Joint locking axial fastening system

Abstract

The present disclosure provides a "linker lock axial fastening system." An axial fastening system includes an externally threaded portion having a free end and a circumferential groove spaced apart from the free end. An internally threaded portion is rotatably receivable of the externally threaded portion, the internally threaded portion having a top side and a bottom side, wherein the internally threaded portion defines a central aperture having a first sidewall extending between the top side and the bottom side, wherein the central aperture defines a circumferential cavity proximate the top side of the internally threaded portion, the circumferential cavity having a top wall, a bottom wall, and a second sidewall extending between the top wall and the bottom wall, wherein the second sidewall is recessed relative to the first sidewall of the central aperture. A retention feature is disposed within the circumferential cavity, wherein the retention feature is configured to extend into the circumferential groove of the externally threaded portion.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This disclosure generally relates to a fastening system, and more particularly to an axial locking system for a fastening system. Background Technology

[0002] Trailer mounts for vehicles are typically configured to receive various mount attachments, including but not limited to ball mounts, bicycle racks, and cargo carriers. Mount attachments are usually attached to the trailer mount via a primary locking feature, such as a combination of threaded bolts and nuts. Due to the generally removable nature of mount attachments and the widespread use of threaded bolt and nut locking features, it is desirable for the primary locking feature to be equipped with an auxiliary locking feature to prevent unlocking of the primary locking feature. Known auxiliary locking features include cotter pins, safety lines, nylon insert lock nuts, lock washers, threaded locking adhesives, and prevailing torque lock nuts. Implementing such auxiliary locking features can be cumbersome. Therefore, a locking system with an enhanced auxiliary locking mechanism is needed for attaching mount attachments to trailer mounts for vehicles. Summary of the Invention

[0003] According to a first aspect of this disclosure, a trailer hitch axial fastening system includes: a trailer ball configured to be removably coupled to a trailer hitch of a vehicle and to receive accessory components; a threaded bolt extending from the trailer ball, the threaded bolt defining a free end and a circumferential groove spaced apart from the free end; and a threaded nut configured to rotatably receive the threaded bolt, the threaded nut defining a top side, a bottom side, and a central orifice, wherein the central orifice defines a first sidewall lined with internal threads and a circumferential cavity adjacent to the top side of the threaded nut, and wherein the circumferential cavity defines a top wall, a bottom wall, and a second sidewall extending between the top wall and the bottom wall, wherein the second sidewall is recessed relative to the first sidewall. The trailer hitch axial fastening system further includes a resilient annular ring disposed within the circumferential cavity of the threaded nut, wherein when the threaded bolt extends through the threaded nut such that the resilient annular ring is not aligned with the circumferential groove, the resilient annular ring applies a compressive force around the threaded bolt, and wherein when the threaded bolt extends through the threaded nut such that the resilient annular ring is aligned with the circumferential groove, the resilient annular ring extends into the circumferential groove, the resilient annular ring including a ridge having a first radius, wherein the ridge is configured to extend into the circumferential groove when the threaded bolt extends through the threaded nut such that the resilient annular ring is aligned with the circumferential groove.

[0004] Embodiments of the first aspect of this disclosure may include any one or a combination of the following features:

[0005] The resilient annular ring further includes: a first segment extending along the second sidewall; a second segment laterally defining the ridge; and a third segment extending along the second sidewall, wherein the second segment of the resilient annular ring is located between the first segment and the third segment of the resilient annular ring.

[0006] When the threaded bolt extends through the threaded nut, causing the resilient annular ring to be misaligned with the circumferential groove, the ridge of the resilient annular ring shifts laterally toward the second sidewall of the circumferential cavity.

[0007] When the threaded bolt extends through the threaded nut, causing the resilient annular ring to be misaligned with the circumferential groove, the first segment of the resilient annular ring slidably shifts toward the top wall, and / or the third segment of the resilient annular ring slidably shifts toward the bottom wall.

[0008] The first segment and the third segment of the elastic annular ring are substantially equal in length.

[0009] The elastic annular ring further includes a first transition segment between the first segment and the second segment, wherein the first transition segment defines a second radius; and a second transition segment between the second segment and the third segment, wherein the second transition segment defines a third radius.

[0010] The second radius and the third radius are substantially equal.

[0011] When the ridge of the elastic annular ring is received by the circumferential groove, the threaded nut is removably coupled to the threaded bolt.

[0012] The central opening of the threaded nut defines a first diameter, the ridge of the resilient annular ring defines a second diameter, and the first diameter is greater than the second diameter.

[0013] According to a second aspect of this disclosure, a fastening system includes an externally threaded portion having a free end and a circumferential groove spaced apart from the free end, and an internally threaded portion having a top side and a bottom side, wherein the internally threaded portion defines a central orifice extending between the top and bottom sides along a centerline, wherein the central orifice defines a first sidewall, and wherein the internally threaded portion defines a circumferential cavity adjacent to the top side, the circumferential cavity having a top wall, a bottom wall, and a second sidewall extending between the top wall and the bottom wall, wherein the second sidewall is recessed relative to the first sidewall of the central orifice. The fastening system further includes a retaining feature disposed within the circumferential cavity and configured to engage with the circumferential groove when the external threaded portion extends through the internal threaded portion such that the retaining feature aligns with the circumferential groove. The retaining feature includes a first segment extending along a second sidewall of the circumferential cavity and defining a top edge of the retaining feature; a second segment laterally spaced from the second sidewall of the circumferential cavity; and a third segment extending along the second sidewall of the circumferential cavity and defining a bottom edge of the retaining feature, wherein the second segment is located between the first segment and the third segment.

[0014] Embodiments of the second aspect of this disclosure may include any one or a combination of the following features:

[0015] The second segment includes a ridge with a tip, wherein the tip is displaced toward the second sidewall when the external threaded portion extends through the internal threaded portion and the ridge is not aligned with the circumferential groove.

[0016] The maintaining feature defines a uniform thickness.

[0017] The total length of the retaining feature is less than the length of the second sidewall.

[0018] The distance between the first and second segments of the retaining feature is greater when the external threaded portion extends through the internal threaded portion and the ridge is not aligned with the circumferential groove, compared to when the ridge extends into the circumferential groove.

[0019] As the external threaded portion extends through the internal threaded portion and the ridge extends into the circumferential groove, the ridge provides axial resistance to prevent the internal threaded portion from being removed from the external threaded portion without providing a significant preload torque between the external threaded portion and the internal threaded portion.

[0020] According to a third aspect of this disclosure, an axial fastening system includes: an external thread portion having a free end and a circumferential groove spaced apart from the free end; and an internal thread portion configured to rotatably receive the external thread portion, the internal thread portion having a top side and a bottom side, wherein the internal thread portion defines a central orifice having a first sidewall extending along a centerline between the top side and the bottom side, wherein the central orifice defines a circumferential cavity adjacent to the top side of the internal thread portion, the circumferential cavity having a top wall, a bottom wall, and a second sidewall extending between the top wall and the bottom wall, wherein the second sidewall is recessed relative to the first sidewall of the central orifice. The axial fastening system further includes a retaining feature disposed within the circumferential cavity, wherein the retaining feature is configured to extend into the circumferential groove of the externally threaded portion, the retaining feature comprising: a first section extending along a second sidewall of the circumferential cavity; a second section defining a ridge extending toward the centerline, wherein the second section is spaced apart from the second sidewall as the retaining feature extends into the circumferential groove of the externally threaded portion; and a third section extending along the second sidewall of the circumferential cavity.

[0021] Embodiments of the third aspect of this disclosure may include any one or a combination of the following features:

[0022] The ridge that retains the feature further includes a first portion extending from the first segment and a second portion extending from the second segment, wherein the second portion converges with the first portion at the apex of the ridge.

[0023] The retaining feature further includes: a first transition segment between the first segment of the retaining feature and the first portion of the ridge, wherein the first transition segment defines a first radius; and a second transition segment between the third segment of the retaining feature and the second portion of the ridge, wherein the second transition segment defines a second radius.

[0024] The ridge extends into the central opening further than the first sidewall.

[0025] The first segment of the retaining feature is substantially parallel to the third segment of the retaining feature.

[0026] These and other features, advantages and objectives of this disclosure will be further understood and appreciated by those skilled in the art upon reference to the following specification, claims and drawings. Attached Figure Description

[0027] In the attached diagram:

[0028] Figure 1 It is a top perspective view of the rear of the vehicle including the trailer hitch, where the axial locking system attaches the hitch attachment to the trailer hitch;

[0029] Figure 2 It is a side perspective view of the hook attachment including the ball stud and the external thread portion, wherein the external thread portion defines a circumferential groove near the free end of the external thread portion;

[0030] Figure 3 It is a side sectional view of the internal thread portion taken along the central longitudinal axis of the central opening of the internal thread portion, wherein the internal thread portion is configured to be rotatably connected to the external thread portion.

[0031] Figure 4 This is a detailed schematic diagram of the retaining feature set in the circumferential cavity of the internal thread portion;

[0032] Figure 5 It is a top-down perspective view that retains the features;

[0033] Figure 6 It is a schematic cross-sectional view of a retaining feature, which includes a first segment, a second segment, a third segment, a first transition segment between the first segment and the second segment, and a second transition segment between the second segment and the third segment;

[0034] Figure 7 It is an exploded perspective view of the axial fastening system integrated into the first vehicle suspension assembly; and

[0035] Figure 8 This is an exploded perspective view of the axial fastening system integrated into the second vehicle suspension assembly. Detailed Implementation

[0036] Reference will now be made in detail to the preferred embodiments of this disclosure, examples of which are illustrated in the accompanying drawings. Where possible, the same reference numerals will be used throughout the drawings to refer to the same or similar parts. In the drawings, structural elements are depicted not to scale, and some parts are enlarged relative to others for emphasis and understanding purposes.

[0037] Detailed embodiments of this disclosure are disclosed herein as needed; however, it should be understood that the disclosed embodiments are merely examples of this disclosure and may be implemented in various and alternative forms. The accompanying drawings are not necessarily detailed designs; some schematic diagrams may be enlarged or minimized to illustrate conceptual and / or functional overviews. Therefore, the specific structural and functional details disclosed herein should not be construed as limiting, but rather serve only as a representative basis for teaching those skilled in the art to employ this disclosure in different ways.

[0038] For descriptive purposes, the terms “up,” “down,” “right,” “left,” “back,” “front,” “vertical,” “horizontal,” and their derivatives should be used in conjunction with such terms. Figure 3 The concept of orientation is not explicitly stated. However, it should be understood that the concept may present various alternative orientations unless explicitly stated otherwise. It should also be understood that the specific apparatus and processes shown in the accompanying drawings and described in the following description are merely exemplary embodiments of the inventive concept defined in the appended claims. Therefore, unless otherwise expressly stated in the claims, the specific dimensions and other physical characteristics relating to the embodiments disclosed herein should not be considered limiting.

[0039] The embodiments illustrated herein primarily exist in combinations of method steps and equipment components associated with axial fastening systems. Therefore, equipment components and method steps have been indicated where appropriate by conventional symbols in the drawings, showing only those specific details relevant to understanding embodiments of this disclosure, so as not to obscure this disclosure in ways that would be obvious to those skilled in the art who benefit from the description herein. Furthermore, the same reference numerals denote the same elements in the specification and drawings.

[0040] As used herein, the term "and / or" when used with two or more listed items means that any one of the listed items may be used alone, or any combination of two or more of the listed items may be used. For example, if a composition is described as containing components A, B, and / or C, the composition may contain: A only; B only; C only; a combination of A and B; a combination of A and C; a combination of B and C; or a combination of A, B, and C.

[0041] In this document, relational terms such as first and second, top and bottom are used individually to distinguish one entity or action from another, without necessarily requiring or implying any actual such relationship or order between such entities or actions. The terms “comprising,” “including,” or any other variation thereof are intended to cover non-exclusive inclusion, such that a process, method, article of manufacture, or apparatus that comprises a list of elements includes not only those elements but may also include other elements not expressly listed or inherent to such process, method, article of manufacture, or apparatus. Without further constraints, an element preceded by “comprising…” does not exclude the presence of additional identical elements in the process, method, article of manufacture, or apparatus that includes said element.

[0042] As used herein, the terms “substantially,” “basically,” and variations thereof are intended to indicate that the described feature is equal to or approximately equal to a value or description. For example, a “substantially planar” surface is intended to indicate a planar or approximately planar surface. Additionally, “substantially” is intended to mean that two values ​​are equal or approximately equal. In some embodiments, “substantially” may indicate that the values ​​are within about 10% of each other, within about 5% of each other, or within about 2% of each other.

[0043] Unless explicitly indicated otherwise, as used herein, the terms “the,” “an,” or “a” mean “at least one” and should not be limited to “only one.” Thus, for example, unless the context clearly indicates otherwise, references to “component” include embodiments having two or more such components.

[0044] First refer to Figure 1 Reference numeral 10 generally denotes an axial fastening system. As shown, the axial fastening system 10 includes a hook-on attachment 12, which is removably coupled to an intermediate component 14 received by a trailer hitch 16 at the rear end 18 of the vehicle 20. For example, the vehicle 20 may be a motor vehicle, such as a wheeled motor vehicle with a motor (e.g., an internal combustion engine), a battery-powered motor, or a hybrid system with a combination of an internal combustion engine and a battery. The trailer hitch 16 may be coupled to the vehicle frame, vehicle bumper 22, or another location on the vehicle 20. Alternatively, the hook-on attachment 12 may be removably coupled directly to the trailer hitch 16, vehicle frame, vehicle bumper 22, or another location on the vehicle 20.

[0045] refer to Figure 1 and Figure 2 The hook-up accessory 12 of the axial fastening system 10 is a trailer ball comprising a ball stud 24 and an externally threaded portion 26 extending from the ball stud 24. The ball stud 24 is configured to receive a trailer coupler or another additional attachment, and the size of the ball stud 24 can vary depending on, for example, the type of additional attachment the user expects to be connected to the ball stud 24. According to some aspects, the ball stud 24 can be a 1.875-inch diameter ball stud, a 2-inch diameter ball stud, a 2.3125-inch diameter ball stud, or a 3-inch diameter ball stud. Additionally, in addition to or instead of the ball stud 24, the hook-up accessory 12 may include other components, and the externally threaded portion 26 may extend from another component. For example, the ball stud 24 may be supplemented or replaced by a trailer coupler adapter, a hook-up cargo carrier, a bicycle rack, a fifth-wheel trailer hook-up accessory, or components thereof (such as bolt heads). In addition, the intermediate component 14 to which the attachment 12 is removably connected ( Figure 1This can be, for example, a trailer coupler adapter, a hook-and-mount cargo carrier, a bicycle rack, a fifth-wheel trailer hitch, or a component thereof. As shown, a tapered intermediate member 28 is positioned between a ball-end stud 24 and an externally threaded portion 26, the tapered intermediate member being configured to reside within a mounting hole in an intermediate member 14, wherein the intermediate member 28 extends from the ball-end stud 24, and the externally threaded portion 26 extends from the intermediate member 28. Alternatively, the externally threaded portion 26 may extend directly from the ball-end stud 24, and / or the intermediate member 28 may be cylindrical rather than tapered.

[0046] The threaded portion 26 of the attachment 12 is a threaded bolt, defining a first diameter Ø1 and an external thread 30 extending between the intermediate member 28 and the free end 32 of the threaded portion 26. The threaded portion 26 also defines a bolt length B, and the free end 32 is configured to be rotatably connected to an internal thread portion 34. For example, the external thread 30 can be formed on the threaded portion 26 by processes such as molding, rolling, cutting, or grinding. The threaded portion 26 also defines a threadless concave circumferential groove 36, which is spaced from the free end 32 and extends circumferentially around the threaded portion 26. Depending on some aspects, the bolt length B of the threaded portion 26 can vary. The circumferential groove 36 of the threaded portion 26 and the free end 32 are separated by a first distance D1, which can also vary. For example, the circumferential groove 36 can be positioned near the free end 32 of the threaded portion 26 or near the midpoint 38 of the threaded portion 26. Additionally, the external thread 30 can be disposed within the circumferential groove 36, and the circumferential groove 36 can be, for example, square, conical, or circular. It is also conceivable that the circumferential groove 36 can be convex. In some cases, the external thread portion 26 of the attachment accessory 12 can be a threaded screw.

[0047] refer to Figures 1 to 3 The axial fastening system 10 includes an internally threaded portion 34 configured to rotatably engage with an externally threaded portion 26 of the hook attachment 12. The internally threaded portion 34 is a threaded nut defining a top side 40, a bottom side 42, and a central aperture 44 extending along a centerline C between the top side 40 and the bottom side 42, the central aperture 44 being configured to receive the externally threaded portion 26. The central aperture 44 defines a first sidewall 46 having a second diameter Ø2, wherein the first sidewall 46 defines an internal thread 48 configured to interlock with the external thread 30 of the externally threaded portion 26. For example, the internal thread 48 may be formed on the first sidewall 46 by processes such as molding, rolling, cutting, or grinding. It is contemplated that the internally threaded portion 34 and / or the externally threaded portion 26 may include, for example, auxiliary locking mechanisms such as cotter pins, safety lines, nylon insert lock nuts, locking washers, thread-locking adhesives, and preset torque lock nuts.

[0048] In an exemplary assembly of the axial fastening system 10, the free end 32 of the externally threaded portion 26 may be positioned at the bottom side 42 of the internally threaded portion 34, the externally threaded portion 26 extending substantially along the centerline C of the central aperture 44. The externally threaded portion 26 is then rotated relative to the internally threaded portion 34 in a first direction, and the external thread 30 at the free end 32 engages with the internal thread 48 of the central aperture 44, such that the externally threaded portion 26 advances axially toward the top side 40 through the central aperture 44 of the internally threaded portion 34. The free end 32 of the externally threaded portion 26 may have a partial thread, which facilitates initiating engagement between the externally threaded portion 26 and the internally threaded portion 34. Additionally, an external force may be required to push the externally threaded portion 26 and the internally threaded portion 34 together to form initial contact between the externally threaded portion 26 and the internally threaded portion 34, and subsequently engage the external thread 30 and the internal thread 48. The externally threaded portion 26 may be further rotated in the first direction, such that the free end 32 of the externally threaded portion 26 passes through the top side 40 of the internally threaded portion 34. In some cases, the internal thread portion 34 may be rotated alternatively or in addition to the internal thread portion 34. According to some aspects, the top side 40 of the internal thread portion 34 may first receive the free end 32 of the external thread portion 26. Furthermore, the external thread portion 26 may be rotated relative to the internal thread portion 34 in a second direction to push the external thread portion 26 out of the central opening 44 of the internal thread portion 34.

[0049] refer to Figure 3 The internally threaded portion 34 also includes a housing 50 extending from the top side 40 of the internally threaded portion 34. The housing 50 defines a second sidewall 52 and includes a flange 54 extending toward the centerline C of the central aperture 44. The second sidewall 52 of the housing 50 extends between a top wall 56 defined by the flange 54 and a bottom wall 58 defined by the top side 40 of the internally threaded portion 34. The housing 50 also defines a circumferential cavity 62 containing a retaining feature 64. Specifically, the circumferential cavity 62 is defined by the top wall 56, the bottom wall 58, and the second sidewall 52, and the second sidewall 52 is recessed relative to the first sidewall 46 of the central aperture 44 in a direction away from the centerline C. It is contemplated that in some cases, the internally threaded portion 34 may not include the housing 50. Thus, the central aperture 44 may define the circumferential cavity 62 between the top side 40 and the bottom side 42 of the internally threaded portion 34. Alternatively, the retaining feature 64 may be coupled to the internally threaded portion 34 but located outside the internally threaded portion 34. In other cases, the internal thread portion 34 may include a plurality of circumferential cavities 62, each of which may contain a retaining feature 64.

[0050] refer to Figure 2 and Figure 3The retaining feature 64 is a convex, resilient annular ring disposed within the circumferential cavity 62, extending toward the centerline C into the central aperture 44, and configured to engage with the concave circumferential groove 36 of the external thread portion 26. The retaining feature 64 may be made of a resilient metallic material or another resilient material. In a configuration where the circumferential groove 36 is convex, the retaining feature 64 may be concave and configured to receive the circumferential groove 36. It is conceivable that the external thread portion 26 may alternatively define a circumferential cavity 62 extending circumferentially around the external thread portion 26, wherein the retaining feature 64 is disposed within and extends outward from the circumferential cavity 62, and the circumferential groove 36 may be defined by the internal thread portion 34 at locations such as the first sidewall 46 or the housing 50.

[0051] Regarding the axial fastening system 10 ( Figure 1 The assembly, in the unassembled configuration, is one in which the top side 40 and bottom side 42 of the internal threaded portion 34 do not receive the external threaded portion 26 and the retaining feature 64 maintains its original shape. In the partially assembled position, the top side 40 and bottom side 42 of the internal threaded portion 34 receive the external threaded portion 26, the retaining feature 64 is not aligned with the circumferential groove 36 of the external threaded portion 26, and the retaining feature 64 is in contact with the external threaded portion 26, such that the retaining feature 64 deforms. In the fully assembled position, the top side 40 and bottom side 42 of the internal threaded portion 34 receive the external threaded portion 26, the retaining feature 64 is aligned with the circumferential groove 36 of the external threaded portion 26, and the retaining feature 64 engages with and extends into the circumferential groove 36, such that the retaining feature 64 at least partially returns to its original shape. When the axial fastening system 10 is in the fully assembled position, the engagement between the retaining feature 64 and the circumferential groove 36 provides resistance against axial movement of the internal threaded portion 34 relative to the external threaded portion 26 away from the fully assembled position. Specifically, when feature 64 is in contact with one of the pair of lips 66 of the circumferential groove 36, maintaining contact between feature 64 and lip 66 provides resistance to axial movement of the internal thread portion 34 relative to the external thread portion 26. In the fully assembled position, there may be no significant preload torque between the internal thread portion 34 and the external thread portion 26. When in the fully assembled position, ridge 78 may be in contact with one, both, or neither of the pair of lips 66 of the circumferential groove 36. The fully assembled position can provide a limited range of axial movement of the internal thread portion 34 relative to the external thread portion 26 without significant resistance to axial movement, and this limited range may extend up to the length of the external thread portion 26.

[0052] According to some aspects, the internally threaded portion 34 can be manufactured such that the free edge 60 of the housing 50 initially extends from the second sidewall 52 substantially parallel to the centerline C of the central aperture 44. A retaining feature 64 can then be disposed within the housing 50 such that it is held by the bottom wall 58 and the second sidewall 52. The housing 50 adjacent to the free edge 60 can then be crimped such that the free edge 60 extends relative to the second sidewall 52 toward the centerline C, thereby forming a flange 54 and a top wall 56 of the circumferential cavity 62 and retaining the retaining feature 64 within the circumferential cavity 62. In another example, the retaining feature 64 can elastically deform, moving into or beyond the central aperture 44 of the internally threaded portion 34 and aligning with the circumferential cavity 62, such that the retaining feature 64 can subsequently retain its original shape within the circumferential cavity 62.

[0053] refer to Figure 4 and Figure 5 The retaining feature 64 has a first segment 68, a second segment 70, and a third segment 72. The first segment 68 and the third segment 72 of the retaining feature 64 extend along a second sidewall 52. The first segment 68 defines a top edge 74 of the retaining feature 64, and the third segment 72 defines a bottom edge 76 of the retaining feature 64. The top edge 74 is positioned near the top wall 56 of the circumferential cavity 62, and the bottom edge 76 is positioned near the bottom wall 58 of the circumferential cavity 62. Furthermore, the top edge 74 is spaced apart from the top wall 56 of the circumferential cavity 62, and the bottom edge 76 is spaced apart from the bottom wall 58 of the circumferential cavity 62, such that the retaining feature 64 can extend along a centerline C within the circumferential cavity 62. A second portion 70 of the retaining feature 64 is located between the first segment 68 and the third segment 72, and includes a ridge 78 extending toward the centerline C and into a central aperture 44 relative to the first sidewall 46 and the internal thread 48. Specifically, ridge 78 includes a first portion 80 extending obliquely from a first segment 68 and a second portion 82 extending obliquely from a third segment 72, wherein the first portion 80 and the second portion 82 of ridge 78 converge at a apex 84 of ridge 78. The first segment 68, second segment 70, and third segment 72 of retaining feature 64 have a substantially uniform thickness T, and the apex 84 of ridge 78 defines a first radius R1. In some cases, the thickness T of retaining feature 64 may be non-uniform. Additionally, retaining feature 64 may be biased toward the top wall 56 or bottom wall 58 of circumferential cavity 62 due to gravity, adhesives, or biasing mechanisms such as springs. It is conceivable that the first radius R1 of apex 84 may match a concave surface of circumferential cavity 62 and may be, for example, square or pointed.

[0054] refer to Figures 1 to 4The retaining feature 64 defines a third diameter Ø3 at the tip 84 of the ridge 78, wherein the third diameter Ø3 is smaller than the second diameter Ø2 of the central aperture 44 and the first diameter Ø1 of the external thread portion 26. Therefore, the retaining feature 64 is configured to elastically deform when it receives the external thread portion 26. When the axial fastening system 10 moves from the unassembled position to the partially assembled position, the free end 32 of the external thread portion 26 is rotatably received by the bottom side 42 of the internal thread portion 34. Thereafter, the free end 32 advances axially through the central aperture 44 and through the retaining feature 64. When the free end 32 reaches the retaining feature 64, it contacts the second portion 82 of the ridge 78 near the tip 84. Here, the contact between the ridge 78 and the external thread portion 26 can generate resistance against the axial movement of the external thread portion 26 through the retaining feature 64. As the free end 32 of the external thread portion 26 advances further through the central aperture 44 of the internal thread portion 34, the free end 32 passes through the retaining feature 64, and the external thread portion 26 radially pushes the tip 84 of the ridge 78 outward. Therefore, the tip 84 is elastically and laterally displaced toward the second sidewall 52 of the circumferential cavity 62. Simultaneously, the ridge 78 applies a compressive force to the external thread portion 26, which may generate a pre-set torque between the internal thread portion 34 and the external thread portion 26. Furthermore, as the retaining feature 64 is displaced by the external thread portion 26, the second distance D2 between the first segment 68 and the third segment 72 of the retaining feature 64 increases. Therefore, the retaining feature 64 deforms in the partially assembled position. As the free end 32 of the external thread portion 26 advances through the retaining feature 64, the displacement of the ridge 78 can be maintained or increased until the ridge 78 aligns with the circumferential groove 36. As the free end 32 of the external thread portion 26 advances through the retaining feature 64, the compressive force applied to the external thread portion 26 by the retaining feature 64 can be maintained or increased until the ridge 78 aligns with the circumferential groove 36.

[0055] According to some aspects, when the external threaded portion 26 displaces the ridge 78 of the retaining feature 64, the first segment 68 may slide along the second sidewall 52 toward the top wall 56, and / or the third segment 72 may slide along the second sidewall 52 toward the bottom wall 58. When the external threaded portion displaces the retaining feature 64, a pre-loaded torque is generated between the external threaded portion 26 and the internal threaded portion 34. Alternatively, any pre-loaded torque between the external threaded portion 26 and the internal threaded portion 34 caused by the compressive force applied to the external threaded portion 26 by the retaining feature 64 may be negligible. In some cases, when the axial fastening system 10 is in the unassembled position, the bottom edge 76 of the retaining feature 64 may abut the bottom wall 58 of the circumferential cavity 62, such that when a compressive force is applied to the retaining feature 64 through the external threaded portion 26, the first segment 68 of the retaining feature 64 slides along the second sidewall 52, and the third segment 72 of the retaining feature 64 does not slide along the second sidewall 52. Similarly, when the axial fastening system 10 is in the unassembled position, the top edge 74 of the retaining feature 64 can abut the top wall 56 of the circumferential cavity 62 such that when a compressive force is applied to the retaining feature 64 through the external thread portion 26, the third segment 72 slides along the second sidewall 52, and the first segment 68 does not slide along the second sidewall 52.

[0056] Still referencing Figures 1 to 4 When the axial fastening system 10 moves from the partially assembled position to the fully assembled position, the external threaded portion 26 advances axially through the internal threaded portion 34 until the retaining feature 64 aligns with the circumferential groove 36. When the retaining feature 64 aligns with the circumferential groove 36, the contact between the external threaded portion 26 and the retaining feature 64 terminates, and the compressive force exerted by the retaining feature 64 on the external threaded portion 26 is eliminated, thereby eliminating lateral displacement of the tip 84 of the ridge 78 of the retaining feature 64. Therefore, the second distance D2 between the first segment 68 and the third segment 72 of the retaining feature 64 decreases as the first segment 68 and / or the third segment 72 slides along the second sidewall 52. In the fully assembled position, any pre-set torque between the external threaded portion 26 and the internal threaded portion 34 caused by the contact between the retaining feature 64 and the external threaded portion 26 is eliminated. According to some aspects, when the axial fastening system 10 moves from the partially assembled position to the fully assembled position, the deformation of the retaining feature 64 caused by the contact between the retaining feature 64 and the external threaded portion 26 is reduced but not completely eliminated. Therefore, the ridge 78 of retaining feature 64 extends into and contacts the circumferential groove 36 in the fully assembled position, the compressive force between the external thread portion 26 and retaining feature 64 is reduced but not eliminated, and any pre-set torque between the external thread portion 26 and the internal thread portion 34 due to the contact between retaining feature 64 and external thread portion 26 is reduced but not eliminated.

[0057] The engagement between the retaining feature 64 of the internal thread portion 34 and the circumferential groove 36 of the external thread portion 26 provides resistance to axial movement of the internal thread portion 34 relative to the external thread portion 26 (and vice versa). The magnitude of the axial resistance can vary depending on the geometry of the circumferential groove 36 and the parameters of the retaining feature 64, as described in more detail below. For example, the axial resistance can be higher when the circumferential groove 36 is deeper and / or when the lip 66 of the circumferential groove 36 extends orthogonally to the centerline C of the central aperture 44, compared to when the circumferential groove 36 is shallower and / or the lip 66 of the circumferential groove 36 is chamfered. According to some aspects, the ridge 78 of the retaining feature 64 can engage the circumferential groove 36 in a snap-fit ​​and / or slidably manner. When the axial fastening system 10 moves from the unassembled position to the partially assembled position, the ridge 78 can additionally shift in the direction along the centerline C as the free end 32 of the external thread portion 26 contacts the ridge 78 and advances toward the top side 40 of the internal thread portion 34. When the axial fastening system 10 moves from the fully assembled position to another position, the ridge 78 can also be displaced in the direction along the centerline C because one of the pair of lips 66 of the circumferential groove 36 contacts the ridge 78.

[0058] refer to Figure 4 and Figure 6 The retaining feature 64 has a total length L1. A first segment 68 defines a first segment length L2, and a third segment 72 defines a third segment length L3. A first angle θ1 is defined between the first portion 80 of the ridge 78 and the second sidewall 52 of the circumferential cavity 62, and a second angle θ2 is defined as the angle between the second portion 82 of the ridge 78 and the second sidewall 52 of the circumferential cavity 62. The top tip 84 of the ridge 78 is laterally spaced from the first segment 68 and the third segment 72 by a third distance D3, such that a gap G is between the second sidewall 52 and the top tip 84. The top edge 74 of the first segment 68 is longitudinally spaced from the top tip 84 of the ridge 78 by a fourth distance D4, and the bottom edge 76 of the third segment 72 is longitudinally spaced from the top tip 84 of the ridge 78 by a fifth distance D5. A first transition segment Z1 is located between the first segment 68 and the second segment 70 of the retaining feature 64, and a second transition segment Z2 is located between the second segment 70 and the third segment 72. The first transition segment Z1 defines the second radius R2, and the second transition segment Z2 defines the third radius R3. The thickness T and total length L1, the length of the first segment L2 and the length of the third segment L3, the first angle θ1 and the second angle θ2, the third distance D3, the fourth distance D4 and the fifth distance D5, the second radius R2 and the third radius R3, and the material used to make the retaining feature 64 are the retaining feature parameters.

[0059] refer to Figures 1 to 6The resilient retaining feature 64 has a predetermined stiffness such that when the tip 84 is displaced toward the second sidewall 52 via the externally threaded portion 26, the ridge 78 applies a lateral compressive force to the externally threaded portion 26. One or more of the retaining feature parameters can be modified during the manufacture of the retaining feature 64 to achieve a desired stiffness and / or a desired geometry of the retaining feature 64 that applies a desired amount of resistance to axial movement of the internally threaded portion 34 relative to the externally threaded portion 26 when the axial fastening system 10 is in the fully assembled position (and vice versa). It is conceivable that the retaining feature 64 can also apply a force to the externally threaded portion 26 in a direction along the centerline C of the central aperture 44 when the ridge 78 is displaced along the centerline C or contacts one or both of the pairs of lips 66 of the circumferential groove 36. It is also conceivable that maintaining the characteristic parameters, maintaining the stiffness of the feature 64, maintaining the geometry of the feature 64 and the geometry of the circumferential groove 36 can be configured to prevent the user from moving the axial fastening system 10 from the fully assembled position to another position.

[0060] According to some aspects, when the retaining feature 64 has greater stiffness, the resistance to axial movement of the internal thread portion 34 relative to the external thread portion 26 (and vice versa) increases. The stiffness of the retaining feature 64 increases when the total length L1 decreases, the third distance D3 increases, the first angle θ1 increases, the second angle θ2 increases, the first segment length L2 increases, the third segment length L3 increases, the first radius R1 decreases, the second radius R2 decreases, the third radius R3 decreases, and / or the thickness T increases. With the increase in the first segment length L2 and the third segment length L3, when the axial fastening system 10 moves to the partially assembled position, the top edge 74 and the bottom edge 76 of the retaining feature 64 can respectively abut the top wall 56 and the bottom wall 58 of the circumferential cavity 62 before the top tip 84 of the ridge 78 is fully displaced. Here, the stiffness can increase when the top edge 74 and the bottom edge 76 abut the top wall 56 and the bottom wall 58 of the circumferential cavity 62, respectively.

[0061] Depending on various aspects, the first angle θ1 and the second angle θ2 can be the same or different. When the first angle θ1 and the second angle θ2 are different, the axial resistance between the external thread portion 26 and the internal thread portion 34 can vary in direction. For example, when the second angle θ2 is greater than the first angle θ1, the resistance to the axial movement of the external thread portion 26 relative to the internal thread portion 34 when the axial fastening system 10 moves from the unassembled position to the partially assembled position can be less than the resistance to the axial movement of the external thread portion 26 relative to the internal thread portion 34 when the axial fastening system 10 moves from the fully assembled position to the unassembled position. Therefore, the resistance experienced when moving the axial fastening system 10 from the unassembled position to the fully assembled position may be smaller than the resistance experienced when moving the axial fastening system 10 from the fully assembled position to the fully assembled position. It is also conceivable that the first segment length L2 and the third segment length L3 can be the same or different. When the first segment length L1 and the second segment length L3 are different, the displacement of the first segment 68 and the third segment 72 in the partially assembled position may be affected. For example, when the first segment 68 is shorter than the third segment 72, the first segment 68 can be slidably displaced more than the third segment 72 when the axial fastening system 10 moves from another position to a partially assembled position.

[0062] refer to Figures 1 to 3 It is conceivable that the axial fastening system 10 can have a wide variety of dynamic and fixed applications and can be integrated into systems such as automotive systems, marine systems, construction systems, and electrical systems. Instead of extending from the ball-end stud 24, the external threaded portion 26 can extend from one or more different parts, components, and / or mechanisms in such applications, and the external threaded portion 26 can interact with the internal threaded portion 34, as described herein. According to some aspects, the axial fastening system 10 may include a threadless bolt and a threadless nut, instead of the external threaded portion 26 and the internal threaded portion 34, wherein the threadless bolt defines a circumferential groove 36 and the threadless nut includes a retaining feature and is configured to axially receive the threadless bolt.

[0063] refer to Figure 7The axial fastening system 10 is integrated into a first vehicle suspension assembly 86 and includes a control arm 88, a ball joint 90 coupled to the control arm 88, and a suspension steering knuckle 92, wherein an externally threaded portion 26 extends from the ball joint 90. The suspension steering knuckle 92 defines a steering knuckle bore 94 configured to receive the externally threaded portion 26. When the externally threaded portion 26 is received by the steering knuckle bore 94, the free end 32 of the externally threaded portion 26 can be rotatably received by an internally threaded portion 34, and the axial fastening system 10 is operable to a fully assembled position, thereby connecting the control arm 88 to the suspension steering knuckle 92. Notably, the axial fastening system 10 can be integrated into different vehicle suspension assemblies having suspension components different from the control arm 88 and / or the suspension steering knuckle 92.

[0064] refer to Figure 8 The axial fastening system 10 is integrated into a second vehicle suspension assembly 96, which includes a spring-damper assembly 98, a suspension arm 100, and a stabilizer bar link 102. The stabilizer bar link defines a first end 104 and a second end 106, wherein a pair of externally threaded portions 26 extend from the first end 104 and the second end 106 of the stabilizer bar link 102, respectively. One of the externally threaded portions 26 is configured to be received by a first hole 108 defined by the spring-damper assembly 98, and another externally threaded portion 26 is configured to be received by a second hole 110 defined by the suspension arm 100. When one of the externally threaded portions 26 is received by the first hole 108 of the spring-damper assembly 98, its free end 32 is operable to a fully assembled position by an internally threaded portion 34. Figure 7 The spring damper 98 is rotatably received. When one of the external threaded portions 26 is received by the second hole 110 of the suspension arm 100, its free end 32 can be received by the internal threaded nut 34, which is movable to the fully assembled position. Thus, when the external threaded portions 26 of the stabilizer bar link 102 are received by the first hole 108 and the second hole 110 respectively, and subsequently by the internal threaded portions 34 respectively in the fully assembled position, the spring damper 98 is coupled to the suspension arm 100. It is worth noting that the axial fastening system 10 can be incorporated into different vehicle suspension assemblies having suspension components different from the spring damper 98 and / or the suspension arm 100.

[0065] The axial fastening system 10 described herein offers numerous advantages over known fastener locking mechanisms in the prior art. For example, when the retaining feature 64 of the internal thread portion 34 engages with the circumferential groove 36 of the external thread portion 26, it provides resistance to axial movement of the internal thread portion 34 relative to the external thread portion 26. The engagement of the retaining feature 64 and the circumferential groove 36 also reduces or eliminates any pre-existing torque between the external thread portion 26 and the internal thread portion 34, which reduces wear on both and enhances the robustness of the locking relationship between them in the fully assembled position. Therefore, separation of the external thread portion 26 and the internal thread portion 34 can be further suppressed compared to known fastener locking systems. The axial fastening system 10 described herein also eliminates the need for additional auxiliary locking mechanisms to prevent separation of components in the fastening system.

[0066] It should be understood that changes and modifications may be made to the foregoing structures without departing from the concept of this disclosure, and it should also be understood that such concepts are intended to be covered by the following claims unless otherwise expressly stated in their language.

[0067] According to the present invention, an axial fastening system for a trailer hitch is provided, the system comprising: a trailer ball configured to be removably coupled to a trailer hitch of a vehicle and to receive accessory components; a threaded bolt extending from the trailer ball, the threaded bolt defining a free end and a circumferential groove spaced apart from the free end; and a threaded nut configured to rotatably receive the threaded bolt, the threaded nut defining a top side, a bottom side, and a central orifice, wherein the central orifice defines a first sidewall lined with internal threads and a circumferential cavity adjacent to the top side of the threaded nut, and wherein the circumferential cavity defines a top wall, a bottom wall, and a second sidewall extending between the top wall and the bottom wall. The second sidewall is recessed relative to the first sidewall; and an elastic annular ring is disposed within the circumferential cavity of the threaded nut, wherein when the threaded bolt extends through the threaded nut such that the elastic annular ring is not aligned with the circumferential groove, the elastic annular ring applies a compressive force around the threaded bolt, and wherein when the threaded bolt extends through the threaded nut such that the elastic annular ring is aligned with the circumferential groove, the elastic annular ring extends into the circumferential groove, the elastic annular ring including a ridge having a first radius, wherein the ridge is configured to extend into the circumferential groove when the threaded bolt extends through the threaded nut such that the elastic annular ring is aligned with the circumferential groove.

[0068] According to one embodiment, the resilient annular ring further includes: a first segment extending along the second sidewall; a second segment laterally defining the ridge; and a third segment extending along the second sidewall, wherein the second segment of the resilient annular ring is located between the first segment and the third segment of the resilient annular ring.

[0069] According to one embodiment, when the threaded bolt extends through the threaded nut such that the resilient annular ring is not aligned with the circumferential groove, the ridge of the resilient annular ring is laterally displaced toward the second sidewall of the circumferential cavity.

[0070] According to one embodiment, when the threaded bolt extends through the threaded nut such that the resilient annular ring is not aligned with the circumferential groove, the first segment of the resilient annular ring is slidably displaced toward the top wall, and / or the third segment of the resilient annular ring is slidably displaced toward the bottom wall.

[0071] According to one embodiment, the first segment and the third segment of the elastic annular ring are substantially equal in length.

[0072] According to one embodiment, the elastic annular ring further includes: a first transition segment between the first segment and the second segment, wherein the first transition segment defines a second radius; and a second transition segment between the second segment and the third segment, wherein the second transition segment defines a third radius.

[0073] According to one embodiment, the second radius and the third radius are substantially equal.

[0074] According to one embodiment, the threaded nut is removably coupled to the threaded bolt when the ridge of the resilient annular ring is received by the circumferential groove.

[0075] According to one embodiment, the central bore of the threaded nut defines a first diameter, the ridge of the resilient annular ring defines a second diameter, and the first diameter is greater than the second diameter.

[0076] According to the present invention, a fastening system is provided, the fastening system comprising: an external thread portion having a free end and a circumferential groove spaced apart from the free end; an internal thread portion having a top side and a bottom side, wherein the internal thread portion defines a central orifice extending along a centerline between the top side and the bottom side, wherein the central orifice defines a first sidewall, and wherein the internal thread portion defines a circumferential cavity adjacent to the top side, the circumferential cavity having a top wall, a bottom wall, and a second sidewall extending between the top wall and the bottom wall, wherein the second sidewall is recessed relative to the first sidewall of the central orifice; and a retaining feature, The retaining feature is disposed within the circumferential cavity and configured to engage with the circumferential groove when the external threaded portion extends through the internal threaded portion such that the retaining feature is aligned with the circumferential groove. The retaining feature includes: a first segment extending along a second sidewall of the circumferential cavity and defining a top edge of the retaining feature; a second segment laterally spaced from the second sidewall of the circumferential cavity; and a third segment extending along the second sidewall of the circumferential cavity and defining a bottom edge of the retaining feature, wherein the second segment is located between the first segment and the third segment.

[0077] According to one embodiment, the second segment includes a ridge with a tip, and wherein the tip is displaced toward the second sidewall when the external threaded portion extends through the internal threaded portion and the ridge is not aligned with the circumferential groove.

[0078] According to one embodiment, the retaining feature defines a uniform thickness.

[0079] According to one embodiment, the total length of the retaining feature is less than the length of the second sidewall.

[0080] According to one embodiment, when the external threaded portion extends through the internal threaded portion and the ridge is not aligned with the circumferential groove, the distance between the first and second segments of the retaining feature is greater than when the ridge extends into the circumferential groove.

[0081] According to one embodiment, when the external threaded portion extends through the internal threaded portion and the ridge extends into the circumferential groove, the ridge provides axial resistance to prevent the internal threaded portion from being removed from the external threaded portion without providing a significant preload torque between the external threaded portion and the internal threaded portion.

[0082] According to the present invention, an axial fastening system is provided, the axial fastening system comprising: an external threaded portion having a free end and a circumferential groove spaced apart from the free end; and an internal threaded portion configured to rotatably receive the external threaded portion, the internal threaded portion having a top side and a bottom side, wherein the internal threaded portion defines a central orifice having a first sidewall extending along a centerline between the top side and the bottom side, wherein the central orifice defines a circumferential cavity adjacent to the top side of the internal threaded portion, the circumferential cavity having a top wall, a bottom wall, and a second sidewall extending between the top wall and the bottom wall. The second sidewall is recessed relative to the first sidewall of the central aperture; and a retaining feature disposed within the circumferential cavity, wherein the retaining feature is configured to extend into the circumferential groove of the external thread portion, the retaining feature comprising: a first segment extending along the second sidewall of the circumferential cavity; a second segment defining a ridge extending toward the centerline, wherein the second segment is spaced apart from the second sidewall when the retaining feature extends into the circumferential groove of the external thread portion; and a third segment extending along the second sidewall of the circumferential cavity.

[0083] According to one embodiment, the ridge that retains the feature further includes: a first portion extending from the first segment; and a second portion extending from the second segment, wherein the second portion converges with the first portion at the apex of the ridge.

[0084] According to one embodiment, the retaining feature further includes: a first transition segment between the first segment of the retaining feature and the first portion of the ridge, wherein the first transition segment defines a first radius; and a second transition segment between the third segment of the retaining feature and the second portion of the ridge, wherein the second transition segment defines a second radius.

[0085] According to one embodiment, the ridge extends into the central aperture further than the first sidewall.

[0086] According to one embodiment, the first segment of the retaining feature is substantially parallel to the third segment of the retaining feature.

Claims

1. An axial fastening system for trailer hitches, comprising: Trailer ball, the trailer ball being configured to be removably attached to a trailer hitch of a vehicle and to receive accessory components; A threaded bolt extending from the trailer ball, the threaded bolt defining a free end and a circumferential groove spaced apart from the free end; A threaded nut configured to rotatably receive a threaded bolt, the threaded nut defining a top side, a bottom side, and a central orifice, wherein the central orifice defines a first sidewall lined with internal threads and a circumferential cavity adjacent to the top side of the threaded nut, and wherein the circumferential cavity defines a top wall, a bottom wall, and a second sidewall extending between the top wall and the bottom wall, wherein the second sidewall is recessed relative to the first sidewall; as well as A resilient annular ring is disposed within the circumferential cavity of the threaded nut, wherein when the threaded bolt extends through the threaded nut such that the resilient annular ring is not aligned with the circumferential groove, the resilient annular ring applies a compressive force around the threaded bolt, and wherein when the threaded bolt extends through the threaded nut such that the resilient annular ring is aligned with the circumferential groove, the resilient annular ring extends into the circumferential groove, the resilient annular ring including a ridge having a first radius, wherein the ridge is configured to extend into the circumferential groove when the threaded bolt extends through the threaded nut such that the resilient annular ring is aligned with the circumferential groove.

2. The axial fastening system for trailer hitches according to claim 1, wherein the elastic annular ring further comprises: The first segment extends along the second sidewall; The second section, the second section laterally defines the ridge; as well as The third segment extends along the second sidewall, wherein the second segment of the elastic annular ring is located between the first segment and the third segment of the elastic annular ring.

3. The trailer hitch axial fastening system according to claim 2, wherein when the threaded bolt extends through the threaded nut such that the resilient annular ring is not aligned with the circumferential groove, the ridge of the resilient annular ring is laterally displaced toward the second sidewall of the circumferential cavity.

4. The trailer hitch axial fastening system according to claim 3, wherein when the threaded bolt extends through the threaded nut causing the resilient annular ring to be misaligned with the circumferential groove, the first segment of the resilient annular ring is slidably displaced toward the top wall, and / or the third segment of the resilient annular ring is slidably displaced toward the bottom wall.

5. The axial fastening system for trailer hitches according to claim 4, wherein the first segment and the third segment of the elastic annular ring are substantially equal in length.

6. The axial fastening system for trailer hitches according to claim 5, wherein the elastic annular ring further comprises: A first transition segment located between the first segment and the second segment, wherein the first transition segment defines a second radius; as well as A second transition section is located between the second section and the third section, wherein the second transition section defines a third radius.

7. The trailer hitch axial fastening system according to claim 6, wherein the second radius and the third radius are substantially equal.

8. The trailer hitch axial fastening system of claim 7, wherein the threaded nut is removably coupled to the threaded bolt when the ridge of the resilient annular ring is received by the circumferential groove.

9. The trailer hitch axial fastening system of claim 8, wherein the central bore of the threaded nut defines a first diameter, wherein the ridge of the resilient annular ring defines a second diameter, and wherein the first diameter is larger than the second diameter.

10. A fastening system comprising: The external thread portion has a free end and a circumferential groove spaced apart from the free end; An internally threaded portion having a top side and a bottom side, wherein the internally threaded portion defines a central orifice extending along a centerline between the top side and the bottom side, wherein the central orifice defines a first sidewall, and wherein the internally threaded portion defines a circumferential cavity adjacent to the top side, the circumferential cavity having a top wall, a bottom wall, and a second sidewall extending between the top wall and the bottom wall, wherein the second sidewall is recessed relative to the first sidewall of the central orifice; A retaining feature, disposed within the circumferential cavity and configured to engage with the circumferential groove when the external threaded portion extends through the internal threaded portion such that the retaining feature aligns with the circumferential groove, the retaining feature comprising: A first segment extends along the second sidewall of the circumferential cavity and defines the top edge of the retaining feature; The second section, which is laterally spaced from the second sidewall of the circumferential cavity; and A third segment extends along the second sidewall of the circumferential cavity and defines the bottom edge of the retaining feature, wherein the second segment is located between the first segment and the third segment.

11. The fastening system of claim 10, wherein the second segment includes a ridge having a tip, and wherein the tip is displaced toward the second sidewall when the external threaded portion extends through the internal threaded portion and the ridge is not aligned with the circumferential groove.

12. The fastening system of claim 11, wherein the retaining feature defines a uniform thickness.

13. The fastening system of claim 12, wherein the total length of the retaining feature is less than the length of the second sidewall.

14. The fastening system of claim 13, wherein the distance between the first and second segments of the retaining feature is greater when the external threaded portion extends through the internal threaded portion and the ridge is not aligned with the circumferential groove, compared to when the ridge extends into the circumferential groove.

15. The fastening system of claim 11, wherein when the external threaded portion extends through the internal threaded portion and the ridge extends into the circumferential groove, the ridge provides axial resistance to prevent the internal threaded portion from being removed from the external threaded portion without providing a significant preload torque between the external threaded portion and the internal threaded portion.

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