Fluid-tight single-sided fastener and method for fastening

Abstract

The present invention provides a fluid-tight single-sided fastener and a method for fastening. A sleeve includes: a first sleeve end, the first sleeve end including a first inner surface; a second sleeve end, the second sleeve end including a second inner surface; and an elongated portion extending from the first sleeve end to the second sleeve end. The first inner surface and the second inner surface define a sleeve cavity extending from the first sleeve end toward or to the second sleeve end into the sleeve. A pin is configured to be at least partially received by the sleeve cavity. The pin includes a first pin end configured to receive torque, a second pin end, and a rod extending from the first pin end to the second pin end. The rod includes threads, and the threads are configured to form threads on the second inner surface of the sleeve.

Description

[0001] CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

[0002] This application claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Application Serial No. 63 / 039,772, filed on June 16, 2020, entitled “FLUID TIGHT BLIND FASTENERS AND METHODS FOR FASTEING,” the contents of which are incorporated herein by reference in their entirety. Technical Field

[0003] The present disclosure relates to blind fasteners and fastening methods using blind fasteners. More particularly, the present disclosure relates to fluid-tight blind fasteners and related installation methods. Background Art

[0004] The assembly process of large fluid-tight structures such as aircraft fuselages and storage tanks may involve workers collaborating from both sides of the structure to install two-part mechanical fasteners such as nuts and bolts. Assembling such structures may be problematic when physical and / or visual access to one side of the structure is limited.

[0005] Typical single-sided fasteners, such as blind rivets or blind eye bolts, can be operated from one side of the structure, but may not provide a controlled clamping force and / or an effective seal to prevent fluid leakage. The use of supplemental sealants or separate deformable sealing components may increase the cost and complexity of installing typical single-sided fasteners. Examples of single-sided fasteners are described in U.S. Patent No. 10,006,478. Other fasteners are described in, for example, U.S. Patent Nos. 7,033,120, 6,868,757, 8,777,533, 8,979,553, and 9,669,457. It may be challenging to design a single-sided fastener that applies a desired clamping force, is fluid-tight after installation, and is cost-effective to manufacture. Summary of the invention

[0006] According to one non-limiting aspect of the present disclosure, a single-sided fastener including a sleeve and a pin is provided. The sleeve includes: a first sleeve end, the first sleeve end including a first inner surface; a second sleeve end, the second sleeve end including a second inner surface; and an elongated portion extending from the first sleeve end to the second sleeve end. The first inner surface and the second inner surface define an area where a sleeve cavity extends from the first sleeve end toward or to the second sleeve end into the sleeve. The pin is configured to be at least partially received by the sleeve cavity. The pin includes a first pin end configured to receive torque, a second pin end, and a rod extending from the first pin end to the second pin end. The rod includes a thread, and the thread is configured to form a thread on the second inner surface of the sleeve.

[0007] According to another non-limiting aspect of the present disclosure, a method for fastening is provided. The method includes inserting a second sleeve end of a sleeve of a blind fastener into an opening in a structure. The blind fastener includes a sleeve and a pin. The sleeve includes: a first sleeve end, the first sleeve end including a first inner surface; a second sleeve end, the second sleeve end including a second inner surface; and an elongated portion extending from the first sleeve end to the second sleeve end. The first inner surface and the second inner surface define an area where a sleeve cavity extends from the first sleeve end toward or to the second sleeve end into the sleeve. The pin is configured to be at least partially received by the sleeve cavity. The pin includes a first pin end, a second pin end, and a rod extending from the first pin end to the second pin end, and the rod includes a thread. The method includes arranging a portion of the pin in the sleeve, and forcing the threads of the rod of the pin into contact with the second inner surface of the sleeve, thereby deforming the second inner surface and forming threads thereon.

[0008] It should be understood that the invention disclosed and described in this specification is not limited to the aspects outlined in the Summary of the Invention. The reader will appreciate the foregoing details as well as other details after considering the following detailed description of various non-limiting and non-exhaustive aspects according to the present specification. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0009] Features and advantages of the examples and the manner in which they are achieved will become more apparent and the examples will be better understood by referring to the following description taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, in which:

[0010] Figure 1 is a partial cross-sectional elevation view showing a non-limiting embodiment of a blind fastener according to the present disclosure before threads are formed on the second inner surface of the sleeve;

[0011] Figure 2 yes Figure 1 Detailed view of area 2;

[0012] Figure 3 yes Figure 1 A partial cross-sectional elevation view of a blind fastener of FIG. 1 , shown partially installed in a structure, wherein at least a portion of the threads are formed on the second inner surface of the sleeve by threads on the pin;

[0013] Figure 4 yes Figure 3 Detailed view of area 4;

[0014] Figure 5 yes Figure 3 A partial cross-sectional elevation view of a blind fastener of , shown installed in a structure, wherein threads are formed on a second inner surface of the sleeve and a ball is formed in an elongated portion of the sleeve;

[0015] Figure 6 yes Figure 5 Detailed view of area 6;

[0016] Figure 7 is a partial cross-sectional elevational view of a non-limiting embodiment of a blind fastener according to the present disclosure having a sleeve cavity that does not extend completely through a second sleeve end, shown installed in a structure wherein threads are formed on a second interior surface of the sleeve and a ball is formed on an elongated portion of the sleeve;

[0017] Figure 8 is a partial cross-sectional elevational view of a non-limiting embodiment of a blind fastener according to the present disclosure, shown installed in a structure wherein threads are formed on a second interior surface of a sleeve and two bulbs are formed in an elongated portion of the sleeve;

[0018] Fig. 9 is a flow chart illustrating a non-limiting embodiment of a method for fastening according to the present disclosure;

[0019] Fig.10 is a perspective view of a non-limiting embodiment of a sleeve of a blind fastener according to the present disclosure, with a tab shown; and

[0020] Fig.11 is a perspective view of a non-limiting embodiment of a sleeve of a blind fastener according to the present disclosure, with a tab shown.

[0021] Corresponding reference characters indicate corresponding parts throughout the several views.The exemplifications set forth herein illustrate certain non-limiting embodiments, in one form, and such exemplifications should not be construed as limiting the scope of the appended claims in any manner. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0022] Various examples are described and illustrated herein to provide an overall understanding of the structure, function and use of the disclosed articles and methods. The various examples described and illustrated herein are non-limiting and non-exhaustive. Therefore, the present invention is not limited by the description of the various non-limiting and non-exhaustive examples disclosed herein. On the contrary, the present invention is limited only by the claims. The features and characteristics shown and / or described in conjunction with the various examples can be combined with the features and characteristics of other examples. Such modifications and changes are intended to be included within the scope of the present disclosure. Thus, the claims may be modified to state any features or characteristics that are explicitly or inherently described or otherwise explicitly or inherently supported in the present disclosure. In addition, the applicant reserves the right to modify the claims to explicitly deny features or characteristics that may exist in the prior art. Various non-limiting embodiments disclosed and described in the present disclosure may include, consist of, or substantially consist of features and characteristics as described differently herein.

[0023] Any reference to "various embodiments," "some embodiments," "one embodiment," "embodiment," "non-limiting embodiment," or similar phrases herein means that a particular feature, structure, or characteristic described in conjunction with the example is included in at least one embodiment. Therefore, the phrases "in various embodiments," "in some embodiments," "in one embodiment," "in an embodiment," "in a non-limiting embodiment," or similar phrases appearing in the specification do not necessarily refer to the same non-limiting embodiment. In addition, in one or more non-limiting embodiments, the specifically described features, structures, or characteristics may be combined in any suitable manner. Therefore, the particular features, structures, or characteristics shown or described in conjunction with one non-limiting embodiment may be combined in whole or in part with the features, structures, or characteristics of one or more other non-limiting embodiments without restriction. Such modifications and variations are intended to be included within the scope of the non-limiting embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0024] As used herein, "intermediate" means that the reference element is disposed between two elements, but not necessarily in contact with the elements. Thus, unless otherwise described herein, an element "intermediate" between a first element and a second element may or may not be adjacent to or in contact with the first element and / or the second element, and other elements may be disposed between the intermediate element and the first element and / or the second element.

[0025] Embodiments of blind fasteners according to the present disclosure may apply a desired clamping force, may be fluid-tight after installation, and may be cost-effective to manufacture. For example, Figure 1 1 shows a non-limiting embodiment of a blind fastener 100 according to the present disclosure. The blind fastener 100 may be configured to be installed on a structure (e.g., as shown in FIG. Figure 3 and Figure 5 The single-sided fastener 100 may include at least two components, such as a sleeve 102 and a pin 120, such as Figure 1 In other non-limiting embodiments (not shown), a blind fastener according to the present disclosure may include three or more components. In various non-limiting embodiments, the blind fastener 100 may be composed of a two-piece assembly including, for example, a sleeve 102 and a pin 120. In certain non-limiting embodiments, the blind fastener 100 may be a structural blind fastener, such as a structural blind rivet, a structural blind eye bolt, or a structural blind stud.

[0026] Reference again Figure 1 The sleeve 102 of the blind fastener 100 may include a first sleeve end 104, a second sleeve end 106, and an elongated portion 108 located between the first sleeve end 104 and the second sleeve end 106. The elongated portion 108 may define a longitudinal axis A of the sleeve 102 and / or the blind fastener 100. lThe sleeve 102 may be sized and configured such that when the blind fastener 100 is installed in the structure, the second sleeve end 106 extends beyond the structure in which the blind fastener 100 is installed.

[0027] The first sleeve end 104 includes a first inner surface 112, and the second sleeve end 106 includes a second inner surface 114. In certain non-limiting embodiments, a third inner surface 116 is located intermediate the first inner surface 112 and the second inner surface 114. The first inner surface 112, the second inner surface 114, and the third inner surface 116 (if present) can define a sleeve cavity 110 that extends from the first sleeve end 104 through the elongated portion 108 to the second sleeve end 106. The sleeve cavity 110 can extend completely through the sleeve 102, such as Figure 1 As shown in Figure 7 As shown in , the second sleeve end 106 may be closed such that the sleeve cavity 110 does not extend completely through the sleeve 102 .

[0028] In various non-limiting embodiments, the first sleeve end 104 may include a flange portion 118 configured to limit the sleeve 102 from traversing an opening in a structure (e.g., as described herein with reference to Figure 3 and Figure 5 The flange portion 118 may be configured to be flush with the surface of the structure, or the flange portion 118 may protrude from the surface of the structure, depending on the specific application of the blind fastener 100. In various embodiments, the flange portion 118 may include an internal smooth opening to accommodate the flange portion 138 of the pin 120. In various non-limiting embodiments, the flange portion 118 of the sleeve 102 may have an internal countersunk hole, and the flange portion 138 of the pin 120 may include a generally conical shape that is complementary to the internal countersunk hole in the flange portion 118.

[0029] In certain embodiments, the first sleeve end 104 can be configured to receive torque such that the sleeve 102 can be gripped to rotate and / or prevented from rotating about the longitudinal axis A by forced contact with the first sleeve end 104. l For example, the first sleeve end 104 may include at least one of a substantially flat side, ribs, splines, indentations, notches, protrusions, openings, recessed sockets, tabs, or similar structural features. In certain non-limiting embodiments, such as Fig.10 and Fig.11 As shown in , the first sleeve end 104 of the sleeve 102 may include a tab 1054. In various non-limiting embodiments, the sleeve 102 may be restricted from rotating by applying an axial force to the sleeve 102, thereby generating friction between the sleeve 102 and the structure in which the sleeve is installed. In certain non-limiting embodiments, such as Fig.10 and Fig.11As shown in , the sleeve 102 can be configured to have a plurality of internal recesses 1056 to react against torque, and each recess 1056 can be angled rearwardly and arranged in a generally circular orientation on an outer surface 1058 of the flange portion 118 of the sleeve 102 so that the recess can engage with a structure during installation to limit rotation of the sleeve 102.

[0030] Reference again Figure 1 In various non-limiting embodiments, the pin 120 of the blind fastener 100 may include a first pin end 128, a second pin end 130, and a rod 122, which may be configured to be complementary to the sleeve 102. The pin 120 including the rod 122 may include a shape adapted to be at least partially received within the sleeve cavity 110 of the sleeve 102. In various non-limiting embodiments, the rod 122 has a generally cylindrical shape. The rod 122 may be located intermediate the first pin end 128 and the second pin end 130, and may be sized so that it may be inserted into the sleeve cavity 110 and at least partially extend through the sleeve cavity. When the rod 122 is inserted into the sleeve cavity 110, the first pin end 128 may be disposed adjacent to the first sleeve end 104, and the second pin end 130 may be disposed adjacent to the second sleeve end 106.

[0031] In various non-limiting embodiments, the first pin end 128 can be configured to receive torque. For example, the first pin end 128 can include a head 136 that is configured to receive torque such that the pin 120 can be rotated about the longitudinal axis A by being forced to contact the head 136 and applying a rotational force to the pin 120. l In various non-limiting embodiments, the head 136 may include at least one of a substantially flat side, a rib, a spline, a dimple, a notch, a protrusion, an opening, a recessed socket, a tab, and similar structural features. For example, the head 136 may include one of a square head, a hexagonal head, a knurled head, a splined head, and a recessed socket head. Figure 1 , the head 136 is a spline head. In various non-limiting embodiments, a suitable blind fastener installation tool can be used to engage the head 136 and apply a rotational (e.g., torsional) force to the pin 120 while applying an axial force (e.g., a normal force) to maintain engagement with the sleeve 102. The blind fastener installation tool can be configured to hold the sleeve 102 stationary during rotation of the pin 120. In various non-limiting embodiments, the blind fastener installation tool can be configured to forcefully contact and deform the generally smooth upper surface of the sleeve 102 to form a recess simultaneously with the installation process, so that the blind fastener installation tool limits the rotation of the sleeve 102 by being forced to contact the recess formed in the sleeve 102.

[0032] In various non-limiting embodiments, Figure 1As shown in , the first pin end 128 may include a flange portion 138 and a neck groove 140 located intermediate the head 136 and the flange portion 138. The flange portion 138 may be configured to limit the pin 120 from traversing into the sleeve cavity 110 beyond a predetermined distance. The neck groove 140 may be configured to break in response to a torsional shear force applied to the head 136.

[0033] The rod 122 includes threads 126 and, in various non-limiting embodiments, optionally also includes a first rod region 132, as discussed further below. In various non-limiting embodiments, the first rod region 132 can be located intermediate the threads 126 and the first pin end 128. In certain non-limiting embodiments, the first rod region 132 can include a substantially cylindrical shape. The threads 126 can be right-hand threads or left-hand threads. The threads 126 can be, for example, square threads, trapezoidal threads, buttress threads, another thread type, or a combination of thread types. In various non-limiting embodiments, the threads 126 can be thread-forming threads, such as The threads of the fastener (available from REMINC of Middletown, Rhode Island, USA) or other thread forming thread types. The thread forming threads can engage the second inner surface 114 of the sleeve 102 and form threads thereon. The threads 126 can receive a suitable forming torque relative to the thread stripping torque to form threads on the second inner surface 114 with minimal (if any) expansion of the sleeve 102, thereby creating a fluid-tight seal.

[0034] In various non-limiting embodiments, the sleeve 102 may be generally tubular in shape. For example, the first inner surface 112, the second inner surface 114, and the third inner surface 116 (if present) may be substantially tubular and cylindrical. In certain non-limiting embodiments, the first inner surface 112 may include a first inner diameter Φ1, and the second inner surface 114 may include a second inner diameter Φ2. The first inner diameter Φ1 may be smaller than the second inner diameter Φ2. In various non-limiting embodiments, the second inner diameter Φ2 is greater than or equal to the major diameter Φ3 of the thread 126, and the first inner diameter Φ1 may be greater than the major diameter Φ3. In certain non-limiting embodiments, the second inner diameter Φ2 may be less than the major diameter Φ3 of the thread 126, and the first inner diameter Φ1 may be greater than the major diameter Φ3. In this way, the thread 126 can easily pass through the first sleeve end 104, thereby facilitating the assembly of the blind fastener 100, and the thread 126 can be forced to engage the second inner surface 114 to install the fastener. In various non-limiting embodiments, the major diameter Φ3 of the threads 126 may be in the range of 0.06 inches to 4 inches. As used herein, “major diameter” refers to the diameter of an imaginary coaxial cylinder that contacts only the thread crests of the threads 126 .

[0035] refer to Figure 2 , which shows Figure 1The second inner surface 114 may be substantially tubular and smooth, except for the circular area 2 in the sleeve 102. That is, the second inner surface 114 may not have threads (e.g., no threads are formed on the second inner surface 114 during the manufacture of the sleeve 102 before engaging with the pin 120). In certain non-limiting embodiments, the second inner surface 114 may include at least a partially threaded area (not shown) to facilitate alignment and / or engagement of the threads 126 of the pin 120, and a substantially smooth area (e.g., an area that does not have threads but may include a microtexture formed by the manufacturing process) that may be deformed and threaded by the threads 126 of the pin 120. The at least partially threaded area may be located between the substantially smooth area and the first sleeve end 104. In certain non-limiting embodiments, the pin 120 may be disposed in the cavity 110 of the sleeve 102, and the pin 120 may form at least a partially threaded area in the second inner surface 114. When the flange portion 138 of the pin 120 is forced to contact the flange portion 118 of the sleeve 102, the formation of the at least partially threaded area may stop. Thereafter, flange portion 138 and flange portion 118 may be machined in combination to ensure that they are flush relative to one another.

[0036] After the blind fastener 100 is installed, the length of the joint between the second inner surface 114 and the thread 126 can be sized to reduce the weight of the blind fastener 100 while achieving the desired liquid tightness and desired mechanical strength of the installed blind fastener 100. The length of the joint can be configured by adjusting the size of the second inner surface 114, the total length of the sleeve 102, the length of the thread 126, and the total length of the rod 122. In various non-limiting embodiments, the length of the joint may be no greater than 5 times the minor diameter of the thread 126, such as no greater than 4 times the minor diameter of the thread 126, no greater than 2 times the minor diameter of the thread 126, no greater than 1.1 times the minor diameter of the thread 126, or no greater than the minor diameter of the thread 126. In certain non-limiting embodiments, the length of the joint may be at least 0.5 times the minor diameter of the thread 126 or at least the minor diameter of the thread. In certain non-limiting embodiments, the length of the joint may be in the range of 0.5 to 5 times the minor diameter of the thread 126. For example, if two or more bulbs are formed on the sleeve 102 during installation of the blind fastener 100, other engagement lengths may be desired.

[0037] Reference again Figure 1 , the third inner surface 116 (if present) can be located intermediate the first inner surface 112 and the second inner surface 114. In various non-limiting embodiments, the third inner surface 116 is a tapered inner surface and / or the sleeve 102 can have a variable wall thickness. Due to the tapering of the inner surface and / or the variable wall thickness, the diameter of the sleeve cavity 110 can decrease along its length in the axial direction toward the second sleeve end 106. In certain non-limiting embodiments, reference Figure 2The third inner surface 116 is at an angle α in a range of greater than 0 degrees to 6 degrees, for example, relative to the longitudinal axis A of the blind fastener 100. l The angle α is in the range of 1 to 6 degrees or is relative to the longitudinal axis A of the blind fastener 100. l The angle α is in the range of 2 to 4 degrees, tapering towards the second sleeve end 106 .

[0038] Reference again Figure 1 The elongated portion 108 of the sleeve 102 can be configured to deform and form a bulb or at least two bulbs in response to a force applied to the sleeve 102 as the second pin end 130 forms threads on the second inner surface 114. For example, a tapered surface, variable wall thickness, or other feature can be a stress increase point (e.g., the thinnest wall thickness is not supported by the structure during installation) to begin forming a bulb on the sleeve 102, such that the formed bulb exerts a compressive force on the structure. In certain non-limiting embodiments, the sleeve 102 can be formed with a functional strain gradient so that the bulb is formed at a desired location while the threads are formed on the second inner surface 114.

[0039] The size of the blind fastener 100 can be set according to the application needs. For example, the major diameter of the thread 126 can be in the range of 0.06 inches to 4 inches. In various non-limiting embodiments, the blind fastener 100 can include a size in the range of ANSI screw size 4 to 1 inch diameter. The blind fastener 100 can be configured to accommodate structures of various thicknesses. For example, the overall length of the sleeve 102 can be sized so that when installed in an opening in a structure, the second sleeve end 106 extends beyond the blind side of the structure. The pin 120 can similarly be sized based on the size of the sleeve 102.

[0040] Reference again Figure 1 The shaft 122 of the pin 120 may define a longitudinal axis A1 of the pin 120 and / or the blind fastener 100. The shaft 122 may be configured to engage the sleeve 102 so as to retain the shaft 122 in the sleeve 102. When engaged between the shaft 122 and the sleeve 102, the longitudinal axis A1 of the pin 120 may be defined. l The longitudinal axis of the sleeve 102 may be along the longitudinal axis A of the blind fastener 100. l Basic alignment.

[0041] The sleeve cavity 110 of the sleeve 102 can be configured to at least partially receive the shaft 122 of the pin 120 therein. For example, the sleeve cavity 110 can include a shape suitable for at least partially receiving the shaft 122 of the pin 120. The sleeve 102 including the second inner surface 114 can be configured to at least partially deform in response to forced contact with the threads 126 of the shaft 122. For example, during and / or after the rod 122 is introduced into the sleeve cavity 110, at least a portion of the second inner surface 114 can be at least partially deformed (e.g., threads are formed thereon) in response to forced contact with the threads 126.

[0042] Continued deformation of the second inner surface 114 can reduce the distance between the first sleeve end 104 and the second sleeve end 106, thereby deforming the elongated portion 108 of the sleeve 102 to form a bulb thereon (see FIG. Figure 3 and Figure 5 The deformation of the elongated portion 108 can generate a compressive force on the structure between the bulb and the first sleeve end 104, thereby fixing the blind fastener 100 in the opening of the structure. In various examples, the continued deformation of the second inner surface 114 can fasten the formed bulb to the surface of the structure opposite the flange portion 118 of the sleeve 102 to fix the bulb relative to the structure and form a substantially uniform clamping force (e.g., preload). Clamping the bulb relative to the structure can provide a fluid-tight seal between the blind fastener and the structure.

[0043] In various non-limiting embodiments, the pin 120 may include a snap-neck groove 140 (e.g., a frangible section) that is configured to break when the blind fastener 100 is installed in a structure to separate all or a portion of the head 136 from the pin 120. For example, after a desired torque is achieved, the snap-neck groove 140 may break. The desired torque may correspond to a torque that is desired when a desired installation force is generated on the blind fastener 100. In certain other non-limiting embodiments, the pin 120 does not include a snap-neck groove, but is configured to include one or more other features such that the head 136 of the pin 120 breaks during installation of the blind fastener 100. In various non-limiting embodiments, the pin 120 does not include a snap-neck groove or other features that are configured to break when the blind fastener 100 is installed, and the head 136 remains intact after installation. Thus, according to various non-limiting embodiments, a multi-piece fastener according to the present disclosure may be installed in a structure without breaking a snap neck groove or other feature, or the fastener may include a snap neck groove or other feature that breaks when the fastener is installed in a structure.

[0044] The blind fastener 100 may include at least one of a metal, a metal alloy, a composite material, or another suitable material. For example, in various non-limiting embodiments, the blind fastener 100 may include at least one of aluminum, an aluminum alloy, copper, a copper alloy, titanium, a titanium alloy, nickel, a nickel alloy, iron, an iron alloy, and a carbon fiber composite material. The pin 120 may include a first material having a first hardness, and the sleeve 102 may include a second material having a second hardness. In various embodiments, the second hardness may be less than the first hardness, so that the thread 126 can deform the second inner surface 114 of the sleeve 102 with minimal (if any) deformation of the thread 126. For example, in various embodiments, the sleeve 102 may include aluminum, an aluminum alloy, copper, or a copper alloy (e.g., brass, bronze), and the pin 120 may include titanium, a titanium alloy, nickel, a nickel alloy, iron, or an iron alloy (e.g., steel, stainless steel). In certain non-limiting embodiments, the pin 120 may be threaded on the second inner surface 114 of the sleeve 102 while the blind fastener is installed into the structure, thereby generating residual compressive stress that effectively seals the pin 120 and the sleeve 102 together.

[0045] like Figure 3 and Figure 5 As shown in the illustrated non-limiting embodiment, the blind fastener 100 can be installed in an opening 346 of a structure 344. As shown, the opening 346 can extend from a first side 358 (e.g., an accessible side) through the structure 344 to a second side 360 ​​(e.g., a blind side). The structure 344 can include, for example, at least one of a metal, a metal alloy, a composite material, or another suitable material. For example, in certain non-limiting embodiments, the structure 344 can include one or more of aluminum, an aluminum alloy, titanium, a titanium alloy, nickel, a nickel alloy, iron, an iron alloy, and a carbon fiber composite material. In various non-limiting embodiments, the structure 344 in which the blind fastener 100 is installed includes aluminum and / or an aluminum alloy, such as 7075 aluminum alloy. In various embodiments, the structure in which the fastener according to the present disclosure can be installed can be configured as an aerospace component or structure, an automotive component or structure, a transportation component or structure, a building and construction component or structure, or another component or structure.

[0046] In certain non-limiting embodiments, structure 344 may include a single layer of material or two or more layers of material. Figure 3 and Figure 5 As shown in FIG. 3 , the structure 344 may include a first layer 344a and a second layer 344b, which may have the same material or different materials. When the blind fastener 100 is installed, the first layer 344a may be positioned between the second layer 344b and the head 136.

[0047] Additionally, in various non-limiting embodiments, the second sleeve end 106 can be sized and configured to facilitate alignment of the sleeve 102 with the aperture 346, thereby allowing the second sleeve end 106 to be easily moved into and through the aperture 346. In various non-limiting embodiments, the flange portion 118 can be sized and configured to limit the sleeve 102 from traversing the aperture 346 beyond a predetermined distance.

[0048] As from Figure 3 As can be appreciated, the second sleeve end 106 of the sleeve 102 is positioned to align with the first side 358 of the opening 346 and is then inserted through the opening 346 such that the second sleeve end 106 extends beyond the second side 360 ​​of the structure 344. The second pin end 130 has been inserted into the sleeve cavity 110 of the sleeve 102 and has been forced into contact with the second inner surface 114, thereby at least partially forming threads on the second inner surface 114, as shown in FIG. Figure 4 As shown in detail in Figure 3 In the arrangement shown in FIG. 1 , the elongated portion 108 has not yet been deformed.

[0049] Further references Figure 3 and Figure 5 , and as will be understood by one of ordinary skill in the art of blind fasteners, the jaws, chuck, drill, or other features of the blind fastener installation tool may be forced to engage the head 136 of the pin 120. Upon engagement, the blind fastener installation tool may apply an axial force to the pin 120, pushing the pin 120 toward the second inner surface 114 and pushing the sleeve 102 toward the structure 344. The blind fastener installation tool may also apply a rotational force to the head 136 of the pin 120 about the longitudinal axis A1. When the rotational force is applied, the threads 126 of the shank 122 of the pin 120 may deform the second inner surface 114, thereby forming corresponding threads 350 on the second inner surface 114. When the pin 120 is moved in this manner, the same or a different blind fastener installation tool may engage the sleeve 102 to restrict the sleeve 102 from rotating about the longitudinal axis A1 as the pin 120 rotates.

[0050] refer to Figure 5As the threads 350 are formed and the pin 120 continues to rotate, the second sleeve end 106 is pushed toward the first sleeve end 104 until sufficient force is reached to deform (e.g., flex) the elongated portion 108 and form a bulb 352 on the elongated portion 108 adjacent the second side 360 ​​of the structure 344. The deformation of the elongated portion 108 can apply a clamping force to the structure 344 through the bulb 352 and the first sleeve end 104, thereby securing the single-sided fastener 100 to at least a portion of the structure 344. In this manner, for example, the first layer 344a and the second layer 344b of the structure 344 are secured together, and a first fluid-tight seal (e.g., a fluid-tight seal, an airtight seal, or a combination thereof) can be formed between the sleeve 102 and the structure 344. In various non-limiting embodiments, the elongated portion 108 can be deformed to form at least two bulbs. For example, as Figure 8 As shown in FIG. 8 , the elongated portion 108 has been deformed and has formed a bulbous portion 852a and a bulbous portion 852b.

[0051] exist Figure 5 and Figure 6 In the illustrated arrangement, the threads 126 of the rod 122 have deformed the second inner surface 112 and have formed the threads 350. The threads 350 formed on the second inner surface 114 may have geometric conformity with the threads 126 of the pin 120. The reaction force to this deformation (e.g., plastic deformation) may be a uniform pressure acting on the threads 126 of the pin 120 to form a second fluid-tight seal, thereby preventing fluid from leaking through the sleeve cavity 110 of the sleeve 102. This uniform pressure may also provide resistance to loosening of the blind fastener 100 caused by vibration.

[0052] In addition, if Figure 5 , any gap that may have existed between the first layer 344a and the second layer 344b of the structure 344 has been reduced, and due to the force applied to the pin 120 by the single-sided fastener installation tool, the pin 120 has broken at the neck groove 140 after being installed in the structure 344. Alternatively, the pin 120 may not break after being installed in the structure 344 (not shown).

[0053] For example, Figure 3 and Figure 5, the installation process may form threads 350 on the second inner surface 114 of the sleeve 102 while installing the blind fastener 100 into the structure. In certain non-limiting embodiments, the threads 350 in the second inner surface 114 may be at least partially formed during assembly of the blind fastener 100 so that the pin 120 and the sleeve 102 are locked together, thereby facilitating installation of the blind fastener 100 into the structure. Thereafter, the formation of the partially formed threads 350 may be completed simultaneously with the installation of the blind fastener 100 into the structure 344. In various non-limiting embodiments, the sleeve 102 and the pin 120 are locked together by another means, or simply not locked together, and the threads 350 are only formed during the installation process.

[0054] Embodiments of blind fasteners according to the present disclosure may be used in methods of fastening structures. Fig. 9 Steps of a non-limiting embodiment of such a method are shown. Fig. 9 The method shown in may include inserting the second sleeve end 106 of the blind fastener 100 according to the present disclosure into the opening 346 in the structure 344 so that the second sleeve end 106 of the sleeve 102 extends beyond the second side of the structure 344 (at step 902). After the second sleeve end 106 is inserted into the structure 344, the threads 126 of the pin 120 may be forced to contact the second inner surface 114 of the sleeve 102 by applying an axial force to the head 136 of the pin 120 and / or by applying a rotational force to the head 136 of the pin 120 to rotate the pin 120 (at step 904). The threads 126 of the pin 120 may deform the second inner surface 114 of the sleeve 102, thereby forming threads on the second inner surface 114 (at step 906). Thereafter, the elongated portion 108 of the sleeve 102 may be deformed to form a bulb, and a fluid-tight seal may be formed between the pin 120 and the sleeve 102 and / or between the sleeve 102 and the structure 344 (at step 908). In certain non-limiting embodiments, the threads on the second inner surface 114 and the bulb on the elongated portion 108 of the sleeve 102 may be formed simultaneously. In various non-limiting embodiments, the head 136 may be removed by breaking the neck groove 140 on the pin 120 (at step 910).

[0055] Various aspects according to embodiments of the present disclosure include, but are not limited to, the aspects listed in the following numbered clauses.

[0056] Clause 1. A blind fastener comprising:

[0057] A sleeve comprising

[0058] a first sleeve end including a first inner surface,

[0059] a second sleeve end including a second inner surface, and

[0060] an elongated portion extending from the first sleeve end to the second sleeve end,

[0061] wherein the first inner surface and the second inner surface define a region of the sleeve cavity extending into the sleeve from the first sleeve end toward or to the second sleeve end; and

[0062] A pin configured to be at least partially received by the sleeve cavity, the pin comprising

[0063] a first pin end configured to receive a torque,

[0064] The second pin end, and

[0065] A rod extends from the first pin end to the second pin end, the rod including threads, wherein the threads are configured to form threads on the second inner surface of the sleeve.

[0066] Clause 2. A blind fastener according to clause 1, wherein the first pin end comprises a head, and wherein the head comprises at least one of a substantially flat side, a rib, a spline, a dimple, a notch, a boss, an opening, a recessed socket, and a tab.

[0067] Clause 3. The blind fastener of any of Clauses 1-2, wherein the first pin end includes a flange portion configured to limit the pin from traversing the sleeve cavity beyond a predetermined distance.

[0068] Clause 4. The blind fastener of any one of clauses 1-3, wherein the sleeve includes a third inner surface intermediate the first inner surface and the second inner surface, wherein the third inner surface is tapered.

[0069] Clause 5. The blind fastener of Clause 4, wherein the third inner surface tapers at an angle in the range of greater than 0 degrees to 6 degrees relative to a longitudinal axis of the blind fastener.

[0070] Clause 6. A blind fastener according to any one of clauses 1-5, wherein the diameter of the sleeve cavity decreases along the length of the sleeve in the axial direction toward the second sleeve end.

[0071] Clause 7. A blind fastener according to any one of Clauses 1-6, wherein the inner diameter of the second inner surface is smaller than the inner diameter of the first inner surface and smaller than the major diameter of the shank thread.

[0072] Clause 8. The blind fastener of any of Clauses 1-7, wherein the second inner surface is substantially tubular.

[0073] Clause 9. A blind fastener according to any one of clauses 1-8, wherein the second inner surface comprises at least a partially threaded region and a substantially smooth region, wherein the at least partially threaded region is located intermediate the substantially smooth region and the first sleeve end.

[0074] Clause 10. The blind fastener of any of clauses 1-9, wherein the elongated portion of the sleeve is configured to deform into a ball in response to the second pin end forming threads on the second inner surface and compressing the elongated portion.

[0075] Clause 11. The blind fastener of any one of clauses 1-10, wherein the pin includes a snap neck groove intermediate the first pin end and the second pin end, the snap neck groove being configured to break when the blind fastener is installed.

[0076] Clause 12. The blind fastener of any of Clauses 1-11, wherein the pin comprises a first material having a first hardness, wherein the sleeve comprises a second material having a second hardness, and wherein the second hardness is less than the first hardness.

[0077] Clause 13. The blind fastener of any of Clauses 1-12, wherein a fluid-tight seal is formed between the pin and the sleeve after threads are formed in the second interior surface.

[0078] Clause 14. The blind fastener of any of Clauses 1-13, wherein the second sleeve end is closed.

[0079] Clause 15. The blind fastener of any one of clauses 1-14, wherein the first sleeve end includes a sleeve flange portion configured to limit the sleeve from traversing the opening in the structure beyond a predetermined distance.

[0080] Clause 16. The blind fastener of any of clauses 1-15, wherein the first sleeve end is configured to receive torque.

[0081] Clause 17. A blind fastener according to any one of clauses 1 to 16, wherein the blind fastener is configured to be installed in an opening in a structure, and wherein the structure is configured as at least one of an aerospace part or component, an automotive part or component, a transportation part or component, and a building and construction part or component.

[0082] Clause 18. A blind fastener according to any one of clauses 1-17, wherein the major diameter of the shank thread is in the range of 0.06 inches to 4 inches.

[0083] Clause 19. A structure comprising a blind fastener according to any one of clauses 1-18, wherein the structure is configured as at least one of an aerospace part or component, an automotive part or component, a transportation part or component, and a building and construction part or component.

[0084] Clause 20. A method for fastening, the method comprising:

[0085] inserting a second sleeve end of a sleeve of a blind fastener according to any one of clauses 1 to 18 into an opening in a structure; and

[0086] forcing the threads of the shank of the pin into contact with the second inner surface of the sleeve, thereby deforming the second inner surface and forming threads thereon; and

[0087] The elongated portion of the sleeve is deformed to form a bulb thereon.

[0088] Clause 21. A method for fastening, the method comprising:

[0089] Inserting a second sleeve end of a sleeve of a blind fastener into an opening in a structure, the blind fastener comprising:

[0090] The sleeve includes

[0091] a first sleeve end including a first inner surface,

[0092] The second sleeve end includes a second inner surface, and

[0093] an elongated portion extending from the first sleeve end to the second sleeve end,

[0094] wherein the first inner surface and the second inner surface define a region of the sleeve cavity extending into the sleeve from the first sleeve end toward or to the second sleeve end, and

[0095] A pin configured to be at least partially received by the sleeve cavity, the pin comprising

[0096] The first pin end,

[0097] The second pin end, and

[0098] a rod extending from the first pin end to the second pin end, the rod including threads;

[0099] forcing the threads of the shank of the pin into contact with the second inner surface of the sleeve, thereby deforming the second inner surface and forming threads thereon; and

[0100] The elongated portion of the sleeve is deformed to form a bulb thereon.

[0101] Clause 22. The method of clause 21, further comprising applying a rotational force to the first pin end to force the threads of the shank into contact with the second inner surface.

[0102] Throughout this disclosure, unless otherwise indicated, all numerical parameters should be construed as being preceded in all instances by the term "about" and modified by the term "about", wherein the numerical parameter is characterized by the inherent variability of the underlying measurement technology employed to determine the numerical value of the parameter. At the very least, and not as an attempt to limit the application of the doctrine of equivalents to the scope of the claims, each numerical parameter described herein should at least be construed in light of the number of reported significant digits and by applying ordinary rounding techniques.

[0103] In addition, any numerical range listed herein includes all sub-ranges contained within the listed range. For example, the range "1 to 10" includes all sub-ranges between the minimum value 1 and the maximum value 10 (and including the end value), that is, the minimum value is equal to or greater than 1, and the maximum value is equal to or less than 10. Any maximum numerical limit described in this specification is intended to include all lower numerical limits contained therein, and any minimum numerical limit described in this disclosure is intended to include all higher numerical limits contained therein. Therefore, the applicant reserves the right to modify this disclosure (including claims) to explicitly describe any sub-ranges within the scope explicitly described herein. All such ranges are inherently described in this disclosure.

[0104] As used herein, the grammatical articles "a," "an," and "the" are intended to include "at least one" or "one or more," unless otherwise indicated, even though "at least one" or "one or more" are expressly used in certain instances. Thus, the aforementioned grammatical articles are used herein to refer to one or more than one (i.e., "at least one") of a particular identified element. Furthermore, the use of a singular noun includes the plural, and the use of a plural noun includes the singular, unless the context of use requires otherwise.

[0105] Those skilled in the art will recognize that, for the sake of conceptual clarity, the single-sided fasteners, single-sided fastening systems, structures, methods, operations / actions, and objects described herein and their accompanying discussions are used as examples, and various structural modifications are envisioned. Therefore, as used herein, the specific examples / embodiments and the attached discussions are intended to represent their more general categories. In general, any specific example is used to represent its category, and it should not be considered as limiting that it does not contain specific parts, devices, equipment, operations / actions, and objects. Although the present disclosure provides a description of various specific aspects for illustrating the various aspects of the present disclosure and / or its potential applications, it should be understood that changes and modifications will be expected by those skilled in the art. Therefore, one or more inventions described herein should be understood to be at least as wide as claimed, rather than being more narrowly defined than the specific illustrative aspects provided herein.

Claims

1. A single-sided fastener, comprising: A sleeve comprising a first sleeve end, the first sleeve end comprising a first inner surface, a second sleeve end, the second sleeve end comprising a second inner surface, a third inner surface intermediate the first inner surface and the second inner surface, wherein the third inner surface is tapered at an angle in a range of 1 degree to 6 degrees, wherein the third inner surface has a variable wall thickness to begin forming a bulb on the sleeve to apply a compressive force to a structure and to form a fluid-tight seal between the blind fastener and the structure, and an elongated portion extending from the first sleeve end to the second sleeve end, wherein the first inner surface and the second inner surface define a region of the sleeve cavity extending into the sleeve from the first sleeve end toward or to the second sleeve end; and a pin configured to be at least partially received by the sleeve cavity, the pin comprising a first pin end configured to receive a torque, The second pin end, and a rod extending from the first pin end to the second pin end, the rod including threads, wherein the threads are configured to form threads on the second inner surface of the sleeve, wherein when the pin is threaded on the second inner surface, a fluid-tight seal is formed between the pin and the sleeve, After the single-sided fastener is installed, the length of the engagement portion between the second inner surface and the thread of the rod is no more than 5 times the minor diameter of the thread of the rod.

2. The blind fastener of claim 1, wherein the first pin end comprises a head, and wherein the head comprises at least one of a substantially flat side, a rib, a spline, a dimple, a notch, a ridge, a protrusion, an opening, a recessed socket, and a tab.

3. The blind fastener of claim 1, wherein the first pin end includes a flange portion configured to limit traversal of the pin into the sleeve cavity beyond a predetermined distance.

4. The blind fastener of claim 1, wherein a diameter of the sleeve cavity decreases along a length of the sleeve in an axial direction toward the second sleeve end. 5 . The blind fastener according to claim 1 , wherein an inner diameter of the second inner surface is smaller than an inner diameter of the first inner surface and smaller than a major diameter of the thread of the shank.

6. The blind fastener of claim 1, wherein the second inner surface is substantially tubular.

7. The blind fastener of claim 1, wherein the second inner surface includes an at least partially threaded region and a substantially smooth region, wherein the at least partially threaded region is located intermediate the substantially smooth region and the first sleeve end.

8. The blind fastener of claim 1, wherein the elongated portion of the sleeve is configured to deform into a ball shape in response to the second pin end forming threads in the second inner surface and compressing the elongated portion.

9. The blind fastener of claim 1, wherein the pin includes a snap neck groove intermediate the first pin end and the second pin end, wherein the snap neck groove is configured to break when the blind fastener is installed.

10. The blind fastener of claim 1, wherein the pin comprises a first material having a first hardness, wherein the sleeve comprises a second material having a second hardness, and wherein the second hardness is less than the first hardness.

11. The blind fastener of claim 1, wherein the second sleeve end is closed.

12. The blind fastener of claim 1, wherein the first sleeve end includes a sleeve flange portion configured to limit the sleeve from traversing an opening in a structure beyond a predetermined distance.

13. The blind fastener of claim 1, wherein the first sleeve end is configured to receive torque.

14. The blind fastener of claim 1, wherein the blind fastener is configured to be installed in an opening in a structure configured as at least one of an aerospace part or component, an automotive part or component, a transportation part or component, and a building and construction part or component.

15. The blind fastener of claim 1, wherein the major diameter of the thread of the shank is in the range of 0.06 inches to 4 inches.

16. The blind fastener according to claim 1, wherein the blind fastener is a two-component blind fastener composed of the sleeve and the pin.

17. A method for fastening, the method comprising: Inserting a second sleeve end of a sleeve of a blind fastener into an opening in a structure, the blind fastener comprising: The sleeve comprises a first sleeve end, the first sleeve end comprising a first inner surface, the second sleeve end including a second inner surface, a third inner surface intermediate the first inner surface and the second inner surface, wherein the third inner surface is tapered at an angle in a range of 1 degree to 6 degrees, wherein the third inner surface has a variable wall thickness to begin forming a bulb on the sleeve to apply a compressive force to a structure and to form a fluid-tight seal between the blind fastener and the structure, and an elongated portion extending from the first sleeve end to the second sleeve end, wherein the first inner surface and the second inner surface define a sleeve cavity extending into the sleeve from the first sleeve end toward or to the second sleeve end, and a pin configured to be at least partially received by the sleeve cavity, the pin comprising The first pin end, The second pin end, and a rod extending from the first pin end to the second pin end, the rod including threads; forcing the threads of the shank of the pin into contact with the second inner surface of the sleeve, thereby deforming the second inner surface and forming threads thereon, wherein when the pin is threaded on the second inner surface, a fluid-tight seal is formed between the pin and the sleeve, wherein after the blind fastener is installed, the length of the engagement between the second inner surface and the threads of the shank is no greater than 5 times the minor diameter of the threads of the shank; and The elongated portion of the sleeve is deformed to form the bulb thereon.

18. The method of claim 17, further comprising applying a rotational force to the first pin end to force threads of the shank of the pin into contact with the second inner surface of the sleeve.

Images