lock nut

Abstract

A locking nut includes a nut body having a threaded through-hole extending between a first end and a second end. A receiving cavity is defined within the second end of the nut body. A spring member disposed within the receiving cavity includes a pair of leg members connected together by a top member, such that the leg members are arranged in a generally parallel and spaced-apart relationship. Locking surfaces are defined on the leg members such that when an externally threaded member is screwed into the threaded through-hole defined by the nut body, the externally threaded member contacts the locking surfaces. The locking surfaces apply pressure to the externally threaded member at generally opposing radial positions to generate a locking force between the nut body and the externally threaded member.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates generally to fastener nuts, and more specifically to lock nuts for use with externally threaded components. Background Technology

[0002] Bolts, which are connected to nuts, have been widely used for many years. Bolts are typically installed in mechanical environments where machines are powered by energy sources such as gas or electricity. Machines inherently generate vibrations and / or thermal expansion / contraction. Even if the nut is already tightened, this vibration and / or thermal expansion / contraction can cause the nut to loosen on the bolt. This loosening can cause the nut to detach from the bolt, which in turn can cause components that were originally held to the machine to come off. This detachment can be dangerous and can cause machine failure, potentially resulting in injury or death to operators.

[0003] Another application where loose nuts can pose a danger is in the use of wheel nuts to secure wheels to vehicles. It is estimated that multiple vehicle accidents caused by loose wheel nuts occur every month in the United States. Clearly, the number is much greater globally.

[0004] To prevent nuts from loosening, lock nuts are typically used. There are hundreds of different types of lock nuts, all of which require a separate tool, such as a wrench, for tightening and installation, and the same tool is needed for removal. Some lock nuts are damaged during removal, necessitating the installation of a new one. Therefore, it is desirable for lock nuts to be removable and reinstallable.

[0005] The manufacturing cost of most existing locking nuts is significantly higher than that of conventional non-locking nuts. This increased cost hinders the use of locking nuts in certain environments, especially where large-scale production is required. The locking nut of this invention costs only about one cent more than a conventional non-locking nut, therefore the increased cost will not limit its use in mass production. Summary of the Invention

[0006] According to a first aspect of this disclosure, a locking nut is provided having a nut body with a first end and a second end. The nut body defines a threaded through-hole therein, the threaded through-hole being sized to receive an externally threaded member. The second end of the nut body defines a receiving cavity. A spring member disposed within the receiving cavity includes at least a first leg member and a second leg member, the first leg member and the second leg member being connected together by a tip member such that at least portions of the first leg member and the second leg member are arranged in a generally parallel and spaced apart relationship. The first leg member and the second leg member respectively define a first locking surface and a second locking surface, such that when the externally threaded member is screwed into the threaded through-hole defined by the nut body, the externally threaded member contacts the first locking surface of the first leg member and the second locking surface of the second leg member. The first locking surface and the second locking surface apply pressure to the externally threaded member at generally opposite radial positions to generate a locking force between the nut body and the externally threaded member.

[0007] The first leg member and the second leg member can undergo elastic displacement through contact between the external threaded member and the first locking surface and the second locking surface.

[0008] According to a second aspect of this disclosure, a locking nut is provided having a nut body with a first end and a second end. The nut body defines a threaded through-hole therein, the threaded through-hole being sized to receive an externally threaded member. The second end of the nut body defines a receiving cavity therein, the receiving cavity having a first mating surface and a second mating surface, the second mating surface being angled relative to the first mating surface. A spring member disposed within the receiving cavity includes at least a first leg member and a second leg member, the first leg member and the second leg member respectively having a first end member and a second end member extending therefrom. The first leg member and the second leg member are connected together by a tip member such that at least portions of the first leg member and the second leg member are arranged in a generally parallel and spaced apart relationship, and such that the tip member is received by the first and second mating surfaces of the receiving cavity. The first and second leg members of the spring member define a first and a second locking surface, respectively, such that when the external threaded member is screwed into the threaded through-hole defined by the nut body, the external threaded member contacts the first locking surface of the first leg member and the second locking surface of the second leg member, causing elastic displacement of the first and second locking surfaces. The first and second locking surfaces apply pressure to the external threaded member at approximately opposite radial positions to generate a locking force between the nut body and the external threaded member.

[0009] The first and second locking surfaces may include arcuate portions having an inner diameter approximately equal to the outer diameter of the external threaded member.

[0010] The first and second locking surfaces can be configured to contact only the thread crests on the external threaded member.

[0011] The receiving cavity defined by the nut body may further include a first protrusion and a second protrusion, which hold the spring member within the receiving cavity such that when the external thread member engages with the nut body, the first leg member and the second leg member remain substantially parallel and spaced apart from each other relative to the longitudinal axis of the external thread member.

[0012] The spring member may also include a first end member extending from the first leg member and a second end member extending from the second leg member.

[0013] The first end member and the second end member may be configured such that when the external threaded member engages with the nut body, the first end member and the second end member do not contact the external threaded member.

[0014] The receiving cavity defined by the second end of the nut body may include a first mating surface and a second mating surface, the second mating surface being angled relative to the first mating surface, and the dimensions of the first and second mating surfaces being adapted to receive the top end member of the spring member.

[0015] The receiving cavity defined by the second end of the nut body may include a third mating surface and a fourth mating surface, the fourth mating surface being angled relative to the third mating surface, and the dimensions of the third and fourth mating surfaces being adapted to receive the first end member and the second end member of the spring member.

[0016] The receiving cavity defined by the second end of the nut body may further include a first arcuate surface and a second arcuate surface, the first arcuate surface extending between the first mating surface and the third mating surface, and the second arcuate surface extending between the second mating surface and the fourth mating surface.

[0017] The locking nut may also be provided with a cover member, which is disposed in the receiving cavity and located between the spring member and the second end of the nut body.

[0018] The first leg member and the second leg member of the spring member may also include a first clearance edge section and a second clearance edge section located at or near the first locking surface and the second locking surface, respectively, such that when the external thread member is screwed into the nut body, the first clearance edge section and the second clearance edge section provide an inlet for the external thread member.

[0019] The first and second yielding edge sections may respectively include the rounded edge portions of the first leg member and the second leg member.

[0020] The first and second yielding edge sections can also be configured to include chamfered edge portions of the first and second leg members.

[0021] According to a third aspect of this disclosure, a method of manufacturing a locking nut is provided, the method comprising: providing a nut body blank; forming the nut body blank into a nut body including a receiving cavity formed in one end of the nut body; providing a spring member blank; forming the spring member blank into a spring member including at least a first leg member and a second leg member, the first leg member and the second leg member being connected together by a top member such that the first leg member and the second leg member are arranged in a generally parallel and spaced apart relationship, the first leg member and the second leg member defining a first locking surface and a second locking surface thereon, respectively; and disposing the spring member in the receiving cavity such that when an external threaded member is screwed into a threaded through hole defined by the nut body, the first locking surface and the second locking surface of the spring member press against the external threaded member at a generally opposite radial position and generate a locking force between the nut body and the external threaded member.

[0022] According to a fourth aspect of this disclosure, a method of manufacturing a locking nut is provided, the method comprising: providing a nut body blank; forming the nut body blank into a nut body including a receiving cavity formed in one end of the nut body; providing a spring member blank; forming the spring member blank into a spring member including at least a first leg member, a second leg member, a first end member extending from the first leg member, and a second end member extending from the second leg member, the first leg member and the second leg member being connected together by a tip member such that the first leg member and the second leg member are arranged in a generally parallel and spaced apart relationship, the first leg member and the second leg member respectively defining a first locking surface and a second locking surface; and disposing the spring member in the receiving cavity such that a first mating surface and a second mating surface constituting the receiving cavity receive the tip member of the spring member, and such that when an external threaded member is screwed into a threaded through hole defined by the nut body, the first locking surface and the second locking surface of the spring member undergo elastic displacement and press against the external threaded member at a generally opposite radial position to generate a locking force between the nut body and the external threaded member.

[0023] Forming a nut body from a nut body blank may include at least one process selected from the group consisting of cold forming and hot forming.

[0024] Threaded through holes can be formed by at least one process selected from the group consisting of thread rolling and thread cutting.

[0025] The method may also include mechanically deforming at least a portion of the second end of the nut body to axially retain the spring member within the receiving cavity.

[0026] Mechanical deformation of at least a portion of the second end of the nut body may include one or more mechanical deformation processes selected from the group consisting of necking and riveting.

[0027] The method may further include: heat-treating the nut body and the spring member separately before placing the spring member into the receiving cavity formed in the nut body.

[0028] The method may further include: after placing the spring member in a receiving cavity formed in the nut body, heat-treating the nut body and the spring member together.

[0029] The method may further include: surface treating the nut body before placing the spring member within a receiving cavity formed in the nut body.

[0030] Providing a nut body blank may include providing a section of bar stock.

[0031] Providing spring component blanks may include providing a section of wire.

[0032] Providing spring component blanks may include providing a section of flat material. Attached Figure Description

[0033] Exemplary and currently preferred embodiments of the present invention are shown in the accompanying drawings, wherein:

[0034] Figure 1 This is an external isometric view of the locking nut of the present invention mounted on a nut and the nut mounted on a stud.

[0035] Figure 2 This is an exploded isometric view showing the lock nut being disassembled from the nut;

[0036] Figure 3 It is along Figure 1 The cross-sectional view taken from line 3-3 in the diagram;

[0037] Figure 4 It is along Figure 1 The cross-sectional view taken from line 4-4 in the diagram;

[0038] Figure 5 This is an isometric view of the second embodiment of the present invention, showing the connection between the second embodiment and the nut body;

[0039] Figure 6 This is a cross-sectional view showing the installation of the nut in the second embodiment of the present invention;

[0040] Figure 7 This is an isometric view of the third embodiment of the invention, showing the stacked series of the second embodiment detached from the nut, and the threaded member that is also not engaged with the nut;

[0041] Figure 8 This is a longitudinal sectional view showing the third embodiment with the nut installed together;

[0042] Figure 9 Is with Figure 8 Similar view, but its cross-section is relative to Figure 8 The nut body is partially cut away to show how the stacked series of spring components engages with the threaded component.

[0043] Figure 10 This is a perspective view of a fourth embodiment of a locking nut according to the technical solution provided herein;

[0044] Figure 11 yes Figure 10 An exploded perspective view of the lock nut shown;

[0045] Figure 12 yes Figure 10 The perspective view of the lock nut shown has the external threaded component and the cover component removed to show the details of the receiving cavity and the spring component more clearly;

[0046] Figure 13 yes Figure 12 End view of the second end of the lock nut shown;

[0047] Figure 14 yes Figure 10 The cross-sectional view of the lock nut shown illustrates the engagement of the locking surfaces of the external threaded member and the spring member;

[0048] Figure 15 yes Figure 10-14 An enlarged perspective view of the spring component of the locking nut shown;

[0049] Figure 16 This is a perspective view of the fifth embodiment of the locking nut according to the technical solution provided herein;

[0050] Figure 17 yes Figure 16 An exploded perspective view of the lock nut shown;

[0051] Figure 18 yes Figure 16 The perspective view of the locking nut shown has the external threaded member and the cover member removed to show the details of the receiving cavity and the spring member with the curved locking surface more clearly.

[0052] Figure 19 It is observed from a lower angle. Figure 18 The perspective view of the locking nut shown is intended to more clearly illustrate the engagement between the top member and the mating surface defined by the receiving cavity; and

[0053] Figure 20 It is an enlarged perspective view of a spring component with a curved locking surface. Detailed Implementation

[0054] Referring to the accompanying drawings, a cylindrical threaded member 10 in the form of a stud is shown. However, member 10 may also include screws or bolts. Studs are commonly used to mount vehicle rims (not shown) to vehicles such as cars and buses (not shown). Threaded member 10 has a series of helical threads, wherein each thread is defined by a pair of spaced-apart circular tooth crests 11 and a circular groove 13 located between the pair of circular tooth crests. The helical threads are slightly inclined relative to the longitudinal central axis 15 of threaded member 10, meaning that the tooth crests 11 and groove 13 are not strictly circular, but close to circular. This inclination angle can vary, but is typically 2 degrees, 3 degrees, or 4 degrees.

[0055] The nut 12 has a central threaded through-hole 14, within which the component 10 will be positioned. When the component 10 is positioned on the nut 12 in its desired position, it is desirable to secure that position to prevent unintended disengagement. For this purpose, the following structure is employed.

[0056] Nut 12 has an inlet opening 16 in its side wall. This inlet opening 16 communicates with a receiving cavity 18, which in turn communicates with a threaded opening 14. A spring member 20 (first embodiment) is inserted through the inlet opening 16 and is positioned within the receiving cavity 18 in a tight fit. Spring member 20 has a top portion 22 that is flush with the outer side wall of nut 12. Spring member 20 is made of a metal such as stainless steel. A right leg member 24 extends from the right side of the top portion 22, and is positioned substantially perpendicular to the top portion 22. A left leg member 26 extends from the left side of the top portion 22, and is positioned substantially perpendicular to the top portion 22. The left leg member 26 is parallel to the right leg member 24. Both leg members 24 and 26 are configured with a slight inward curve. Both leg members 24 and 26 are flat. The top portion 22 is also flat, but has a bend at its center 23. When the spring member 20 is installed in the receiving cavity 18, the top portion 22 is flush with the pair of chamfered surfaces of the nut 12.

[0057] An end member 28 is attached to the outer end of leg member 24. An end member 30 is attached to the outer end of leg member 26. End members 28 and 30 are positioned at 90 degrees relative to their leg members 24 and 26. End members 28 and 30 are opposite each other. Leg members 24 and 26 are narrower than the top portion 22. Each of end members 28 and 30 has the same height, equal to the height of the top portion 22. When spring member 20 is inserted into receiving cavity 18, end members 28 and 30 contact the upper and lower walls of receiving cavity 18, preventing any tilting of leg members 24 and 26 and maintaining spring member 22 perpendicular to longitudinal central axis 15, thereby eliminating any loose movement of spring member 22. End members 28 and 30 are necessary because leg members 24 and 26 rest on the crests of some grooves of threaded member 10, and are not constrained in any way except by end members 28 and 30.

[0058] The spring member 20 achieves its spring action as follows. The spring member 20 is U-shaped. When the spring member 20 is inserted into the receiving cavity 18, the threaded member 10 then engages with the through hole 14. The spring member 20 can be inserted face up or face down. The threaded member 10 passes over a chamfer 32 formed on the upper edge of the inner surface of the leg member 24, and simultaneously passes over a chamfer 34 formed on the upper edge of the inner surface of the leg member 26. These chamfers 32 and 34 facilitate the insertion of the threaded member 10. If the spring member 20 is inserted face down, chamfers are also provided on the lower edges of the inner surfaces of the leg members 24 and 26, as shown in the attached figures. Figure 2 Only the chamfer 36 of leg member 24 is shown. The threaded member 10 causes both leg members 24 and 26 to deflect outwards, reducing the degree of bending and generating a force pressing against the threaded member 10, thereby creating a spring-like effect. By providing two leg members 24 and 26, they can collectively press against the threaded member 10. The rear surface of the receiving cavity 18 is deformed to form a notch 31, which provides clearance for the threaded member 10.

[0059] The above discussion mainly involves Figures 1-4 The first embodiment of the present invention is shown. Figure 5 and Figure 6 A second embodiment is shown. The U-shaped spring member 38 is tubular. The tube has a top portion 40 that connects between the leg members 42 and 44. Figure 5 As clearly shown, leg members 42 and 44 are bent inwards. The diameter of the tube is chosen such that it will rest on... Figure 6 The groove of the threaded member 47 shown. The tube can be solid or hollow. No need to use... Figures 1-4The end members 28 and 30 used in the process are because the side of the groove of the threaded member 46 constrains the spring member 38 and prevents it from moving longitudinally. The spring action is achieved in the same way, that is, the threaded member applies pressure to the bent leg members 42 and 44. The rear wall of the receiving cavity 46 includes a notch 48, which is the same as the notch 31. The notch 48 is formed in the nut 50. The spring member 38 is inserted into the receiving cavity 46 through the access opening 52. The lateral dimension of the access opening is inclined to correspond to the helical offset of the thread provided on the threaded member 47. This inclination is necessary to allow the spring member to fall into a single groove of the threaded member 47.

[0060] Reference Figures 7-9 This illustrates a third embodiment of the locking nut of the present invention. The nut 54 is threaded onto a threaded member. The nut 54 includes a receiving cavity 58 and an access opening 60 leading to the receiving cavity 58. Figure 9 As shown, the inlet opening 60 is slightly inclined, the inclination being equal to the helix angle of the threaded component 56. This inclination is... Figure 9 The distance is shown as A. The spring member 62 consists of multiple spring member tubes 38 mounted in a stacked relationship (three are shown, but any number can be used). Each tube 38 will be located within a separate groove in the thread of the threaded member 56. The locking force of the third embodiment is significantly greater than that of the second embodiment and may be suitable for use in high-vibration environments.

[0061] The locking nut 110 according to the fourth embodiment of the disclosed technical solution is shown in Figures 10-15 The locking nut may include a nut body 112 having a first end 114 and a second end 116. The nut body 112 may define a threaded through-hole 118 therein, the threaded through-hole 118 being sized to receive an externally threaded member 120 such as a stud 122. The second end 116 of the nut body 112 defines a receiving cavity 124 therein. A spring member 126 (in...) disposed within the receiving cavity 124... Figure 10 Not visible in the middle, but shown in Figures 11-15 The dimensions of the spring member 126 are adapted to engage with the external threaded member 120 in a manner which will be described in more detail below. The engagement of the spring member 126 with the external threaded member 120 results in a locking force that resists loosening of the lock nut 110.

[0062] Currently, the main reference is... Figures 11-13 and Figure 15The spring member 126 may include a first leg member 128 and a second leg member 130. The first leg member 128 and the second leg member 130 may be connected together via a top member 132, such that at least portions of the first leg member 128 and the second leg member 130 are arranged in a generally parallel and spaced-apart relationship. The inner portions of the first leg member 128 and the second leg member 130 respectively define a first locking surface 134 and a second locking surface 136, as shown below. Figure 13 and Figure 15 As shown most clearly, when the nut body 112 is screwed onto the external thread member 120, the first locking surface 134 and the second locking surface 136 of the spring member 126 apply pressure to the external thread member 120 and generate a locking force between the nut body 112 and the external thread member 120.

[0063] More specifically, when the first end 114 of the nut body 112 is screwed onto the external threaded member 120, the thread 140 in the threaded through hole 118 engages with the corresponding thread 142 of the threaded member 120. Therefore, the nut body 112 advances on the threaded member 120. When the distal end 144 of the threaded member 120 reaches the spring member 126, the distal end 144 begins to contact the first locking surface 134 of the corresponding first leg member 128 and the second locking surface 136 of the second leg member 130, causing the first leg member 128 and the second leg member 130 to move radially away from each other, i.e., approximately in the direction indicated by arrows 146 and 148. Figure 13 and Figure 14 The spring member 126 moves, causing elastic displacement of the first leg member 128 and the second leg member 130. See also Figure 14 The first locking surface 134 and the second locking surface 136 remain in contact with the external threaded member 120. The elastic displacement of the first leg member 128 and the second leg member 130 of the spring member 126 will cause pressure to be applied, for example, via the locking surfaces 134 and 136, to the thread crests 138 of the external threaded member 120. This applied pressure results in a locking force between the nut body 112 and the threaded member 120, and generates a torque commonly referred to as a self-locking torque, which must be overcome before the locking nut 10 can rotate on the threaded member 120. This self-locking torque reduces or eliminates the tendency of the locking nut 110 to loosen over time.

[0064] A significant advantage of the locking nut according to the technical solution provided herein is that it provides a locking nut or self-locking torque nut that can overcome some shortcomings and defects of known locking nut designs. For example, the disclosed locking nut does not rely on plastic (e.g., nylon) inserts to provide the self-locking torque function, thus enabling the locking nut to be used in environments and applications where nylon insert locking nuts are not suitable. Furthermore, the disclosed locking nut can be reused without losing its locking function.

[0065] The disclosed spring member also has other advantages. For example, the spring member only contacts the crest of the thread of the threaded member, thereby preventing potential damage to the sides and / or roots of the thread of the threaded member (e.g., damage that could be caused by spalling or indentation). In addition to causing faster wear of the threaded fastener system, damage to the sides and / or roots can also compromise the structural integrity of the fastener system.

[0066] Another advantage of the disclosed lock nut, which provides only crest contact, is that it allows the lock nut to be quickly tightened (i.e., fastened) and loosened (i.e., loosened) on the external threaded member (e.g., as is typically the case when using a pneumatic or electric wrench), without the risk of the spring member dislodging or deforming during tightening or loosening operations. Furthermore, the crest contact only minimizes wear and potential damage to the spring member (e.g., damage that may result from spalling or indentation), thus allowing the disclosed lock nut to be reused multiple times without losing its effectiveness or damaging the threaded fastening system.

[0067] Another advantage of tooth-tip contact is that the performance of the fastener system is not degraded by the accumulation of particulate matter (such as dirt). Since the spring member is not located within the "valley" defined by the side and root of the threaded member, it is highly unlikely that accumulated debris will cause the lock nut to fail or degrade in performance, for example, due to deformation or dislocation of the spring member.

[0068] The disclosed locking nut can also be easily and cost-effectively manufactured (e.g., by any of the various hot or cold working processes known in the art). The spring member can be heat-treated separately (e.g., to provide the desired degree of elastic deformation capacity) before being inserted into the receiving cavity of the nut body. Alternatively, in some embodiments, the spring member can be heat-treated together with the nut body after assembly.

[0069] The cooperative relationship between the spring member and the receiving cavity offers further advantages. The receiving cavity holds the spring member in a generally perpendicular relationship to the external thread member, thereby ensuring a consistent locking force or self-locking torque during repeated cycles. The consistent orientation of the spring member relative to the external thread member also allows for rapid tightening or engagement of the nut body and the external thread member without the risk of damaging the spring member or threads as described above, and without generating excessive heat during tightening; such excessive heat would otherwise be generated if the spring member were not securely held within the receiving cavity.

[0070] Having briefly described a fourth embodiment of the locking nut 110 according to the technical solution provided herein, and some of its more important features and advantages, various embodiments of the disclosed locking nut will now be described in detail. However, before continuing the description, it should be noted that although the locking nut is described as being made of certain materials and used as a wheel nut or lug nut to fasten a wheel to a vehicle's hub, the disclosed locking nut is not limited to such materials or applications. Rather, as will be understood by those skilled in the art upon familiarity with the technical solution provided herein, the disclosed locking nut can be made of a wide variety of materials and can be used in a wide variety of applications.

[0071] Now refer to it again Figures 10-15 According to the disclosed technical solution and the fourth embodiment of the locking nut 110 taught herein, the locking nut 110 may include a nut body 112 having a first end 114 and a second end 116. For example... Figure 11 As most clearly shown, the nut body 112 defines a threaded through-hole 118 therein, the threaded through-hole 118 being sized to receive an externally threaded member 120 such as a stud 122. Alternatively, any other type of externally threaded member, such as a screw or bolt, may also be used. As is known, the nut body 112 may define multiple planes or sides 150 to allow a wrench or socket (not shown) to tighten or loosen the lock nut 110 as needed. In the particular embodiments shown and described herein, the nut body 112 may be generally hexagonal, defining six (6) sides 150. Alternatively, as is well known in the art, the nut body 112 may define more or fewer sides. Therefore, the nut body 112 should not be considered limited to a nut body defining any particular number of sides 150.

[0072] Depending on the specific application and intended use, the first end 114 of the nut body 112 can be straight, flanged, or chamfered. Figures 10-15 In the specific embodiments shown and described, the lock nut 110 is configured to function as a wheel nut or lug nut, a type of nut used to fasten a vehicle wheel to a stud provided on a vehicle axle flange (not shown). In such applications, the first end 114 of the nut body 112 may include a tapered or chamfered surface 152, as chamfered nuts are commonly used in such applications. However, in other cases, the first end 114 of the lock nut 110 used as a wheel nut or lug nut may have a flange, such as... Figures 16-20As shown. However, since the specific configuration of the first end 114 of the nut body 112 can vary depending on various factors, including the intended use, and since the specific configuration of the first end 114 of the nut body 112 is not necessary for the function of locking the nut 110, the specific configuration of the first end 114 of the nut body 112 will not be described in further detail.

[0073] The second end 116 of the nut body 112 defines a receiving cavity 124, which is sized to receive the spring member 126. More specifically, the size and configuration of the receiving cavity 124 not only enable it to receive the spring member 126, but also enable it to retain the spring member 126 within the receiving cavity 124 so that when the threaded member 120 engages with the nut body 112, the first leg member 128 and the second leg member 130 remain substantially parallel and spaced apart from each other relative to the longitudinal axis 154 of the threaded member 120. See also Figure 14 The receiving cavity 124 may be provided with a pair of enlarged or recessed regions 156 and 158 so that when the externally threaded member 120 is screwed into the nut body 112, the first leg member 128 and the second leg member 130 of the spring member 126 are allowed to deflect substantially outward, i.e., in the directions indicated by arrows 146 and 148. The receiving cavity 126 also has dimensions adapted to slidably receive and hold the tip member 132 against the mating surface 160, which also helps to hold the spring member 126 within the receiving cavity 124, and also helps to hold the first leg member 128 and the second leg member 130 such that the first leg member 128 and the second leg member 130 are in a substantially parallel and spaced-apart relationship relative to each other and relative to the longitudinal axis 154 of the externally threaded member 120. Therefore, in Figures 10-15 In the specific embodiment shown, the receiving cavity 124 may include a generally hexagonal opening. Alternatively, other configurations or shapes may be employed, some of which have been described herein, while others will become apparent to those skilled in the art upon familiarity with the technical solutions provided herein. Therefore, this disclosure should not be construed as limited to receiving cavities having any particular configuration or shape.

[0074] The nut body 112 can be made of a wide variety of materials, such as metals and metal alloys known in the art or that may be developed in the future for specific applications. Therefore, the locking nut should not be considered to be limited to a nut body made of any particular material.

[0075] The nut body 112 can be manufactured from a suitable nut body "blank" using a variety of manufacturing processes, such as wire or bar stock, including hot forming or cold forming processes (e.g., forging) known in the art or likely to be developed in the future suitable for forming the nut body 112. Therefore, the nut body 112 should not be considered limited to being formed by any particular process. However, as an example, in one embodiment, the nut body is made from bar stock by a cold forging process. The thread 140 can be formed in the nut body 110 by a variety of processes, such as cutting or rolling processes known in the art or likely to be developed in the future suitable for forming the threaded through-hole 118 in the nut body 112. Those skilled in the art will understand upon familiarity with the technical solutions provided herein that the nut body 112 can also have suitable surface finishes, plating, or coatings.

[0076] Currently, the main reference is... Figures 11-15 The spring member 126 generates the locking force or self-locking torque required to maintain the engagement of the lock nut 110 with the threaded member 120, i.e., to prevent the lock nut 110 from rotating freely on the external threaded member 120. The spring member 126 achieves this by applying pressure to the thread crests 138 of the external threaded member 120. As previously mentioned, the crest-only contact provided by the lock nut 110 differs from other types of lock nuts, which may apply pressure individually to other portions of the thread 142 on the external threaded member 120, such as the root or sides of the thread 142, or apply pressure to these other portions in addition to applying pressure to the crests 138. As already mentioned, by applying pressure only to the thread crests, the lock nut according to the disclosed solution avoids the risk of damage to the thread 142 of the external threaded member 120 during engagement and disengagement of the nut body 112, such as damage caused by peeling or indentation. Only tooth contact also avoids or minimizes the possibility that locking nut 110 may damage other structural properties of external thread member 120, such as yield strength or fatigue resistance.

[0077] exist Figures 10-15 In the specific embodiment shown, the spring member 126 may include a first leg member 128 and a second leg member 130 connected together by a top member 132. This arrangement such that at least portions of the first leg member 128 and the second leg member 130 are arranged in a generally parallel and spaced apart relationship. As previously described, the inner portions of the first leg member 128 and the second leg member 130 respectively define a first locking surface 134 and a second locking surface 136, as... Figure 14 and Figure 15 The most clearly shown is shown in the image.

[0078] The spacing or distance between the first locking surface 134 and the second locking surface 136 will vary depending on the specific dimensions of the threaded member 120, i.e., its diameter. This spacing or distance will also vary depending on the stiffness of the spring member 126 and the magnitude of the self-locking torque to be provided. Therefore, the disclosed technical solution should not be considered limited to any specific spacing or distance between the first locking surface 134 and the second locking surface 136.

[0079] The spring member 126 may also include a first end member 162 extending from the first leg member 128 and a second end member 164 extending from the second leg member 130. For example... Figure 12 and Figure 13 As most clearly shown, the dimensions of the first end member 162 and the second end member 164 are configured such that they are slidably received by the mating surface 166 provided in the receiving cavity 126. When the first end member 162 and the second end member 164 are provided, as... Figure 12 and Figure 13 As most clearly shown, the receiving cavity 124 may also be provided with a first protrusion 178 and a second protrusion 180. The engagement of the first end member 162 and the second end member 164 with the mating surface 166, and the first protrusion 178 and the second protrusion 180 (if provided), both contribute to retaining the spring member 126 within the receiving cavity 124, and also contribute to retaining the first leg member 128 and the second leg member 132 of the spring member 126 such that, when the threaded member 120 is screwed into the nut body 112, the first leg member 128 and the second leg member 132 maintain a generally parallel and spaced-apart relationship relative to each other and relative to the longitudinal axis 154 of the threaded member 120. See also Figure 14 .

[0080] Currently, the main reference is... Figure 14 and Figure 15 The first locking surface 134 and the second locking surface 136 are respectively provided with relief edge portions 168 and 170. The relief edge portions 168 and 170 provide an inlet for the external threaded member 120 to facilitate smooth and uniform elastic deflection of the first locking surface 134 and the second locking surface 136 when the external threaded member 120 is screwed into the nut body 112. The relief edge portions 168 and 170 also reduce the tendency of the spring member 126 to jam or otherwise deviate from its position during engagement, thereby allowing the nut body 112 to be quickly screwed and unscrewed on the threaded member 120. Figures 10-15 In the specific embodiment shown, the clearance edge portions 168 and 170 include curved or rounded edge portions. In other embodiments, the clearance edge portions 168 and 170 may be chamfered, such as... Figure 20 The spring component 226 is shown in the figure.

[0081] Regardless of how the clearance edge portions 168 and 170 are formed, it is generally preferred, but not necessary, to provide clearance edge portions 168 and 170 on both sides of the spring member 126 so that either side of the spring member 126 can be inserted into the receiving cavity 124 first. Figure 10 As most clearly shown, the spring member 126 can be axially held within the receiving cavity 124 by mechanically deforming at least a portion 176 of the second end 116 of the nut body 112 (e.g., by swaging or staking).

[0082] Spring member 126 can be made of a variety of materials suitable for a particular application and capable of providing the required elasticity or "springiness" (i.e., the ability to deform substantially elastically) (e.g., after appropriate heat treatment), such as metals or metal alloys. Therefore, the invention should not be considered limited to spring members made of any particular type of material.

[0083] The spring member 126 can be formed by a variety of processes, such as hot forming and cold forming, and can be formed from a variety of starting material blanks or forms (e.g., wire, bar, or flat material). As an example, in one embodiment, the spring member 126 is formed by rolling a wire to create a flat member with a generally rectangular cross-section and rounded or rounded edges, essentially as follows: Figure 14 and Figure 15 As shown. When formed from such wire or rod, the clearance edge portions 168 and 170 of the corresponding first locking surface 134 and second locking surface 136 will be rounded or rounded to provide the aforementioned desired guide function. In embodiments where the spring member 126 is formed from a flat material having substantially right-angled edges, it may be necessary to form chamfers (e.g., on the edge portions 168 and 170 of the locking surfaces 134 and 136) on the edge portions 168 and 170. Figure 20 (As shown in the spring member 226), to provide the required inlet portion.

[0084] If heat treatment is required or desired, the spring member 126 may be heat treated after forming (i.e., as a separate component). Alternatively, the spring member 126 may be heat treated together with the nut body 112 after it has been placed into the receiving cavity 124 of the nut body 112.

[0085] In some embodiments, the locking nut 110 may further include a cover member 172, the cover member 172 being sized to be received by the receiving cavity 124. See also Figure 10 and Figure 11The cover member 172 may define a central opening 174 therein, the central opening 174 being sized to allow the distal end 144 of the externally threaded member 120 to pass through. With the cover member 172 provided, the cover member 172 axially holds the spring member 126 within the receiving cavity 124. Figure 10 As most clearly shown, the cover member 172 itself can be axially held within the receiving cavity 124 by mechanically deforming at least a portion 176 of the second end 116 of the nut body 112 (e.g., by narrowing or riveting).

[0086] The locking nut 110 can be manufactured by providing a nut body blank. The nut body blank may include a section of wire or rod (not shown). Subsequently, the nut body blank can be formed into a nut body 112 having a first end 114 and a second end 116, substantially as follows: Figures 10-15 As shown. As previously described, the nut body can be formed by a variety of processes, such as thermoforming or cold forming. Depending on the application, the first end 114 of the nut body 112 can be straight, flanged, or tapered. The second end 116 of the nut body 112 is formed to define a receiving cavity 124 therein. The thread 140 in the through hole 118 can be formed by a suitable process, such as thread cutting or thread rolling.

[0087] Spring component 126 can be manufactured by providing a spring body blank. The spring body blank may include a section of wire or bar (not shown). In other embodiments, the spring body blank may include a section of flat material. If a wire or bar is provided, it can be formed (e.g., by rolling) into a flat piece or spring blank having a generally rectangular cross-section, for example... Figure 14 and Figure 15 As shown. In most forming processes, using wire or bar stock typically yields flat spring blanks with curved or rounded edges of 168 and 170, which is also as... Figure 14 and Figure 15 The most clearly shown is shown below. If flat material is used, it may be necessary to form appropriate chamfers or bevels at the edge portions 168 and 170 (e.g., Figure 20 (As shown in the figure for spring member 226), to provide the necessary guide portion for threaded member 120.

[0088] In any case, after forming the flat part or spring blank, it can be bent or shaped into... Figures 11-15 The configuration shown depicts two opposing leg members 128 and 130 connected or joined together by a top member 132. End members 162 and 164 may include extensions of the leg members 128 and 130. Figures 12-14As most clearly shown, the dimensions of the spring member 126 are adapted to be slidably received by the receiving cavity 124, and in particular by the mating surfaces 160 and 166 of the receiving cavity 124. When the nut body 112 is screwed onto the externally threaded member 120, the recessed areas 156 and 158 of the receiving cavity 126 allow elastic displacement of the leg members 128 and 130, i.e., elastic displacement in the directions indicated by arrows 146 and 148.

[0089] After such formation, the spring member 126 may be heat-treated (if necessary or desired) before being disposed within the receiving cavity 124 of the nut body 112. Alternatively, the spring member 126 may be heat-treated after being disposed within the nut body 112. In any case, after the spring member 126 is disposed within the receiving cavity 124 of the nut body 112, the spring member 126 may be axially held within the nut body by mechanically deforming at least a portion of the second end 116 of the nut body 112 as described above. If a cover member 172 is provided, the cover member 172 may be disposed within the receiving cavity 124 of the nut body 112 before mechanically deforming the second end 116 of the nut body 112.

[0090] The locking nut 210 according to the fifth embodiment of the disclosed technical solution is shown in Figures 16-20 The fifth embodiment 210 is similar to the fourth embodiment 110, except that the fifth embodiment 210 includes a spring member 226 having curved or arcuate locking surfaces 234 and 236. As will be described in more detail below, the curved or arcuate locking surfaces 234 and 236 of the spring member 226 increase the contact area between the spring member 226 and the thread crests 238 of the external thread member 220. The increased contact area can be used to increase the magnitude of the self-locking torque provided by a given spring member 226. Alternatively, the increased contact area can allow the lock nut 210 to produce the same self-locking torque even when using a smaller or less stiff spring member 226. Furthermore, in the fifth embodiment 210, the first end 214 of the nut body 212 may be provided with a flange 252, which may be necessary or desirable in some applications. The receiving cavity 224 defined by the second end 216 of the nut body 212 also has a slightly different configuration from the receiving cavity 124 of the fourth embodiment 110.

[0091] Currently, the main reference is... Figure 16 and Figure 17The locking nut 210 of the fifth embodiment may include a nut body 212 having a first end 214 and a second end 216. The nut body 212 defines a threaded through-hole 218 therein, the threaded through-hole 218 being sized to receive an externally threaded member 220. The nut body 212 may define a plurality of planes or sides 250 for tightening or loosening the locking nut 210. In the specific embodiments shown and described herein, the nut body 212 may be generally hexagonal, defining six (6) sides 250, although, as is known in the art, the nut body 212 may also define more or fewer numbers of sides 250. Therefore, as in other embodiments, the nut body 212 should not be considered limited to a nut body defining any particular number of sides 250.

[0092] Depending on the specific application and intended use, the first end 214 of the nut body 212 can be straight, flanged, or chamfered. Figures 16-20 In the specific embodiments shown and described, a first end 214 of the locking nut 210 is provided with a flange 252 thereon. The flange 252 may be integrally formed with the nut body 212, or may comprise a separate component, as is known in the art.

[0093] Now refer to Figures 17-19 The second end 216 of the nut body 212 defines a receiving cavity 224, which is sized to receive the spring member 226. The size and configuration of the receiving cavity 224 not only enable it to receive the spring member 226, but also enable it to retain the spring member 226 within the receiving cavity 224 so that when the threaded member 220 engages with the nut body 212, the first leg member 228 and the second leg member 230 remain generally parallel and spaced apart from each other relative to the longitudinal axis 254 of the external threaded member 220. The receiving cavity 224 may also be provided with a pair of arcuate or curved recessed areas 256 and 258 so that when the external threaded member 220 is screwed into the nut body 212, the first leg member 228 and the second leg member 230 of the spring member 226 are allowed to deflect generally outward, i.e., in the directions indicated by arrows 246 and 248. See also Figure 18 and Figure 19 .

[0094] The dimensions of the receiving cavity 224 are also adapted to slidably receive the tip member 232 of the spring member 226 and hold it against the mating surface 260. The engagement of the tip member 232 with the mating surface 260 helps to hold the spring member 226 within the receiving cavity 224, and also helps to hold the first leg member 228 and the second leg member 230 such that the first leg member 228 and the second leg member 230 maintain a generally parallel and spaced-apart relationship with respect to each other and with respect to the longitudinal axis 254 of the external thread member 220.

[0095] exist Figures 16-20 In the specific embodiment shown, the receiving cavity 224 includes a hexagonal opening with two sides, such as mating surfaces 260 and 266, which are generally flat surfaces. Figure 17 As most clearly shown, mating surfaces 260 and 266 are connected together by curved or arc-shaped recessed areas 256 and 258.

[0096] As in other embodiments, the nut body 212 can be made of a wide variety of materials, such as metals and metal alloys known in the art or potentially developed in the future that are suitable for a particular application. The nut body 212 can be manufactured from a suitable nut body "blank" according to a wide variety of manufacturing processes, such as wire or bar stock, including hot forming or cold forming processes (e.g., forging) known in the art or potentially developed in the future suitable for forming the nut body 112. Threads 240 can be formed in the nut body 210 by a wide variety of processes, such as cutting or rolling. The nut body 212 may also have suitable surface finishes, plating, or coatings as needed or desired.

[0097] Spring member 226 generates the locking force or self-locking torque required to maintain engagement between lock nut 210 and threaded member 220, i.e., to prevent unintended rotation of lock nut 210 on threaded member 220. Spring member 226 generates self-locking torque by applying pressure to the thread crests 238 of threaded member 220 at approximately opposite radial positions. Similarly, by applying pressure only to thread crests 238, lock nut 210 avoids the risk of damage to the threads 242 of threaded member 220 during engagement and disengagement of nut body 212, such as damage caused by spalling or indentation. Contact only with thread crests 238 also avoids or minimizes the possibility that lock nut 210 will adversely affect other structural properties of threaded member 220, such as yield strength or fatigue resistance.

[0098] As briefly mentioned above, the first leg member 228 and the second leg member 230 of the spring member 226 define curved or arcuate locking surfaces 234 and 236, such as Figure 17 as well as Figures 18-20The most clearly shown example is shown below. In the specific embodiments shown and described herein, the inner diameter (i.e., curvature) of the arcuate portions of locking surfaces 234 and 236 is approximately equal to the outer diameter or major diameter (i.e., curvature) of the external thread member 220. Therefore, matching the curvature of the arcuate portions of locking surfaces 234 and 236 to the curvature of the thread member 220 will provide substantially uniform contact between locking surfaces 234 and 236 and the thread crests 238 of the thread 242 of the thread member 220. Alternatively, as will be appreciated by those skilled in the art upon familiarity with the technical solutions provided herein, other inner diameters may be used for the curved or arcuate locking surfaces 234 and 236 depending on the specific application and the magnitude of the desired self-locking torque. Therefore, the disclosed technical solutions should not be considered limited to curved or arcuate locking surfaces 234 and 236 having any particular inner diameter or curvature.

[0099] The first leg member 228 and the second leg member 230 are connected together by the top member 232. This arrangement is such that at least portions of the first leg member 228 and the second leg member 230 are arranged in a generally parallel and spaced apart relationship, although the locking surfaces 234 and 236 are not parallel to each other due to their curved or arcuate configuration.

[0100] Similar to the case of spring member 126, the spacing or distance between the curved or arcuate first locking surface 234 and the curved or arcuate second locking surface 236 of spring member 226 will vary depending on the specific dimensions of threaded member 220, i.e., its diameter. This spacing or distance will also vary depending on the stiffness of spring member 226 and the magnitude of the self-locking torque to be provided. Therefore, the disclosed technical solution should not be considered limited to any specific spacing or distance between the curved or arcuate first locking surface 234 and the curved or arcuate second locking surface 236.

[0101] Similarly, in a manner similar to spring member 126, spring member 226 may also include a first end member 262 extending from the first leg member 228 and a second end member 264 extending from the second leg member 230. Figure 18 and Figure 19 As most clearly shown, the dimensions of the first end member 262 and the second end member 264 are adapted to be slidably received by the mating surface 266 disposed in the receiving cavity 226. The engagement of the first end member 262 and the second end member 264 with the mating surface 266 helps to retain the spring member 226 within the receiving cavity 224, and also helps to retain the first leg member 228 and the second leg member 232 of the spring member 226 such that when the threaded member 220 is screwed into the nut body 212, the first leg member 228 and the second leg member 230 maintain a generally parallel and spaced-apart relationship with respect to each other and with respect to the longitudinal axis 254 of the threaded member 220.

[0102] Currently, the main reference is... Figure 20 The first locking surface 234 and the second locking surface 236 of the spring member 226 are respectively provided with relief edge portions 268 and 270. The relief edge portions 268 and 270 provide guide portions for the external thread member 220. As described above, providing appropriate guide portions facilitates smooth and uniform elastic deflection of the curved or arcuate first locking surface 234 and the curved or arcuate second locking surface 236 when the external thread member 220 is screwed into the nut body 212. The relief edge portions 268 and 270 also reduce the tendency of the spring member 226 to jam, otherwise deviate from its position, or deform during engagement. Therefore, the guide portions provided by the relief edge portions 268 and 270 allow the nut body 212 to be quickly screwed and unscrewed onto the thread member 220. Figures 16-20 In the specific embodiment shown, the clearance edge portions 268 and 270 include chamfers or bevels. In other embodiments, the clearance edge portions 268 and 270 may include rounded corner portions, as in the case of spring member 126. See also Figure 15 Regardless of how the clearance edge portions 268 and 270 are formed, it is generally preferred, but not necessary, to provide clearance edge portions 268 and 270 on both sides of the spring member 226 so that either side of the spring member 226 can be inserted into the receiving cavity 224 first.

[0103] The spring member 226 can be axially held within the receiving cavity 224 by mechanically deforming at least a portion of the second end 216 of the nut body 212 (e.g., by narrowing or riveting). Alternatively, in some embodiments, the locking nut 210 may also include a cover member 272, sized to be received by the receiving cavity 224. See also Figure 16 and Figure 17 The cover member 272 may define a central opening 274 therein, the central opening 274 being sized to allow the distal end 244 of the externally threaded member 220 to pass through. With the cover member 272 provided, the cover member 272 axially retains the spring member 226 within the receiving cavity 224. The cover member 272 itself may be retained within the receiving cavity 224 by mechanically deforming at least a portion of the second end 216 of the nut body 212 (e.g., by narrowing or riveting).

[0104] Spring member 226 can be made of a wide variety of materials, such as metals or metal alloys suitable for a particular application and capable of providing (e.g., after appropriate heat treatment) the required elasticity. Therefore, the invention should not be considered limited to spring members made of any particular type of material.

[0105] As with spring member 126, spring member 226 can be formed by a variety of processes, such as thermoforming and cold forming, and can be formed from a variety of starting material blanks or forms (e.g., wire, bar, or flat material). As an example, in one embodiment, spring member 226 is formed from a flat material. Subsequently, chamfers or bevels are formed on the yielding edge portions 268 and 270 of the curved or arcuate locking surfaces 234 and 236 to provide the desired lead-in function. If spring member 226 is formed by rolling wire or bar, the yielding edge portions 268 and 270 of the corresponding first locking surface 234 and second locking surface 236 will generally be rounded or beveled, thus providing the desired lead-in function without the need for separate chamfering or beveling. If heat treatment is required or desired, spring member 226 can be heat-treated after formation (i.e., heat-treated as a separate component). Alternatively, after the spring member 226 is placed into the receiving cavity 224 of the nut body 212, the spring member 226 may be heat-treated together with the nut body 212.

[0106] The locking nut 210 can be produced or manufactured using the same process described above for the locking nut 110, for example, by forming a nut body 210 with a desired shape or configuration from a nut body blank that may include a section of wire or rod. The spring member 226 can be made from a spring body blank, which may include a section of wire, rod, or flat material. After forming the spring blank, it can be bent or shaped. Figures 17-20 The shape or configuration shown. Subsequently, the spring member 226 may be heat-treated before or after being disposed within the receiving cavity 224 of the nut body 212 (if required or desired); if it is desired that the spring member 226 be heat-treated together with the nut body 212, then the heat treatment is performed subsequently. Again, in any case, after the spring member 226 is disposed within the receiving cavity 224 of the nut body 212, at least a portion of the second end 216 of the nut body 212 may be mechanically deformed to axially retain the spring member 226 within the receiving cavity 224. If a cover member 272 is provided, the cover member 272 may be disposed within the receiving cavity 224 of the nut body 212 before the second end 216 of the nut body 212 is mechanically deformed.

[0107] Unless otherwise defined, all technical and scientific terms used herein have the same meaning as commonly understood by one of ordinary skill in the art to which this invention pertains. Although any methods and materials similar to or equivalent to those described herein may be used in practice to test the invention, preferred materials and methods are described herein.

[0108] To understand the scope of this invention, the articles “a” and “an” as used herein are used to refer to one or more (i.e., at least one) grammatical objects modified by the article. For example, “an element” means one element or more elements. As used herein, the term “comprising” and its derivatives are intended to indicate an open-ended term that indicates the presence of the stated feature, element, component, group, and / or step, but does not exclude the presence of other unmentioned features, elements, components, groups, and / or steps. The same applies to words with similar meanings, such as the terms “comprising,” “having,” and their derivatives. As used herein, any degree terms such as “substantially,” “about,” and “approximately” refer to a reasonable degree of deviation of the modified term such that the final result is not significantly changed. When referring to measurable values ​​such as quantity or duration, these terms are intended to cover variations of at least ±20% or ±10% relative to the specified value, more preferably ±5%, further preferably ±1%, and even more preferably ±0.1%, provided that such variations are appropriate and as understood by one of ordinary skill in the art to which this invention pertains.

[0109] Throughout this disclosure, various aspects of the invention may be presented in scope. It should be understood that the use of scope is for convenience and brevity only and should not be construed as a rigid limitation on the scope of the invention. Therefore, a description of a scope should be considered as specifically disclosing all possible sub-scopes within that scope and their respective numerical values. For example, a description of a scope such as 1 to 6 should be considered as specifically disclosing sub-scopes such as 1 to 3, 1 to 4, 1 to 5, 2 to 4, 2 to 6, 3 to 6, etc., and their respective numerical values, such as 1, 2, 2.6, 3, 4, 5, 5.7, and 6. The foregoing provisions apply regardless of the width of the scope.

[0110] Although only a few embodiments have been chosen to illustrate the invention, it will be apparent to those skilled in the art from this disclosure that various changes and modifications can be made to this document without departing from the scope of the invention as defined by the appended claims. For example, the size, shape, position, or orientation of various components may be changed as needed and / or desired. Intermediate structures may be provided between components shown as being directly connected or in contact with each other. The function of one element may be implemented by two elements, and vice versa. The structure and function of one embodiment may be adapted to another embodiment. It should be noted that although this document shows and describes the invention in combination with one configuration of various components, other configurations known in the art or that may be developed in the future may also be employed to achieve the objectives and features of the invention, as will be apparent to those skilled in the art upon familiarity with the technical solutions provided herein. Therefore, the invention should not be considered limited to what is shown and described herein. In certain embodiments, not all advantages need to be present simultaneously. Therefore, the above description of embodiments according to the invention is for illustrative purposes only and is not intended to limit the invention as defined by the appended claims and their equivalents.

[0111] Preferred embodiments of the invention have been described herein, and appropriate modifications are expected to be made thereto, while such modifications will still fall within the scope of the invention. Therefore, the invention should be interpreted only according to the following claims.

Claims

1. A lock nut for engaging with an externally threaded member, comprising: A nut body having a first end and a second end, wherein the nut body defines a threaded through hole sized to receive the external threaded member, and wherein the second end of the nut body defines a receiving cavity including a first mating surface and a second mating surface, the second mating surface being angled relative to the first mating surface; as well as A spring member disposed within the receiving cavity includes at least a first leg member, a second leg member, a first end member extending from the first leg member, and a second end member extending from the second leg member. The first leg member and the second leg member are connected together by a top member such that at least portions of the first leg member and the second leg member are arranged in a generally parallel and spaced-apart relationship, and the top member is received by a first mating surface and a second mating surface of the receiving cavity. The first leg member and the second leg member define a first locking surface and a second locking surface, respectively, such that when the external threaded member is screwed into a threaded through hole defined by the nut body, the external threaded member contacts the first locking surface of the first leg member and the second locking surface of the second leg member, causing elastic displacement of the first locking surface of the first leg member and the second locking surface of the second leg member, and causing the first locking surface and the second locking surface to apply pressure to the external threaded member at a generally opposite radial position to generate a locking force between the nut body and the external threaded member.

2. A lock nut for engaging with an externally threaded member, comprising: A nut body having a first end and a second end, wherein the nut body defines a threaded through hole sized to receive the external threaded member, and wherein the second end of the nut body defines a receiving cavity therein; as well as A spring member disposed within a receiving cavity of the nut body, the spring member having a generally rectangular cross-section, the spring member comprising at least a first leg member and a second leg member connected together by a top member, the first leg member and the second leg member defining a first locking surface and a second locking surface respectively, such that when the external threaded member is screwed into a threaded through hole defined by the nut body, the first locking surface and the second locking surface contact the external threaded member at a spaced-apart first radial position and a second radial position respectively, to generate a locking force between the nut body and the external threaded member.

3. The lock nut of claim 2, wherein, At least the first leg member and the second leg member undergo elastic displacement through contact between the external threaded member and the first locking surface and the second locking surface.

4. The lock nut of claim 1 or 3, wherein, The first locking surface and the second locking surface include arcuate portions having an inner diameter that is approximately equal to the outer diameter of the external threaded member.

5. The lock nut of claim 1 or 3, wherein, The first locking surface and the second locking surface only contact the thread crests on the external threaded member.

6. The lock nut of claim 1 or 3, wherein, The receiving cavity defined by the nut body further includes a first protrusion and a second protrusion, which hold the spring member within the receiving cavity such that when the external threaded member engages with the nut body, the first leg member and the second leg member of the spring member remain substantially parallel and spaced apart from each other relative to the longitudinal axis of the external threaded member.

7. The locking nut according to claim 3, wherein, The spring member further includes a first end member extending from the first leg member and a second end member extending from the second leg member.

8. The locking nut according to claim 1 or 7, wherein, When the external threaded component engages with the nut body, the first end component and the second end component do not contact the external threaded component.

9. The locking nut according to claim 7, wherein, The receiving cavity defined at the second end of the nut body includes a first mating surface and a second mating surface, the second mating surface being angled relative to the first mating surface, and the dimensions of the first mating surface and the second mating surface being adapted to receive the top end member of the spring member.

10. The locking nut according to claim 1 or 9, wherein, The receiving cavity defined at the second end of the nut body includes a third mating surface and a fourth mating surface, the fourth mating surface being angled relative to the third mating surface, and the dimensions of the third and fourth mating surfaces being adapted to receive the first and second end members of the spring member.

11. The locking nut according to claim 10, wherein, The receiving cavity defined at the second end of the nut body includes a first arcuate surface and a second arcuate surface, the first arcuate surface extending between a first mating surface and a third mating surface, and the second arcuate surface extending between a second mating surface and a fourth mating surface.

12. The locking nut according to claim 1 or 2 further includes a cover member disposed within the receiving cavity, located between the spring member and the second end of the nut body.

13. The locking nut according to claim 1 or 2, wherein, The first leg member and the second leg member of the spring member respectively include a first clearance edge section and a second clearance edge section disposed at or near the first locking surface and the second locking surface, the first clearance edge section and the second clearance edge section providing an inlet for the external thread member when the external thread member is screwed into the nut body.

14. The locking nut according to claim 13, wherein, The first and second clearance edge sections include the rounded edge portions of the first and second leg members, respectively.

15. The locking nut according to claim 13, wherein, The first clearance edge section and the second clearance edge section include the chamfered edge portions of the first leg member and the second leg member, respectively.

16. A method for manufacturing a lock nut that engages with an externally threaded component, comprising: Provide nut body blank; A nut body blank is formed into a nut body, the nut body including: a first end, a second end, and a threaded through hole sized to receive the external threaded component, the second end of the nut body defining a receiving cavity therein, the receiving cavity including a first mating surface and a second mating surface, the second mating surface being angled relative to the first mating surface; Provide spring component blanks; A spring component blank is formed into a spring component, the spring component including at least a first leg component, a second leg component, a first end component extending from the first leg component, and a second end component extending from the second leg component. The first leg component and the second leg component are connected together by a top end component, such that the first leg component and the second leg component are arranged in a generally parallel and spaced-apart relationship. The first leg component and the second leg component respectively define a first locking surface and a second locking surface. The spring member is disposed in the receiving cavity such that the first mating surface and the second mating surface constituting the receiving cavity receive the top end member of the spring member, and such that when the external threaded member is screwed into the threaded through hole defined by the nut body, the first locking surface and the second locking surface of the spring member undergo elastic displacement and press against the external threaded member at a generally opposite radial position to generate a locking force between the nut body and the external threaded member.

17. A method for manufacturing a lock nut that engages with an externally threaded component, comprising: Provide nut body blank; A nut body blank is formed into a nut body, the nut body including: a first end, a second end, and a threaded through hole sized to receive an external threaded component, wherein the second end of the nut body defines a receiving cavity therein; Provide spring component blanks; A spring component blank is formed into a spring component, the spring component including at least a first leg component and a second leg component, the first leg component and the second leg component being connected together by a top end component, such that the first leg component and the second leg component, and the first leg component and the second leg component respectively define a first locking surface and a second locking surface; and The spring member is disposed in the receiving cavity such that when the external threaded member is screwed into the threaded through hole defined by the nut body, the first locking surface and the second locking surface of the spring member press against the external threaded member at a spaced-apart first radial position and second radial position, respectively, and a locking force is generated between the nut body and the external threaded member.

18. The method according to claim 16 or 17, wherein, Forming a nut body from a nut body blank includes at least one process selected from the group consisting of cold forming and hot forming.

19. The method according to claim 16 or 17, wherein, The threaded through hole is formed by at least one process selected from the group consisting of thread rolling and thread cutting.

20. The method of claim 16 or 17, further comprising mechanically deforming at least a portion of the second end of the nut body to axially retain the spring member within the receiving cavity.

21. The method according to claim 20, wherein, Mechanical deformation of at least a portion of the second end of the nut body includes one or more mechanical deformation processes selected from the group consisting of necking and riveting.

22. The method according to claim 16 or 17, further comprising heat-treating the nut body and the spring member respectively before placing the spring member into the receiving cavity formed in the nut body.

23. The method according to claim 16 or 17, further comprising heat-treating the nut body and the spring member together after placing the spring member in a receiving cavity formed in the nut body.

24. The method according to claim 16 or 17, further comprising surface treating the nut body before placing the spring member into a receiving cavity formed in the nut body.

25. The method according to claim 16 or 17, wherein, The provision of the nut body blank includes the provision of a section of bar.

26. The method according to claim 16 or 17, wherein, Providing spring component blanks includes providing a section of wire.

27. The method according to claim 16 or 17, wherein, Providing spring component blanks includes providing a section of flat material.

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