Fastening pin, multi-piece fastener and fastening method

Abstract

The invention relates to a fastening pin, a multi-piece fastener and a fastening method. The pin includes a first pin end, a second pin end, and a handle extending intermediate the first pin end and the second pin end. The handle includes a longitudinal axis and a thread including a thread profile. The thread profile includes a first curved feature, a second curved feature, a third curved feature, a first linear feature, and a second linear feature. An inflection point is formed between the first bending feature and the second bending feature. The radius of curvature of the second curved feature is in a range of 1.5 times greater than the radius of curvature of the third curved feature to 2.5 times greater than the radius of curvature of the third curved feature. The first linear feature has a flank angle in the range of 0 degree to 60 degrees.

Description

Cross-referencing

[0001] This application claims priority to U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 63 / 512,320, filed July 7, 2023, the contents of which are hereby incorporated by reference in this specification.

[0002] Application areas This disclosure relates to fastening pins, multi-piece fasteners, and fastening methods. Background Technology

[0003] Vehicle frames, storage racks, solar panel structures, aircraft components, and other structures may include a large number of mechanical fasteners. For example, mechanical fasteners can be installed in holes in structural components to hold various parts together. Properly installing mechanical fasteners into these holes presents challenges. Summary of the Invention

[0004] According to a non-limiting aspect of this disclosure, a fastener is provided that includes a pin. The pin includes a first pin end, a second pin end, and a shank extending between the first pin end and the second pin end. The shank includes a longitudinal axis and a thread, the thread including a thread profile. The thread profile includes a first curved feature, a second curved feature, a third curved feature, a first straight feature, and a second straight feature. The first curved feature extends along the longitudinal axis and defines a first radius of curvature. The second curved feature extends along the longitudinal axis and is adjacent to the first feature. An inflection point is formed between the first curved feature and the second curved feature. The second feature defines a second radius of curvature. The third curved feature extends along the longitudinal axis and is adjacent to the second curved feature. The third curved feature defines a third radius of curvature. At least one of the second curved feature and the third curved feature forms the root of the thread profile. The second radius of curvature is in the range of 1.5 times larger than the third radius of curvature to 2.5 times larger than the third radius of curvature. The first straight feature is adjacent to the third curved feature and has a tooth flank angle ranging from 0 to 60 degrees. The second straight feature extends along the longitudinal axis and is located at the crest of the thread profile.

[0005] According to a non-limiting aspect of this disclosure, a fastening method is provided. The method includes inserting the pin end of a fastener's pin into a hole in a structure. The fastener includes the pin and a fastening collar. The pin includes a first pin end, a second pin end, and a shank extending between the first and second pin ends. The shank includes a longitudinal axis and a thread, the thread including a thread profile. The thread profile includes a first curved feature, a second curved feature, a third curved feature, a first straight feature, and a second straight feature. The first curved feature extends along the longitudinal axis and defines a first radius of curvature. The second curved feature extends along the longitudinal axis and is adjacent to the first feature. An inflection point is formed between the first and second curved features. The second feature defines a second radius of curvature. The third curved feature extends along the longitudinal axis and is adjacent to the second curved feature. The third curved feature defines a third radius of curvature. At least one of the second and third curved features forms the root of the thread profile. The second radius of curvature is in the range of 1.5 times to 2.5 times larger than the third radius of curvature. The first straight feature is adjacent to the third curved feature and has a flank angle in the range of 0 to 60 degrees. The second straight feature extends along the longitudinal axis and is located at the crest of the thread profile. The method includes forcing an elongated portion of the fastening collar of the fastener into contact with the contact surface of the installation tool, thereby forcing the structure into contact with the collar end of the fastening collar, and deforming the elongated portion onto the thread of the pin.

[0006] It should be understood that the invention disclosed and described in this specification is not limited to the aspects outlined in this description. The foregoing and other details will be understood by taking into account the specific embodiments according to the various non-limiting and non-exhaustive aspects of this specification. Attached Figure Description

[0007] The features and advantages of the examples, as well as the ways in which they are obtained, will become more apparent and the examples will be better understood by taking into account the accompanying drawings in the following description, wherein: Figure 1 This is a side view of a non-limiting embodiment of the fastener according to this disclosure; Figure 2 yes Figure 1 A cross-sectional view of region A in the image, showing the thread profile; Figure 3 This is a perspective view of a non-limiting embodiment of a fastener according to the present disclosure, the fastener including a pin and a fastening collar; Figure 4 This is a perspective view of a non-limiting embodiment of a fastener according to the present disclosure, the fastener including a pin and a fastening collar; Figure 5The images are comparisons of the fasteners after the fastening collar was installed and after it was removed from the pin, showing significant wear on the fastener threads. Figure 6 The image shows a non-limiting embodiment of the fastener according to this disclosure after the fastening collar has been installed and removed from the pin, indicating slight wear (if any) on the threads of the fastener. Figure 7A It is an image comparing the thread profile of the fastener before installing the fastening collar onto the pin; Figure 7B After installing the retaining collar and removing the retaining collar from the pin Figure 7A An image of the thread profile, showing obvious wear on the thread; Figure 8A The image shows the thread profile of a non-limiting embodiment of the fastener according to this disclosure before the fastening collar is installed onto the pin; Figure 8B After installing the retaining collar and removing the retaining collar from the pin Figure 8A An image of the thread profile, showing slight wear (if any) on the thread; Figure 9 The table includes the results derived from removing the following: (i) conventional fasteners; (ii) fasteners according to the present disclosure including a first coating (BL), the first coating including an electroplated zinc and a chromate coating; (iii) fasteners according to the present disclosure including a second coating (BLX), the second coating including the first coating and an organic surface layer with overall lubrication; and (iv) fasteners according to the present disclosure including a third coating (BL2X), the third coating including both the first coating and an organic surface layer with overall lubrication. Figure 10A This is a cross-sectional view of a non-limiting embodiment of the multi-piece fasteners and structures according to the present disclosure; Figure 10B yes Figure 10A A cross-sectional side view of a multi-piece fastener that engages with a non-limiting embodiment of the fastening collar mounting tool according to the present disclosure; Figure 10C yes Figure 10B A cross-sectional side view of a non-limiting embodiment of a multi-piece fastener, wherein the fastening collar is at least partially deformed to the shank of the pin of the multi-piece fastener; Figure 10D yes Figure 10C A cross-sectional view of a non-limiting embodiment of a multi-piece fastener installed in a structure; and Figure 10E yes Figure 10D A non-limiting embodiment of the fastening collar is shown in a cross-sectional side view after it has been removed from the pin.

[0008] In all the views, corresponding reference numerals indicate corresponding parts. The examples set forth herein illustrate certain non-limiting embodiments in one form, and such examples are not to be construed in any way as being within the scope of the appended claims. Detailed Implementation

[0009] This document describes and illustrates various examples to provide a comprehensive understanding of the structure, function, and use of the disclosed fasteners, pins, fastening collars, and fastening methods. The various examples described and illustrated herein are non-limiting and non-exhaustive. Therefore, the invention is not limited to the description of the various non-limiting and non-exhaustive examples disclosed herein. Rather, the invention is defined solely by the claims. Features and characteristics shown and / or described in conjunction with the various examples may be combined with features and characteristics of other examples. Such modifications and changes are intended to be included within the scope of this specification. Consequently, the claims may be amended to describe any feature or characteristic explicitly or inherently described in this specification, or any feature or characteristic otherwise explicitly or inherently supported by this specification. Furthermore, the applicant reserves the right to amend the claims to expressly waive any feature or characteristic that may be present in the prior art. The various embodiments disclosed and described in this specification may include, consist of, or be substantially composed of the features and characteristics described herein in various ways.

[0010] As used herein, “intermediate” means that the mentioned element is located between two elements, but not necessarily in contact with those elements. Therefore, unless otherwise stated herein, an element located “intermediate” between the first element and the second element may or may not be adjacent to or in contact with the first element and / or the second element, and other elements may be located between the intermediate element and the first element and / or the second element.

[0011] Unless otherwise stated herein, the first element "adjacent" to the second element is in contact with the second element, and there are no other elements between the first element and the second element.

[0012] Unless otherwise stated herein, an "inflection point" is a point on a curve where the sign of curvature changes. For example, a curve may change from "concave upwards" to "concave downwards" at an inflection point.

[0013] A bolt can be a two-piece fastener comprising a hardened metal pin and a metal collar forged into a groove in the pin, thereby creating a clamping force to hold assembled components together. To install the bolt, an installation tool clamps the pin end of the bolt and then pulls it to close the gap between the mating materials. Inside the nose assembly of the installation tool, a tapered anvil can then be forced downward into the collar to gradually compress (e.g., forge) the collar material into the groove of the pin. The direct metal-to-metal contact created by the collar being forged into the groove of the pin reduces the loosening effect caused by lateral vibrations.

[0014] Standard locking bolts, including forged collars, are typically removed only by destructive methods, such as cutting the locking collar with a special cutter nose, cutting the locking collar with a special collar cutter, grinding the collar, and / or cutting the locking collar with a saw or torch. Standard off-the-shelf removal methods (such as impact screwdrivers, torque wrenches, and / or standard screwdrivers with sockets) are generally not applicable for removing locking collars. This disclosure provides a fastener comprising a thread profile that allows the collar to be removed by conventional methods without, for example, cutting or grinding the locking collar. Fasteners according to this disclosure may not require destructive removal and can reduce wear on the pin threads during removal.

[0015] like Figure 1 As shown, pin 120 may include a first pin end 128, a second pin end 130, a shank 122, and a longitudinal axis extending from the first pin end 128 to the second pin end 130. Al The second pin end 130 may include a head 136 configured to prevent the pin 120 from crossing the hole in the structure beyond a predetermined distance. In various non-limiting embodiments, the pin 120 may include a traction region 124 (e.g., a pin tail) and / or a necking groove (not shown).

[0016] The shank 122 may include a portion suitable for being received in a fastening collar (e.g., regarding...). Figure 3 The shape of the cavity within the described fastening collar 302. In various non-limiting embodiments, the shank 122 has a generally cylindrical shape. The shank 122 may be located between the first pin end 128 and the second pin end 130. The shank 122 may include a thread 126, which may be configured to engage with and form a thread thereon on the inner annular surface of the fastening collar. After the thread is formed thereon, the thread 126 and the thread formed on the inner annular surface reduce wear during removal of the installed fastening collar compared to conventional threads.

[0017] refer to Figure 2The thread 126 (e.g., a helical thread) may include a thread profile 226a, which includes a first bend feature 240, a second bend feature 242, a third bend feature 244, a first straight feature 246, and a second straight feature 248. The thread profile 226a defines the geometry of the thread 126 spanning one pitch. p And repeat along thread 126.

[0018] In various non-limiting embodiments, at least one of the second bending feature 242 and the third bending feature 244 forms the root 254 of the thread profile 226a. The root 254 may include the minimum diameter (e.g., the root diameter) in the thread profile 226a. The root 254 may be defined by a line tangent to the thread profile 226a, which is perpendicular to the longitudinal axis A. l The angle between the parallel lines is no greater than 15 degrees. In various non-limiting embodiments, there are no straight lines in the tooth root 254, and the tooth root 254 is a continuous curve.

[0019] The first bending feature 240 is along the longitudinal axis A l The first radius of curvature R1 is extended and defined. The first bending feature 240 may be tangent to the crest 252 of the thread profile 226a and the second bending feature 242. The crest 252 may include the largest diameter in the thread profile 226a (e.g., a large diameter, the nominal diameter of the fastener). The first radius of curvature R1 may be 0 times larger than the second radius of curvature R2 of the second bending feature 242, and at most 0.45 times larger. In various non-limiting embodiments, the first radius of curvature R1 may be in the range of 0.015 inches to 0.035 inches, such as, for example, 0.0175 inches to 0.0185 inches, 0.02 inches to 0.022 inches, 0.022 inches to 0.026 inches, or 0.027 inches to 0.032 inches.

[0020] The second bending feature 242 is along the longitudinal axis A l The second bend 242 may extend adjacent to the first bend feature 240 and define a second radius of curvature R2. The second bend feature 242 may be tangent to the root 254. In various non-limiting embodiments, the second radius of curvature R2 may range from 0.04 inches to 0.08 inches, such as, for example, 0.042 inches to 0.046 inches, 0.048 inches to 0.052 inches, 0.055 inches to 0.06 inches, or 0.07 inches to 0.08 inches. An inflection point 256 may be formed between the first bend feature 240 and the second bend feature 242.

[0021] The third bending feature 244 is along the longitudinal axis A lThe third curvature radius R3 extends to be adjacent to and defines a third curvature radius R3. In various non-limiting embodiments, the second curvature feature 242 is located between and adjacent to the first curvature feature 240 and the third curvature feature 244. The third curvature feature 244 may be tangent to the first straight feature 246 and may be tangent to the root 254. The third curvature radius R3 may be defined according to the following formula 1: Formula 1 Where α is the tooth lateral angle as described below.

[0022] In various non-limiting embodiments, the third radius of curvature R3 can be in the range of 0.02 inches to 0.036 inches, 0.02 inches to 0.024 inches, 0.023 inches to 0.027 inches, 0.027 inches to 0.031 inches, or 0.033 inches to 0.038 inches.

[0023] The second radius of curvature R2 can be in the range of 1.5 times to 2.5 times larger than the third radius of curvature R3, such as, for example, in the range of 1.8 times to 2.2 times larger than the third radius of curvature R3, or in the range of 1.9 times to 2.1 times larger than the third radius of curvature R3.

[0024] First straight line feature 246 along longitudinal axis A l The extension may be adjacent to the third curved feature 244 and include a tooth flank angle α. The tooth flank angle α may be relative to the axis perpendicular to the longitudinal axis A. l And measurements are taken along line 250 toward head 136. In various non-limiting embodiments, the lateral angle α can be in the range of 0 to 60 degrees, such as, for example, greater than 0 to 60 degrees, 5 to 45 degrees, 10 to 30 degrees, 10 to 25 degrees, 15 to 22 degrees, 18 to 20 degrees, or 18.5 to 19.5 degrees. In various non-limiting embodiments, the first straight line feature 246 is perpendicular to the longitudinal axis A. l The extended distance d2 is in the range of 0.005 inches to 0.01 inches, such as, for example, 0.005 inches to 0.0065 inches, 0.0065 inches to 0.008 inches, 0.007 inches to 0.008 inches, or 0.009 inches to 0.01 inches.

[0025] The second straight line feature 248 is along the longitudinal axis A. lIt extends and may be located at the tooth crest 252. The second straight feature 248 may extend along the longitudinal axis by a distance d3 in the range of 0.005 inches to 0.013 inches, such as, for example, 0.006 inches to 0.0075 inches, 0.0075 inches to 0.009 inches, 0.0085 inches to 0.01 inches, or 0.011 inches to 0.012 inches. The second straight feature may be adjacent to the first curved feature 240.

[0026] In various non-limiting embodiments, the fourth curved feature 258 may be located between and in contact with the first straight feature 246 and the second straight feature 248. The fourth curved feature 258 is along the longitudinal axis A. l It extends and has a fourth radius of curvature R4. The fourth radius of curvature R4 (if present) can be 0 to 0.5 times larger than the depth d1 (e.g., the root depth).

[0027] In various non-limiting embodiments, thread profile 226a may include a thread pitch ranging from 0.07 inches to 0.140 inches. p Such as, for example, 0.07 inches to 0.08 inches, 0.085 inches to 0.09 inches, 0.095 inches to 0.11 inches, or 0.12 inches to 0.13 inches. In various non-limiting embodiments, the distance d3 can be the pitch. p At least 5%, such as, for example, pitch p At least 10%. In various non-limiting embodiments, the distance d3 can be within the pitch. p Within the range of 5% to 15%. Pitch p The longitudinal axis A can be substantially occupied by a first bending feature 240, a second bending feature 242, a third bending feature 244, an optional fourth bending feature 258, a first straight line feature 246, and a second straight line feature 248. l It consists of or is composed of straight-line distances.

[0028] In various non-limiting embodiments, the thread profile 226a may include a depth d1 ranging from 0.018 inches to 0.040 inches, such as, for example, 0.018 inches to 0.022 inches, 0.022 inches to 0.026 inches, 0.026 inches to 0.030 inches, or 0.032 inches to 0.036 inches. In various non-limiting embodiments, the depth d1 is related to the large diameter d M The ratio can be in the range of 0.03 to 0.06, such as, for example, 0.035 to 0.050 or 0.04 to 0.045.

[0029] The first straight line feature 246 and the second straight line feature 248 define a first virtual intersection point Tl1. The second curved feature 242 and the second straight line feature 248 define a second virtual intersection point Tl2. The distance d4 can be measured from the first virtual intersection point Tl1 along the longitudinal axis A. l Extending to the second virtual intersection Tl2. In various non-limiting embodiments, the distance d4 is related to the large diameter d. M The ratio can be in the range of 0.02 to 0.05, such as, for example, 0.025 to 0.04 or 0.03 to 0.035. In various non-limiting embodiments, the pitch... p The ratio to distance d4 can be in the range of 4 to 6, such as, for example, 4.5 to 5.5, 4.5 to 5.25, or 4.7 to 5.0.

[0030] Multi-piece fasteners may include pins according to this disclosure. Multi-piece fasteners may be locking bolts or blind fasteners. In various non-limiting embodiments, references are made to... Figure 3 and Figure 4 The multi-piece fastener 300 according to this disclosure may include a two-piece assembly comprising, for example, a fastening collar 302 and a pin 120. The fastening collar 302 may include features configured to receive torque, such as, for example, substantially flat sides, ribs, splines, indentations, knurling, protrusions, holes, recesses, tabs, and / or similar structural features. Figure 3 and Figure 4 As shown, the fastening collar 302 includes six flat sides 382 (e.g., hexagonal), which can be engaged by standard off-the-shelf tools (such as impact screwdrivers, torque wrenches, and / or standard screwdrivers with sockets) and surround the longitudinal axis of the pin 120. Al Rotate to facilitate removal.

[0031] The size of the fastening collar 302 and / or pin 120 can be appropriately set according to the intended use. For example, refer to Figure 1 The handle 122 may include a large diameter d ranging from 0.06 inches to 4 inches. M Furthermore, the size of the fastening collar 302 can be configured to receive the handle 122. For example, in various non-limiting embodiments, a large diameter d M The pitch can be 0.39 inches (10 mm), 0.47 inches (12 mm), 0.55 inches (14 mm), 0.63 inches (16 mm), or 0.79 inches (20 mm), with a tolerance of + / - 10%. In various non-limiting embodiments, the pitch of pin 120... p With large diameter d M The ratio can be in the range of 2 to 4, such as, for example, 2.5 to 3.5, 2.8 to 3.2 or 2.9 to 3.1.

[0032] Fasteners and their components as described herein may include any suitable material, such as, for example, metals, metal alloys, polymers, or another suitable material.

[0033] like Figures 10A to 10B As shown, the multi-piece fastener 300 can be installed into the hole 1072 of the structure 1070. As shown, the hole 1072 can extend from the first side 1074 through the structure 1070 to the second side 1076.

[0034] Structure 1070 may include at least one of, for example, metal, metal alloy, composite material, or other other material. For example, in some non-limiting embodiments, structure 1070 may include at least one of aluminum, aluminum alloy, titanium, titanium alloy, nickel, nickel alloy, iron, iron alloy, and carbon fiber composite material. In various non-limiting embodiments, structure 1070, in which multi-piece fasteners 300 are assembled, includes aluminum and / or aluminum alloys, such as, for example, 7075 aluminum alloy. Referring to the accompanying drawings, in various non-limiting embodiments, structure 1070 may be configured as at least one of aerospace components or structures, automotive components or structures, transportation components or structures, building and construction components or structures, or another type of component or structure.

[0035] Structure 1070 may include a single layer of material or at least two layers of material. For example, such as Figures 10A to 10D As shown, structure 1070 may include a first layer 1070a and a second layer 1070b. When the fastening collar 302 is installed, the first layer 1070a may be located between the second layer 1070b and the fastening collar 302. In various non-limiting embodiments, the first layer 1070a is in contact with the fastening collar 302.

[0036] Hole 1072 may have an aperture diameter of Ø b Additionally, to facilitate alignment of the multi-piece fastener 300 with the hole 1072, the large diameter d of the shank 122... M The size can be set and configured to be smaller than the aperture Ø b This allows the first pin end 128 to be easily positioned into and through the hole 1072. In various non-limiting embodiments, the hole diameter Ø b It can be smaller than the diameter of the head 136 so as to prevent the head 136 of the pin 120 from moving into the hole 1072.

[0037] like Figure 10AAs shown, the first pin end 128 of pin 120 is aligned with the hole 1072 on the second side 1076 of structure 1070 before being inserted into the insertion hole 1072. A fastening collar 302 is positioned above the first pin end 128, and the first pin end 128 is inserted and passes through the collar cavity 310 of the fastening collar 302. The first ring end 304 of the fastening collar 302 is positioned to contact the first layer 1070a of structure 1070. For example, the fastening collar 302 can be forced into contact with structure 1070, which can restrict the fastening collar 302 relative to pin 120 along the longitudinal axis A of the multi-piece fastener 300. l Further axial movement. For example... Figure 10A As shown, the inner surface 1012 of the fastening collar 302 is substantially smooth, thereby defining the collar cavity 310. The inner surface 1012 may be unthreaded. The fastening collar 302 may include a flange 314 configured to prevent the fastening collar 302 from entering the bore 1072.

[0038] refer to Figure 10B The chuck 1046 of the fastening collar mounting device 1040 has engaged with the shank 122 of the pin 120 of the multi-piece fastener 300. For example, the chuck 1046 is positioned above the traction area 124 of the multi-piece fastener 300 and retracted into the housing 1044 of the fastening collar mounting device 1040, which causes the chuck 1046 to force contact with the anvil 1042 of the fastening collar mounting device 1040. In response to the contact between the anvil 1042 and the chuck 1046, the jaws 1056 have closed around the traction area 124 and have forced contact with the traction area 124 of the pin 120.

[0039] After engagement, the chuck 1046 can apply an axial force to the traction region 124 of the pin 120, which reduces the gap (if present) between the first layer 1070a and the second layer 1070b of the structure 1070 and creates forced contact between the fastening collar 302 and the structure 1070, and between the head 136 and the structure 1070. For example, refer to Figure 10CThe collet 1046 further retracts into the fastening collar mounting device 1040, and the pin 120 moves due to the engagement between the traction area 124 and the collet 1046. When the collet 1046 retracts into the housing 1044 of the fastening collar mounting device 1040, the anvil 1042 can contact the fastening collar 302. After a predetermined force is reached, the fastening collar 302 can be at least partially deformed in response to the forced contact between the anvil 1042 and the fastening collar 302. For example, the fastening collar 302 can be forged onto a portion of the thread 126 of the shank 122 between the first layer 1070a and the first pin end 128. Deforming the fastening collar 302 at least partially onto the shank 122 of the pin 120 thereby securing the fastening collar 302 to the shank 122 and securing the multi-piece fastener 300 to at least a portion of the structure 1070. In this manner, for example, the first layer 1070a and the second layer 1070b of structure 1070 are fixed together (e.g., preventing the longitudinal axis A of the multi-piece fastener 300 from being obstructed). l Axial movement).

[0040] like Figure 10D As shown in the non-limiting embodiment, after the multi-piece fastener 300 is installed into the structure 1070, the head 136 of the fastening collar 302 and the pin 120 applies a clamping force to the layers 1070a-b of the structure 1070, thereby securing the multi-piece fastener 300 to the structure 1070 and fixing the layers 1070a-b together. Furthermore, due to the forced contact caused by the chuck 1046 of the fastening collar mounting device 1040, a thread 1080 is formed on the inner surface 1012 of the fastening collar 302. In various non-limiting embodiments, such as... Figure 10D As shown, pin 120 may not break after being installed in structure 1070.

[0041] refer to Figure 10E The fastening collar 302 can be removed after installation using standard off-the-shelf removal methods such as, for example, an impact screwdriver, a torque wrench, and / or a standard screwdriver with a socket. After removing the fastening collar 302, the threads 1080 and / or 126 may not wear.

[0042] This disclosure includes methods for installing fasteners and securing structures, as described and illustrated herein. In various non-limiting embodiments, a multi-piece fastener system according to this disclosure can be used in the method of securing a structure. A second end of the multi-piece fastener according to this disclosure can be inserted into a hole in the structure. At least a portion of the second pin end can pass through the collar cavity of the fastening collar of the multi-piece fastener according to this disclosure. The traction area of ​​the pin can be forced into contact with the jaws of the clamps of the fastening collar mounting device according to this disclosure.

[0043] The retaining collar can be forced into contact with the anvil of the retaining collar mounting device. The traction area can be moved away from the retaining collar using the chuck of the retaining collar mounting device according to the present disclosure. Thus, the retaining collar mounting device deforms the retaining collar onto the shank of the pin and secures at least a portion of the multi-piece fastener according to the present disclosure in the structure. Deformation can form threads on the inner surface of the retaining collar. The retaining collar can be removed from the pin by applying torque to the retaining collar. In various non-limiting embodiments, the retaining collar can be removed by applying rotational torque to the retaining collar, and the threads of the pin may be slightly worn (if any) during the removal of the retaining collar. The retaining collar can be removed using standard off-the-shelf removal methods such as, for example, impact screwdrivers, torque wrenches, and / or standard screwdrivers with sockets.

[0044] The various aspects of the implementation of this disclosure include, but are not limited to, the aspects listed in the following numbered clauses.

[0045] Clause 1. A fastener comprising: a pin, the pin including: a first pin end; a second pin end; and a shank extending intermediately between the first pin end and the second pin end, the shank including a longitudinal axis and a thread, the thread including a thread profile including: a first bend feature extending along the longitudinal axis and defining a first radius of curvature; a second bend feature extending along the longitudinal axis and adjacent to the first bend feature, the first bend feature and the second bend feature forming an inflection point, the second bend feature defining a second radius of curvature; and a third bend feature, wherein... The third bending feature extends along the longitudinal axis and is adjacent to the second bending feature, the third bending feature defining a third radius of curvature, wherein at least one of the second bending feature and the third bending feature forms the root of the thread profile, wherein the second radius of curvature is in the range of 1.5 times to 2.5 times larger than the third radius of curvature; a first straight feature, the first straight feature being adjacent to the third bending feature and defining a tooth flank angle in the range of 0 degrees to 60 degrees; and a second straight feature, the second straight feature extending along the longitudinal axis and located at the crest of the thread profile.

[0046] Clause 2. The fastener as described in Clause 1, wherein the second radius of curvature is in the range of 1.8 times to 2.2 times larger than the third radius of curvature.

[0047] Clause 3. The fastener as described in Clause 1, wherein the second radius of curvature is in the range of 1.9 times to 2.1 times larger than the third radius of curvature.

[0048] Clause 4. The fastener as described in any one of Clauses 1 to 3, wherein the third radius of curvature is in the range of 0.02 inches to 0.036 inches, defined according to the following formula: , where α is the tooth lateral angle.

[0049] Clause 5. The fastener as described in any one of Clauses 1 to 4, wherein the thread profile further comprises a fourth bending feature located between and in contact with the first straight feature and the second straight feature, the fourth bending feature defining a fourth radius of curvature in the range of 0 to 0.5 times greater than the root depth of the thread profile.

[0050] Clause 6. The fastener as described in any one of Clauses 1 to 5, wherein the ratio of the root depth of the thread profile to the major diameter of the thread is in the range of 0.03 to 0.06.

[0051] Clause 7. The fastener as described in any one of Clauses 1 to 6, wherein the ratio of the pitch of the thread profile to the fourth distance is in the range of 4 to 6, wherein the fourth distance is defined between a first virtual intersection of the first straight feature and the second straight feature and a second virtual intersection of the second curved feature and the second straight feature.

[0052] Clause 8. The fastener as described in Clause 7, wherein the ratio of the fourth distance to the large diameter of the shank is in the range of 0.02 to 0.05.

[0053] Clause 9. The fastener as described in any one of Clauses 1 to 8, wherein the thread profile includes a depth ranging from 0.018 inches to 0.040 inches.

[0054] Clause 10. The fastener as described in any one of Clauses 1 to 9, wherein: the first radius of curvature is in the range of 0.015 inches to 0.035 inches; the second radius of curvature is in the range of 0.04 inches to 0.08 inches; the third radius of curvature is in the range of 0.02 inches to 0.036 inches; the first straight feature extends perpendicularly to the longitudinal axis by a distance in the range of 0.005 inches to 0.01 inches; the second straight feature extends along the longitudinal axis by a distance in the range of 0.005 inches to 0.013 inches; the thread profile includes a thread pitch in the range of 0.07 inches to 0.140 inches; and the shank includes a large diameter in the range of 0.47 inches to 0.79 inches + / - 10%.

[0055] Clause 11. The fastener as described in any one of Clauses 1 to 10, wherein: the first radius of curvature is in the range of 0.0175 inches to 0.0185 inches; the second radius of curvature is in the range of 0.042 inches to 0.046 inches; the third radius of curvature is in the range of 0.02 inches to 0.024 inches; the first straight feature extends perpendicularly to the longitudinal axis by a distance in the range of 0.005 inches to 0.0065 inches; the second straight feature extends along the longitudinal axis by a distance in the range of 0.006 inches to 0.0075 inches; the thread profile includes a thread pitch in the range of 0.07 inches to 0.08 inches; and the shank includes a large diameter of 0.47 inches + / - 10%.

[0056] Clause 12. The fastener as described in any one of Clauses 1 to 10, wherein: the first radius of curvature is in the range of 0.02 inches to 0.022 inches; the second radius of curvature is in the range of 0.048 inches to 0.052 inches; the third radius of curvature is in the range of 0.023 inches to 0.027 inches; the first straight feature extends perpendicularly to the longitudinal axis by a distance in the range of 0.0065 inches to 0.008 inches; the second straight feature extends along the longitudinal axis by a distance in the range of 0.0075 inches to 0.009 inches; the thread profile includes a thread pitch in the range of 0.085 inches to 0.09 inches; and the shank includes a large diameter of 0.55 inches + / - 10%.

[0057] Clause 13. The fastener as described in any one of Clauses 1 to 10, wherein: the first radius of curvature is in the range of 0.022 inches to 0.026 inches; the second radius of curvature is in the range of 0.055 inches to 0.06 inches; the third radius of curvature is in the range of 0.027 inches to 0.031 inches; the first straight feature extends perpendicularly to the longitudinal axis by a distance in the range of 0.007 inches to 0.008 inches; the second straight feature extends along the longitudinal axis by a distance in the range of 0.0085 inches to 0.01 inches; the thread profile includes a thread pitch in the range of 0.095 inches to 0.11 inches; and the shank includes a large diameter of 0.63 inches + / - 10%.

[0058] Clause 14. The fastener as described in any one of Clauses 1 to 10, wherein: the first radius of curvature is in the range of 0.027 inches to 0.032 inches; the second radius of curvature is in the range of 0.07 inches to 0.08 inches; the third radius of curvature is in the range of 0.033 inches to 0.038 inches; the first straight feature extends perpendicularly to the longitudinal axis by a distance in the range of 0.009 inches to 0.01 inches; the second straight feature extends along the longitudinal axis by a distance in the range of 0.011 inches to 0.012 inches; the thread profile includes a thread pitch in the range of 0.12 inches to 0.13 inches; and the shank includes a large diameter of 0.79 inches + / - 10%.

[0059] Clause 15. The fastener as described in any one of Clauses 1 to 14, wherein the shank comprises a large diameter ranging from 0.06 inches to 4 inches.

[0060] Clause 16. The fastener as described in any one of Clauses 1 to 15, wherein the fastener comprises metal, metal alloy, polymer, or combination thereof.

[0061] Clause 17. The fastener as described in any one of Clauses 1 to 16 further includes a fastening collar configured to receive the pin.

[0062] Clause 18. The fastener as described in Clause 17, wherein the fastening collar includes a substantially smooth inner surface defining a collar cavity.

[0063] Clause 19. A fastening method comprising: inserting the pin end of a pin of a fastener as described in Clause 17 or Clause 18 into a hole in a structure; forcing an elongated portion of a fastening collar of the fastener into contact with a contact surface of an installation tool, thereby forcing the structure into contact with the collar end of the fastening collar; and deforming the elongated portion onto the threads of the pin.

[0064] Clause 20. The method of Clause 19 further includes removing the fastening collar from the pin by applying torque to the fastening collar.

[0065] Those skilled in the art will recognize that the fasteners, pins, fastening collars, structures, methods, operations / actions, and objects described herein, along with the accompanying discussions, are non-limiting examples presented for clarity of concept, and various modifications to the disclosed configurations are conceivable. Therefore, as used herein, the specific examples / implementations stated and the accompanying discussions are intended to represent a more general category. Generally, the use of any particular template is intended to indicate its category, and the exclusion of specific parts, devices, equipment, operations / actions, and objects should not be considered limiting. While this disclosure provides descriptions of various specific aspects to illustrate aspects of this disclosure and / or their potential applications, it should be understood that various changes and modifications can be made by those skilled in the art. Therefore, one or more inventions described herein should be understood as at least as broad as they are claimed, and not narrowly defined by the specific illustrative aspects provided herein.

[0066] Any references to “various embodiments,” “some embodiments,” “one embodiment,” “implementation,” etc., in this specification indicate that a particular feature, structure, or characteristic described in connection with the examples is included in at least one embodiment. Therefore, the phrases “in various embodiments,” “in some embodiments,” “in one embodiment,” “in an embodiment,” “in a non-limiting embodiment,” or similar phrases appearing in the specification do not necessarily refer to the same embodiment. Furthermore, in one or more embodiments, a particular feature, structure, or characteristic may be combined in any suitable manner. Therefore, a particular feature, structure, or characteristic shown or described in connection with one embodiment may be combined, in whole or in part, with features, structures, or characteristics of one or more other embodiments without limitation. Such modifications and changes are intended to be included within the scope of this embodiment.

[0067] In this specification, unless otherwise stated, all numerical parameters should be understood to begin and be modified by the term "about" in all instances, whereby the numerical parameters have the inherent variability of the underlying measurement techniques used to determine the values ​​of the parameters. To the minimum and without attempting to limit the application of the principle of equivalent scope to the claims, each numerical parameter described herein should be interpreted at least based on the reported significant figures and by applying ordinary rounding techniques.

[0068] Furthermore, any numerical range described herein includes all subranges contained within the described range. For example, the range "1 to 10" includes all subranges between the referenced minimum value of 1 and the referenced maximum value of 10 (inclusive), i.e., a minimum value equal to or greater than 1 and a maximum value equal to or less than 10. Any maximum numerical limit described in this specification is intended to include all lower numerical limits contained therein, and any minimum numerical limit described in this specification is intended to include all higher numerical limits contained therein. Therefore, the applicant reserves the right to amend this specification (including the claims) to expressly describe any subranges included within the expressly described range. All such ranges are inherently described in this specification.

[0069] Unless otherwise stated, the grammatical articles “a,” “an,” and “the” as used herein are intended to include “at least one” or “one or more,” even when “at least one” or “one or more” is explicitly used in a particular instance. Therefore, the aforementioned grammatical articles are used herein to refer to one or more of the elements of a particular identifier (i.e., “at least one”). Furthermore, unless the context requires otherwise, the use of singular nouns includes the plural, and the use of plural nouns includes the singular.

Claims

1. A fastener comprising: Pins, the pins include First sales end, Second sales end; as well as A shank extending between the first pin end and the second pin end, the shank including a longitudinal axis and a thread, the thread including a thread profile, the thread profile including: A first bending feature extends along the longitudinal axis and defines a first radius of curvature; A second bending feature extends along the longitudinal axis and is adjacent to the first bending feature, an inflection point is formed between the first bending feature and the second bending feature, and the second bending feature defines a second radius of curvature. A third bending feature extends along the longitudinal axis and is adjacent to the second bending feature, the third bending feature defining a third radius of curvature, wherein at least one of the second bending feature and the third bending feature forms the root of the thread profile, wherein the second radius of curvature is in the range of 1.5 times to 2.5 times larger than the third radius of curvature; A first straight line feature, the first straight line feature being adjacent to the third curved feature and defining a tooth flank angle in the range of 0 degrees to 60 degrees; and The second straight line feature extends along the longitudinal axis and is located at the crest of the thread profile.

2. The fastener of claim 1, wherein the second radius of curvature is in the range of 1.8 times to 2.2 times larger than the third radius of curvature.

3. The fastener of claim 1, wherein the second radius of curvature is in the range of 1.9 times to 2.1 times larger than the third radius of curvature.

4. The fastener of claim 1, wherein the third radius of curvature is in the range of 0.02 inches to 0.036 inches, defined according to the following formula: , where α is the tooth lateral angle.

5. The fastener of claim 1, wherein the thread profile further comprises a fourth bending feature located between and in contact with the first straight feature and the second straight feature, the fourth bending feature defining a fourth radius of curvature in the range of 0 to 0.5 times greater than the root depth of the thread profile.

6. The fastener of claim 1, wherein the ratio of the root depth of the thread profile to the major diameter of the thread is in the range of 0.03 to 0.

06.

7. The fastener of claim 1, wherein the ratio of the thread pitch to the fourth distance is in the range of 4 to 6, wherein the fourth distance is defined between a first virtual intersection of the first straight feature and the second straight feature and a second virtual intersection of the second curved feature and the second straight feature.

8. The fastener of claim 7, wherein the ratio of the fourth distance to the large diameter of the shank is in the range of 0.02 to 0.

05.

9. The fastener of claim 1, wherein the thread profile includes a depth ranging from 0.018 inches to 0.040 inches.

10. The fastener as claimed in claim 1, wherein: The first radius of curvature is in the range of 0.015 inches to 0.035 inches; The second radius of curvature is in the range of 0.04 inches to 0.08 inches; The third radius of curvature is in the range of 0.02 inches to 0.036 inches; The first straight line feature extends perpendicularly to the longitudinal axis by a distance ranging from 0.005 inches to 0.01 inches; The second straight feature extends along the longitudinal axis by a distance ranging from 0.005 inches to 0.013 inches; The thread profile includes a thread pitch ranging from 0.07 inches to 0.140 inches; and The handle includes a large diameter ranging from 0.47 inches to 0.79 inches + / - 10%.

11. The fastener as claimed in claim 1, wherein: The first radius of curvature is in the range of 0.0175 inches to 0.0185 inches; The second radius of curvature is in the range of 0.042 inches to 0.046 inches; The third radius of curvature is in the range of 0.02 inches to 0.024 inches; The first straight line feature extends perpendicularly to the longitudinal axis by a distance ranging from 0.005 inches to 0.0065 inches; The second straight feature extends along the longitudinal axis by a distance ranging from 0.006 inches to 0.0075 inches; The thread profile includes a thread pitch ranging from 0.07 inches to 0.08 inches; and The handle includes a large diameter of 0.47 inches + / - 10%.

12. The fastener as claimed in claim 1, wherein: The first radius of curvature is in the range of 0.02 inches to 0.022 inches; The second radius of curvature is in the range of 0.048 inches to 0.052 inches; The third radius of curvature is in the range of 0.023 inches to 0.027 inches; The first straight line feature extends perpendicularly to the longitudinal axis by a distance ranging from 0.0065 inches to 0.008 inches; The second straight feature extends along the longitudinal axis by a distance ranging from 0.0075 inches to 0.009 inches; The thread profile includes a thread pitch ranging from 0.085 inches to 0.09 inches; and The handle includes a large diameter of 0.55 inches + / - 10%.

13. The fastener as claimed in claim 1, wherein: The first radius of curvature is in the range of 0.022 inches to 0.026 inches; The second radius of curvature is in the range of 0.055 inches to 0.06 inches; The third radius of curvature is in the range of 0.027 inches to 0.031 inches; The first straight line feature extends perpendicularly to the longitudinal axis by a distance ranging from 0.007 inches to 0.008 inches; The second straight feature extends along the longitudinal axis by a distance ranging from 0.0085 inches to 0.01 inches; The thread profile includes a thread pitch ranging from 0.095 inches to 0.11 inches; and The handle includes a large diameter of 0.63 inches + / - 10%.

14. The fastener as claimed in claim 1, wherein: The first radius of curvature is in the range of 0.027 inches to 0.032 inches; The second radius of curvature is in the range of 0.07 inches to 0.08 inches; The third radius of curvature is in the range of 0.033 inches to 0.038 inches; The first straight line feature extends perpendicularly to the longitudinal axis by a distance ranging from 0.009 inches to 0.01 inches; The second straight feature extends along the longitudinal axis by a distance ranging from 0.011 inches to 0.012 inches; The thread profile includes a thread pitch ranging from 0.12 inches to 0.13 inches; and The handle includes a large diameter of 0.79 inches + / - 10%.

15. The fastener of claim 1, wherein the shank includes a large diameter in the range of 0.06 inches to 4 inches.

16. The fastener of claim 1, wherein the fastener comprises metal, metal alloy, polymer, or a combination thereof.

17. The fastener of claim 1, further comprising a fastening collar configured to receive the pin.

18. The fastener of claim 17, wherein the fastening collar includes a substantially smooth inner surface defining a collar cavity.

19. A fastening method, the method comprising: The pin end of the pin of the fastener as described in claim 17 is inserted into the hole of the structure; as well as The elongated portion of the fastening collar of the fastener is forced into contact with the contact surface of the installation tool, thereby forcing the structure into contact with the collar end of the fastening collar and deforming the elongated portion onto the thread of the pin.

20. The method of claim 19, further comprising removing the fastening collar from the pin by applying torque to the fastening collar.

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