Fastener system and method for coupling plurality of substrates of workpiece

Abstract

Fastener systems and methods for coupling a plurality of substrates of a workpiece. A fastener system for coupling a substrate of a workpiece with a working side and a blind side includes a nut member, a sleeve member, and a bolt member. The nut member includes a nut bore having an internal thread. A nut member is placed along with the nut hole over a coupling hole through the substrate on the blind side. The sleeve member includes an outer sleeve surface having a lubricious coating. The sleeve member is inserted into the coupling hole from the working side. The bolt member includes a head portion, a threaded portion, and a handle portion. The bolt member is inserted into the central hole of the sleeve member. The threaded portion engages the internal thread of the nut member. When the bolt member becomes fully engaged, the handle portion causes radial expansion of the sleeve member and the sleeve member provides an interference fit within the coupling bore.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present disclosure relates generally to fastener systems for joining multiple substrates of a workpiece, and in particular to fastener systems that provide an interference fit with a workpiece including one or more composite substrates. The conductive nature of various fastener systems provides protection from electromagnetic effects. Various configurations of the fastener systems provide a nut member pre-installed on the blind side of the workpiece and a bolt member for single-sided installation from the working side. Background Art

[0002] Current fastener systems require two-sided installation to obtain an interference fit between the fastener and the workpiece stack. In contrast, existing fastener systems designed for single-sided installation only provide a clearance fit between the fastener and the stack.

[0003] Accordingly, those skilled in the art continue to conduct research and development efforts to improve fastener systems for joining multiple substrates of workpieces. Summary of the invention

[0004] Examples of fastener systems and methods for joining multiple substrates of a workpiece are disclosed.The following is a non-exhaustive list of examples according to the subject matter of the present disclosure, which examples may or may not be claimed.

[0005] In an example, a fastener system for connecting multiple substrates of a workpiece is disclosed. The workpiece has a working side and a blind side. The fastener system includes a nut member, a sleeve member and a bolt member. The nut member includes a nut hole with an internal thread. The nut member is configured to place the nut hole above the connection hole of multiple substrates passing through the blind side of the workpiece. The sleeve member includes an outer sleeve surface with a lubricating coating. The sleeve member is configured to be inserted into the connection hole through the multiple substrates from the working side of the workpiece. The bolt member includes a head portion, a threaded portion and a shank portion extending between the head portion and the threaded portion. The bolt member is configured to be inserted into the center hole of the sleeve member. The threaded portion is configured to be threadedly engaged with the internal thread of the nut member. When the bolt member becomes fully engaged with the nut member, the shank portion of the bolt member is configured to cause radial expansion of the sleeve member, and the sleeve member is configured to provide an interference fit in the connection hole through the multiple substrates.

[0006] In an example, a method for coupling multiple substrates of a workpiece is disclosed. The workpiece has a working side and a blind side. The method includes: (1) fixing a nut member over a coupling hole through multiple substrates on the blind side of the workpiece, the nut member including a nut hole having an internal thread; (2) inserting a sleeve member from the working side of the workpiece through the multiple substrates into the coupling hole, the sleeve member including an outer sleeve surface having a lubricating coating; (3) inserting a bolt member into a central hole of the sleeve member until a distal end of the bolt member contacts the nut member, the bolt member including a head portion at a proximal end, a threaded portion at a distal end, and a shank portion extending between the head portion and the threaded portion; (4) rotating the bolt member to engage the threaded portion with the internal thread of the nut member; (5) radially expanding the sleeve member through the multiple substrates in the coupling hole when the bolt member becomes fully engaged with the nut member; and (6) providing an interference fit for the sleeve member through the multiple substrates in the coupling hole in response to the radial expansion of the sleeve member when the bolt member becomes fully engaged with the nut member.

[0007] In an example, another fastener system for connecting multiple substrates of a workpiece is disclosed. The workpiece has a working side and a blind side. The fastener system includes a nut member and a bolt member. The nut member includes a nut hole having an internal thread. The nut member is configured to be placed over the connection holes of multiple substrates passing through the blind side of the workpiece. The connection holes taper from a larger connection hole diameter near the working side of the workpiece to a smaller connection hole diameter near the blind side of the workpiece, so that the connection holes include a frustoconical connection hole. The bolt member includes a head portion, a threaded portion, and a shank portion extending between the head portion and the threaded portion. The shank portion includes an elongated shank body having an outer shank surface. The elongated shank body tapers from a larger outer shank diameter near the head portion to a smaller outer shank diameter near the threaded portion, so that the elongated shank body includes a frustoconical shank body. The outer shank surface is coated with a lubricating coating. The bolt member is configured to be inserted into the frustoconical connection holes through the multiple substrates from the working side of the workpiece, and is configured to be threadedly engaged with the internal thread of the nut member. The frustoconical shank is configured to provide an interference fit within the frustoconical coupling holes through the plurality of base plates in conjunction with a corresponding frustoconical shape of the frustoconical coupling holes when the bolt member becomes fully engaged with the nut member.

[0008] In an example, another method for connecting multiple substrates of a workpiece is disclosed. The workpiece has a working side and a blind side. The method includes: (1) fixing a nut member above a connecting hole passing through multiple substrates on the blind side of the workpiece, the nut member including a nut hole with an internal thread, the connecting hole gradually tapering from a larger connecting hole diameter near the working side of the workpiece to a smaller connecting hole diameter near the blind side of the workpiece, so that the connecting hole includes a frustoconical connecting hole; (2) inserting a bolt member from the working side of the workpiece through the multiple substrates into the frustoconical connecting hole until the distal end of the bolt member contacts the nut member, the bolt member including a head portion at the proximal end, a threaded portion at the distal end, and a threaded portion at the head end. a shank portion extending between the bolt member and the threaded portion, the shank portion tapering from a larger outer shank diameter near the head portion to a smaller outer shank diameter near the threaded portion, such that the shank portion includes a frustoconical shank body, the shank portion including an outer shank surface having a lubricating coating; (3) rotating the bolt member to engage the threaded portion with the internal threads of the nut member; and (4) providing an interference fit for the shank portion of the bolt member within the frustoconical coupling hole through the plurality of base plates when the bolt member becomes fully engaged with the corresponding frustoconical shape of the nut member in combination with the frustoconical coupling hole.

[0009] Clause 1. A fastener system (100) for joining a plurality of substrates (102) of a workpiece (104), the workpiece (104) having a working side (106) and a blind side (108), the fastener system (100) comprising:

[0010] a nut member (110) comprising a nut hole (112) having an internal thread (114), the nut member (110) being configured to place the nut hole (112) over coupling holes (116) of the plurality of substrates (102) passing through the blind side (108) of the workpiece (104);

[0011] a sleeve member (118) comprising an outer sleeve surface (202) having a lubricating coating (204), the sleeve member (118) being configured to be inserted into the coupling hole (116) from the working side (106) of the workpiece (104) through the plurality of substrates (102); and

[0012] A bolt member (120) comprising a head portion (122), a threaded portion (124) and a shank portion (126) extending between the head portion (122) and the threaded portion (124), wherein the bolt member (120) is configured to be inserted into a central hole (206) of the sleeve member (118), and the threaded portion (124) is configured to be threadedly engaged with the internal thread (114) of the nut member (110).

[0013] Wherein, when the bolt member (120) becomes fully engaged with the nut member (110), the shank portion (126) of the bolt member (120) is configured to cause radial expansion of the sleeve member (118), and the sleeve member (118) is configured to provide an interference fit (502) within the coupling hole (116) through the plurality of substrates (102).

[0014] Clause 2. The fastener system of Clause 1, wherein the plurality of substrates (102) includes at least one composite substrate (128).

[0015] Clause 3. The fastener system of Clause 1, wherein the nut member (110) is configured to be secured to the blind side (108) of the workpiece (104).

[0016] Clause 4. The fastener system of Clause 3, wherein the nut member (110) is configured to be secured to the blind side (108) of the workpiece (104) using at least one of a mechanical fastener and swaging.

[0017] Clause 5. The fastener system according to clause 1, wherein the nut member (110) further comprises:

[0018] A nut plate assembly (302) includes a nut (304) and a flange plate (306), the flange plate captively retaining the nut (304), the nut (304) including the nut hole (112), the flange plate (306) being configured to be fixed to the blind side (108) of the workpiece (104) with the nut hole (112) above the coupling hole (116) passing through the plurality of base plates (102).

[0019] Clause 6. The fastener system of clause 5, wherein the nut (304) captively retained by the flange plate (306) is spaced apart from a mounting surface (308) of the flange plate (306), the flange plate (306) comprising:

[0020] A counterbore (310) is provided in the mounting surface (308) and is relatively aligned with the nut hole (112) of the nut (304) and the coupling hole (116) of the plurality of substrates (102), the counterbore (310) being configured to provide space for a distal end (208) of the sleeve member (118) protruding from the coupling hole (116) at the blind side (108) of the workpiece (104) when the bolt member (120) becomes fully engaged with the nut member (110).

[0021] Clause 7. The fastener system of clause 1, further comprising:

[0022] A cover seal member (130) includes a dome (132) and a cover flange (134), the cover seal member (130) being configured to be placed over the nut member (110), the cover flange (134) being configured to secure the cover seal member (130) to the blind side (108) of the workpiece (104).

[0023] Clause 8. The fastener system of Clause 1, wherein the sleeve member (118) comprises a ductile metallic material.

[0024] Clause 9. The fastener system of Clause 8, wherein the ductile metallic material comprises at least one of tin, tin alloys, copper, copper alloys, aluminum, aluminum alloys, silver, silver alloys, gold, and gold alloys.

[0025] Clause 10. The fastener system of clause 1, wherein the lubricious coating (204) comprises at least one of indium, indium alloys, tin, tin alloys, bismuth, bismuth alloys, aluminum, and aluminum alloys.

[0026] Clause 11. A fastener system according to clause 1, wherein the lubricating coating (204) on the outer sleeve surface (202) includes a conductive feature configured to provide electromagnetic energy shielding to the workpiece (104) when the bolt member (120) becomes fully engaged with the nut member (110).

[0027] Clause 12. The fastener system of clause 1, wherein the outer sleeve surface (202) is coated with a conductive coating (210) to provide electromagnetic energy shielding to the workpiece (104) when the bolt member (120) becomes fully engaged with the nut member (110).

[0028] Clause 13. The fastener system of Clause 12, wherein the conductive coating (210) comprises at least one of indium, an indium alloy, tin, a tin alloy, lead, and a lead alloy.

[0029] Clause 14. The fastener system of clause 1, wherein the sleeve member (118) further comprises:

[0030] an elongated sleeve body (212) defining the central bore (206), the elongated sleeve body (212) including the outer sleeve surface (202), a proximal end (214) associated with the working side (106) of the workpiece (104), and a distal end (208) associated with the blind side (108) of the workpiece (104); and

[0031] A sleeve flange (216) is disposed at the proximal end (214) of the elongated sleeve body (212), the sleeve flange (216) being configured to limit further insertion of the sleeve member (118) through the plurality of substrates (102) into the coupling hole (116).

[0032] Clause 15. The fastener system of Clause 1, wherein the bolt member (120) comprises a metallic material.

[0033] Clause 16. The fastener system of Clause 15, wherein the metallic material comprises at least one of stainless steel, titanium, a titanium alloy, a cobalt-chromium alloy, and a nickel-titanium alloy.

[0034] Clause 17. The fastener system of Clause 1, the head portion (122) of the bolt member (120) comprising a torsion feature (136).

[0035] Clause 18. The fastener system of clause 17, wherein the torque feature (136) is configured to facilitate rotation of the bolt member (120) using at least one of a hex wrench torque tool, a Phillips screwdriver torque tool, a flat head screwdriver torque tool, and an Allen torque tool.

[0036] Clause 19. The fastener system of clause 1, wherein the head portion (122) of the bolt member (120) comprises at least one of a protruding head, a flat head, a countersunk head, a male head, a recessed hexagonal head, a recessed cross head, a recessed flat head, and a hexagonal head.

[0037] Clause 20. A fastener system according to clause 1, wherein at the working side (106) of the workpiece (104), the connecting hole (116) passing through the plurality of substrates (102) includes at least one of a countersunk portion (402), a counterbore portion (404), and a cylindrical portion (406).

[0038] Clause 21. According to the fastener system of clause 1, the sleeve member (118) further includes an inner sleeve surface (218), and the shank portion (126) of the bolt member (120) includes an outer shank surface (138), wherein at least one of the inner sleeve surface (218) and the outer shank surface (138) is coated with the lubricating coating (204).

[0039] Clause 22. The fastener system of Clause 1, wherein an outer shank diameter of the shank portion (126) of the bolt member (120) is substantially greater than an inner sleeve diameter of the sleeve member (118).

[0040] Clause 23. The fastener system of Clause 22, wherein the outer shank diameter is substantially greater than the inner sleeve diameter by at least one of about 0.0005 inches, about 0.0010 inches, about 0.0015 inches, about 0.0020 inches, and about 0.0025 inches.

[0041] Clause 24. The fastener system of Clause 22, wherein the outer shank diameter is substantially greater than the inner sleeve diameter by at least one of about 0.2%, about 0.4%, about 0.6%, about 0.8%, and about 1.0%.

[0042] Clause 25. The fastener system of clause 1, wherein the sleeve member (118) further comprises:

[0043] A cylindrical sleeve body (220) defines the center hole (206), the cylindrical sleeve body (220) including the outer sleeve surface (202), an inner sleeve surface (218) facing the center hole (206), a proximal end (214) associated with the working side (106) of the workpiece (104), and a distal end (208) associated with the blind side (108) of the workpiece (104).

[0044] Clause 26. The fastener system of clause 25, wherein the shank portion (126) of the bolt member (120) comprises:

[0045] A cylindrical shank body (140) includes an outer shank surface (138) configured to face the inner sleeve surface (218) of the cylindrical sleeve body (220) when the bolt member (120) is inserted into the central hole (206) and becomes engaged with the nut member (110).

[0046] Clause 27. The fastener system of Clause 26, wherein the outer shank diameter of the cylindrical shank body (140) is substantially greater than the inner sleeve diameter of the cylindrical sleeve body (220).

[0047] Clause 28. The fastener system of Clause 27, wherein the outer shank diameter is substantially greater than the inner sleeve diameter by at least one of approximately 0.0005 inches, approximately 0.0010 inches, approximately 0.0015 inches, approximately 0.0020 inches, and approximately 0.0025 inches.

[0048] Clause 29. The fastener system of Clause 27, wherein the outer shank diameter is substantially greater than the inner sleeve diameter by at least one of about 0.2%, about 0.4%, about 0.6%, about 0.8%, and about 1.0%.

[0049] Clause 30. A fastener system according to clause 26, wherein when the bolt member (120) becomes fully engaged with the nut member (110), the outer sleeve surface (202) is configured to combine with the corresponding cylindrical shape of the connecting hole (116) to provide the interference fit (502) within the connecting hole (116) through the multiple substrates (102).

[0050] Clause 31. The fastener system of clause 1, wherein the sleeve member (118) further comprises:

[0051] an elongated sleeve body (212) defining the central hole (206), the elongated sleeve body (212) including the outer sleeve surface (202), an inner sleeve surface (218) facing the central hole (206), a proximal end (214) associated with the working side (106) of the workpiece (104), and a distal end (208) associated with the blind side (108) of the workpiece (104),

[0052] Wherein at least the inner sleeve surface (218) tapers from a larger inner sleeve diameter proximate the proximal end (214) to a smaller inner sleeve diameter proximate the distal end (208) such that the central bore (206) comprises a frustoconical sleeve bore (602).

[0053] Clause 32. The fastener system of Clause 31, wherein the outer sleeve surface (202) is cylindrical such that the elongated sleeve body (212) comprises a cylindrical sleeve body (220) having the frustoconical sleeve bore (602).

[0054] Clause 33. The fastener system of clause 32, wherein the shank portion (126) of the bolt member (120) comprises:

[0055] an elongated shank body (604) having an outer shank surface (138) configured to face the inner sleeve surface (218) when the bolt member (120) is inserted into the frustoconical sleeve bore (602) and becomes engaged with the nut member (110),

[0056] The slender handle (604) gradually tapers from a larger outer handle diameter near the head portion (122) of the bolt member (120) to a smaller outer handle diameter near the threaded portion (124) of the bolt member (120), such that the slender handle (604) includes a frustoconical handle (606).

[0057] Clause 34. The fastener system of clause 33, wherein the outer shank diameter of the frustoconical shank body (606) is substantially greater than a corresponding inner sleeve diameter defining the frustoconical sleeve bore (602).

[0058] Clause 35. The fastener system of Clause 34, wherein the outer shank diameter is substantially greater than the corresponding inner sleeve diameter by at least one of approximately 0.0005 inches, approximately 0.0010 inches, approximately 0.0015 inches, approximately 0.0020 inches, and approximately 0.0025 inches.

[0059] Clause 36. The fastener system of Clause 34, wherein the outer shank diameter is substantially at least one of about 0.2%, about 0.4%, about 0.6%, about 0.8%, and about 1.0% greater than the corresponding inner sleeve diameter.

[0060] Clause 37. A fastener system according to clause 33, wherein when the bolt member (120) becomes fully engaged with the nut member (110), the outer sleeve surface (202) is configured to combine with the corresponding cylindrical shape of the connecting hole (116) to provide the interference fit (608) within the connecting hole (116) through the multiple substrates (102).

[0061] Clause 38. A fastener system according to clause 31, wherein the outer sleeve surface (202) tapers from a larger outer sleeve diameter near the proximal end (214) to a smaller outer sleeve diameter near the distal end (208) such that the elongated sleeve body (212) comprises a frustoconical sleeve body (702).

[0062] Clause 39. The fastener system of clause 38, wherein the shank portion (126) of the bolt member (120) comprises:

[0063] an elongated shank body (604) having an outer shank surface (138) configured to face the inner sleeve surface (218) when the bolt member (120) is inserted into the frustoconical sleeve bore (602) and becomes engaged with the nut member (110),

[0064] The slender handle (604) gradually tapers from a larger outer handle diameter near the head portion (122) of the bolt member (120) to a smaller outer handle diameter near the threaded portion (124) of the bolt member (120), such that the slender handle (604) includes a frustoconical handle (606).

[0065] Clause 40. The fastener system of Clause 39, wherein the outer shank diameter of the frustoconical shank body (606) is substantially greater than a corresponding inner sleeve diameter defining the frustoconical sleeve bore (602).

[0066] Clause 41. The fastener system of Clause 40, wherein the outer shank diameter is substantially greater than the corresponding inner sleeve diameter by at least one of approximately 0.0005 inches, approximately 0.0010 inches, approximately 0.0015 inches, approximately 0.0020 inches, and approximately 0.0025 inches.

[0067] Clause 42. The fastener system of Clause 40, wherein the outer shank diameter is substantially at least one of about 0.2%, about 0.4%, about 0.6%, about 0.8%, and about 1.0% greater than the corresponding inner sleeve diameter.

[0068] Clause 43. A fastener system according to clause 39, wherein when the bolt member (120) becomes fully engaged with the nut member (110), the frustoconical shank body (606) is configured to engage the frustoconical sleeve hole (602) of the frustoconical sleeve body (702), causing radial expansion of the frustoconical sleeve body (702), and the frustoconical sleeve body (702) is configured to engage the corresponding frustoconical shape of the connecting hole (116), providing the interference fit (704) within the connecting hole (116) through the multiple substrates (102).

[0069] Clause 44. A method (800) for joining a plurality of substrates (102) of a workpiece (104), the workpiece (104) having a working side (106) and a blind side (108), the method (800) comprising:

[0070] Fixing (802) a nut member (110) through the plurality of base plates (102) on the blind side (108) of the workpiece (104) above the coupling hole (116), the nut member (110) comprising a nut hole (112) having an internal thread (114);

[0071] inserting (804) a sleeve member (118) from the working side (106) of the workpiece (104) through the plurality of substrates (102) into the coupling hole (116), the sleeve member (18) comprising an outer sleeve surface (202) having a lubricating coating (204);

[0072] inserting (806) a bolt member (120) into the central hole (206) of the sleeve member (118) until a distal end of the bolt member (120) contacts the nut member (110), the bolt member (120) comprising a head portion (122) at a proximal end, a threaded portion (124) at the distal end, and a shank portion (126) extending between the head portion (122) and the threaded portion (124);

[0073] rotating (808) the bolt member (120) to engage the threaded portion (124) with the internal thread (114) of the nut member (110);

[0074] When the bolt member (120) becomes fully engaged with the nut member (110), radially expanding (810) the sleeve member (118) through the plurality of base plates (102) within the coupling hole (116); and

[0075] When the bolt member (120) becomes fully engaged with the nut member (110), in response to radial expansion of the sleeve member (118), an interference fit (502) is provided (812) for the sleeve element (118) within the coupling hole (116) through the plurality of base plates (102).

[0076] Clause 45. The method of clause 44, wherein securing (802) the nut member (110) comprises:

[0077] The nut member (110) is secured (902) to the blind side (108) of the workpiece (104) using at least one of mechanical fasteners and swaging.

[0078] Clause 46. The method of clause 44, wherein the nut member (110) further comprises a nut plate assembly (302), wherein securing (802) the nut member (110) comprises:

[0079] Captively retaining (1002) a nut (304) of the nut plate assembly (302) within a flange plate (306) of the nut plate assembly (304); and

[0080] The flange plate (306) is fixed (1004) to the blind side (108) of the workpiece (104) through the plurality of base plates (102) above the coupling holes (116) using the nut holes (112).

[0081] Clause 47. The method of clause 46, wherein securing (802) the nut member (110) further comprises:

[0082] spacing (1006) the nut (304) of the nut plate assembly (302) from a mounting surface (308) of the flange plate (306); and

[0083] providing (1008) a counterbore (310) in the mounting surface (308) of the flange plate (306), the counterbore being relatively aligned with the nut hole (112) of the nut (304) and the coupling holes (116) of the plurality of base plates (102),

[0084] The counterbore (310) provides space for a distal end (208) of the sleeve member (118) protruding from the coupling hole (116) at the blind side (108) of the workpiece (104) when the bolt member (120) becomes fully engaged with the nut member (110).

[0085] Clause 48. The method (1100) of clause 44, further comprising:

[0086] A cover seal member (130) is placed (1102) over the nut member (110), the cover seal member (130) including a dome (132) and a cover flange (134), the cover flange (134) being configured to secure the cover seal member (130) to the blind side (108) of the workpiece (104).

[0087] Clause 49. The method (1100) of clause 44, further comprising:

[0088] The lubricious coating (204) is applied (1104) to the outer sleeve surface (202) of the sleeve member (118).

[0089] Clause 50. A method according to clause 44, wherein the lubricating coating (204) on the outer sleeve surface (202) includes a conductive feature configured to provide electromagnetic energy shielding to the workpiece (104) when the bolt member (120) becomes fully engaged with the nut member (110).

[0090] Clause 51. The method (1100) of clause 44, further comprising:

[0091] A conductive coating (210) is applied (1106) to the outer sleeve surface (202).

[0092] Clause 52. The method of clause 44, wherein inserting (804) the sleeve member (118) comprises:

[0093] Further insertion of the sleeve member (118) through the plurality of substrates (102) into the coupling hole (116) is limited (1202) based on a sleeve flange (216) at a proximal end (214) of an elongated sleeve body (212) of the sleeve member (118).

[0094] Clause 53. The method of clause 44, wherein rotating (808) the bolt member (120) comprises:

[0095] The bolt member (120) is torqued (1302) to become fully engaged with the nut member (110).

[0096] Clause 54. The method (1400) of clause 44, further comprising:

[0097] The lubricious coating (204) is applied (1402) to at least one of an inner sleeve surface (218) of the sleeve member (118) and an outer shank surface (138) of the shank portion (126) of the bolt member (120).

[0098] Clause 55. The method of Clause 44, wherein an outer shank diameter of the shank portion (126) of the bolt member (120) is substantially greater than an inner sleeve diameter of the sleeve member (118).

[0099] Clause 56. A method according to clause 44, wherein the sleeve member (118) further includes a cylindrical sleeve body (220) defining the center hole (206), the cylindrical sleeve body (220) including the outer sleeve surface (202), an inner sleeve surface (218) facing the center hole (206), a proximal end (214) associated with the working side (106) of the workpiece (104), and a distal end (208) associated with the blind side (108) of the workpiece (104).

[0100] Clause 57. A method according to clause 56, wherein the shank portion (126) of the bolt member (120) includes a cylindrical shank body (140), which includes an outer shank surface (138), and the outer shank surface is configured to face the inner sleeve surface (218) of the cylindrical sleeve body (220) when the bolt member (120) is inserted into the center hole (206) and becomes engaged with the nut member (110).

[0101] Clause 58. The method of Clause 57, wherein the outer shank diameter of the cylindrical shank body (140) is substantially greater than the inner sleeve diameter of the cylindrical sleeve body (220).

[0102] Clause 59. The method of clause 57, wherein providing (812) the interference fit (502) comprises:

[0103] When the bolt member (120) becomes fully engaged with the nut member (110), the interference fit (502) is provided (1502) within the coupling hole (116) through the plurality of base plates (102) in combination with the corresponding cylindrical shape of the coupling hole (116).

[0104] Clause 60. The method of clause 44, wherein the sleeve member (118) further comprises an elongated sleeve body (212) defining the central hole (206), the elongated sleeve body (212) comprising the outer sleeve surface (202), an inner sleeve surface (218) facing the central hole (206), a proximal end (214) associated with the working side (106) of the workpiece (104), and a distal end (208) associated with the blind side (108) of the workpiece (104),

[0105] Wherein at least the inner sleeve surface (218) tapers from a larger inner sleeve diameter proximate the proximal end (214) to a smaller inner sleeve diameter proximate the distal end (208) such that the central bore (206) comprises a frustoconical sleeve bore (602).

[0106] Clause 61. The method of clause 60, wherein the outer sleeve surface (202) is cylindrical such that the elongated sleeve body (212) comprises a cylindrical sleeve body (220) having the frustoconical sleeve bore (602).

[0107] Clause 62. The method of clause 61, wherein the shank portion (126) of the bolt member (120) comprises an elongated shank body (604) having an outer shank surface (138) configured to face the inner sleeve surface (218) when the bolt member (120) is inserted into the frustoconical sleeve bore (602) and becomes engaged with the nut member (110),

[0108] The slender handle (604) gradually tapers from a larger outer handle diameter near the head portion (122) of the bolt member (120) to a smaller outer handle diameter near the threaded portion (124) of the bolt member (120), such that the slender handle (604) includes a frustoconical handle (606).

[0109] Clause 63. The method of clause 62, wherein the outer shank diameter of the frustoconical shank body (606) is substantially greater than a corresponding inner sleeve diameter defining the frustoconical sleeve bore (602).

[0110] Clause 64. The method of clause 62, wherein providing (812) the interference fit (502) comprises:

[0111] When the bolt member (120) becomes fully engaged with the nut member (110), the interference fit (608) is provided (1602) within the coupling hole (116) through the plurality of substrates (102) in combination with the corresponding cylindrical shape of the coupling hole (116).

[0112] Clause 65. A method according to clause 60, wherein the outer sleeve surface (202) tapers from a larger outer sleeve diameter near the proximal end (214) to a smaller outer sleeve diameter near the distal end (208) such that the elongated sleeve body (212) comprises a frustoconical sleeve body (702).

[0113] Clause 66. The method of clause 65, wherein the shank portion (126) of the bolt member (120) comprises an elongated shank body (604) having an outer shank surface (138) configured to face the inner sleeve surface (218) when the bolt member (120) is inserted into the frustoconical sleeve bore (602) and becomes engaged with the nut member (110),

[0114] The slender handle (604) gradually tapers from a larger outer handle diameter near the head portion (122) of the bolt member (120) to a smaller outer handle diameter near the threaded portion (124) of the bolt member (120), such that the slender handle (604) includes a frustoconical handle (606).

[0115] Clause 67. The method of clause 66, wherein the outer shank diameter of the frustoconical shank body (606) is substantially greater than a corresponding inner sleeve diameter defining the frustoconical sleeve bore (602).

[0116] Clause 68. The method of clause 66, wherein the radial expansion (810) comprises:

[0117] causing (1702) radial expansion of the frustoconical sleeve body (702) in conjunction with the frustoconical sleeve bore (602) of the frustoconical sleeve body (702) when the bolt member (120) becomes fully engaged with the nut member (110); and

[0118] The providing (812) the interference fit (502) includes:

[0119] When the bolt member (120) is fully engaged with the nut member (110), the interference fit (704) is provided (1704) within the coupling hole (116) through the plurality of base plates (102) in combination with the corresponding frustoconical shape of the coupling hole (116).

[0120] Clause 69. A fastener system (100) for joining a plurality of substrates (102) of a workpiece (104), the workpiece (104) having a working side (106) and a blind side (108), the fastener system (100) comprising:

[0121] a nut member (110) comprising a nut hole (112) having an internal thread (114), the nut member (110) being configured to be placed over coupling holes (116) of the plurality of substrates (102) passing through the blind side (108) of the workpiece (104), the coupling holes (116) tapering from a larger coupling hole (116) diameter proximate the working side (106) of the workpiece (104) to a smaller coupling hole (116) diameter proximate the blind side (108) of the workpiece (104), such that the coupling holes (116) comprise frustoconical coupling holes (1802); and

[0122] A bolt member (120) comprising a head portion (122), a threaded portion (124), and a shank portion (126) extending between the head portion (122) and the threaded portion (126), the shank portion (126) comprising an elongated shank body (604) having an outer shank surface (138), the elongated shank body (604) tapering from a larger outer shank diameter proximate the head portion (122) to a smaller outer shank diameter proximate the threaded portion (124). diameter, such that the elongated shank (604) includes a frustoconical shank (606), the outer shank surface (138) is coated with a lubricating coating (204), the bolt member (120) is configured to be inserted into the frustoconical coupling hole (1802) from the working side (106) of the workpiece (104) through the plurality of base plates (102), and is configured to be threadedly engaged with the internal thread (114) of the nut member (110),

[0123] Wherein when the bolt member (120) becomes fully engaged with the nut member (110), the frustoconical handle body (606) is configured to provide an interference fit (1802) in the frustoconical connecting hole (1802) through the plurality of substrates (102) in combination with a corresponding frustoconical shape of the frustoconical connecting hole (1802).

[0124] Clause 70. The fastener system of Clause 69, wherein the plurality of substrates (102) includes at least one composite substrate (128).

[0125] Clause 71. The fastener system of Clause 69, wherein the nut member (110) is configured to be secured to the blind side (108) of the workpiece (104).

[0126] Clause 72. The fastener system of clause 71, wherein the nut member (110) is configured to be secured to the blind side (108) of the workpiece (104) using at least one of a mechanical fastener and swaging.

[0127] Clause 73. The fastener system of clause 69, wherein the nut member (110) further comprises:

[0128] A nut plate assembly (302) includes a nut (304) and a flange plate (306), wherein the flange plate captively holds the nut (304), the nut (304) including the nut hole (112), and the flange plate (306) is configured to pass through the plurality of base plates (102) and be fixed to the blind side (108) of the workpiece (104) with the nut hole (112) above the frustoconical coupling hole (1802).

[0129] Clause 74. The fastener system of clause 69, further comprising:

[0130] A cover seal member (130) includes a dome (132) and a cover flange (134), the cover seal member being configured to be placed over the nut member (110), the cover flange (134) being configured to secure the cover seal member (130) to the blind side (108) of the workpiece (104).

[0131] Clause 75. The fastener system of Clause 69, wherein the lubricious coating (204) comprises at least one of indium, indium alloys, tin, tin alloys, bismuth, bismuth alloys, aluminum, and aluminum alloys.

[0132] Clause 76. A fastener system according to clause 69, wherein the lubricating coating (204) on the outer shank surface (138) includes a conductive feature, which is configured to provide electromagnetic energy shielding to the workpiece (104) when the bolt member (120) becomes fully engaged with the nut member (110).

[0133] Clause 77. The fastener system of clause 69, wherein the outer shank surface (138) is coated with a conductive coating (210) to provide electromagnetic energy shielding to the workpiece (104) when the bolt member (120) becomes fully engaged with the nut member (110).

[0134] Clause 78. The fastener system of Clause 77, wherein the conductive coating (210) comprises at least one of indium, an indium alloy, tin, a tin alloy, lead, and a lead alloy.

[0135] Clause 79. The fastener system of Clause 69, wherein the bolt member (120) comprises a metallic material.

[0136] Clause 80. The fastener system of Clause 79, wherein the metallic material comprises at least one of stainless steel, titanium, a titanium alloy, a cobalt-chromium alloy, and a nickel-titanium alloy.

[0137] Clause 81. The fastener system of Clause 69, wherein the head portion (122) of the bolt member (120) includes a torsion feature (136).

[0138] Clause 82. A fastener system according to clause 81, wherein the torque feature (136) is configured to facilitate rotation of the bolt member (120) using at least one of a hex wrench torque tool, a Phillips screwdriver torque tool, a flat head screwdriver torque tool, and an Allen torque tool.

[0139] Clause 83. The fastener system of clause 69, wherein the head portion (122) of the bolt member (120) comprises at least one of a protruding head, a flat head, a countersunk head, a male head, a recessed hexagonal head, a recessed cross head, a recessed flat head, and a hexagonal head.

[0140] Clause 84. A fastener system according to clause 69, wherein at the working side (106) of the workpiece (104), the frustoconical connecting hole (1802) passing through the plurality of substrates (102) includes at least one of a countersunk portion (402), a counterbore portion (404), and a cylindrical portion (406).

[0141] Clause 85. The fastener system of clause 69, wherein the outer shank diameter of the frustoconical shank body (606) is substantially greater than the diameter of the corresponding frustoconical coupling hole (1802) defining the frustoconical coupling hole (1802).

[0142] Clause 86. A fastener system as described in clause 85, wherein the outer shank diameter is substantially larger than the corresponding frustoconical connecting hole (1802) diameter by at least one of approximately 0.0005 inches, approximately 0.0010 inches, approximately 0.0015 inches, approximately 0.0020 inches, and approximately 0.0025 inches.

[0143] Clause 87. The fastener system of clause 85, wherein the outer shank diameter is substantially greater than the corresponding frustoconical coupling hole (1802) diameter by at least one of about 0.2%, about 0.4%, about 0.6%, about 0.8%, and about 1.0%.

[0144] Clause 88. A method (1900) for joining a plurality of substrates (102) of a workpiece (104), the workpiece (104) having a working side (106) and a blind side (108), the method (1900) comprising:

[0145] securing (1902) a nut member (110) over a coupling hole (116) through the plurality of base plates (102) on the blind side (108) of the workpiece (104), the nut member (110) comprising a nut hole (112) having an internal thread (114), the coupling hole (116) tapering from a larger coupling hole (116) diameter proximate the working side (106) of the workpiece (104) to a smaller coupling hole (116) diameter proximate the blind side (108) of the workpiece (104), such that the coupling hole (116) comprises a frustoconical coupling hole (1802);

[0146] inserting (1904) a bolt member (120) from the working side (106) of the workpiece (104) through the plurality of base plates (102) into the frustoconical coupling hole (1802) until a distal end of the bolt member (120) contacts the nut member (110), the bolt member (120) comprising a head portion (122) at a proximal end, a threaded portion (124) at the distal end, and a shank portion (126) extending between the head portion (122) and the threaded portion (124), the shank portion (126) tapering from a larger outer shank diameter proximate the head portion (122) to a smaller outer shank diameter proximate the threaded portion (124), such that the shank portion (126) comprises a frustoconical shank body (606), the shank portion (126) comprising an outer shank surface (138) having a lubricating coating (204);

[0147] rotating (1906) the bolt member (120) to engage the threaded portion (124) with the internal threads (114) of the nut member (110); and

[0148] When the bolt member (120) becomes fully engaged with the nut member (110), in combination with the corresponding frustoconical shape of the frustoconical connecting hole (1802), an interference fit (1908) is provided (1802) for the shank portion (126) of the bolt member (120) within the frustoconical connecting hole through the plurality of substrates (102).

[0149] Clause 89. The method of clause 88, wherein securing (1902) the nut member (110) comprises:

[0150] The nut member (110) is secured (2002) to the blind side (108) of the workpiece (104) using at least one of mechanical fasteners and swaging.

[0151] Clause 90. The method of clause 88, wherein the nut member (110) comprises a nut plate assembly (302), wherein the securing (1902) of the nut member (110) comprises

[0152] Captively retaining (2102) a nut (304) of the nut plate assembly (302) within a flange plate (306) of the nut plate assembly (304); and

[0153] The flange plate (306) is fixed (2104) to the blind side (108) of the workpiece (104) through the plurality of base plates (102) above the frustoconical coupling holes (1802) using the nut holes (112).

[0154] Clause 91. The method (2200) of clause 88, further comprising:

[0155] A cover seal member (130) is placed (2202) over the nut member (110), the cover seal member (130) comprising a dome (132) and a cover flange (134), the cover flange (134) being configured to secure the cover seal member (130) to the blind side (108) of the workpiece (104).

[0156] Clause 92. The method (2200) of clause 88, further comprising:

[0157] The lubricious coating (204) is applied (2204) to the outer shank surface (138) of the shank portion (126) of the bolt member (120).

[0158] Clause 93. A method according to clause 88, wherein the lubricating coating (204) on the outer shank surface (138) includes a conductive feature configured to provide electromagnetic energy shielding to the workpiece (104) when the bolt member (120) becomes fully engaged with the nut member (110).

[0159] Clause 94. The method (2200) of clause 88, further comprising:

[0160] A conductive coating (210) is applied (2206) to the outer shank surface (138) of the shank portion (126) of the bolt member (120).

[0161] Clause 95. The method of clause 88, wherein rotating (1906) the bolt member (120) comprises:

[0162] The bolt member (120) is torqued (2302) to become fully engaged with the nut member (110).

[0163] Clause 96. The method of clause 88, wherein the outer shank diameter of the frustoconical shank body (606) is substantially greater than the diameter of the corresponding frustoconical coupling hole (1802) defining the frustoconical coupling hole (1802).

[0164] Other examples of the disclosed fastener system and method for joining multiple substrates of workpieces will become apparent from the following detailed description of the shank portion of the bolt assembly, the accompanying drawings, and the appended claims. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0165] Figure 1 is a cross-sectional side view of an example of a partially installed fastener system for joining a plurality of substrates of a workpiece;

[0166] Figure 2A yes Figure 1 A side view of an example of a sleeve member of a fastener system;

[0167] Figure 2B yes Figure 2A a distal end view of a sleeve member;

[0168] Figure 3 yes Figure 1 A cross-sectional side view of an example of a nut member of a fastener system;

[0169] FIG. 4A to FIG. 4C is a cross-sectional side view of an example of a countersunk head, a counterbore, and a cylindrical coupling hole in a workpiece having multiple base plates;

[0170] Figure 5 yes Figure 1a cross-sectional side view of a fastener system, wherein the fastener system is fully installed;

[0171] Figure 6 is a cross-sectional side view of another example of a fastener system for joining multiple substrates of workpieces;

[0172] Figure 7 is a cross-sectional side view of yet another example of a fastener system for joining multiple substrates of workpieces;

[0173] Figure 8 is a flow chart of an example of a method for joining multiple substrates of a workpiece;

[0174] Fig. 9 is a flow chart showing Figure 8 A further example of a "fixed nut member" in the method;

[0175] Fig.10 is a flow chart showing Figure 8 Another further example of a “fixed nut member” in the method;

[0176] Fig.11 and Figure 8 , is a flow chart of another example of a method for joining a plurality of substrates of a workpiece;

[0177] Fig.12 is a flow chart showing Figure 8 A further example of "inserting a sleeve member" in the method;

[0178] Fig.13 is a flow chart showing Figure 8 A further example of "rotating a bolt member" in the method;

[0179] Fig.14 and Figure 8 , is a flow chart of yet another example of a method for joining a plurality of substrates of a workpiece;

[0180] Fig.15 is a flow chart showing Figure 8 A further example of "providing an interference fit" in the method of;

[0181] Fig.16 is a flow chart showing Figure 8 Another further example of "providing an interference fit" in the method of;

[0182] Fig.17 is a flow chart showing Figure 8 Further examples of "radial expansion" in the method and Figure 8 Yet another further example of “providing an interference fit” in the method of;

[0183] Fig.18 is a cross-sectional side view of yet another example of a fastener system for joining multiple substrates of workpieces;

[0184] Fig.19 is a flow chart of yet another example of a method for joining a plurality of substrates of a workpiece;

[0185] Fig. 20 is a flow chart showing Fig.19 A further example of a "fixed nut member" in the method;

[0186] Fig.21 is a flow chart showing Fig.19 Another further example of a “fixed nut member” in the method;

[0187] Fig. 22 and Fig.19 , is a flow chart of another example of a method for joining a plurality of substrates of a workpiece;

[0188] Fig.23 is a flow chart showing Fig.19 A further example of "rotating a bolt member" in the method;

[0189] Fig.24 is a block diagram of an aircraft production and service method that implements one or more of the examples of methods disclosed herein for joining a plurality of substrates of a workpiece; and

[0190] Fig.25 is a schematic diagram of an aircraft that joins a workpiece together with a plurality of substrates that are coupled together using one or more of the examples of fastener systems and methods disclosed herein for joining multiple substrates of a workpiece. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0191] Various examples of fastener systems and methods for joining multiple substrates of a workpiece disclosed herein provide techniques for pre-installing a nut member of a fastener system on a blind side of a workpiece and for unilaterally installing other members of the fastener system from a working side of the workpiece. For example, the workpiece may include one or more composite substrates and may be used in aerospace construction.

[0192] General reference Figure 1 , FIG. 2A to FIG. 2B , Figure 3 , FIG. 4A to FIG. 4C and Figures 5 to 7 As an example, the present disclosure relates to a fastener system 100 for joining a plurality of substrates 102 of a workpiece 104. The workpiece 104 has a working side 106 and a blind side 108. Figure 1 and Figures 5 to 7 An example of a fastener system 100 is disclosed. Figure 2A A side view of an example of a sleeve member 118 of the fastener system 100 is shown. Figure 2B Shows Figure 2A A distal end view of the sleeve member. Figure 3 An example of a nut member 110 of the fastener system 100 is shown. FIG. 4A to FIG. 4C Shows Figure 1 1. An example of a coupling hole 116 in a workpiece 104 with a countersunk portion 402, a counterbore portion 404, and a cylindrical portion 406.

[0193] Refer to 1 again. FIG. 2A to FIG. 2B , Figure 3 , FIG. 4A to FIG. 4C and Figures 5 to 7 In one or more examples, a fastener system 100 for coupling a plurality of substrates 102 of a workpiece 104 includes a nut member 110, a sleeve member 118, and a bolt member 120. The workpiece 104 has a working side 106 and a blind side 108. The nut member 110 includes a nut hole 112 having an internal thread 114. The nut member 110 is configured to place the nut hole 112 over a coupling hole 116 of a plurality of substrates 102 passing through the blind side 108 of the workpiece 104. The sleeve member 118 includes an outer sleeve surface 202 having a lubricating coating 204. The sleeve member 118 is configured to be inserted into the coupling hole 116 through the plurality of substrates 102 from the working side 106 of the workpiece 104. The bolt member 120 includes a head portion 122, a threaded portion 124, and a shank portion 126 extending between the head portion 122 and the threaded portion 124. The bolt member 120 is configured to be inserted into a central hole 206 of the sleeve member 118. The threaded portion 124 is configured for threaded engagement with the internal thread 114 of the nut member 110. When the bolt member 120 becomes fully engaged with the nut member 110, the shank portion 126 of the bolt member 120 is configured to cause radial expansion of the sleeve member 118, and the sleeve member 118 is configured to provide an interference fit 502 within the coupling hole 116 through the plurality of substrates 102.

[0194] In another example of the fastener system 100, the plurality of substrates 102 includes at least one composite substrate 128. In yet another example of the fastener system 100, the nut member 110 is configured to be secured to the blind side 108 of the workpiece 104. In a further example, the nut member 110 is configured to be secured to the blind side 108 of the workpiece 104 using mechanical fasteners, swaging, or any other suitable fastening hardware / techniques in any suitable combination.

[0195] In yet another example of the fastener system 100, the nut member 110 includes a nut plate assembly 302 having a nut 304 and a flange plate 306 that captively holds the nut 304. The nut 304 includes a nut hole 112. The flange plate 306 is configured to be secured to the blind side 108 of the workpiece 104, wherein the nut hole 112 is above a coupling hole 116 through the plurality of substrates 102. In a further example, the nut 304 that is captively held by the flange plate 306 is spaced apart from a mounting surface 308 of the flange plate 306. In this example, the flange plate 306 includes a counterbore 310 into the mounting surface 308 that is relatively aligned with the nut hole 112 of the nut 304 and the coupling holes 116 of the plurality of substrates 102. The counterbore 310 is configured to provide space for the distal end 208 of the sleeve member 118 to protrude from the coupling hole 116 at the blind side 108 of the workpiece 104 when the bolt member 120 becomes fully engaged with the nut member 110 .

[0196] In yet another example, the fastener system 100 further includes a cover seal member 130 having a dome 132 and a cover flange 134. The cover seal member 130 is configured to be placed over the nut member 110. The cover flange 134 is configured to secure the cover seal member 130 to the blind side 108 of the workpiece 104.

[0197] In another example of the fastener system 100, the sleeve member 118 includes a ductile metal material. In further examples, the ductile metal material includes tin, tin alloys, copper, copper alloys, aluminum, aluminum alloys, silver, silver alloys, gold, gold alloys, or any other suitable ductile metal in any suitable combination.

[0198] In another example of the fastener system 100, the lubricious coating 204 includes indium, indium alloys, tin, tin alloys, bismuth, bismuth alloys, aluminum, aluminum alloys, or any other suitable lubricious coating in any suitable combination. In yet another example of the fastener system 100, the lubricious coating 204 on the outer sleeve surface 202 includes a conductive feature configured to provide electromagnetic energy shielding to the workpiece 104 when the bolt member 120 becomes fully engaged with the nut member 110. In yet another example of the fastener system 100, the outer sleeve surface 202 is coated with a conductive coating 210 to provide electromagnetic energy shielding to the workpiece 104 when the bolt member 120 becomes fully engaged with the nut member 110. In another example, the conductive coating 210 includes indium, indium alloys, tin, tin alloys, lead, lead alloys, or any other suitable conductive coating in any suitable combination.

[0199] In another example of the fastener system 100, the sleeve member 118 further includes an elongated sleeve body 212 and a sleeve flange 216. The elongated sleeve body 212 defines the central hole 206. The elongated sleeve body 212 includes an outer sleeve surface 202, a proximal end 214 associated with the working side 106 of the workpiece 104, and a distal end 208 associated with the blind side 108 of the workpiece 104. The sleeve flange 216 is disposed at the proximal end 214 of the elongated sleeve body 212. The sleeve flange 216 is configured to limit further insertion of the sleeve member 118 through the plurality of substrates 102 into the coupling hole 116.

[0200] In yet another example of the fastener system 100, the bolt member 120 includes a metal material. In a further example, the metal material includes stainless steel, titanium, titanium alloy, cobalt-chromium alloy, nickel-titanium alloy, or any other suitable metal material in any suitable combination. In yet another example of the fastener system 100, the head portion 122 of the bolt member 120 includes a torsion feature 136. In a further example, the torsion feature 136 is configured to facilitate rotation of the bolt member 120 using a hexagonal wrench torsion tool, a cross-head screwdriver torsion tool, a flat-head screwdriver torsion tool, a hexagonal torsion tool, or any other suitable torsion tool. In yet another example of the fastener system 100, the head portion 122 of the bolt member 120 includes a protruding head, a flat head, a countersunk head, a convex head, a recessed hexagonal head, a recessed cross head, a recessed flat head, a hexagonal head, or any other suitable type of head. In another example of the fastener system 100 , at the working side 106 of the workpiece 104 , the coupling holes 116 through the plurality of substrates 102 include a countersunk portion 402 , a counterbore portion 404 , a cylindrical portion 406 , or any other suitable geometry compatible with the head portion 122 of the bolt member 120 at the working side 106 .

[0201] In yet another example of the fastener system 100, the sleeve member 118 further includes an inner sleeve surface 218, and the shank portion 126 of the bolt member 120 includes an outer shank surface 138. In this example, at least one of the inner sleeve surface 218 and the outer shank surface 138 is coated with the lubricious coating 204.

[0202] In yet another example of the fastener system 100, the outer shank diameter of the shank portion 126 of the bolt member 120 is substantially greater than the inner sleeve diameter of the sleeve member 118. In a further example, the outer shank diameter is substantially greater than the inner sleeve diameter by about 0.0005 inches, about 0.0010 inches, about 0.0015 inches, about 0.0020 inches, about 0.0025 inches, or any other suitable differential measurement that results in substantial expansion of the sleeve member 118. In another further example, the outer shank diameter is substantially greater than the inner sleeve diameter by about 0.2%, about 0.4%, about 0.6%, about 0.8%, about 1.0%, or any other suitable percentage that results in substantial expansion of the sleeve member 118.

[0203] In yet another example of the fastener system 100, the sleeve member 118 further includes a cylindrical sleeve body 220 defining the central hole 206. The cylindrical sleeve body 220 includes an outer sleeve surface 202, an inner sleeve surface 218 facing the central hole 206, a proximal end 214 associated with the working side 106 of the workpiece 104, and a distal end 208 associated with the blind side 108 of the workpiece 104. In a further example, the shank portion 126 of the bolt member 120 includes a cylindrical shank body 140. The cylindrical shank body 140 includes an outer shank surface 138 that is configured to face the inner sleeve surface 218 of the cylindrical sleeve body 220 when the bolt member 120 is inserted into the central hole 206 and engaged with the nut member 110.

[0204] In a further example, the outer shank diameter of the cylindrical shank body 140 is substantially greater than the inner sleeve diameter of the cylindrical sleeve body 220. In a further example, the outer shank diameter is substantially greater than the inner sleeve diameter by about 0.0005 inches, about 0.0010 inches, about 0.0015 inches, about 0.0020 inches, about 0.0025 inches, or any other suitable differential measurement that results in substantial expansion of the sleeve member 118. In another further example, the outer shank diameter is substantially greater than the inner sleeve diameter by about 0.2%, about 0.4%, about 0.6%, about 0.8%, about 1.0%, or any other suitable percentage that results in substantial expansion of the sleeve member 118.

[0205] In another further example, when the bolt member 120 becomes fully engaged with the nut member 110 , the outer sleeve surface 202 is configured to provide an interference fit 502 within the coupling hole 116 through the plurality of base plates 102 in conjunction with the corresponding cylindrical shape of the coupling hole 116 .

[0206] In another example of the fastener system 100, the sleeve member 118 also includes an elongated sleeve body 212 defining the central hole 206. The elongated sleeve body 212 includes an outer sleeve surface 202, an inner sleeve surface 218 facing the central hole 206, a proximal end 214 associated with the working side 106 of the workpiece 104, and a distal end 208 associated with the blind side 108 of the workpiece 104. In this example, at least the inner sleeve surface 218 tapers from a larger inner sleeve diameter near the proximal end 214 to a smaller inner sleeve diameter near the distal end 208, such that the central hole 206 includes a frusto-conical sleeve bore 602.

[0207] In a further example, the outer sleeve surface 202 is cylindrical, such that the elongated sleeve body 212 includes a cylindrical sleeve body 220 having a frustoconical sleeve bore 602. In a further example, the shank portion 126 of the bolt member 120 includes an elongated shank body 604 having an outer shank surface 138 configured to face the inner sleeve surface 218 when the bolt member 120 is inserted into the frustoconical sleeve bore 602 and engaged with the nut member 110. In this example, the elongated shank body 604 tapers from a larger outer shank diameter proximate the head portion 122 of the bolt member 120 to a smaller outer shank diameter proximate the threaded portion 124 of the bolt member, such that the elongated shank body 602 includes a frustoconical shank body 606.

[0208] In a further example, the outer shank diameter of the frustoconical shank body 606 is substantially greater than a corresponding inner sleeve diameter defining the frustoconical sleeve bore 602. In a further example, the outer shank diameter is substantially greater than the corresponding inner sleeve diameter by about 0.0005 inches, about 0.0010 inches, about 0.0015 inches, about 0.0020 inches, about 0.0025 inches, or any other suitable differential measurement that results in substantial expansion of the sleeve member 118. In another further example, the outer shank diameter is substantially greater than the corresponding inner sleeve diameter by at least one of about 0.2%, about 0.4%, about 0.6%, about 0.8%, about 1.0%, or any other suitable percentage that results in substantial expansion of the sleeve member 118.

[0209] In another further example, when the bolt member 120 becomes fully engaged with the nut member 110 , the outer sleeve surface 202 is configured to provide an interference fit 608 within the coupling hole 116 through the plurality of base plates 102 in conjunction with the corresponding cylindrical shape of the coupling hole 116 .

[0210] In another further example, the outer sleeve surface 202 tapers from a larger outer sleeve diameter near the proximal end 214 to a smaller outer sleeve diameter near the distal end 208, such that the elongated sleeve body 212 includes a frustoconical sleeve body 702. In yet a further example, the shank portion 126 of the bolt member 120 includes an elongated shank body 604 having an outer shank surface 138 configured to face the inner sleeve surface 218 when the bolt member 120 is inserted into the frustoconical sleeve bore 602 and becomes engaged with the nut member 110. In this example, the elongated shank body 604 tapers from a larger outer shank diameter near the head portion 122 of the bolt member 120 to a smaller outer shank diameter near the threaded portion 124 of the bolt member 120, such that the elongated shank body 604 includes a frustoconical shank body 606.

[0211] In a further example, the outer shank diameter of the frustoconical shank body 606 is substantially greater than a corresponding inner sleeve diameter defining the frustoconical sleeve bore 602. In a further example, the outer shank diameter is substantially greater than the corresponding inner sleeve diameter by about 0.0005 inches, about 0.0010 inches, about 0.0015 inches, about 0.0020 inches, about 0.0025 inches, or any other suitable differential measurement that results in substantial expansion of the sleeve member 118. In another even further example, the outer shank diameter is substantially greater than the corresponding inner sleeve diameter by about 0.2%, about 0.4%, about 0.6%, about 0.8%, about 1.0%, or any other suitable percentage that results in substantial expansion of the sleeve member 118.

[0212] In another further example, when the bolt member 120 becomes fully engaged with the nut member 110, the frustoconical shank body 606 is configured to radially expand the frustoconical sleeve body 702 in conjunction with the frustoconical sleeve hole 602 of the frustoconical sleeve body 702, and the frustoconical sleeve body 702 is configured to provide an interference fit 704 within the connecting hole 116 through the plurality of substrates 102 in conjunction with the corresponding frustoconical shape of the connecting hole 116.

[0213] General reference Figure 1 , FIG. 2A to FIG. 2B , Figure 3 and Figures 5 to 17 As an example, the present disclosure relates to methods 800, 1100, 1400 for joining a plurality of substrates 102 of a workpiece 104. The workpiece 104 has a working side 106 and a blind side 108. Figure 1 and Figures 5 to 7 An example of a fastener system 100 is disclosed. Figure 2A A side view of an example of a sleeve member 118 of the fastener system 100 is shown. Figure 2B Shows Figure 2AA distal end view of the sleeve member. Figure 3 An example of a nut member 110 of the fastener system 100 is shown. Figures 8 to 10 , Fig.12 , Fig.13 and Figures 15 to 17 Various examples of method 800 are disclosed. Figure 8 and Fig.11 Respective examples of method 1100 are disclosed. Figure 8 and 14 Various examples of method 1400 are disclosed.

[0214] Reference again Figure 1 , FIG. 2A to FIG. 2B , Figure 3 , Figures 5 to 10 , Fig.12 , Fig.13 and Figures 15 to 17 In one or more examples, a method 800 for coupling a plurality of substrates 102 of a workpiece 104 with a working side 106 and a blind side 108 is provided (see Figure 8 ) includes fixing 802 a nut member 110 over a coupling hole 116 of a plurality of substrates 102 through a blind side 108 of a workpiece 104. The nut member 110 includes a nut hole 112 having an internal thread 114. At 804, a sleeve member 118 is inserted into the coupling hole 116 from a working side 106 of the workpiece 104 through the plurality of substrates 102. The sleeve member 118 includes an outer sleeve surface 202 having a lubricating coating 204. At 806, a bolt member 120 is inserted into a central hole 206 of the sleeve member 118 until a distal end of the bolt member 120 contacts the nut member 110. The bolt member 120 includes a head portion 122 at a proximal end, a threaded portion 124 at a distal end, and a shank portion (126) extending between the head portion 122 and the threaded portion 124. At 808, the bolt member 120 is rotated to engage the threaded portion 124 with the internal thread 114 of the nut member 110. At 810, the sleeve member 118 is radially expanded within the coupling hole 116 through the plurality of base plates 102 as the bolt member 120 becomes fully engaged with the nut member 110. At 812, an interference fit 502 is provided for the sleeve member 118 within the coupling hole 116 through the plurality of base plates 102 in response to the radial expansion of the sleeve member 118 as the bolt member 120 becomes fully engaged with the nut member 110.

[0215] In another example of method 800, securing 802 the nut member 110 includes securing 902 the nut member 110 using mechanical fasteners, swaging, or any other suitable fastening hardware / techniques in any suitable combination (see Fig. 9 ) to the blind side 108 of the workpiece 104.

[0216] In yet another example of the method 800, the nut member 110 further includes a nut plate assembly 302. In this example, securing 802 the nut member 110 includes captively retaining 1002 the nut 304 of the nut plate assembly 302 (see Fig.10 ) in the flange plate 306 of the nut plate assembly 302. At 1004, the flange plate 306 is secured to the blind side 108 of the workpiece 104, wherein the nut hole 112 is above the coupling hole 116 through the plurality of base plates 102. In a further example, securing 802 the nut member 110 further includes spacing 1006 the nut 304 of the nut plate assembly 302 from the mounting surface 308 of the flange plate 306. At 1008, a counterbore 310 is provided in the mounting surface 308 of the flange plate 306, which is relatively aligned with the nut hole 112 of the nut 304 and the coupling hole 116 of the plurality of base plates 102. In this example, when the bolt member 120 becomes fully engaged with the nut member 110, the counterbore 310 provides space for the distal end 208 of the sleeve member 118 to protrude from the coupling hole 116 at the blind side 108 of the workpiece 104.

[0217] Reference again Figure 1 , FIG. 2A to FIG. 2B , Figure 8 and Fig.11 In one or more examples, a method 1100 for joining a plurality of substrates 102 of a workpiece 104 (see Fig.11 )include Figure 8 The method 800 of claim 1100 and proceeds from 802 to 1102, wherein the cover seal member 130 is placed over the nut member 110. The cover seal member 130 includes a dome 132 and a cover flange 134. The cover flange 134 is configured to secure the cover seal member 130 to the blind side 108 of the workpiece 104. In another example, the method 1100 includes applying 1104 the lubricity coating 204 to the outer sleeve surface 202 of the sleeve member 118. In this example, the method 1100 proceeds from 1104 to Figure 8 802. In a further example of method 1100, lubricity coating 204 on outer sleeve surface 202 includes a conductive feature configured to provide electromagnetic energy shielding to workpiece 104 when bolt member 120 becomes fully engaged with nut member 110. In yet another example, method 1100 includes applying 1106 conductive coating 210 to outer sleeve surface 202. In this example, method 1100 continues from 1106 to Figure 8 802.

[0218] Reference again Figure 1 , FIG. 2A to FIG. 2B , Figure 3 , Figures 5 to 10 , Fig.12 , Fig.13 and Figures 15 to 17In yet another example of method 800, inserting 804 the sleeve member 118 includes limiting 1202 (see Fig.12 ) The sleeve member 118 is further inserted into the coupling hole 116 through the plurality of base plates 102. In yet another example of the method 800, rotating 808 the bolt member 120 includes twisting 1302 (see Fig.13 )The bolt member 120 becomes fully engaged with the nut member 110.

[0219] Reference again Figure 1 , FIG. 2A to FIG. 2B , Figure 8 and Fig.14 In one or more examples, a method 1400 for joining a plurality of substrates 102 of a workpiece 104 (see Fig.14 )include Figure 8 The method 800 and continues from 804 to 1402 , where the lubricious coating 204 is applied to at least one of the inner sleeve surface 218 of the sleeve member 118 and the outer shank surface 138 of the shank portion 126 of the bolt member 120 .

[0220] Reference again Figure 1 , FIG. 2A to FIG. 2B , Figure 3 , Figures 5 to 10 , Fig.12 , Fig.13 and Figures 15 to 17 In another example of the method 800, an outer shank diameter of the shank portion (126) of the bolt member (120) is substantially greater than an inner sleeve diameter of the sleeve member (118).

[0221] In yet another example of the method 800, the sleeve member 118 further includes a cylindrical sleeve body 220 defining the central hole 206. The cylindrical sleeve body 220 includes an outer sleeve surface 202, an inner sleeve surface 218 facing the central hole 206, a proximal end 214 associated with the working side 106 of the workpiece 104, and a distal end 208 associated with the blind side 108 of the workpiece 104. In a further example, the shank portion 126 of the bolt member 120 includes a cylindrical shank body 140. The cylindrical shank body 140 includes an outer shank surface 138 that is configured to face the inner sleeve surface 218 of the cylindrical sleeve body 220 when the bolt member 120 is inserted into the central hole 206 and becomes engaged with the nut member 110. In a further example, the outer shank diameter of the cylindrical shank body 140 is substantially greater than the inner sleeve diameter of the cylindrical sleeve body 220. In another further example of method 800, providing 812 the interference fit 502 includes providing 1502 (see FIG. 1503 ) through the plurality of substrates 102 within the coupling holes 116 in conjunction with the corresponding cylindrical shape of the coupling holes 116 when the bolt member 120 becomes fully engaged with the nut member 110. Fig.15 )Interference fit.

[0222] In yet another example of the method 800, the sleeve member 118 further includes an elongated sleeve body 212 defining the central bore 206. The elongated sleeve body 212 includes an outer sleeve surface 202, an inner sleeve surface 218 facing the central bore 206, a proximal end 214 associated with the working side 106 of the workpiece 104, and a distal end 208 associated with the blind side 108 of the workpiece 104. In this example, at least the inner sleeve surface 218 tapers from a larger inner sleeve diameter near the proximal end 214 to a smaller inner sleeve diameter near the distal end 208, such that the central bore 206 includes a frusto-conical sleeve bore 602.

[0223] In a further example, the outer sleeve surface 202 is cylindrical such that the elongated sleeve body 212 includes a cylindrical sleeve body 220 having a frustoconical sleeve bore 602. In a still further example, the shank portion 126 of the bolt member 120 includes an elongated shank body 604 having an outer shank surface 138 configured to face the inner sleeve surface 218 when the bolt member 120 is inserted into the frustoconical sleeve bore 602 and becomes engaged with the nut member 110. In this example, the elongated shank body 604 tapers from a larger outer shank diameter proximate the head portion 122 of the bolt member 120 to a smaller outer shank diameter proximate the threaded portion 124 of the bolt member 120 such that the elongated shank body 604 includes a frustoconical shank body 606. In a still further example, the outer shank diameter of the frustoconical shank body 606 is substantially greater than a corresponding inner sleeve diameter defining the frustoconical sleeve bore 602. In another even further example of method 800, providing 812 the interference fit 502 includes providing 1602 (see FIG. 14 ) through the plurality of substrates 102 within the coupling holes 116 in conjunction with the corresponding cylindrical shape of the coupling holes 116 when the bolt member 120 becomes fully engaged with the nut member 110. Fig.16 )Interference fit 608.

[0224] In another further example, the outer sleeve surface 202 tapers from a larger outer sleeve diameter near the proximal end 214 to a smaller outer sleeve diameter near the distal end 208, such that the elongated sleeve body 212 includes a frustoconical sleeve body 702. In yet a further example, the shank portion 126 of the bolt member 120 includes an elongated shank body 604 having an outer shank surface 138 configured to face the inner sleeve surface 218 when the bolt member 120 is inserted into the frustoconical sleeve bore 602 and becomes engaged with the nut member 110. In this example, the elongated shank body 604 tapers from a larger outer shank diameter near the head portion 122 of the bolt member 120 to a smaller outer shank diameter near the threaded portion 124 of the bolt member 120, such that the elongated shank body 604 includes a frustoconical shank body 606. In a further example, the outer shank diameter of the frustoconical shank body 606 is substantially greater than the corresponding inner sleeve diameter defining the frustoconical sleeve bore 602. In another further example of the method 800, the radial expansion 810 includes causing 1702 (see FIG. 1703 ) when the bolt member 120 becomes fully engaged with the nut member 110. Fig.17 ) radial expansion of the frustoconical sleeve body 702 in combination with the frustoconical sleeve bore 602 of the frustoconical sleeve body 702. In this example, providing 812 the interference fit 502 includes providing 1704 the interference fit 704 within the coupling hole 116 in combination with the corresponding frustoconical shape of the coupling hole 116 through the plurality of substrates 102 when the bolt member 120 becomes fully engaged with the nut member 110.

[0225] General reference Figure 1 , FIG. 2A to FIG. 2B , Figure 3 , FIG. 4A to FIG. 4C and Fig.18 As an example, the present disclosure is directed to a fastener system 100 for joining a plurality of substrates 102 of a workpiece 104. The workpiece 104 has a working side 106 and a blind side 108. Figure 1 , Figures 5 to 7 and Fig.18 An example of a fastener system 100 is disclosed. Figure 1 and Fig.18 An example of a fastener system 100 is disclosed. Figure 2A A side view of an example of a sleeve member 118 of the fastener system 100 is shown. Figure 2B Shows Figure 2A A distal end view of the sleeve member. Figure 3 An example of a nut member 110 of the fastener system 100 is shown. FIG. 4A to FIG. 4C Shows Figure 1 1. An example of a coupling hole 116 in a workpiece 104 with a countersunk portion 402, a counterbore portion 404, and a cylindrical portion 406.

[0226] Reference again Figure 1 , FIG. 2A to FIG. 2B , Figure 3 , FIG. 4A to FIG. 4C and Fig.18In one or more examples, a fastener system 100 for coupling a plurality of substrates 102 of a workpiece 104 includes a nut member 110 and a bolt member 120. The workpiece 104 has a working side 106 and a blind side 108. The nut member 110 includes a nut hole 112 having an internal thread 114. The nut member 110 is configured to be placed over a coupling hole 116 of a plurality of substrates 102 passing through the blind side 108 of the workpiece 104. The coupling hole 116 tapers from a larger coupling hole 116 diameter near the working side 106 of the workpiece 104 to a smaller coupling hole 116 near the blind side 108 of the workpiece 104, such that the coupling hole 116 includes a frustoconical coupling hole 1802. The bolt member 120 includes a head portion 122, a threaded portion 124, and a shank portion 126 extending between the head portion 122 and the threaded portion 124. The shank portion 126 includes an elongated shank body 604 having an outer shank surface 138. The elongated shank body 604 tapers from a larger outer shank diameter proximate the head portion 122 to a smaller outer shank diameter proximate the threaded portion 124, such that the elongated shank body 604 includes a frustoconical shank body 606. The outer shank surface 138 is coated with the lubricious coating 204. The bolt member 120 is configured for insertion into the frustoconical coupling hole 1802 through the plurality of base plates 102 from the working side 106 of the workpiece 104, and is configured for threaded engagement with the internal threads 114 of the nut member 110. When the bolt member 120 becomes fully engaged with the nut member 110, the frustoconical shank body 606 is configured to provide an interference fit 1802 within the frustoconical coupling hole 1802 through the plurality of base plates 102 in conjunction with the corresponding frustoconical shape of the frustoconical coupling hole 1802.

[0227] In another example of the fastener system 100, the plurality of substrates 102 include at least one composite substrate 128. In yet another example of the fastener system 100, the nut member 110 is configured to be secured to the blind side 108 of the workpiece 104. In a further example, the nut member 110 is configured to be secured to the blind side 108 of the workpiece 104 using mechanical fasteners, swaging, or any other suitable fastening hardware / techniques in any suitable combination. In yet another example of the fastener system 100, the nut member 110 also includes a nut plate assembly 302 having a nut 304 and a flange plate 306 that captively retains the nut 304. The nut 304 includes a nut hole 112. The flange plate 306 is configured to be secured to the blind side 108 of the workpiece 104 with the nut hole 112 over the frustoconical coupling hole 1802 through the plurality of substrates 102.

[0228] In yet another example, the fastener system 100 further includes a cover seal member 130 having a dome 132 and a cover flange 134. The cover seal member 130 is configured to be placed over the nut member 110. The cover flange 134 is configured to secure the cover seal member 130 to the blind side 108 of the workpiece 104. In another example of the fastener system 100, the lubricious coating 204 includes indium, indium alloys, tin, tin alloys, bismuth, bismuth alloys, aluminum, aluminum alloys, or any other suitable lubricious coating in any suitable combination. In yet another example of the fastener system 100, the lubricious coating 204 on the outer shank surface 138 includes a conductive feature configured to provide electromagnetic energy shielding to the workpiece 104 when the bolt member 120 becomes fully engaged with the nut member 110. In yet another example of the fastener system 100, the outer shank surface 138 is coated with a conductive coating 210 to provide electromagnetic energy shielding to the workpiece 104 when the bolt member 120 becomes fully engaged with the nut member 110. In further examples, the conductive coating 210 includes indium, indium alloys, tin, tin alloys, lead, lead alloys, or any other suitable conductive coating in any suitable combination.

[0229] In yet another example of the fastener system 100, the bolt member 120 includes a metal material. In a further example, the metal material includes stainless steel, titanium, titanium alloy, cobalt-chromium alloy, nickel-titanium alloy, or any other suitable metal material in any suitable combination. In another example of the fastener system 100, the head portion 122 of the bolt member 120 includes a torsion feature 136. In a further example, the torsion feature 136 is configured to facilitate rotation of the bolt member 120 using a hexagonal wrench torsion tool, a cross-head screwdriver torsion tool, a flat-head screwdriver torsion tool, a hexagonal torsion tool, or any other suitable torsion tool. In yet another example of the fastener system 100, the head portion 122 of the bolt member 120 includes a protruding head, a flat head, a countersunk head, a convex head, a recessed hexagonal head, a recessed cross head, a recessed flat head, a hexagonal head, or any other suitable type of head.

[0230] In yet another example of the fastener system 100, at the working side 106 of the workpiece 104, the frustoconical coupling holes 1802 through the plurality of base plates 102 include a countersunk portion 402, a counterbore portion 404, a cylindrical portion 406, or any other suitable geometry compatible with the head portion 122 of the bolt member 120 at the working side 106. In yet another example of the fastener system 100, the outer shank diameter of the frustoconical shank body 606 is substantially greater than the corresponding frustoconical coupling hole 1802 diameter defining the frustoconical coupling hole 1802. In further examples, the outer shank diameter is substantially greater than the corresponding frustoconical coupling hole (1802) diameter by about 0.0005 inches, about 0.0010 inches, about 0.0015 inches, about 0.0020 inches, about 0.0025 inches, or any other suitable differential measurement that results in an interference fit 1802 within the frustoconical coupling hole 1802. In another example of the fastener system 100, the outer shank diameter is substantially larger than the corresponding frustoconical coupling hole 1802 diameter by approximately 0.2%, approximately 0.4%, approximately 0.6%, approximately 0.8%, approximately 1.0%, or any other suitable percentage that results in an interference fit 1802 within the frustoconical coupling hole 1802.

[0231] Rough reference Figure 1 , FIG. 2A to FIG. 2B , Figure 3 , FIG. 4A to FIG. 4C and Figures 18 to 23 As an example, the present disclosure relates to methods 1900, 2200 for joining a plurality of substrates 102 of a workpiece 104. The workpiece 104 has a working side 106 and a blind side 108. Figure 1 and Fig.18 An example of a fastener system 100 is disclosed. Figure 2A A side view of an example of a sleeve member 118 of the fastener system 100 is shown. Figure 2B Shows Figure 2A A distal end view of the sleeve member. Figure 3 An example of a nut member 110 of the fastener system 100 is shown. FIG. 4A to FIG. 4C Shows Figure 1 1. An example of a coupling hole 116 in a workpiece 104 with a countersunk portion 402, a counterbore portion 404, and a cylindrical portion 406. Figures 19 to 21 and Fig.23 Various examples of method 1900 are disclosed. Fig.19 and Fig. 22 Various examples of method 2200 are disclosed.

[0232] Reference again Figure 1 , FIG. 2A to FIG. 2B , Figure 3 , FIG. 4A to FIG. 4C , Figures 18 to 21 and Fig.23 In one or more examples, a method 1900 for coupling a plurality of substrates 102 of a workpiece 104 with a working side 106 and a blind side 108 is provided (see Fig.19 ) includes securing 1902 a nut member 110 over a coupling hole 116 through a plurality of base plates 102 on a blind side 108 of a workpiece 104. The nut member 110 includes a nut hole 112 having an internal thread 114. The coupling hole 116 tapers from a larger coupling hole 116 diameter proximate the working side 106 of the workpiece 104 to a smaller coupling hole 116 diameter proximate the blind side 108 of the workpiece 104 such that the coupling hole 116 includes a frustoconical coupling hole 1802. At 1904, a bolt member 120 is inserted from the working side 106 of the workpiece 104 through the plurality of base plates 102 into the frustoconical coupling hole 1802 until a distal end of the bolt member 120 contacts the nut member 110. The bolt member 120 includes a head portion 122 at a proximal end, a threaded portion 124 at a distal end, and a shank portion 126 extending between the head portion 122 and the threaded portion 124. The shank portion 126 tapers from a larger outer shank diameter proximate the head portion 122 to a smaller outer shank diameter proximate the threaded portion 124 such that the shank portion 126 includes a frustoconical shank body 606. The shank portion 126 includes an outer shank surface 138 having a lubricious coating 204. At 1906, the bolt member 120 is rotated to engage the threaded portion 124 with the internal threads 114 of the nut member 110. At 1908, when the bolt member 120 becomes fully engaged with the nut member 110, an interference fit 1802 is provided for the shank portion 126 of the bolt member 120 within the frustoconical coupling hole 1802 through the plurality of base plates 102 in combination with the corresponding frustoconical shape of the frustoconical coupling hole 1802.

[0233] In another example of method 1900, securing 1902 the nut member 110 includes securing 2002 the nut member 110 using mechanical fasteners, swaging, or any other suitable fastening hardware / techniques in any suitable combination (see Fig. 20 ) to the blind side 108 of the workpiece 104.

[0234] In yet another example of the method 1900, the nut member 110 includes a nut plate assembly 302. In this example, the fixing 1902 of the nut member 110 includes captively holding 2102 the nut 304 of the nut plate assembly 302 (see Fig.21 ) in the flange plate 306 of the nut plate assembly 302. At 2104, the flange plate 306 is secured to the blind side 108 of the workpiece 104 with the nut holes 112 over the frustoconical coupling holes 1802 through the plurality of base plates 102.

[0235] Reference again Figure 1 , FIG. 2A to FIG. 2B , Fig.19 and Fig. 22 In one or more examples, a method 2200 for joining a plurality of substrates 102 of a workpiece 104 (see Fig. 22 )include Fig.19 The method 1900 of 1902 is continued to 2202 from 1902, wherein the cover seal member 130 is placed above the nut member 110. The cover seal member 130 includes a dome 132 and a cover flange 134. The cover flange 134 is configured to secure the cover seal member 130 to the blind side 108 of the workpiece 104. In another example, the method 2200 continues from 1902 to 2204, wherein a lubricious coating 204 is applied to an outer shank surface 138 of the shank portion 126 of the bolt member 120. In yet another example of the method 2200, the lubricious coating 204 on the outer shank surface 138 includes a conductive feature configured to provide electromagnetic energy shielding to the workpiece 104 when the bolt member 120 becomes fully engaged with the nut member 110. In yet another example, the method 2200 continues from 1902 to 2206, wherein a conductive coating 210 is applied to the outer shank surface 138 of the shank portion 126 of the bolt member 120.

[0236] Reference again Figure 1 , Figures 18 to 21 and Fig.23 In another example of the method 1900, rotating 1906 the bolt member 120 includes twisting 2302 the bolt member 120 to become fully engaged with the nut member 110. In yet another example of the method 1900, the outer shank diameter of the frustoconical shank body 606 is substantially greater than a corresponding frustoconical coupling hole 1802 diameter defining the frustoconical coupling hole 1802.

[0237] Examples of fastener systems 100 and methods 800, 1100, 1400, 1900, 2200 for joining multiple substrates of a workpiece may be relevant or used in the context of aircraft manufacturing. Although an aircraft example is described, the examples and principles disclosed herein may be applied to other products in the aerospace industry and other industries, such as the automotive industry, the aerospace industry, the construction industry, and other design and manufacturing industries. Therefore, in addition to aircraft, the examples and principles disclosed herein may be applied to the use of composite materials products in the manufacture of various types of vehicles and the construction of various types of buildings.

[0238] The foregoing detailed description refers to the accompanying drawings, which illustrate specific examples described in the present disclosure. Other examples with different structures and operations do not depart from the scope of the present disclosure. In different drawings, similar reference numerals may refer to the same features, elements or parts. Throughout the present disclosure, any one of a plurality of projects may be referred to as a project individually, and a plurality of projects may be collectively referred to as projects and may be referred to by similar reference numerals. In addition, as used herein, features, elements, parts or steps preceded by the word "one" or "a piece" should be understood as not excluding a plurality of features, elements, parts or steps, unless such exclusion is explicitly listed.

[0239] The above provides illustrative, non-exhaustive examples according to the subject matter of the present disclosure, which examples may be, but not necessarily require protection. Reference to "example" herein means that one or more features, structures, elements, components, characteristics and / or operating steps described in conjunction with the example are included in at least one aspect, embodiment and / or implementation of the subject matter of the present disclosure. Therefore, the phrases "example", "another example", "one or more examples" and similar language throughout the present disclosure may but may not refer to the same example. In addition, the subject matter characterizing any one example may but may not include the subject matter characterizing any other example. In addition, the subject matter characterizing any one example may but may not be combined with the subject matter characterizing any other example.

[0240] As used herein, a system, device, apparatus, structure, article, element, component, or hardware that is "configured to" perform a specified function is indeed capable of performing the specified function without any changes, rather than merely having the potential to perform the specified function after further modification. In other words, a system, device, apparatus, structure, article, element, component, or hardware that is "configured to" perform a specified function is selected, created, implemented, utilized, programmed, and / or designed specifically for the purpose of performing the specified function. As used herein, "configured to" represents existing characteristics of a system, device, structure, article, element, component, or hardware that enable the system, device, structure, article, element, component, or hardware to perform the specified function without further modification. For the purposes of this disclosure, a system, device, apparatus, structure, article, element, component, or hardware that is described as "configured to" perform a particular function may be additionally or alternatively described as "suitable for" and / or "operably" perform the function.

[0241] Unless otherwise indicated, the terms "first," "second," "third," etc. are used herein merely as labels and are not intended to impose order, position, or hierarchy requirements on the items to which these terms refer. Furthermore, reference to an item, such as a "second," does not require or preclude the existence of, for example, a "first" or lower-numbered item and / or, for example, a "third" or higher-numbered item.

[0242] As used herein, the phrase "at least one of...", when used with a list of items, means that different combinations of one or more of the listed items may be used, and only one of each item in the list may be required. For example, "at least one of item A, item B, and item C" may include, but is not limited to, item A, or item A and item B. This example may also include item A, item B, and item C, or item B and item C. In other examples, "at least one of..." may be, for example, but not limited to, two of item A, one of item B, and ten of item C; four of item B and seven of item C; and other suitable combinations. As used herein, the terms "and / or" and the " / " symbol include any and all combinations of one or more of the associated listed items.

[0243] As used herein, the terms "coupled," "coupled," and similar terms refer to two or more elements that are coupled, linked, fastened, attached, connected, communicated, or otherwise associated (e.g., mechanically, electrically, fluidically, optically, electromagnetically) with one another. In various examples, these elements may be associated directly or indirectly. As an example, element A may be directly associated with element B. As another example, element A may be indirectly associated with element B, for example, via another element C. It should be understood that not all associations between the various disclosed elements must be represented. Therefore, there may also be couplings other than those depicted in the figures.

[0244] As used herein, the term "approximately" refers to or represents a condition that is close to, but not exactly, the stated condition, but still performs the desired function or achieves the desired result. As an example, the term "approximately" refers to a condition that is within an acceptable predetermined tolerance or accuracy, such as a condition that is within 10% of the stated condition. However, the term "approximately" does not exclude conditions that are exactly the same as the stated condition. As used herein, the term "substantially" refers to a condition that is essentially the stated condition that performs the desired function or achieves the desired result.

[0245] exist Figure 1 In the above mentioned FIG. 2A to FIG. 2B , Figure 3 , FIG. 4A to FIG. 4C , Figures 5 to 7 and Fig.18 The illustrative examples may represent functional elements, features, or components thereof, and do not necessarily imply any particular structure. Therefore, modifications, additions, and / or omissions may be made to the structures shown. Furthermore, those skilled in the art will appreciate that not all of the above Figure 1 , FIG. 2A to FIG. 2B , Figure 3 , FIG. 4A to FIG. 4C , Figures 5 to 7 and Fig.18All elements, features and / or components described and shown in the description need to be included in every example, and not all elements and / or components described herein need to be depicted in every illustrative example. Figure 1 , FIG. 2A to FIG. 2B , Figure 3 , FIG. 4A to FIG. 4C , Figures 5 to 7 and Fig.18 Some of the elements, features and / or components described and shown in the drawings may be combined in various ways without necessarily including Figure 1 , FIG. 2A to FIG. 2B , Figure 3 , FIG. 4A to FIG. 4C , Figures 5 to 7 and Fig.18 , other features described and shown in the other drawings and / or the accompanying disclosure, even if such one or more combinations are not explicitly shown herein. Similarly, additional features not limited to the examples presented may be combined with some or all of the features shown and described herein. Unless explicitly stated otherwise, the above-mentioned Figure 1 , FIG. 2A to FIG. 2B , Figure 3 , FIG. 4A to FIG. 4C , Figures 5 to 7 and Fig.18 The schematic diagrams of the examples depicted in the drawings are not meant to imply structural limitations with respect to the illustrative examples. Rather, although an illustrative structure is indicated, it should be understood that the structure may be modified when appropriate. Thus, modifications, additions, and / or omissions may be made to the structures shown. In addition, Figure 1 , FIG. 2A to FIG. 2B , Figure 3 , FIG. 4A to FIG. 4C , Figures 5 to 7 and Fig.18 In each of the , elements, features and / or components that serve similar or at least substantially similar purposes are labeled with like numerals and may not be referenced herein. Figure 1 , FIG. 2A to FIG. 2B , Figure 3 , FIG. 4A to FIG. 4C , Figures 5 to 7 and Fig.18 Each of the foregoing discusses such elements, features or components in detail. Similarly, Figure 1 , FIG. 2A to FIG. 2B , Figure 3 , FIG. 4A to FIG. 4C , Figures 5 to 7 and Fig.18 Not all elements, features, and / or components may be labeled in each of the embodiments, but for consistency, the figure numerals associated therewith may be utilized herein.

[0246] In the above mentioned Figures 8 to 17 and Figures 19 to 23In the disclosure, the boxes may represent operations, steps and / or parts thereof, and the lines connecting the boxes do not imply any particular order or dependency of the operations or parts thereof. It should be understood that not all dependencies between the various disclosed operations are necessarily represented. Figures 8 to 17 and Figures 19 to 23 And the attached disclosure describing the operation of the disclosed method set forth herein should not be construed as necessarily determining the order in which the operations are performed. On the contrary, although an illustrative order is indicated, it should be understood that the order of the operations can be modified when appropriate. Therefore, the operations shown can be modified, added and / or omitted, and certain operations can be performed in different orders or simultaneously. In addition, it should be understood by those skilled in the art that not all described operations need to be performed.

[0247] In addition, throughout this specification, references to features, advantages, or similar language used herein do not imply that all features and advantages that can be achieved through the examples disclosed herein should be or are present in any single example. Instead, language referring to features and advantages is understood to mean that a particular feature, advantage, or characteristic described in conjunction with an example is included in at least one example. Therefore, discussions of features, advantages, and similar language used throughout this disclosure may, but do not necessarily, refer to the same example.

[0248] Examples of the subject matter disclosed herein can be found in Fig.24 Aircraft manufacturing and service method 2400 is shown and Fig.25 2400. In one or more examples, the disclosed methods and systems for associating test data of a part to be tested with a final project coordinate system can be used in aircraft manufacturing. During pre-production, the maintenance method 2400 may include specification and design of the aircraft 2500 (block 2402) and material procurement (block 2404). During production, component and subassembly manufacturing (block 2406) and system integration (block 2408) of the aircraft 2500 may be performed. Thereafter, the aircraft 2500 may be certified and delivered (block 2410) to be put into service (block 2412). While in service, the aircraft 2500 may be scheduled for routine maintenance and repair (block 2414). Routine maintenance and repair may include modification, reconstruction, refurbishment, etc. of one or more systems of the aircraft 2500.

[0249] Each of the processes of maintenance method 2400 may be performed or carried out by a system integrator, a third party, and / or an operator (e.g., a customer). For purposes of this description, a system integrator may include, but is not limited to, any number of aircraft manufacturers and major system subcontractors; a third party may include, but is not limited to, any number of suppliers, subcontractors, and vendors; and an operator may be an airline, a leasing company, a military entity, a service organization, etc.

[0250] like Fig.25 As shown, aircraft 2500 produced by maintenance method 2400 may include fuselage 2502 having multiple high-level systems 2504 and interior 2506. Examples of high-level systems 2504 include one or more of propulsion system 2508, electrical system 2510, hydraulic system 2512, and environmental system 2514. Any number of other systems may be included. Although an aerospace example is shown, the principles disclosed herein may be applied to other industries, such as the automotive industry. Therefore, in addition to aircraft 2500, the principles disclosed herein may be applied to other vehicles, such as land vehicles, marine vehicles, space vehicles, etc.

[0251] During any one or more of the stages of the manufacturing and maintenance method 2400, the disclosed systems and methods for associating test data of the part to be tested with the final project coordinate system can be employed. For example, the components or subassemblies corresponding to the component and subassembly manufacturing (box 2406) can be made or manufactured in a manner similar to the components or assemblies produced when the aircraft 2500 is in service (box 2412). In addition, one or more examples of the system, method, or combination thereof can be utilized during the production stage (box 2406 and box 2408), for example, by substantially speeding up the assembly of the aircraft 2500 or reducing the cost of the aircraft. Similarly, one or more examples of system or method implementations, or a combination thereof, can be utilized when the aircraft 2500 is in service (box 2412) and / or during maintenance and repair (box 2414), for example and without limitation.

[0252] The described features, advantages, and characteristics of one example may be combined in one or more other examples in any suitable manner. Those skilled in the relevant art will recognize that the examples described herein may be practiced without one or more of the specific features or advantages of a particular example. In other cases, additional features and advantages that may not be present in all examples may be recognized in certain examples. In addition, although various examples of fastener systems 100 and methods 800, 1100, 1400, 1900, 2200 for connecting multiple substrates of workpieces have been shown and described, modifications may be made by those skilled in the art upon reading the specification. The present application includes such modifications and is limited only by the scope of the claims.

Claims

1. A fastener system (100) for connecting a plurality of substrates (102) of a workpiece (104), the workpiece (104) having a working side (106) and a blind side (108), the fastener system (100) comprising: a nut member (110) comprising a nut hole (112) having an internal thread (114), the nut member (110) being configured to place the nut hole (112) over coupling holes (116) of the plurality of substrates (102) passing through the blind side (108) of the workpiece (104); a sleeve member (118) comprising an outer sleeve surface (202) having a lubricating coating (204), the sleeve member (118) being configured to be inserted into the coupling hole (116) from the working side (106) of the workpiece (104) through the plurality of substrates (102); as well as A bolt member (120) comprising a head portion (122), a threaded portion (124) and a shank portion (126) extending between the head portion (122) and the threaded portion (124), wherein the bolt member (120) is configured to be inserted into a central hole (206) of the sleeve member (118), and the threaded portion (124) is configured to be threadedly engaged with the internal thread (114) of the nut member (110). Wherein, when the bolt member (120) becomes fully engaged with the nut member (110), the shank portion (126) of the bolt member (120) is configured to cause radial expansion of the sleeve member (118), and the sleeve member (118) is configured to provide an interference fit (502) within the coupling hole (116) through the plurality of substrates (102).

2. The fastener system of claim 1, wherein the plurality of substrates (102) includes at least one composite substrate (128).

3. The fastener system of claim 1, wherein the nut member (110) is configured to be secured to the blind side (108) of the workpiece (104).

4. The fastener system of claim 3, wherein the nut member (110) is configured to be secured to the blind side (108) of the workpiece (104) using at least one of mechanical fasteners and swaging.

5. The fastener system according to claim 1, wherein the nut member (110) further comprises: A nut plate assembly (302) includes a nut (304) and a flange plate (306), the flange plate captively retaining the nut (304), the nut (304) including the nut hole (112), the flange plate (306) being configured to be fixed to the blind side (108) of the workpiece (104) with the nut hole (112) above the coupling hole (116) passing through the plurality of base plates (102).

6. The fastener system of claim 5, wherein the nut (304) captively retained by the flange plate (306) is spaced apart from a mounting surface (308) of the flange plate (306), the flange plate (306) comprising: A counterbore (310) is provided in the mounting surface (308) and is relatively aligned with the nut hole (112) of the nut (304) and the coupling hole (116) of the plurality of substrates (102), the counterbore (310) being configured to provide space for a distal end (208) of the sleeve member (118) protruding from the coupling hole (116) at the blind side (108) of the workpiece (104) when the bolt member (120) becomes fully engaged with the nut member (110).

7. The fastener system of claim 1, further comprising: A cover seal member (130) includes a dome (132) and a cover flange (134), the cover seal member (130) being configured to be placed over the nut member (110), the cover flange (134) being configured to secure the cover seal member (130) to the blind side (108) of the workpiece (104).

8. The fastener system of claim 1, wherein the sleeve member (118) comprises a ductile metallic material.

9. The fastener system of claim 8, wherein the ductile metallic material comprises at least one of tin, tin alloys, copper, copper alloys, aluminum, aluminum alloys, silver, silver alloys, gold, and gold alloys.

10. The fastener system of claim 1, wherein the lubricious coating (204) comprises at least one of indium, indium alloys, tin, tin alloys, bismuth, bismuth alloys, aluminum, and aluminum alloys.

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