machined (e.g., drilled) through the stack of arranged first and second bodies 302, 304. After forming first opening 306 and second opening 308, first and second bodies 302, 304 are separated so that one or more finishing operations can be performed on first and / or second bodies 302, 304. One example of such a finishing operation includes a deburring process that removes unwanted material from first and second bodies 302, 304, such as material surrounding first and second openings 306, 308, respectively. Removing such unwanted material can mitigate undesirable electromagnetic environmental effects (EME) on structure 300 during use of structure 300, such as effects from electrostatic discharge and lightning strikes. Mitigating undesirable EME can be particularly beneficial when structure 300 is an aerospace structure.

[0384] like Figures 32 to 40, according to examples disclosed herein, the indexing pin 100 enables realignment of the first opening 306 and the second opening 308 after rearranging the first body 302 and the second body 304 back into a stacked configuration for final assembly of the structure 300. In one or more examples, final assembly of the structure 300 includes installing fasteners through the aligned first and second openings 306 and 308, the structural coupling of the first and second bodies 302 and 304, and the like.

[0385] like Figures 32 to 40 As illustrated in FIG, in one or more examples, with the first body second surface 334 contacting the second body first surface 332, each of the indexing pins 100 causes the first opening 306 to align with the second opening 308 when each of the indexing pins 100 is inserted through one of the first openings 306 and a corresponding one of the second openings 308.

[0386] Thus, a plurality of indexing pins 100 may be used to facilitate alignment of selected ones of the first openings 306 with corresponding selected ones of the second openings 308. As the indexing pins 100 are used to align selected ones of the first openings 306 with corresponding selected ones of the second openings 308, unselected ones of the first openings 306 will be aligned with corresponding unselected ones of the second openings 308, such that the first and second bodies 302, 304 are properly aligned for final assembly, such as installation of fasteners.

[0387] Advantageously, with all of first openings 306 of first body 302 aligned with all of corresponding ones of second openings 308 of second body 304, fasteners may be installed, for example, by inserting each of the fasteners through one of first openings 306 and a corresponding one of second openings 308, without damaging first body 302 and / or second body 304. Advantageously, the ability to install fasteners in appropriately pre-aligned ones of first openings 306 and corresponding ones of second openings 308 eliminates the need for fastener sleeves, which reduces processing time and costs in manufacturing structure 300 and reduces the overall weight of structure 300.

[0388] like Figures 2 to 6B , the cylindrical surface 104 forms or otherwise defines a main shaft or shank of each of the indexing pins 100 that extends along the central axis 154 between the shank 148 and the threaded portion 126. In one or more examples, the cylindrical surface 104 extends between the flange 136 and the tapered surface 112. The cylindrical surface 104 has a circular cross-sectional shape in a plane perpendicular to the central axis 154 of the indexing pin 100. The cylindrical surface 104 has a constant diameter along its length.

[0389] For the purposes of this disclosure, a "plane" used to reference the position, orientation, and / or shape of features and elements refers to a virtual reference plane that has the properties of a physical entity without possessing a physical form. For example, a virtual reference plane is an intangible or virtual plane, rather than a physical plane, with respect to which the position, orientation, and / or shape of, for example, other physical and / or intangible entities can be defined.

[0390] like Figures 21 to 28 as well as Figures 34 to 40 , the cylindrical surface 104 provides or serves as an indexing surface for each of the indexing pins 100 that contacts a portion of a first wall 310 of one of the first openings 306 when each of the indexing pins 100 is inserted into or through one of the first openings 306. Similarly, the cylindrical surface 104 provides or serves as an indexing surface for each of the indexing pins 100 that contacts a portion of a second wall 312 of a corresponding one of the second openings 308 when each of the indexing pins 100 is inserted into or through a corresponding one of the second openings 308 to facilitate a change in position of at least one of the first body 302 and the second body 304 relative to each other during alignment of the corresponding one of the first openings 306 and the second openings 308 for insertion of each of the indexing pins 100.

[0391] like Figures 2 to 6B , the tapered surface 112 forms or otherwise defines a lead-in portion of each of the indexing pins 100 that extends along the central axis 154 between the cylindrical surface 104 and the threaded portion 126. The tapered surface 112 has a circular cross-sectional shape in a plane perpendicular to the central axis 154 of the indexing pin 100. The tapered surface 112 has a diameter that varies along its length.

[0392] When each of the indexing pins 100 is inserted into one of the first openings 306, the tapered surface 112 enables each of the indexing pins 100 to enter one of the first openings 306 without applying an impact load to the first body 302 (such as to an edge of a portion of the first body first surface 330 that defines a corresponding one of the first openings 306). Figure 34 and Figure 38 As illustrated in FIG, when each of the indexing pins 100 is inserted into one of the second openings 308, the tapered surface 112 enables each of the indexing pins 100 to enter one of the second openings 308 without applying an impact load to the second body 304 (such as, to an edge of a portion of the second body first surface 332 that defines a corresponding one of the second openings 308).

[0393] like Figures 2 to 6B, the rod 148 forms or otherwise defines an operator engagement portion of each of the indexing pins 100 that extends opposite the threaded portion 126 along the central axis 154. In one or more examples, the rod 148 extends from the flange 136 opposite the cylindrical surface 104. In one or more examples, engagement of the rod 148, such as by an operator, prevents the corresponding one of the indexing pins 100 from rotating about the central axis 154. In one or more examples, engagement of the rod 148, such as by an operator, enables the corresponding one of the indexing pins 100 to be withdrawn from the corresponding one of the first openings 306 and the second opening 308, such as after alignment of the structure 300.

[0394] like Figures 2 to 6B As illustrated in FIG, the threaded portion 126 forms or otherwise defines a nut-engaging portion of each of the indexing pins 100 that extends opposite the cylindrical surface 104 along the central axis 154. In one or more examples, the threaded portion 126 extends from the tapered surface 112 opposite the cylindrical surface 104. The threaded portion 126 has a circular cross-sectional shape in a plane perpendicular to the central axis 154 of the indexing pin 100. The threaded portion 126 has a constant diameter along its length. The threaded portion 126 includes external threads.

[0395] like Figure 11 、 Figure 12 and Figures 29 to 31 As illustrated in FIG, the threaded portion 126 enables each of the nuts 204 to be removably coupled to a corresponding one of the indexing pins 100 such that, for example, the first body 302 and the second body 304 are clamped together between each of the indexing pins 100 and a corresponding one of the nuts 204 after aligning the structure 300 with the indexing pin 100.

[0396] like Figures 21 to 28 , according to examples disclosed herein, each of the indexing pins 100 is inserted through a corresponding one of the first openings 306 of the first body 302 and a corresponding one of the second openings 308 of the second body 304 such that the first opening 306 is aligned with the second opening 308 by moving the first body 302 and / or the second body 304 relative to each other in a direction perpendicular to the central axis 154 of each of the indexing pins 100. When each of the indexing pins 100 is inserted through the corresponding one of the first openings 306 and the corresponding one of the second openings 308, the first body 302 and / or the second body 304 are moved relative to each other in a direction perpendicular to the central axis 154 of each of the indexing pins 100 such that the fourth central axis 338 of the corresponding one of the first openings 306 and the fifth central axis 340 of the corresponding one of the second openings 308 are brought closer to each other so as to coincide with each other.

[0397] like Figures 32 to 40 , according to examples disclosed herein, each of the indexing pins 100 is inserted through one of the first openings 306 of the first body 302 and a corresponding one of the second openings 308 of the second body 304 such that the first opening 306 is aligned with the second opening 308 by moving the first body 302 and / or the second body 304 relative to each other in a direction perpendicular to the central axis 154 of each of the indexing pins 100. When each of the indexing pins 100 is inserted through one of the first openings 306 and the corresponding one of the second openings 308, the first body 302 and / or the second body 304 are moved relative to each other in a direction perpendicular to the central axis 154 of each of the indexing pins 100 such that the fourth central axis 338 of the corresponding one of the first openings 306 and the fifth central axis 340 of the corresponding one of the second openings 308 are brought closer to each other so as to coincide with each other.

[0398] In one or more examples, orienting (block 2004) second body 304, orienting (block 2006) first body 302, aligning (block 2008) each of first openings 306 of first body 302 with a corresponding one of second openings 308 of second body 304, and moving (block 2010) first body 302 and second body 304 toward each other are performed using a material handling system, such as a robotic manipulator, having a dedicated end effector configured to handle first body 302 and second body 304. In one or more examples, such a material handling system can be manually controlled. In one or more examples, such a material handling system can be automatically controlled, for example, by computer numerical control, machine vision, or any other suitable automatic or preprogrammed machine control.

[0399] In one or more examples, inserting each of the indexing pins 100 into a corresponding one of the first openings 306 (block 2012) and applying a downward force to each of the indexing pins 100 (block 214) are performed using a material handling system, such as a robotic manipulator, having a dedicated end effector configured to handle the indexing pins 100. In one or more examples, such a material handling system can be manually controlled. In one or more examples, such a material handling system can be automatically controlled, for example, by computer numerical control, machine vision, or any other suitable automatic or preprogrammed machine control.

[0400] According to examples disclosed herein, (block 2012) each of the indexing pins 100 is inserted into a corresponding one of the first openings 306 such that the center axis 154 of each of the indexing pins 100 is axially aligned with the fourth center axis 338 of the corresponding one of the first openings 306.

[0401] For the purposes of this disclosure, the term "axially aligned" means that two axes are parallel or coincident with each other. For the purposes of this disclosure, the term "coaxially aligned" means that two axes are coincident with each other.

[0402] Each of the indexing pins 100 is inserted into a corresponding one of the first openings 306 of the first body 302 using a clearance fit so that a portion of the cylindrical surface 104 of each of the indexing pins 100 is located in the corresponding one of the first openings 306 and the center axis 154 of each of the indexing pins 100 and the fourth center axis 338 of the corresponding one of the first openings 306 are parallel to each other, and the axial offset between the center axis 154 of each of the indexing pins 100 and the fourth center axis 338 of the corresponding one of the first openings 306 is less than or equal to half of the difference between the cylindrical surface diameter 128 of the cylindrical surface 104 of each of the indexing pins 100 and the first diameter of the corresponding one of the first openings 306.

[0403] According to the examples disclosed herein, (box 2014) the step of applying a downward force to each of the indexing pins 100 positions each of the indexing pins 100 within a corresponding one of the second openings 308 such that the central axis 154 of each of the indexing pins 100 is coaxially aligned with the fifth central axis 340 of the corresponding one of the second openings 308.

[0404] Each of the indexing pins 100 is inserted into a corresponding one of the second openings 308 of the second body 304 using a clearance fit so that a portion of the cylindrical surface 104 of each of the indexing pins 100 is located in the corresponding one of the second openings 308 and the central axis 154 of each of the indexing pins 100 and the fifth central axis 340 of the corresponding one of the second openings 308 are parallel to each other, and the axial offset between the central axis 154 of each of the indexing pins 100 and the fifth central axis 340 of the corresponding one of the second openings 308 is less than or equal to half of the difference between the cylindrical surface diameter 128 of the cylindrical surface 104 of each of the indexing pins 100 and the second diameter of the corresponding one of the second openings 308.

[0405] According to the examples disclosed herein, when the cylindrical surface 104 of each of the indexing pins 100 is located in one of the first openings 306 and a corresponding one of the second openings 308, the axial offset between the fourth center axis 338 of one of the first openings 306 and the fifth center axis 340 of the corresponding one of the second openings 308 is less than or equal to the difference between the cylindrical surface diameter 128 of the cylindrical surface 104 of each of the indexing pins 100 and one of the first diameter of the corresponding one of the first openings 306 or the second diameter of the corresponding one of the second openings 308.

[0406] Overall reference Figure 42A 、 Figure 42B and Figure 42C and in particular, for example Figures 2 to 6B 、 Figure 18 、 Figure 19 、 Figures 25 to 28 and Figures 37 to 40 According to method 2000, portions of first body first surface 330 surrounding first opening 306 are countersunk holes 320. The flange 136 of each of the indexing pins 100 includes a frustoconical flange surface 162 located between the cylindrical surface 104 of each of the indexing pins 100 and the rod 148. According to method 2000, (block 2012) inserting each of the indexing pins 100 into a corresponding one of the first openings 306 includes (block 2018) placing the frustoconical flange surface 162 of each of the indexing pins 100 against a corresponding one of the countersunk holes 320. The previous subject matter of this paragraph characterizes Example 53 of the present disclosure, wherein Example 53 also includes subject matter according to Example 52 above.

[0407] The method 2000 facilitates using each of the indexing pins 100 with a first body 302 having a portion of the first body first surface 330 surrounding the first opening 306 including the countersunk hole 320 .

[0408] The frustoconical flange surface 162 of the flange 136 provides a countersunk design for the indexing pins 100. The mating engagement of the frustoconical flange surface 162 with the countersunk bore 320 positions the central axis 154 of each of the indexing pins 100 to coincide with the fourth central axis 338 of the corresponding one of the first openings 306. The frustoconical flange surface 162 of the flange 136 prevents each of the indexing pins 100 from moving within the corresponding one of the first openings 306 in a direction transverse to the fourth central axis 338 of the corresponding ones of the first openings 306 when each of the indexing pins 100 is being inserted into the corresponding one of the second openings 308.

[0409] like Figures 37 to 40As illustrated in FIG, in one or more examples, a portion of the first body first surface 330 surrounding a corresponding one of the first openings 306 includes a countersunk hole 320. Figure 25 and Figure 40 , in one or more examples, with a portion of the cylindrical surface 104 of each of the indexing pins 100 positioned within one of the first openings 306, the frustoconical flange surface 162 enables the flange 136 to be received within the countersunk hole 320 of the corresponding one of the first openings 306 and seated on the portion of the first body first surface 330 surrounding the corresponding one of the first openings 306. In other words, the frustoconical flange surface 162 of the flange 136 provides a countersunk design for each of the indexing pins 100.

[0410] like Figures 37 to 40 , with the portion of the cylindrical surface 104 of each of the indexing pins 100 positioned within one of the first openings 306, the frustoconical flange surface 162 of the flange 136 also provides a second indexing surface that engages the portion of the first body first surface 330 defining the counterbore 320 to center each of the indexing pins relative to a corresponding one of the first openings 306. In other words, with the frustoconical flange surface 162 properly seated within the counterbore 320, each of the indexing pins 100 is centered within a corresponding one of the first openings 306, and the engagement of the frustoconical flange surface 162 with the counterbore 320 coaxially aligns the central axis 154 of each of the indexing pins 100 with the fourth central axis 338 of the corresponding one of the first openings 306.

[0411] Overall reference Figure 42A 、 Figure 42B and Figure 42C and in particular, for example Figures 2 to 6B 、 Figure 17 、 Figure 20 、 Figure 32 and Figures 34 to 36According to method 2000, portions of the first body first surface 330 surrounding the first opening 306 are planar. The flange 136 of each of the indexing pins 100 includes a planar flange surface 160 located between the cylindrical surface 104 of each of the indexing pins 100 and the rod 148 and oriented transverse to the central axis 154 of each of the indexing pins 100. According to method 2000, (block 2012) inserting each of the indexing pins 100 into a corresponding one of the first openings 306 includes (block 2020) abutting the planar flange surface 160 of each of the indexing pins 100 against a corresponding one of the portions of the first body first surface 330 surrounding the first opening 306. The previous subject matter of this paragraph characterizes Example 54 of the present disclosure, wherein Example 54 also includes subject matter according to Example 52 above.

[0412] The method 2000 facilitates using each of the indexing pins 100 with a first body 302 having a portion of the first body first surface 330 surrounding the first opening 306 that is planar.

[0413] The planar flange surface 160 enables the flange 136 to contact a portion of the planar first body first surface 330 surrounding a corresponding one of the first openings 306 when each of the indexing pins 100 is fully inserted into a corresponding one of the first openings 306 .

[0414] like Figure 32 and Figures 33 to 36 As illustrated in FIG, in one or more examples, a portion of the first body first surface 330 surrounding a corresponding one of the first openings 306 is planar. Figure 36 , in one or more examples, with a portion of the cylindrical surface 104 of each of the indexing pins 100 positioned within a corresponding one of the first openings 306, the planar flange surface 160 enables the flange 136 of each of the indexing pins 100 to rest on a planar portion of the first body first surface 330 surrounding a corresponding one of the first openings 306. In other words, the planar flange surface 160 of the flange 136 provides a raised head design for each of the indexing pins 100. In one or more examples, the planar flange surface 160 extends perpendicular to the central axis 154 between the frustoconical flange surface 162 and the cylindrical surface 104.

[0415] Overall reference Figure 42A 、 Figure 42B and Figure 42C and in particular, for example Figures 11 to 20 and Figures 29 to 31The method 2000 further includes (block 2022) threadably coupling nuts 204 coupled to corresponding ones of the protective clamping members 206 to the threaded portions 126 of corresponding ones of the indexing pins 100 such that the protective clamping members 206 are located between the nuts 204 and the second body second surface 336. The method 2000 further includes (block 2024) clamping the first body 302 and the second body 304 between the flange 136 of the indexing pin 100 and the protective clamping members 206 such that the nuts 204 are preloaded against the protective clamping members 206 along the central axis 154 of the indexing pin 100 under a force within a predetermined range. The previous subject matter of this paragraph characterizes Example 55 of the present disclosure, wherein Example 55 also includes subject matter according to any of Examples 52 to 54 above.

[0416] The method 2000 facilitates clamping the first body 302 and the second body 304 together between the flange 136 and the protective clamping member 206 of the indexing pin 100 to assemble the structure 300 .

[0417] Threading each of the nuts 204 to the threaded portion 126 of a corresponding one of the indexing pins 100 clamps the first and second bodies 302, 304 between the flange 136 of each of the indexing pins 100 and a corresponding one of the protective clamping members 206 to assemble the structure 300, such as to install a fastener in the first opening 306 and a corresponding one of the second openings 308.

[0418] like Figure 11 、 Figure 12 、 Figures 17 to 20 and Figures 29 to 31 , the threaded portion 126 enables each of the nuts 204 to be removably coupled to a corresponding one of the indexing pins 100 to clamp the first and second bodies 302, 304 together between each of the indexing pins 100 and a corresponding one of the protective clamping members 206, for example, after aligning the structure 300. When each of the nuts 204 is threadedly coupled with the threaded portion 126 and preloaded against the corresponding one of the protective clamping members 206 along the central axis 154 under a force within a predetermined range, the first and second bodies 302, 304 are clamped between the flange 136 of each of the indexing pins 100 and the corresponding one of the protective clamping members 206.

[0419] In one or more examples, manually performing (box 1034) threading the nuts 204 coupled to corresponding ones of the protective clamping members 206 to the threaded portions 126 of corresponding ones of the indexing pins 100 is performed such that the protective clamping members 206 are located between the nuts 204 and the second surface 336 of the second body.

[0420] Overall reference Figure 42A 、 Figure 42B and Figure 42C and in particular, for example Figures 29 to 31 According to method 2000, threading nuts 204 onto threaded portions 126 of corresponding ones of indexing pins 100 (block 2022) includes preventing rotation of indexing pin 100 relative to first body 302 and second body 304 (block 2026) and preventing rotation of protective clamping member 206 relative to second body second surface 336 (block 2028) while tightening nuts 204 onto threaded portions 126 of corresponding ones of indexing pins 100. The previous subject matter of this paragraph characterizes Example 56 of the present disclosure, wherein Example 56 also includes subject matter according to Example 55 above.

[0421] Rotating each of the nuts 204 while preventing the corresponding one of the indexing pins 100 from rotating enables each of the nuts 204 to be threadably coupled with the threaded portion 126 of the corresponding one of the indexing pins 100 and preloaded against the corresponding one of the protective clamping members 206 to clamp the first body 302 and the second body 304 together between the flange 136 of each of the indexing pins 100 and the corresponding one of the protective clamping members 206. Preventing each of the protective clamping members 206 from rotating relative to the second body second surface 336 prevents the second body second surface 336 from being damaged during rotation of the corresponding one of the nuts 204.

[0422] Overall reference Figure 42A 、 Figure 42B and Figure 42C and in particular, for example Figures 2 to 8 、 Figure 11 and Figure 12According to method 2000, the shank 148 of each indexing pin 100 includes at least one of a first means 156 for providing complementary engagement with a first tool, a second means 192 for providing complementary engagement with a second tool, and a third means 194 for providing complementary engagement with a third tool. The threaded portion 126 of each indexing pin 100 includes a fourth means 166 for providing complementary engagement with a fourth tool. Each nut 204 includes a second central axis 208. Each nut 204 also includes a head 212 that includes a fifth means 264 for providing complementary engagement with a fifth tool. Each nut 204 also includes a barrel 210 having an outer barrel diameter 218. Each nut 204 also includes a snap ring 220 positioned between the head 212 and the barrel 210 and having a maximum snap ring dimension 222 measured in a direction transverse to the second central axis 208. The snap ring 220 includes a knurled surface 232. The maximum collar dimension 222 is greater than either the outer barrel diameter 218 or the outer protective clamping member diameter 216 of the protective clamping member 206. Each of the nuts 204 also includes a through passage 262 extending through the barrel 210 and including internal threads 260. According to method 2000, (box 2022) threading the nuts 204 to the threaded portions 126 of corresponding ones of the indexing pins 100 includes preparing (box 2030) for applying torque to the indexing pins 100 by one of (box 2032) manually engaging the rods 148 of each of the indexing pins 100, (box 2034) engaging the first device 156 of the rods 148 of each of the indexing pins 100 with a first tool, (box 2036) engaging the second device 192 of the rods 148 of each of the indexing pins 100 with a second tool, (box 2038) engaging the third device 194 of the rods 148 of each of the indexing pins 100 with a third tool, or (box 2040) engaging the fourth device 166 of the threaded portions 126 of each of the indexing pins 100 with a fourth tool. According to the method 2000, threading the nuts 204 onto the threaded portions 126 of corresponding ones of the indexing pins 100 (block 2022) further includes preparing (block 2042) for applying torque to the nuts 204 by one of manually engaging (block 2044) the knurled surface 232 of the retaining ring 220 of each of the nuts 204 or engaging (block 2046) the fifth device 264 of the head 212 of each of the nuts 204 with a fifth tool. According to the method 2000, threading the nuts 204 onto the threaded portions 126 of corresponding ones of the indexing pins 100 (block 2022) further includes (block 2048) applying torque to the indexing pin 100 and the nut 204 by rotating the indexing pin 100 and the nut 204 relative to each other in a predetermined direction.The previous subject matter of this paragraph characterizes Example 57 of the present disclosure, wherein Example 57 also includes subject matter according to Example 56 above.

[0423] The first device 156 enables a first tool (not shown) to be used to engage each of the indexing pins 100 and remove each of the indexing pins 100 and / or prevent each of the indexing pins 100 from rotating about the central axis 154. The second device 192 enables a second tool (not shown) to be used to engage each of the indexing pins 100 and prevent each of the indexing pins 100 from rotating about the central axis 154. The third device 194 enables a third tool (not shown) to be used to engage each of the indexing pins 100 and prevent each of the indexing pins 100 from rotating about the central axis 154. The fourth device 166 enables a fourth tool (not shown) to be used to engage each of the indexing pins 100 and prevent each of the indexing pins 100 from rotating about the central axis 154. The head 212, the snap ring 220, the barrel 210, and the through-passage 262 of each of the nuts 204 provide a structural interface for coupling each of the nuts 204 to a corresponding one of the protective clamping members 206 and removably coupling each of the nuts 204 to the threaded portion 126 of a corresponding one of the indexing pins 100. When each of the nuts 204 is threadably coupled to the threaded portion 126 of the corresponding one of the indexing pins 100, the fifth means 264 enables the use of a fifth tool (not shown) to engage the head 212 and enable each of the nuts 204 to be rotated about the second central axis 208. When the first body 302 and the second body 304 are clamped together, the knurled surface 232 provides a friction interface for manually tightening each of the nuts 204 to the corresponding one of the indexing pins 100.

[0424] In one or more examples, the complementary engagement of the first tool with the first device 156 enables, for example, removal of each of the indexing pins 100 from one of the first openings 306 and a corresponding one of the second openings 308 after aligning the structure 300. In one or more examples, the complementary engagement of the first tool with the first device 156 enables, for example, removal of each of the indexing pins 100 from one of the first openings 306 and a corresponding one of the second openings 308 after aligning the structure 300. Figure 11 ) is threadedly coupled to the threaded portion 126 of the corresponding one of the indexing pins 100 to prevent each of the indexing pins 100 from being rotated at the second end 152 ( Figure 2 ) rotates around the central axis 154.

[0425] In general, the first device 156 is any structural feature that provides complementary engagement with the first tool, and the first tool includes or takes the form of any instrument or instrument that engages a specific structural feature corresponding to the first device 156 and enables manipulation of any of the indexing pins 100. In one or more examples, the first device 156 is a hole formed in the rod 148 and extending partially through the rod 148, and the first tool is a pin or other shafting element configured to be inserted into the hole. In one or more examples, the first device 156 is at least one recess or slot formed in the rod 148 and extending partially through the rod 148, and the first tool is an edged element configured to matingly engage the at least one recess or slot. In one or more examples, the first device 156 is a through-hole formed in the rod 148 and extending completely through the rod 148, and the first tool is a pin or elongated shaft configured to be inserted through the through-hole.

[0426] In one or more examples, the complementary engagement of the second tool with the second device 192 is achieved, for example, by the nut 204 ( Figure 11 ) is threadedly coupled to the threaded portion 126 of the corresponding one of the indexing pins 100 to prevent each of the indexing pins 100 from being rotated at the second end 152 ( Figure 2 ) rotates around the central axis 154.

[0427] In general, the second device 192 is any structural feature that provides complementary engagement with the second tool, and the second tool includes or takes the form of any implement or instrument that engages a specific structural feature corresponding to the second device 192 and enables manipulation of any of the indexing pins 100. In one or more examples, the second device 192 is different from the first device 156 and the second tool is different from the first tool. In one or more examples, the second device 192 is a polygonal structure or a head with multiple planar sides that forms at least a portion of the rod 148 and has a polygonal cross-sectional shape in a plane perpendicular to the central axis 154, and the second tool is a wrench with a polygonal socket or pliers. In one or more examples, as Figures 5A to 6B , the second device 192 is a hexagonal head (e.g., a six-sided head) that forms at least a portion of the rod 148, and the second tool is a wrench or pliers configured to have a hexagonal socket that complementarily engages the hexagonal head. In one or more examples, the second device 192 is a square head (e.g., a four-sided head) that forms at least a portion of the rod 148, and the second tool is a square socket or pliers configured to complementarily engage the square head.

[0428] In one or more examples, the complementary engagement of the third tool with the third device 194 is achieved, for example, by the nut 204 ( Figure 11 ) is threadedly coupled to the threaded portion 126 of the corresponding one of the indexing pins 100 to prevent each of the indexing pins 100 from being rotated at the second end 152 ( Figure 2 ) rotates around the central axis 154.

[0429] In general, the third device 194 is any structural feature that provides complementary engagement with a third tool, and the third tool includes or takes the form of any implement or instrument that engages a specific structural feature corresponding to the third device 194 and enables manipulation of any of the indexing pins 100. In one or more examples, the third device 194 is distinct from the first device 156 and the second device 192, and the third tool is distinct from the first tool and the second tool. In one or more examples, the third device 194 is a shaped drive cavity or receptacle formed in and partially extending through the end of the rod 148, and the third tool is a driver having a working end configured to complementarily engage the shaped drive cavity. Examples of formed drive cavities include slotted cavities (e.g., slot or crosshead), cross-shaped cavities (e.g., Phillips, Mortorq, Frearson, Pozidriv, French, Supadriv, Torq), internal polygonal cavities (e.g., square, safety hex, Robertson, double square, hexagonal, triangle, 12-point, 12-spline flange, Allen, double hexagonal), hexagonal (e.g., Torx, Safety Torx, male head, female head, multi-driver), trident cavities (e.g., TA or triangle, three-slot or T-slot, three-point, three-wing), or special cavities (e.g., Clutch A, Quadrex, Clutch G, Pentalobe, one-way, wrench head, Bristol).

[0430] In one or more examples, the complementary engagement of the fourth tool with the fourth device 166 is achieved, for example, by the nut 204 ( Figure 11 ) is threadedly coupled to the threaded portion 126 of the corresponding one of the indexing pins 100 to prevent each of the indexing pins 100 from being threadedly engaged with the threaded portion 126 of the corresponding one of the indexing pins 100. Figure 2 ) rotates around the central axis 154.

[0431] In general, the fourth device 166 is any structural feature that provides complementary engagement with the fourth tool, and the fourth tool includes or takes the form of any instrument or apparatus that engages a specific structural feature corresponding to the fourth device 166 and enables manipulation of any of the indexing pins 100. In one or more examples, the fourth device 166 is different from the first device 156, the second device 192, and the third device 194, and the fourth tool is different from the first tool, the second tool, and the third tool. In one or more examples, the fourth device 166 is the same as the third device 194, and the fourth tool is the same as the third tool. In one or more examples, the fourth device 166 is a shaped drive cavity or receptacle formed in and partially extending through the end of the threaded portion 126, and the fourth tool is a driver having a working end configured to complementarily engage the shaped drive cavity. Examples of formed drive cavities include slotted cavities (e.g., slot or crosshead), cross-shaped cavities (e.g., Phillips, Mortorq, Frearson, Pozidriv, French, Supadriv, Torq), internal polygonal cavities (e.g., square, safety hex, Robertson, double square, hexagonal, triangle, 12-point, 12-spline flange, Allen, double hexagonal), hexagonal (e.g., Torx, Safety Torx, male head, female head, multi-driver), trident cavities (e.g., TA or triangle, three-slot or T-slot, three-point, three-wing), or special cavities (e.g., Clutch A, Quadrex, Clutch G, Pentalobe, one-way, wrench head, Bristol).

[0432] The head 212 forms or otherwise defines an operator-engaging portion of each of the nuts 204. In one or more examples, the head 212 extends along the second central axis 208. In one or more examples, engagement of the head 212, such as by an operator applying torque to the head 212, causes each of the nuts 204 to rotate about the second central axis 208, such as when each of the nuts 204 is threadedly coupled with the threaded portion 126 of a corresponding one of the indexing pins 100.

[0433] The barrel 212 forms or otherwise defines a protective clamping member interface portion of each of the nuts 204. In one or more examples, the barrel 212 extends opposite the head 212 along the second central axis 208. In one or more examples, the barrel 210 is configured to engage and frictionally couple with a corresponding one of the protective clamping members 206. In one or more examples, the barrel 210 has a circular cross-sectional shape in a plane perpendicular to the second central axis 208 of each of the nuts 204 and has a constant diameter along its length.

[0434] A snap ring 220 forms or otherwise defines a protective clamping member engagement portion of each of the nuts 204. In one or more examples, the snap ring 220 extends between the head 212 and the barrel 210 along the second central axis 208. A maximum snap ring dimension 222 of the snap ring 220 is greater than the outer barrel diameter 218 of the barrel 210, such that the snap ring 220 extends outwardly from the barrel 210 perpendicular to the second central axis 208. When each of the nuts 204 is coupled with a corresponding one of the protective clamping members 206, the snap ring 220 is configured to contact the corresponding one of the protective clamping members 206 when each of the nuts 204 is threadedly coupled with the threaded portion 126 of the corresponding one of the indexing pins 100 and preloaded against the corresponding one of the protective clamping members 206 to clamp the first and second bodies 302 and 304 between the flange 136 of each of the indexing pins 100 and the corresponding one of the protective clamping members 206.

[0435] In one or more examples, the snap ring 220 also forms or otherwise defines another operator-engaging portion of each of the nuts 204. In one or more examples, engagement of the snap ring 220, such as by an operator manually applying torque to the snap ring 220, causes the corresponding each of the nuts 204 to rotate about the second center axis 208, such as when each of the nuts 204 is threadedly coupled with the threaded portion 126 of the corresponding one of the indexing pins 100.

[0436] A through-passage 262 forms or otherwise defines an indexing pin engaging portion of each of the nuts 204. The through-passage 262 extends through the barrel 210 along the second central axis 208. The through-passage 262 is configured to receive the threaded portion 126 of the corresponding one of the indexing pins 100 when each of the nuts 204 is threadably coupled with the corresponding one of the indexing pins 100. The internal threads 260 are configured to matingly engage the threaded portion 126 of the corresponding one of the indexing pins 100 when each of the nuts 204 is threadably coupled with the corresponding one of the indexing pins 100.

[0437] like Figure 16 , in one or more examples, the through-channel 262 extends only through the barrel 210, and not through the head 212 (i.e., the head 212 is a solid member). By providing a physical stop that limits movement of each of the nuts 204 along the central axis 154 of a corresponding one of the indexing pins 100 when the end of the threaded portion 126 contacts the head 212, this configuration of the nuts 204 prevents each of the nuts 204 from being overtightened when each of the nuts 204 is threadedly coupled to the threaded portion 126 of the corresponding one of the indexing pins 100.

[0438] like Figure 15 and Figures 17 to 20 As illustrated in FIG, in one or more examples, a through passage 262 extends through the retaining ring 220 and the head 212 of each of the nuts 204. The through passage 262 extending through the retaining ring 220 and the head 212 of each of the nuts 204 increases adjustability of each of the nuts 24 relative to a corresponding one of the indexing pins 100 and enables the threaded portion 126 of the corresponding one of the indexing pins 100 to extend through each of the nuts 204 when each of the nuts 204 is threadably coupled with the threaded portion 126 of the corresponding one of the indexing pins 100. In one or more examples, the through passage 262 extending through the head 212 also enables a fourth tool (not shown) to access the fourth device 166 of each of the indexing pins 100 through the head 212 of the corresponding one of the nuts 204 when each of the nuts 204 is threadably coupled with the threaded portion 126 of the corresponding one of the indexing pins 100.

[0439] like Figure 13 and Figures 15 to 20 As illustrated in FIG, in one or more examples, the internal threads 260 of the through-passage 262 extend along the entire through-passage 262. The internal threads 260 extend along the entire through-passage 262, thereby increasing the size of the mating interface between each of the nuts 204 and the threaded portion 126 of the corresponding one of the indexing pins 100 when each of the nuts 204 is threadedly coupled with the threaded portion 126 of the corresponding one of the indexing pins 100.

[0440] In one or more examples, the complementary engagement of the fifth tool and the fifth device 264 causes each of the nuts 204 to be threadedly engaged with the threaded portion 126 of the corresponding one of the indexing pins 100. Figure 2 ) rotates around the second central axis 208.

[0441] In general, the fifth device 264 is any structural feature that provides complementary engagement with the fifth tool, and the fifth tool includes or takes the form of any implement or instrument that engages a specific structural feature corresponding to the fifth device 264 and enables manipulation of each of the nuts 204. In one or more examples, the fifth device 264 is a polygonal structure or a head having multiple planar sides that form at least a portion of the head and has a polygonal cross-sectional shape in a plane perpendicular to the second central axis 208, and the fifth tool is a wrench with a polygonal socket or pliers. In one or more examples, as Figure 11 and Figure 12As illustrated in FIG, the fifth device 164 is a hexagonal head (eg, a six-sided head) forming at least a portion of the head 212, and the fifth tool is a wrench configured with a hexagonal socket or pliers that complementarily engage the hexagonal head.

[0442] In one or more examples, the fifth tool for complementary engagement with the fifth device 264 of the head 212 of each of the nuts 204 and the fourth tool for complementary engagement with the fourth device 166 of the threaded portion 126 of each of the indexing pins 100 are integrated into the same combination tool. This combination tool is any instrument or apparatus configured to engage specific structural features corresponding to both the fifth device 264 and the fourth device 166 to simultaneously manipulate each of the nuts 204 and the corresponding one of the indexing pins 100.

[0443] In one or more examples, at least a portion of the annular sidewall of the snap ring 220 (around the second central axis 208) includes a knurled surface 232. The knurled surface 232 includes any of various types of knurl patterns formed on the outer surface of the annular sidewall of the snap ring 220.

[0444] Overall reference Figure 42A 、 Figure 42B and Figure 42C and in particular, for example Figures 13 to 20, method 2000 also includes (block 2050) coupling protective clamping members 206 to corresponding ones of the nuts 204. According to method 2000, each of the protective clamping members 206 is cup-shaped and includes a third central axis 272. Each of the protective clamping members 206 also includes a base 274 that includes an opening 240. Each of the protective clamping members 206 also includes a cylindrical wall 276 extending from the base 274 along the third central axis 272. Each of the protective clamping members 206 additionally includes an inner recess 224 that is at least partially defined by the cylindrical wall 276 and is communicatively coupled to the opening 240. Each of the protective clamping members 206 also includes an inner annular groove 230 formed in the cylindrical wall 276. The barrel 210 of each of the nuts 204 includes an outer annular groove 226. Each pair of nuts 204 and corresponding ones of the protective clamping members 206 holds a captured O-ring 228 having a circumferential closure surface 278 located in a plane containing the second center axis 208 of the corresponding one of the nuts 204. According to method 2000, (block 2050) coupling the protective clamping members 206 to the corresponding ones of the nuts 204 includes (block 2052) positioning the barrel 210 of each of the nuts 204 within the inner recess 224 of the corresponding one of the protective clamping members 206 using a clearance fit such that one portion of the circumferential closure surface 278 of the O-ring 228 is located within the outer annular groove 226 of the corresponding one of the nuts 204 and another portion of the circumferential closure surface 278 of the O-ring 228 is located within the inner annular groove 230 of the corresponding one of the protective clamping members 206. The previous subject matter of this paragraph characterizes Example 58 of the present disclosure, wherein Example 58 also includes subject matter according to Example 57 above.

[0445] The bottom 274, cylindrical wall 276, and inner recess 224 of each of the protective clamping members 206 provide a structural interface for coupling each of the protective clamping members 206 with a corresponding one of the nuts 204. The inner annular groove 230, outer annular groove 226, and O-ring 228 provide a frictional coupling of each of the nuts 204 with the corresponding one of the protective clamping members 206 while allowing each of the nuts 204 and the corresponding one of the protective clamping members 206 to freely rotate relative to each other about the second central axis 208.

[0446] The bottom portion 274 forms or otherwise defines a second body engagement portion of each of the protective clamping members 206. With each of the nuts 204 coupled to a corresponding one of the protective clamping members 206, the bottom portion 274 is configured to contact the second body second surface 336 of the second body 304 when each of the nuts 204 is threadedly coupled to the threaded portion 126 of the corresponding one of the indexing pins 100 and preloaded against the corresponding one of the protective clamping members 206. In one or more examples, the bottom portion 274 has a circular cross-sectional shape in a plane perpendicular to the third central axis 272.

[0447] When each of the nuts 204 is threadedly coupled to the threaded portion 126 of a corresponding one of the indexing pins 100, the opening 240 enables the threaded portion 126 of each of the indexing pins 100 to enter the inner recess 224 of the corresponding one of the protective clamping members 206. The opening 240 is coaxially aligned with the third central axis 272.

[0448] The cylindrical wall 276 defines or otherwise forms a nut-engaging portion of each of the protective clamping members 206. The cylindrical wall 276 extends from the base 274 along the third central axis 272 and constrains the third central axis 272. In one or more examples, when each of the nuts 204 is coupled with a corresponding one of the protective clamping members 206, the snap ring 220 of each of the nuts 204 contacts an end of the cylindrical wall 276 of the corresponding one of the protective clamping members 206 when each of the nuts 204 is threadedly coupled with the threaded portion 126 of the corresponding one of the indexing pins 100 and preloaded against the corresponding one of the protective clamping members 206. The cylindrical wall 276 of each of the protective clamping members 206 spaces the corresponding one of the nuts 204 apart from the second body 304 and prevents the corresponding one of the nuts 204 from contacting the second body second surface 336 of the second body 304. The cylindrical wall 276 has a circular cross-sectional shape in a plane perpendicular to the third central axis 272 of the protective clamping member 206. The cylindrical wall 276 has a constant diameter along its length.

[0449] The inner recess 224 forms or otherwise defines a nut receiving portion of each of the protective clamping members 206, which enables each of the nuts 204 to be removably coupled to a corresponding one of the protective clamping members 206. The inner recess 224 extends along the third central axis 272 and is communicatively coupled to the opening 240. When each of the nuts 204 is coupled to the corresponding one of the protective clamping members 206, the inner recess 224 of each of the protective clamping members 206 receives the barrel 210 of the corresponding one of the nuts 204 with a clearance fit. When each of the nuts 204 is coupled to the corresponding one of the protective clamping members 206, the opening 240 enables the threaded portion 126 of each of the indexing pins 100 to be received within the inner recess 224 of the corresponding one of the protective clamping members 206 when each of the nuts 204 is threadably coupled to the threaded portion 126 of the corresponding one of the indexing pins 100. The inner recess 224 is defined by a bottom 274 and a cylindrical wall 276 .

[0450] The O-ring 228 frictionally couples each of the nuts 204 to a corresponding one of the protective clamping members 206 to prevent each of the nuts 204 from being accidentally separated from the corresponding one of the protective clamping members 206 while allowing each of the nuts 204 and the corresponding one of the protective clamping members 206 to rotate relative to each other about the second center axis 208, thereby preventing foreign object debris (FOD).

[0451] With each of the nuts 204 coupled to a corresponding one of the protective clamping members 206, each of the outer annular groove 226 and the inner annular groove 230 receives at least a portion of the circumferential closed surface 278 of the O-ring 228. The outer annular groove 226 and the inner annular groove 230 are configured to enable each of the nuts 204 and the corresponding one of the protective clamping members 206 to freely rotate relative to each other about the second central axis 208. The outer annular groove 226 and the inner annular groove 230 are configured to prevent the O-ring 228 from linearly moving relative to each of the nuts 204 and the corresponding one of the protective clamping members 206 along the second central axis 208, thereby preventing each of the nuts 204 from linearly moving relative to the corresponding one of the protective clamping members 206 along the second central axis 208.

[0452] like Figure 14As best illustrated in FIG, with each of the nuts 204 coupled to a corresponding one of the protective clamping members 206, the cross-sectional diameter of the circumferential closure surface 278 of the O-ring 228 is greater than half the cross-sectional dimension of the cross-sectional area defined by the combination of the outer annular groove 226 and the inner annular groove 230, which combination lies in the same plane as the circumferential closure surface 278 of the O-ring 228. This configuration of the outer annular groove 226 and the inner annular groove 230 retains the O-ring 228 in a captured state to prevent accidental separation of each of the nuts 204 and the corresponding one of the protective clamping members 206 while allowing each of the nuts 204 and the corresponding one of the protective clamping members 206 to freely rotate relative to each other about the second center axis 208. This configuration of the outer annular groove 226 and the inner annular groove 230 also enables forcible (i.e., intentional) separation of each of the nuts 204 from the corresponding one of the protective clamping members 206.

[0453] In one or more examples, when each of the nuts 204 is coupled to a corresponding one of the protective clamping members 206, the O-ring 228 positions each of the nuts 204 relative to the corresponding one of the protective clamping members 206 such that the second center axis 208 of each of the nuts 204 coincides with the third center axis 272 of the corresponding one of the protective clamping members 206. In one or more examples, when each of the nuts 204 is coupled to a corresponding one of the protective clamping members 206, the O-ring 228 positions each of the nuts 204 relative to the corresponding one of the protective clamping members 206 such that the second center axis 208 of each of the nuts 204 is parallel to the third center axis 272 of the corresponding one of the protective clamping members 206.

[0454] Additionally, the use of both the outer and inner annular grooves 226 , 230 and the O-ring 228 also facilitates a snap-fit ​​connection that provides tactile verification that each of the nuts 204 is interlocked with a corresponding one of the protective clamping members 206 .

[0455] Overall reference Figure 42A 、 Figure 42B and Figure 42C and in particular, for example Figure 12 、 Figure 13 、 Figure 15 and Figure 16According to method 2000, each of the protective clamping members 206 further includes an outer surface 244 surrounding the opening 240 of the bottom 274. Each of the protective clamping members 206 further includes an annular surface 236 opposite the bottom 274. According to method 2000, (block 2024) clamping the first body 302 and the second body 304 between the flange 136 of the indexing pin 100 and the protective clamping members 206 includes (block 2054) abutting the outer surface 244 of the bottom 274 of each of the protective clamping members 206 with a portion of the second body second surface 336 surrounding a corresponding one of the second openings 308 and (block 2056) abutting the annular surface 236 of each of the protective clamping members 206 with the snap ring 220 of a corresponding one of the nuts 204. The previous subject matter of this paragraph characterizes Example 59 of the present disclosure, wherein Example 59 also includes subject matter according to Example 58 above.

[0456] The outer surface 244 provides a contact interface between each of the protective clamping members 206 and the second body 304. The annular surface 236 provides a contact surface between each of the protective clamping members 206 and a corresponding one of the nuts 204. The contacting engagement between the annular surface 236 of each of the protective clamping members 206 and the snap ring 220 of the corresponding one of the nuts 204 restricts linear movement of each of the nuts 204 relative to the corresponding one of the protective clamping members 206 along the second central axis 208 while allowing each of the nuts 204 and the corresponding one of the protective clamping members 206 to rotate relative to each other about the second central axis 208.

[0457] In one or more examples, with each of the nuts 204 coupled to a corresponding one of the protective clamping members 206, at least a portion of the outer surface 244 contacts a portion of the second surface 336 of the second body when each of the nuts 204 is threadedly coupled to the threaded portion 126 of the corresponding one of the indexing pins 100 and preloaded against the corresponding one of the protective clamping members 206.

[0458] In one or more examples, the annular surface 258 forms or otherwise defines at least a portion of an end of the cylindrical wall 276 of the protective clamping member 206. In one or more examples, the annular surface 258 is configured to reduce friction between the annular surface 258 and a portion of the surface of the snap ring 220 that the annular surface 258 contacts due to rotation of a corresponding one of the nuts 204 relative to the protective clamping member 206. In one or more examples, the annular surface 258 is highly polished to reduce friction caused by contact between the annular surface 258 and the snap ring 220 as they rotate relative to each other. In one or more examples, the annular surface 258 includes a friction-reducing coating to reduce friction caused by contact between the annular surface 258 and the snap ring 220 as they rotate relative to each other.

[0459] Overall reference Figure 42A 、 Figure 42B and Figure 42C and in particular, for example Figure 12 、 Figure 13 、 Figure 15 and Figure 16 According to method 2000, each of the protective clamping members 206 further includes a second O-ring 266 located on the outer surface 244 of the base 274. According to method 2000, (block 2028) preventing rotation of the protective clamping members 206 relative to the second body second surface 336 includes (block 2058) frictionally engaging the second O-ring 266 of each of the protective clamping members 206 with a portion of the second body second surface 336 surrounding a corresponding one of the second openings 308 and with the outer surface 244 of the base 274 of each of the protective clamping members 206. The previous subject matter of this paragraph characterizes Example 60 of the present disclosure, wherein Example 60 also includes subject matter according to Example 59 above.

[0460] The second O-ring 266 prevents each of the protective clamping members 206 from rotating relative to the second body 304 when each of the nuts 204 is removably connected to a corresponding one of the indexing pins 100 .

[0461] In one or more examples, with each of the nuts 204 coupled to a corresponding one of the protective clamping members 206, when each of the nuts 204 is threadedly coupled to the threaded portion 126 of the corresponding one of the indexing pins 100 and preloaded against the corresponding one of the protective clamping members 206, the second O-ring 266 engages a portion of the second body second surface 336 of the second body 304 surrounding the corresponding one of the second openings 308. The engagement between the second O-ring 266 and the second body second surface 336 provides a frictional force sufficient to resist rotation of each of the protective clamping members 206 relative to the second body second surface 336 about the second central axis 208 when each of the nuts 204 rotates relative to the corresponding one of the protective clamping members 206.

[0462] Overall reference Figure 42A 、 Figure 42B and Figure 42C and in particular, for example Figure 13 、 Figures 16 to 18 and Figure 20 According to method 2000, portions of second body second surface 336 surrounding second opening 308 are planar. The outer surface 244 of bottom 274 of each of...

Claims

1. An indexing pin, comprising: Central axis; a threaded portion extending along the central axis; a rod extending opposite the threaded portion along the central axis and having a rod dimension measured perpendicular to the central axis; a cylindrical surface extending along the central axis between the threaded portion and the rod and having a cylindrical surface diameter; a tapered surface extending between the threaded portion and the cylindrical surface; as well as a flange located between the rod and the cylindrical surface, Wherein, the flange comprises: a frustoconical flange surface located between the stem and the cylindrical surface and having a maximum frustoconical flange surface diameter and a minimum frustoconical flange surface diameter; and a planar flange surface extending perpendicularly to the central axis from the frustoconical flange surface to the cylindrical surface and having a maximum planar flange surface diameter equal to the minimum frustoconical flange surface diameter, wherein The minimum frustoconical flange surface diameter and the maximum frustoconical flange surface diameter are both larger than the cylindrical surface diameter, The frustoconical flange surface extends from the stem to the planar flange surface, and The stem size is equal to the maximum frustoconical flange surface diameter.

2. The indexing plunger according to claim 1, wherein: The rod comprises first means for providing complementary engagement with a first tool.

3. The indexing plunger according to claim 1, wherein: The rod comprises second means for providing complementary engagement with a second tool.

4. The indexing plunger according to claim 1, wherein: The rod comprises third means for providing complementary engagement with a third tool.

5. The indexing plunger according to claim 1, wherein: The tapered surface has a tapered angle relative to the central axis, the tapered angle being between 2 degrees and 10 degrees, inclusive.

6. The indexing plunger according to claim 1, wherein: The tapered surface extends from the cylindrical surface to the threaded portion.

7. The indexing plunger of claim 1 further comprising an angled surface extending from the tapered surface to the threaded portion, wherein: The corner surface is annular and has a curvilinear cross-section in a plane containing the central axis.

8. The indexing plunger according to claim 1, wherein: The threaded portion comprises fourth means for providing complementary engagement with a fourth tool.

9. The indexing plunger of claim 1 further comprising a channel formed in at least a portion of the cylindrical surface and extending helically about the central axis.

10. An indexing plunger according to claim 9, wherein: The channel includes a channel first end and a channel second end opposite the channel first end; and The second end of the channel is adjacent to the flange.

11. The indexing plunger according to claim 10, wherein: The channel is formed in at least a portion of the tapered surface.

12. The indexing plunger according to claim 10, wherein: The passage first end is proximate to the threaded portion.

13. The indexing pin of claim 10, further comprising an annular recess between the cylindrical surface and the flange, and wherein the passage second end intersects the annular recess.

14. A graduation fixture, comprising: An indexing plunger, the indexing plunger comprising: Central axis; a threaded portion extending along the central axis; a rod extending along the central axis; a cylindrical surface extending along the central axis between the threaded portion and the rod; a tapered surface extending between the threaded portion and the cylindrical surface; and a flange located between the rod and the cylindrical surface; a nut having a second central axis and configured to be threadedly coupled to the threaded portion of the indexing pin; and a protective clamping member configured to be coupled to the nut and configured to be located between the nut and the flange, in: When the nut is threadedly coupled to the threaded portion of the indexing pin, the second center axis of the nut coincides with the center axis of the indexing pin; and When the protective clamping member is coupled to the nut, the nut and the protective clamping member are rotatable relative to each other.

15. The indexing fixture according to claim 14, wherein: When the protective clamping member is coupled to the nut, the nut is bi-directionally rotatable relative to the protective clamping member about the second center axis without moving relative to the protective clamping member along the second center axis.

16. An indexing pin, comprising: Central axis; a threaded portion extending along the central axis; a rod extending along the central axis opposite to the threaded portion; a cylindrical surface extending along the central axis between the threaded portion and the rod; a tapered surface extending between the threaded portion and the cylindrical surface; a flange located between the rod and the cylindrical surface; a channel formed in at least a portion of the cylindrical surface and extending helically about the central axis; as well as An annular recess is located between the cylindrical surface and the flange.

Images