Sheet metal nut with one-side access

Abstract

A sheet metal nut includes a base having a flat planar surface. The sheet metal nut also has a sleeve extending below the base and including an inner surface. The sheet metal nut further includes at least two front flanges and at least one rear flange. The at least two front flanges are positioned on the edge of the base and extend to a position directly above the flat planar surface of the base. At least one rear flange extends away from the rear surface of the base. The sheet metal nut is configured to be securely fastened to the underside of a component through a single aperture even when the underside of the component is restricted or inaccessible.

Description

[0001] CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

[0002] This application claims priority based on U.S. Provisional Application No. 62 / 924,371, filed on October 22, 2019, entitled “SINGLE SIDE ACCESS SHEET METAL NUT,” which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety. Background of the Invention 1. Technical Field

[0004] The present invention relates generally to fastening nuts and, more particularly, to a nut that can be assembled with a fastener to a panel having only one hole therein. 2. Background technology

[0006] Various vehicles include panels that cover and protect components and structures. The panels are fastened to the frame of the vehicle. Commonly, fasteners and nuts are used to secure the panels to the frame. For example, a fender can be secured to a subframe using bolts and fastening nuts. The bolts are inserted from one side of the panel, and the nuts are located on the bottom surface of the panel. However, this process can be difficult when the user does not have access to the bottom surface of the panel. As can be appreciated, the process of positioning and aligning the bolts and nuts relative to the panel and frame of the vehicle is time and labor intensive.

[0007] When access to the bottom surface of the panel is prohibited, current products on the market require multiple holes to be pierced / punched in the panel. In addition, when access is limited, many prior art clamping nuts require specialized assembly equipment to reach the bottom surface of the panel. In addition, many prior art clamping nuts cannot meet the required proof load.

[0008] Therefore, there is a need for a nut with enhanced functionality so that the nut can be assembled to a panel having only one hole punched therein when access to the bottom surface of the panel is limited. Summary of the invention

[0009] In one aspect, the sheet metal nut includes a base including a flat planar surface. The sheet metal nut also includes a sleeve extending below the base and including an inner surface. The sheet metal nut further includes at least two front flanges and at least one rear flange. The at least two front flanges are positioned on the edge of the base and extend to a position directly above the flat planar surface of the base. At least one rear flange extends away from the rear surface of the base. The sheet metal nut is configured to be securely fastened to the underside of the component through a single aperture when the underside of the component is restricted or inaccessible.

[0010] In some embodiments, at least one rear flange is positioned between at least two front flanges. A first portion of at least one rear flange extends below the flat planar surface of the base, and a second portion of at least one rear flange extends above the flat planar surface of the base. In other embodiments, at least two front flanges are identical. In further embodiments, at least two front flanges and at least one rear flange are capable of deflection. In some embodiments, the sleeve includes a hole extending through the sleeve. The sleeve further includes a chamfered edge extending near the flat planar surface. In other embodiments, at least one rear flange is wider than each of the at least two front flanges.

[0011] In another aspect, the sheet metal nut includes a base including a flat planar surface. The sheet metal nut also includes a sleeve extending downwardly from a central portion of the base. The sleeve is defined by an inner surface of a cylindrical wall. The sheet metal nut further includes a plurality of flanges extending from a rear surface of the base. The plurality of flanges are flexible components that are capable of flexing during installation of the sheet metal nut. The sheet metal nut is configured to secure two or more components together when access to a bottom surface of one of the components is limited or inaccessible.

[0012] In some embodiments, at least one of the plurality of flanges extends to a position above the flat planar surface of the base. At least one of the plurality of flanges extends away from the rear surface of the base and includes a portion extending below the flat planar surface of the base. In other embodiments, the base and at least one of the plurality of flanges include a plurality of cutouts. In further embodiments, the sleeve includes a chamfered edge that extends proximate the flat planar surface of the base. The sleeve includes a tapered edge chamfer.

[0013] In yet another aspect, a fastening system comprises a sheet metal nut and a first component. The sheet metal nut comprises a base and a sleeve. The base comprises a flat planar surface, and the sleeve extends downward from a central portion of the base. The sleeve further comprises a hole extending through the sleeve. The sheet metal nut further comprises at least one front flange and a rear flange. At least one front flange extends from a rear surface of the base, and at least one front flange extends to a position above the flat planar surface of the base. The rear flange extends from the rear surface of the base, and a portion of the rear flange extends below the flat planar surface of the base. The first component comprises an orifice extending through the first component. The orifice is T-shaped. The sheet metal nut is configured to be securely fastened to the bottom side of the first component through the orifice even when the bottom side of the first component is restricted or inaccessible.

[0014] In some embodiments, at least one of the front flange and the rear flange includes a point of contact with the first component in the installed position. In other embodiments, the fastening system further includes a second component, the second component including a rounded orifice. The second component is placed on the first component. The rounded orifice of the second component, the orifice of the first component, and the hole of the sleeve are aligned in the installed position. The fastening system further includes a fastener. The fastener is configured to extend through a portion of the first component, the second component, and the sleeve. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0015] Figure 1 is a top isometric view of a nut according to one embodiment;

[0016] Figure 2 yes Figure 1 A top plan view of a nut;

[0017] Figure 3 yes Figure 1 a bottom plan view of the nut;

[0018] Figure 4 yes Figure 1 A right side elevation view of a nut;

[0019] Figure 5 yes Figure 1 A rear elevation view of a nut;

[0020] Figure 6 yes Figure 1 A front elevation view of a nut;

[0021] Figure 7 is aligned with the first component Figure 1 Isometric view of a nut;

[0022] Figure 8 is partially inserted into the first component Figure 1 A top isometric view of a nut;

[0023] Fig. 9 is partially rotated in the first part Figure 1 A top isometric view of a nut;

[0024] Fig.10 is fully installed in the first part Figure 1 A top isometric view of a nut;

[0025] Fig.11 is fully installed in the first part Fig.10 A right side view of the nut;

[0026] Fig.12 is fully installed in the first part Fig.10 A top plan view of a nut;

[0027] Fig.13 is an exploded view of the fastening system; and

[0028] Fig.14 yes Fig.13 Top isometric view of the fastening system.

[0029] Before describing the embodiments of the present disclosure in detail, it should be understood that the application of the present disclosure is not limited to the details of the construction and arrangement of the parts set forth in the following description or shown in the accompanying drawings. The present disclosure can have other embodiments and can be practiced or implemented in a variety of different ways. Moreover, it should be understood that the words and terms used in this article are for descriptive purposes and should not be considered as restrictive. The use of "comprising" and "including" and their variations are intended to cover the items listed thereafter and their equivalents and additional items and their equivalents. Throughout the disclosure, the terms "about" and "approximately" refer to plus or minus 5% of the number preceding each item. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0030] Embodiments of the present disclosure provide a nut and a specially designed aperture that can be used to secure two components together when access to the rear surface of one of the two components is limited or inaccessible. Specifically, the nut is inserted into the aperture of the component in a vertical direction and then the nut is rotated to tighten to the component. The features described herein allow the nut to only require a hole in the component and insert the nut in a surface accessible to the user.

[0031] Figures 1 to 6 A sheet metal nut 20 according to the present disclosure is shown. In this embodiment, the nut 20 may be integrally molded or formed as a single piece of material, such as by known forming or molding operations. In a preferred embodiment, the nut 20 is formed of metal, however, in alternative embodiments, the nut 20 may be formed of plastic. Figure 1 and Figure 2 , respectively showing an isometric view and a top plan view of the nut 20. Figure 1 and Figure 2 As shown, the nut 20 includes a base 22 that is generally rectangular and includes a flat planar surface 24. In alternative embodiments, the base 22 can include any type of shape and is not limited to a rectangle. For example, the base 22 of the nut 20 can include any type of polygonal shape, such as a triangle, square, hexagon, etc., or can be rounded and include a generally circular profile. Further, a sleeve 26 extends downwardly from a central portion of the base 22, and a plurality of legs or flanges 28 extend from a rear surface 30 of the base 22.

[0032] Still reference Figure 1 and Figure 2 , sleeve 26 extends below base 22 and includes a hole 32 extending through the sleeve. Sleeve 26 is defined by an inner surface 34 of a generally cylindrical wall 36. In some embodiments, wall 36 may be tapered. Wall 36 extends between an upper opening 38 and a lower opening 40 of sleeve 26 (see Figure 1 ). In alternative embodiments, the wall 36 may extend downwardly to a different length than shown. Figure 1 and Figure 2 As shown, the inner surface 34 of the wall 36 includes a smooth, uninterrupted profile. However, in other embodiments, the inner surface 34 of the wall 36 may include a plurality of threads. It is contemplated that any type of thread may be included in the inner surface 34 of the wall 36. In one embodiment, the inner surface 34 may include abrupt threading, thereby reducing the possibility of cross threading.

[0033] Still reference Figure 1 and Figure 2 , the upper opening 38 of the sleeve 26 includes a chamfered edge 50 that extends into the sleeve 26 adjacent to the flat planar surface 24 of the base 22. The chamfered edge 50 may include a cone drawstyle chamfer (or a draw chamfer); however, any type of chamfer may be used for the chamfered edge 50. Further, the sleeve 26 includes a rounded edge 52 adjacent to the chamfered edge 50, the rounded edge connecting the sleeve 26 to the base 22. Figure 2 As shown, the hole 32 extending through the sleeve 26 includes a diameter D1. In a preferred embodiment, the diameter D1 can have a range of 6.0 mm-8.0 mm. However, in alternative embodiments, the diameter D1 can be any size. Additionally, in other embodiments, the nut 20 can include more than one sleeve 26 extending downwardly from the base 22. In a preferred embodiment, the sleeve 26 is located at the center of the base 22, however, in some embodiments, the sleeve 26 may not be centered relative to the base 22.

[0034] refer to Figure 3 and Figure 4 , respectively showing a bottom view and a side view of the nut 20. Figure 3As shown, the lower opening 40 is more clearly shown and the underside of the base 22 is shown. The sleeve 26 extends outwardly from the base 22 and includes a fillet 54 connecting the sleeve 26 to the base 22. The fillet 54 is located between the chamfered edge 50 of the sleeve 26 and the base 22. As described herein, the base 22 of the nut 20 includes a width W1 and a length L1. In a preferred embodiment, the width W1 of the base 22 can have a range of 19.0mm-20.0mm, and the length L1 of the base 22 can have a range of 19.0mm-20.0mm. However, in alternative embodiments, the width W1 and length L1 of the base 22 can be any size or include any length. Further, the base 22 of the nut 20 includes a thickness T1. In a preferred embodiment, the thickness T1 of the base 22 can have a range of 0.8mm-1.2mm. However, in alternative embodiments, the thickness T1 of the base 22 can include any length.

[0035] Return to reference Figure 1 , more clearly showing the flange 28 of the nut 20. As previously discussed, the flange 28 extends from and is positioned on the rear surface 30 of the base 22, and the flange 28 protrudes in multiple directions. Further, the flange 28 is a flexible member that can be bent or flexed during installation, that is, the flange 28 can deflect. In addition, the flange 28 includes a generally rectangular cross-sectional area. In this embodiment, the flange 28 is composed of two front flanges 60 and a rear flange 62. The front flange 60 extends to a position just above the flat planar surface 24 of the base 22. Alternatively, the rear flange 62 extends away from the rear surface 30 of the base 22 and is positioned between the two front flanges 60. In alternative embodiments, the nut 20 may include a greater or lesser number of front flanges 60. Additionally, the nut 20 may include a plurality of rear flanges 62. As will be discussed below, the two front flanges 60 are identical, and for ease of description, only one of these front flanges 60 will be described below.

[0036] Still reference Figure 1 , the flange 28 may extend from only one side of the base 22 or the flat planar surface 24. In alternative embodiments, the flange 28 may extend from multiple sides of the base 22. Figure 4 , a side view of one of the front flanges 60 and the rear flange 62 can be shown. The front flange 60 is positioned on the edge of the base 22 so that a portion of the front flange 60 is in line with the side edge 64 of the base 22 (see Figure 1 ). Further, if Figure 1 and Figure 2 As shown and as previously discussed, the front flange 60 extends to a position above the flat planar surface 24 and to the sides of the sleeve 26 .

[0037] refer to Figure 1and Figure 4 , each front flange 60 initially extends outward from the base 22 and includes a first curved wall 68. The first curved wall 68 transitions to a vertical wall 70 that is perpendicular to the base 22 or the flat planar surface 24. In an alternative embodiment, the vertical wall 70 can be angled relative to the base 22. The vertical wall 70 extends upward toward a second curved wall 72, which can include a larger radius than the first curved wall 68. However, in an alternative embodiment, the first curved wall 68 can define a larger or equal radius than the second curved wall 72. The second curved wall 72 terminates at an angled wall 74. The angled wall 74 extends upward away from the base 22 or the flat planar surface 24 at a certain angle and includes an end 76 of the front flange 60. As described herein, the vertical wall 70 is defined by a length L2 and the angled wall 74 is defined by a length L3. In some embodiments, the front flange 60 may include additional features that extend further above and / or along the base 22 and the flat planar surface 24 of the nut 20 .

[0038] In a preferred embodiment, the length L2 of the vertical wall 70 may have a range of 1.5 mm to 3.0 mm. Further, the length L3 of the angled wall 74 may have a range of 4.0 mm to 5.0 mm. However, in alternative embodiments, the length L2 of the vertical wall 70 and the length L3 of the angled wall 74 may include any length. Figure 4 As shown, the angled wall 74 extends at an angle θ1. In a preferred embodiment, the angle θ1 can be 15°. However, in alternative embodiments, the angle θ1 can include any angle. For example, depending on the operation of the nut 20, the angle θ1 can be greater than or less than the angle shown. In some embodiments, the angled wall 74 can extend downward toward the base 22 at a certain angle. In additional embodiments, the length and width of the front flange 60 can be adjusted according to the operation being performed. In this way, the length and width of the first curved wall 68, the vertical wall 70, the second curved wall 72, and the angled wall 74 can be adjusted to include a larger or smaller linear distance. Therefore, the length and width of all components of the front flange 60 can be adjusted so that the entire front flange 60 includes a larger or smaller surface area than shown. Further, the first curved wall 68 and the second curved wall 72 can define a larger or smaller radius than shown.

[0039] Return to reference Figure 1 and Figure 4 , the rear flange 62 is shown extending away from the base 22 of the nut 20. Figure 4As shown, the rear flange 62 initially extends below the base 22 or flat planar surface 24 via a splined wall 80. The splined wall 80 includes a generally S-shaped structure and extends below the base 22 or flat planar surface 24 to a first arched wall 82. The splined wall 80 further includes a length L4 extending downward from the base 22. In a preferred embodiment, the length L4 may have a range of 2.0 mm-4.0 mm. However, in alternative embodiments, the length L4 may include any length.

[0040] Still reference Figure 1 and Figure 4 , the first arched wall 82 defines a generally rounded surface extending upward from the splined wall 80. In particular, the first arched wall 82 extends from a position in line with the bottom 84 of the sleeve 26 to a position above the flat planar surface 24 of the base 22 of the nut 20. In other words, a first portion of the rear flange 62 extends below the flat planar surface 24 of the base 22, while a second portion of the rear flange 62 extends above the flat planar surface 24 of the base 22. As will be discussed in further detail herein, the first arched wall 82 is configured to provide assistance to the user during installation of the nut 20. In particular, the first arched wall 82 is flexible and is capable of biasing the nut 20 to an installed position. As described herein, the first arched wall 82 includes a radius R1. In a preferred embodiment, the radius R1 can have a range of 6.0 mm-8.0 mm. However, in alternative embodiments, the radius R1 of the first arched wall 82 can include any length. For example, depending on the operation of the nut 20, the radius R1 can be greater or less than the radius shown.

[0041] Still reference Figure 1 and Figure 4 The first arched wall 82 terminates in a second arched wall 86 that curves away from the base 22. The second arched wall 86 is connected to a finger-shaped portion 88 that extends away from the base 22. Figure 4 As shown, the finger 88 is parallel to the flat planar surface 24 of the base 22. However, in alternative embodiments, the finger 88 may be angled relative to the base 22 and may not be parallel to the flat planar surface 24 of the base 22. In such an embodiment, the second arcuate wall 86 may include a radius different from that shown so that the finger 88 may be angled. As described herein, the finger 88 includes an end 90 of the rear flange 62. In a preferred embodiment, the first arcuate wall 82, the second arcuate wall 86, and the finger 88 include a generally S-shaped structure (see Figure 4 ).

[0042] refer to Figure 4, the rear flange 62 extends to a position significantly away from the base 22. However, in alternative embodiments, the rear flange 62 can extend farther or closer from the rear surface 30 of the base 22, so that the length R1 of the first arched wall 82 can include a larger or smaller length than shown. Additionally, in other embodiments, the length L4 of the splined wall 80 can be changed so that the splined wall can extend downward from the base 22. Further, the finger 88 can extend from the second arched wall 86 to a larger or smaller length than shown. In this way, the length and width of all components of the rear flange 62 can be adjusted so that the entire rear flange 62 includes a larger or smaller surface area than shown. Further, the splined wall 80, the first arched wall 82, and the second arched wall 86 can define a larger or smaller radius than shown. Additionally, in alternative embodiments, the front flange 60 and the rear flange 62 can include a larger or smaller thickness than shown.

[0043] Return to reference Figure 2 , the rear flange 62 and base 22 of the nut 20 include cutouts 94. The cutouts 94 extend into the base 22 and are located on opposite sides of the rear flange 62. Due to the cutouts 94, the wall 80 of the spline connection includes a thinned section 96 connected to the base 22 of the nut 20. Therefore, the width of the wall 80 of the spline connection increases from its connection with the base 22 of the nut 20. As will be discussed in further detail herein, the cutouts 94 increase the flexibility of the rear flange 62 and allow the rear flange 62 to bend more easily when the nut 20 is installed. In alternative embodiments, the base 22 and the rear flange 62 may not include any cutouts 94. Further, in some embodiments, the cutouts 94 may be larger or smaller than shown.

[0044] refer to Figure 5 and Figure 6 , respectively showing a rear view and a front view of the nut 20. Figure 5 As illustrated, the vertical wall 70 of the front flange 60 and the first arcuate wall 82 of the rear flange 62 are shown. As described herein, the rear flange 62 is wider than the front flange 60. However, in some embodiments, the front flange 60 may be wider than the rear flange 62, or may include the same width as the rear flange 62. Additionally, the sleeve 26 is shown extending below the base 22 to a greater extent than the rear flange 62. Figure 6 , the front flange 60 is shown to be co-linear with the side edge 64 of the base 22 .

[0045] refer to Figure 7, the nut 20 is shown aligned with the first component 102. The first component 102 may include an inner edge 104 that defines an aperture 106 extending through the first component 102. In a preferred embodiment, the aperture 106 is generally T-shaped and extends completely through the first component 102. However, in alternative embodiments, the aperture 106 may include any shape. In one embodiment, the shape of the aperture 106 may be similar to a cross. It is contemplated that the first component 102 may include any thickness or structure. Further, the first component 102 may be of any shape, may be larger or smaller than shown, and may include any type of panel, such as a plastic panel, an aluminum panel, or a metal panel. As shown Figure 7 As illustrated, the inner edge 104 is rounded to form a T. In other embodiments, the inner edge 104 may include corners that are not rounded.

[0046] Still reference Figure 7 , the aperture 106 includes a lateral section 108 that is aligned with the sleeve 26 of the nut 20 and the base 22. The lateral section 108 is wide enough to allow the base 22 to fit therebetween. In other words, the lateral section 108 of the aperture 106 is greater than or equal to the width W1 of the base 22 (see Figure 3 ). Further, the aperture 106 includes an elongated slot 110 extending from the lateral section 108. The elongated slot 110 extends perpendicular to the lateral section 108 of the aperture 106. The lateral section 108 and the elongated slot 110 form the aperture 106 and are configured to allow the nut 20 to be inserted therethrough. As described herein, the aperture 106 is configured as a single hole that needs to be pierced or punched out of the first component 102. Therefore, the user can easily form the aperture 106 in the first component 102, and there is no need to pierce or punch out multiple holes / apertures in the first component 102.

[0047] Still reference Figure 7 , the nut 20 is positioned above the first component 102 and in line with the aperture 106. The nut 20 is positioned in a lateral position, perpendicular to the first component 102. When access to the underside of the first component 102 is limited or inaccessible, the user can pierce a single aperture 106 in the first component 102. Once the aperture 106 is formed in the first component 102, the user can follow Figure 7 The structure shown aligns the nut 20 with the first component 102. As previously discussed, the sleeve 26 of the nut 20 is aligned with the lateral section 108 of the aperture 106, and the side edge 64 of the base 22 is aligned with the distal end 112 of the lateral section 108 of the aperture 106. Once aligned, the nut 20 can then be pushed into the aperture 106 in the direction of arrow A. As the nut 20 is pushed, the side edge 64 of the base 22 passes through the lateral section 108 of the aperture 106, and the sleeve 26 will begin to protrude through the lateral section (see Figure 8 ).

[0048] refer to Figure 8 , the nut 20 is partially inserted into the aperture 106 of the first component 102. As previously discussed, the side edge 64 of the base 22 and the sleeve 26 partially extend through the lateral section 108 of the aperture 106. As the nut 20 continues to be pushed in the direction of arrow A, the sleeve 26 can be fully extended through the aperture 106. Once the sleeve 26 passes through the lateral section 108 of the aperture 106, it can be pushed in the direction of arrow B (i.e., from Figure 8 After the nut 20 is rotated about 45° in the direction of arrow B, the nut 20 is in a partially installed position, such as Fig. 9 In this particular configuration, the base 22 may contact the inner edge 104 of the lateral segment 108 (see Fig. 9 ). In some embodiments, when the nut 20 is in a partially installed position, a portion of the front flange 60 can contact the first component 102. In such an embodiment, the front flange 60 can flex outward to allow the nut 20 to rotate to the installed position.

[0049] refer to Fig. 9 , the nut 20 is partially rotated in the first component 102. Once the nut 20 is in Fig. 9 The user can then push the nut 20 in the direction of arrow C and continue in the direction of arrow B (i.e., from Fig. 9 As the user continues to push and turn the nut 20, the base 22 and the rear flange 62 will continue to slide along the inner edge 104 of the lateral segment 108 until the first arched wall 82 of the rear flange 62 passes over the inner edge 104 of the lateral segment 108. Once the first arched wall 82 passes over the inner edge 104 of the lateral segment 108, the nut 20 can be slid into the installed position (see FIG. Fig.10 ). As previously discussed, the flange 28 of the nut 20 is flexible and can bend. Therefore, the first arched wall 82 is designed to flex to allow the nut 20 to be installed more easily. Further, the shape of the first arched wall 82 helps to bias the nut 20 into the installed position during installation. In this way, during installation, the first arched wall 82 can be deflected toward the base 22 so that the nut 20 can be easily placed into the installed position. In addition, the cutout 94 allows the rear flange 62 to flex more easily during the installation of the nut 20.

[0050] refer to Fig.10 and Fig.11, the nut 20 is shown in a fully installed position with the base 22 substantially flush with the bottom side 114 of the first component 102. Thus, the nut 20 is in a horizontal position, parallel to the first component 102. In such a position, the front flange 60 is positioned adjacent to the inner edge 104 of the lateral segment 108, and the vertical wall 70 of the front flange 60 can contact the first component 102 (see Fig.10 ). Depending on the thickness of the first component 102, the second curved wall 72 of the front flange 60 can flex to accommodate the increased thickness. Thus, the angled wall 74 can rotate or flex to accommodate the thickness of the first component 102. Fig.10 As shown, the first arcuate wall 82 of the rear flange 62 is positioned against the inner edge 104 of the lateral segment 108. As discussed in further detail below, the first arcuate wall 82 is designed to flex or urge the nut 20 forward so that the nut 20 can remain in the locked position.

[0051] Once installed Fig.10 and Fig.11 , the first arched wall 82 acts to push the nut 20 in the direction of arrow E. In this way, this force can push the vertical wall 70 of the front flange 60 against the inner edge 104 of the lateral segment 108. Once the vertical wall 70 of the front flange 60 contacts the inner edge 104 of the lateral segment 108, the flanges 28 of the nut 20 each include a point of contact with the first component 102, so that the nut 20 can be fixed to the first component. In some embodiments, the vertical wall 70 of the front flange 60 may not contact the inner edge 104 of the orifice 106.

[0052] Reference now Fig.12 , shows a top plan view of the nut 20 mounted to the first component 102. Fig.12 As shown, the nut is configured to be attached to the bottom side 114 of the first component 102 (see Fig.11 ) is limited or inaccessible through a single aperture 106 to securely fasten to the bottom side 114 of the first component 102. Once the nut 20 is installed in the first component 102, the hole 32 of the sleeve 26 is aligned with the elongated slot 110 of the aperture 106, so that the fastener 150 (see Fig.13 ) can be inserted from it.

[0053] refer to Fig.13 , shows an exploded view of the fastening system 200. Fig.13As shown, during a tightening operation, once the nut 20 is attached to the first component 102, the second component 202 including the rounded aperture 204 can be placed on the first component 102. In alternative embodiments, the rounded aperture 204 can include any shape and may not be rounded. Once the first component 102 and the second component 202 are aligned with each other one above the other, the fastener 150 can be aligned with the threads in the sleeve 26 of the nut 20 to tighten the first component 102 to the second component 202. As tightening continues, the angled wall 74 of the front flange 60 can be flexed to a flat position so that the angled wall 74 and the portion of the second curved wall 72 can be substantially flush with the first component 102 and the second component 202. Further, the finger 88 and the rear flange 62 can also be flexed to a flat position so that the finger 88 and the portion of the second arcuate wall 86 of the rear flange 62 can also be flush with the first component 102 and the second component 202. As described herein, the nut 20 , the first component 102 , the second component 202 , and the fastener 150 comprise a fastening system 200 .

[0054] Still reference Fig.13 , the fastener 150, the second component 202, the first component 102, and the nut 20 are all aligned along the axis G so that the fastener 150 can fasten the first component 102 to the second component 202. In other words, the rounded aperture 204 of the second component 202, the aperture 106 of the first component 102, and the hole 32 of the sleeve 26 are aligned so that the fastener 150 can extend therethrough.

[0055] During the tightening of the first component 102 to the second component 202, the tapered edge structure of the chamfered edge 50 provides strength to the nut 20 by creating a larger footprint on the first component 102 for the load to act upon. Additionally, the tapered edge structure of the chamfered edge 50 serves as a lead-in edge for the fastener 150 so that the user can quickly find the hole 32 of the sleeve 26. Once the fastener 150 has been tightened through the sleeve 26 of the nut 20, the first component 102 and the second component 202 are securely attached (see FIG. Fig.14 ). As described herein, fastener 150 may include any type of fastener or screw. Further, it is contemplated that second component 202 may include any thickness or structure. In addition, second component 202 may be of any shape, may be larger or smaller than shown, and may include any type of panel, such as a plastic panel, an aluminum panel, or a metal panel.

[0056] refer to Fig.14 , showing the fastening system 200 in an installed position. Fig.14 As shown, the first component 102 and the second component 202 are connected by fasteners 150 and nuts 20 (in Fig.14As previously discussed, the rounded aperture 204 of the second component 202, the aperture 106 of the first component 102, and the hole 32 of the sleeve 26 are aligned in the installed position (see Fig.13 ).like Fig.13 and Fig.14 As illustrated, the fastener 150 is configured to extend through the first component 102 , the second component 202 , and a portion of the sleeve 26 of the nut 20 .

[0057] After operational use, the nut 20 may also be configured to be removable from the first component 102. In such an embodiment, once the fastener 150 and the second component 202 are removed, the user may grasp or lift the finger portion 88 of the rear flange 62. Once the finger portion 88 of the rear flange 62 is lifted, the nut 20 may be pushed and rotated in a direction opposite to that previously described with respect to installation to remove the nut from the first component 102. Once the nut 20 is removed from the first component 102, the nut 20 may be reused, thereby providing a cost savings to the user.

[0058] As previously described, the nut 20 also allows two or more components 102, 202 to be fastened together when access to the bottom surface of the first component 102 is limited or inaccessible. Further, the nut 20 can be used with only a single aperture, such as previously described with respect to the aperture 106, which is stamped or otherwise formed in the first component 102. Thus, when access to the bottom side 114 of the first component 102 is limited or inaccessible, the user does not need to machine multiple holes in the first component 102. This allows for an efficient process that allows the nut 20 to be quickly installed using only one side of the first component 102. As described herein, it is contemplated that the nut 20 can also be used when access to the bottom side 114 of the first component 102 is accessible.

[0059] Although various spatial and directional terms such as top, bottom, lower, middle, lateral, horizontal, vertical, front, rear, etc. may be used to describe embodiments of the present disclosure, it should be understood that such terms are used only with respect to the orientations shown in the accompanying drawings. These orientations may be reversed, rotated, or otherwise changed so that upper is lower, vice versa, horizontal becomes vertical, and so on.

[0060] Variations and modifications of the foregoing are within the scope of the present disclosure. It should be understood that the embodiments disclosed and defined herein extend to all alternative combinations of two or more individual features mentioned in the text and / or the accompanying drawings or apparent from the text and / or the accompanying drawings. All of these different combinations constitute a variety of different alternative aspects of the present disclosure. The embodiments described herein explain how to practice the present disclosure and will enable other persons skilled in the art to utilize the present disclosure. The claims should be interpreted to include alternative embodiments within the scope allowed by the prior art.

[0061] As stated above, those skilled in the art will appreciate that although the present invention has been described above in conjunction with specific embodiments and examples, the present invention is not necessarily limited thereto, and many other embodiments, examples, uses, modifications and deviations to the embodiments, examples and uses are intended to be covered by the appended claims.

Claims

1. A sheet metal nut, comprising: a base, the base comprising a flat planar surface; a sleeve extending below the base, wherein the sleeve includes an inner surface; at least two front flanges positioned on an edge of the base and extending to a position just above the flat planar surface of the base; and at least one rear flange extending away from a rear surface of the base, wherein the at least one rear flange is positioned between the at least two front flanges, Therein, the sheet metal nut is configured to be securely fastened to the underside of the component through a single aperture even when the underside of the component is restricted or inaccessible.

2. The sheet metal nut according to claim 1, wherein: A first portion of the at least one rear flange extends below the flat planar surface of the base, and wherein a second portion of the at least one rear flange extends above the flat planar surface of the base.

3. The sheet metal nut according to claim 1, wherein: The at least two front flanges are identical.

4. The sheet metal nut according to claim 1, wherein: The at least two front flanges and the at least one rear flange are deflectable.

5. The sheet metal nut according to claim 1, wherein: The sleeve includes a bore extending therethrough.

6. The sheet metal nut according to claim 5, wherein: The sleeve further includes a chamfered edge extending proximate the flat planar surface.

7. The sheet metal nut according to claim 1, wherein: The at least one rear flange is wider than each of the at least two front flanges.

8. The sheet metal nut according to claim 1, wherein: The sleeve extends downwardly from a central portion of the base, and wherein the sleeve is defined by an inner surface of a cylindrical wall; the at least two front flanges and the at least one rear flange are capable of deflecting during installation of the sheet metal nut, and The sheet metal nut is configured to allow two or more components to be fastened together when access to a bottom surface of one of the two or more components is limited or inaccessible.

9. The sheet metal nut according to claim 8, wherein: The base and at least one of the at least two front flanges and the at least one rear flange include a plurality of cutouts.

10. The sheet metal nut according to claim 8, wherein: The sleeve includes a chamfered edge extending proximate the flat planar surface of the base.

11. The sheet metal nut according to claim 10, wherein: The sleeve includes a tapered edge-pulled chamfer.

12. A fastening system comprising: The sheet metal nut of claim 1, wherein the sleeve extends downwardly from a central portion of the base, wherein the sleeve includes a hole extending through the sleeve; and A portion of said at least one rear flange extends below said flat planar surface of said base; and a first component, the first component comprising an aperture extending through the first component, wherein the aperture is T-shaped, The sheet metal nut is configured to be securely fastened to the bottom side of the first component through the aperture even when the bottom side of the first component is restricted or inaccessible.

13. The fastening system of claim 12, wherein: The at least two front flanges and the at least one rear flange comprise points of contact with the first component in the installed position.

14. The fastening system of claim 12, wherein: The fastening system further includes a second component including a rounded aperture, wherein the second component is placed over the first component.

15. The fastening system of claim 14, wherein: The rounded aperture of the second component, the aperture of the first component, and the bore of the sleeve are aligned in an installed position.

16. The fastening system of claim 14, wherein: The fastening system further includes a fastener.

17. The fastening system of claim 16, wherein: The fastener is configured to extend through the first component, the second component, and through a portion of the sleeve.

18. A sheet metal nut, comprising: a base, the base comprising a flat planar surface; a sleeve extending below the base, wherein the sleeve includes an inner surface; two front flanges positioned on an edge of the base and extending to a position just above the flat planar surface of the base, wherein the two front flanges extend from a rear surface of the base; and at least one rear flange extending away from the rear surface of the base, wherein a first portion of the rear flange extends below a plane in which the flat planar surface of the base lies, and wherein a second portion of the rear flange extends above a plane in which the flat planar surface of the base lies, and Therein, the sheet metal nut is configured to be securely fastened to the underside of the component through a single aperture even when the underside of the component is restricted or inaccessible.

19. A fastening system comprising: A sheet metal nut, comprising: a base, the base comprising a flat planar surface; a sleeve extending downwardly from a central portion of the base, wherein the sleeve includes a bore extending through the sleeve; at least one front flange extending from a rear surface of the base, wherein the at least one front flange extends to a position above the flat planar surface of the base; and a rear flange extending from the rear surface of the base, wherein a portion of the rear flange extends below the flat planar surface of the base; a first component, the first component comprising an aperture extending through the first component, wherein the aperture is T-shaped, The sheet metal nut is configured to be securely fastened to the bottom side of the first component through the aperture even when the bottom side of the first component is restricted or inaccessible.

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