Cylindrical sleeve with extra features for alignment

Abstract

A cylindrical sleeve including an exterior surface configured to engage with a first receiving part and a second receiving part when the cylindrical sleeve is inserted in the first receiving part and the second receiving part; and a hollow interior, wherein the cylindrical sleeve, in combination with a fastener, assembles the first receiving part with the second receiving part.

Description

CYLINDRICAL SLEEVE WITH EXTRA FEATURES FOR ALIGNMENTTechnical Field

[0001] The present disclosure relates to the fastener field, in particular cylindrical sleeves used in conjunction with fasteners such as bolts, screws, and / or nuts.Background of the Present Disclosure

[0002] Bolts and screws may join one or more receiving parts at a bolted joint or a screw joint. For brevity, the term bolt will be used to mean a bolt or a screw. Additionally, the term bolted joint will be used to mean a bolted joint or a screw joint.

[0003] A serration bolt may have serrations on its shank to create a locking feature at the bolted joint and therefore avoid slipping. The serrations may avoid slipping by creating a clamping force at the bolted joint. Generally, the larger the bolt the larger the clamping force it can generate. Serration bolts, having serrations on its shank, have been used to downsize bolts while maintaining the necessary clamping force at the bolted joint when assembling receiving parts.

[0004] However, serration bolts require access to both sides of receiving parts during assembly. For example, a first side of the assembly may require enough clearance to insert the serration bolt and a second side of the assembly may require enough clearance for a tightening tool to fully assemble the receiving part(s) with the serration bolt.

[0005] There is a trend to make things smaller and more compact. For example, vehicle engines have become compact, which reduces the space for access to the tip of a bolt or the head of a bolt needed to assemble the engine. Once the bolt is in its final position, it may be difficult to access the bolt to loosen or tighten it. Additionally, it may be difficult to align a bolt with an opening in a receiving part.

[0006] Additionally, the bolted joint may be subject to shear forces which make the bolt slip. To withstand the shear forces and prohibit the bolt from slipping, one may use larger bolts to generate more friction or clamping force, as compared to a smaller bolt, and prevent the bolt from slipping. However, larger bolts are in conflict with the trend to make things smaller and more compact.

[0007] The background section relating to using serration bolts in the assembly of receiving parts is merely intended to provide a contextual overview of some current issues and is not intended to be exhaustive. Other contextual information may become apparent to a person of skill in the art upon review of the following detailed description.Summary of the Present Disclosure

[0008] According to an embodiment, a cylindrical sleeve may comprise an exterior surface configured to engage with a first receiving part and a second receiving part when the when the cylindrical sleeve is inserted in the first receiving part and the second receiving part; and a hollow interior. Wherein the cylindrical sleeve, in combination with a fastener, assembles the first receiving part with the second receiving part. Providing a cylindrical sleeve with such an exterior surface results in a better mechanical lock, thereby minimizing and / or preventing slippage of a bolt to protect it from shear forces.

[0009] The exterior surface of a cylindrical sleeve may create a mechanical lock between the cylindrical sleeve and a receiving part. The cylindrical sleeve helps to protect a bolt used in assembling the receiving parts from shear forces which can help to minimize or prevent slippage. In particular, the exterior surface of the cylindrical sleeve creates friction or clamping forces between the cylindrical sleeve and a surface of the receiving part. The cylindrical sleeve reduces the need of a large shear area to which the bolt is exposed and reduces the exposure of a bolt to shear forces.

[0010] The mechanical lock of the cylindrical sleeve may protect a bolt or screw from shear forces. This allows an assembly to reduce the size of bolts due to the reduced shear forces acting on the bolted joint. Reducing bolt size can be done without sacrificing clamping force because, as compared to a conventional bolt alone, the mechanical lock reduces the need of a larger clamping force. Therefore, such an assembly may replace conventional bolts with smaller bolts or screws with a cylindrical sleeve because the cylindrical sleeve protects the bolted joint from shear forces. Reducing the bolt sizes in an assembly may reduce cost, materials and weight of an assembly.

[0011] Including the cylindrical sleeve with a bolt or nut can further reduce part handling and piece price because the reduced bolt size requires less assembly torque as compared to a larger bolt. As a result, there is a potential for using smaller tools during assembly.

[0012] According to an embodiment, the cylindrical sleeve includes a first end facing the nut or the bolt / screw; and a ring extending from the first end, wherein the ring fits into a groove of the nut or a bolt head of the bolt / screw to connect the cylindrical sleeve to the nut or the bolt / screw, and wherein the nut or bolt / screw can rotate independently of the cylindrical sleeve. Such a ring prevents the cylindrical sleeve from moving translationally along a shank of a bolt.

[0013] According to an embodiment, the cylindrical sleeve is formed of a ferrous material. Ferrous materials, such as phosphorous steel, are strong and cost-effective materials that may be suitable for vehicle parts. Other materials may be suitable for other applications. In addition to being strong and cost effective, ferrous materials are readily available. Cylindrical sleeves made of ferrous materials are able to generate a strong mechanical lock between the cylindrical sleeve and receiving parts thereby helping to protect a bolt or screw from shear forces.

[0014] Alternatively, the cylindrical sleeve is formed of aluminum. Aluminum is a lightweight and readily available material suitable for fasteners where weight is a consideration. Aluminum’s lightweight properties may be beneficial when weight of the assembly is a concern.

[0015] According to an embodiment, the cylindrical sleeve includes an exterior surface that is knurled and / or comprises serrations. Such a knurled exterior surface creates friction and / or clamping forces between the cylindrical sleeve and receiving parts of an assembly, and therefore may create a mechanical lock between the cylindrical sleeve and a receiving part. Such a mechanical lock between the cylindrical sleeve and the receiving parts allows the cylindrical sleeve to absorb shear forces that would otherwise act on the bolted joint. The friction, locking and / or clamping force helps to minimize or prevents slippage. The cylindrical sleeve may comprise other textures on the exterior surface capable of providing the necessary friction and / or clamping force.

[0016] According to an embodiment, the exterior surface of the cylindrical sleeve has a taper from the first end of the cylindrical sleeve having a first circumference to a second end of the cylindrical sleeve having a second circumference, wherein the first circumference is greater than the second circumference. Such a taper allows for a mechanical lock between the cylindrical sleeve and the receiving part. The mechanical lock allows the cylindrical sleeve to absorb shear forces that would otherwise act on the bolted joint.

[0017] According to an embodiment, the exterior surface of the cylindrical sleeve is generating the mechanical lock between the cylindrical sleeve and the receiving parts such that it absorbs shear forces. Such a cylindrical sleeve and mechanical lock reduces the shear forces acting upon a bolted joint.

[0018] According to an embodiment, the taper of the exterior surface of the cylindrical sleeve includes an angle based on a material of the cylindrical sleeve and / or the receiving part. Such as if both receiving parts and the cylindrical sleeve are composed of similarly hard materials, the angle of the taper may be configured to generate an exterior surface with a gentle slope. Alternatively, if the receiving part(s) and cylindrical sleeve are composed of materials of different hardness, the angle of the taper may be configured to generate an exterior surface with a steep slope. Such angles allow the cylindrical sleeve to create a mechanical lock with the receiving part.

[0019] According to an embodiment, the exterior surface of the cylindrical sleeve has a smooth surface. The smooth surface may be even and regular and in combination with the angle of the taper generate a mechanical lock between the cylindrical sleeve between the cylindrical sleeve and the receiving part.

[0020] According to an embodiment, the hollow interior of the cylindrical sleeve is further configured to surround a bolt shaft of the bolt. Surrounding the shaft of a bolt, in particular the shank of a bolt, allows the cylindrical to absorb shear forces that may act upon a bolted joint. As a result this may prevent the bolted joint from slipping.

[0021] The cylindrical sleeve of any of claims 5-9, wherein the second circumference is smaller than a thread circumference of a threaded portion of the bolt.

[0022] According to an embodiment, the cylindrical sleeve may extend perpendicularly from a nut or the bolt head.

[0023] According to an embodiment, the second end of the cylindrical sleeve faces away from a bolt head of the bolt / screw and has a circumference that is smallerthan a ring circumference of a ring, where the ring extends from a shank of the bolt / screw. Such a ring prevents the cylindrical sleeve from moving translationally along a shank of a bolt.

[0024] According to an embodiment, the cylindrical sleeve includes a ring at an end of the cylindrical sleeve, where the ring extends into the hollow interior and fits in a groove of a shank of the bolt / screw. The ring loosely connects the cylindrical sleeve to the shank of the bolt / screw. Such a ring and groove prevent the cylindrical sleeve from moving translationally along a shank of the bolt.

[0025] The cylindrical sleeve may be connected to a bolt or nut in such a way that the cylindrical sleeve may rotate relative with respect to the bolt or nut when connected to a bolt or nut. This allows the bolt or nut to be loosened or tightened without disturbing the mechanical lock between the cylindrical sleeve and the receiving part.

[0026] A bolt or screw may include the cylindrical previously described. The bolt or screw may comprise a head, a shank and a threaded portion. The cylindrical sleeve may be installed on the bolt or screw such that the cylindrical sleeve is between the head and threaded portion of the bolt or screw and around the shank of the bolt or screw.

[0027] A nut may include the cylindrical sleeve previously described. The nut may comprise a rim and the cylindrical sleeve may comprise a notch. The cylindrical sleeve may be installed on the nut such that the notch of the cylindrical sleeve receives the rim of the nut and receive a bolt shaft.

[0028] According to an embodiment, the cylindrical sleeve may be combined with a washer to create a combined washer. The combined washer may comprise an annular disc with a central hole; and the cylindrical sleeve extending perpendicularly from a first side of the annular disc. Providing a cylindrical sleeve with such a textured exterior surface in the combined washer results in a better mechanical lock, thereby minimizing and / or preventing slippage.

[0029] The annular disc, or washer, and cylindrical sleeve of the combined washer may create a mechanical lock between the combined washer and a receiving part. The combined washer helps to protect a bolt used in assembling the receiving parts from shear forces which can help to minimize or prevent slippage. In particular, the textured exterior surface creates friction or clamping forces between the combined washer and a surface of the receiving part. The combined washer reduces the shear area to which the bolt is exposed and reduces the exposure of a bolt to shear forces.

[0030] The mechanical lock of the combined washer may protect a bolt or screw from shear forces. This allows an assembly to reduce the size of bolts due to the reduced shear forces acting on the bolted joint. Reducing bolt size can be done without sacrificing clamping force because, as compared to a conventional bolt alone, the mechanical lock reduces the need of a larger clamping force. Therefore, such an assembly may replace conventional bolts with smaller bolts or screws with a combined washer because the combined washer protects the bolted joint from shear forces. Reducing the bolt sizes in an assembly may reduce cost, materials and weight of an assembly.

[0031] Including the combined washer with a bolt or nut can further reduce part handling and piece price because the reduced bolt size requires less assembly torque as compared to a larger bolt. As a result, there is a potential for using smaller tools during assembly.

[0032] According to an embodiment, the cylindrical sleeve is hollow, and the central hole of the annular disc aligns with a hollow interior of the cylindrical sleeve. Such a hollow washer provides for a lightweight but effective washer to secure parts together at a joint while minimizing or preventing slippage.

[0033] According to an embodiment, the textured exterior surface is knurled and / or comprises serrations. Such a textured exterior surface creates friction and / or clamping forces between the combined washer and receiving parts of an assembly, and therefore may create a mechanical lock between the combined washer and a receiving part. Such a mechanical lock between the combined washer and the receiving parts allows the combined washer to absorb shear forces that would otherwise act on the bolted joint. The friction, locking and / or clamping force helps to minimize or prevents slippage. The cylindrical sleeve may comprise other textured exterior surfaces capable of providing the necessary friction and / or clamping force.

[0034] According to an embodiment, the combined washer is formed of steel such as phosphorous steel. Steel is a strong and cost-effective material that may be suitable for vehicle parts. Other materials may be suitable for other applications. In addition to being strong and cost effective, steel is a readily available material. Combined washers made of phosphorous steel are able to generate a strong mechanical lock between the combined washer and receiving parts thereby helping to protect a bolt or screw from shear forces.

[0035] According to an embodiment, the annular disc has a larger diameter than the cylindrical sleeve and extends wider than the cylindrical sleeve to form a shoulder around the cylindrical sleeve on the first side of the annular disc. Optionally, the shoulder of the annular disc may further comprise a further textured surface. The shoulder provides another point of contact between the combined washer and the receiving parts to generate more friction and / or clamping force to minimize or prevent slippage.

[0036] According to an embodiment, the combined washer is configured to be installed on a bolt or screw such that the combined washer connects around a shank of the bolt or screw between a head and a threaded portion of the bolt or screw. Using the combined washer with a bolt helps to shield the bolt from shear forces. For example, in a vehicle assembly a bolted joint may be subject to shear forces while the vehicle is in motion. Using the combined washer reduces the area on which shear forces act on the bolt to minimize or prevent slippage.

[0037] According to an embodiment, the bolt or screw is configured to be able to rotate with respect to the combined washer when the combined washer is installed on the bolt or screw. This allows rotation and / or tightening or loosening of the bolt while keeping the combined washer in its position in receiving parts of an assembly for securing the fastener and joined parts.

[0038] According to an embodiment, the combined washer is configured to be installed on a nut. Using the combined washer with a nut helps to shield the bolt from shear forces as previously described. Additionally, this provides more accessibility to tighten a bolt. For example, if a bolt head is not accessible with a tightening tool one may tighten a bolt from an opposite end.

[0039] According to an embodiment, the second side of the combined washer comprises a notch configured to receive a rim of the nut such that the combined washer is connected to the nut, and wherein the nut is configured to be able to rotate with respect to the combined washer when the combined washer is installed on the nut. This allows rotation and / or tightening or loosening of the nut while keeping the combined washer in its position in receiving parts of an assembly.

[0040] According to an embodiment, the cylindrical sleeve should snuggly fit, or press fit, into receiving parts of an assembly. The diameter and textured exterior surface of the cylindrical sleeve of the combined washer should be designed to create a mechanical lock with the receiving parts but also allow disassembly. For example, the bolt should be able to be loosened to remove the bolt and combined washer. Considerations for the diameter and textured exterior surface of the cylindrical sleeve may include but are not limited to the material of the combined washer, the material of the receiving part, the diameter of the receiving cavity of the receiving part.

[0041] According to an embodiment, the hollow cylindrical sleeve is configured to receive a threaded portion of a bolt or screw such that the threaded portion can pass through the cylindrical sleeve to reachthe nut when the combined washer is installed on the nut. This allows the creation of a bolted joint between a nut and bolt from the opposite side of the bolt head, which is especially useful when working in tight areas (e.g., an engine of a vehicle), where the bolt head is not accessible with a tightening tool.

[0042] According to an embodiment, the inside of the hollow cylindrical sleeve has a larger diameter than the diameter of the threaded portion of the bolt or screw. This allows a threaded portion of the bolt to pass through the cylindrical sleeve of the combined washer and engage with the threads of the nut.

[0043] According to an embodiment, a bolt or screw comprises the combined washer as previously described. This provides a convenient bolt or screw which includes the combined washer to minimize or prevent slippage of a bolt using a single fastener and avoid the need to put multiple parts together when fastening (as is needed when using conventional bolts and nuts). Thus, assembly and usage can be both easier and faster.

[0044] According to an embodiment, a nut comprises the combined washer as previously described. Including the combined washer with a nut allows tightening or loosening of a bolted joint from a side opposite of a bolt head. In cases where a bolt head does not have accessibility for a tightening tool, tightening a bolt via a nut may be preferable. Additionally, connecting the combined washer to a nut provides a single fastener for creating a mechanically locked bolted joint.

[0045] Additionally, such a configuration of a combined washer with a bolt or screw allows the combined washer and bolt to replace larger bolts reducing the overall weight of the assembly. The mechanical lock allows enough clamping force on the bolted joint from a single point of access on the assembly, which reduces assembly time.

[0046] The combined washer may be connected to a bolt or nut in such a way that the combined washer may rotate relative with respect to the bolt or nut when installed on a bolt or nut. This allows the bolt or nut to be loosened or tightened without disturbing the mechanical lock between the combined washer and the receiving part.

[0047] The combined washer connected to a nut may provide access to a bolted joint. If an assembly does not provide access to a bolt head a combined washer connected to a nut may provide access to create a bolted joint from a different angle or side of the assembly. This allows access not possible with conventional (serrated) bolts. For example, as vehicle engines become more compact, accessibility may be an issue during assembly or service. The combined washer herein described provides more flexibility for tightening / loosening a bolt or nut. Adding the mechanical locking feature to the other side of the assembly may make the assembly more accessible and serviceable.

[0048] The cylindrical sleeve of the combined washer may be configured to align a bolt. During assembly, the cylindrical sleeve may direct the bolt in a correct direction to make sure it aligns to all holes in receiving parts.

[0049] Additionally, the combined washer allows the use of a smaller bolt under the same environment. For example, a conventional serrated screw may be replaced with a bolt of a smaller size when incorporated with a combined washer. The combined washer and smaller bolt may reduce the overall mass of the assembly. In vehicles, the reduced weight, or mass, may increase energy efficiency among other benefits.

[0050] A bolt or screw may include the combined washer previously described. The bolt or screw may comprise a head, a shank and a threaded portion. The combined washer may be installed on the bolt or screw such that the combined washer is between the head and threaded portion of the bolt or screw and around the shank of the bolt or screw.

[0051] A nut may include the combined washer previously described. The nut may comprise a rim and the combined washer may comprise a notch. The combined washer may be installed on the nut such that the notch of the combined washer receives the rim of the nut.

[0052] According to an embodiment, a nut may include the cylindrical sleeve extending perpendicularly from a the nut and configured to extend into a first receiving part and a second receiving part, wherein the cylindrical sleeve includes; an exterior surface configured to engage with the first receiving part and the second receiving part; and a hollow interior configured to receive a bolt shaft, wherein the cylindrical sleeve aligns the first receiving part and the second receiving part. The cylindrical sleeve may be configured to press fit into the first receiving part and the second receiving part such that the nut does not easily rotate, and the exterior surface generates a mechanical lock between the nut, the first receiving part, and the second receiving part.

[0053] A nut with a cylindrical sleeve configured to press fit into one or more receiving parts generates an interference between the cylindrical sleeve of the nut and the receiving parts in which the cylindrical sleeve of the nut is forced into an opening of the receiving parts.

[0054] The cylindrical sleeve of the nut may extend through the receiving parts to align the receiving parts such that they are assembled into a desired position.

[0055] The exterior surface of a cylindrical sleeve of the nut may create a mechanical lock between the cylindrical sleeve receiving parts. The cylindrical sleeve helps to support a bolt used in assembling the receiving parts and reduces the load of shear forces acting upon the bolt. This may help minimize or prevent slippage. In particular, the exterior surface of the cylindrical sleeve creates friction or clamping forces between the cylindrical sleeve and a surface of the receiving parts. The cylindrical sleeve reduces the shear area to which the bolt is exposed and reduces the exposure of a bolt to shear forces.

[0056] The mechanical lock of the cylindrical sleeve may shield a bolted joint from shear forces. This allows an assembly to reduce the size of bolts due to the reduced shear forces acting on the bolted joint. Reducing bolt size can be done without sacrificing clamping force because, as compared to a conventional nut, the mechanical lock reduces the need of a high clamping force. Therefore, such an assembly may replace conventional nuts with nuts including a cylindrical sleeve because the cylindrical sleeve may shield the bolted joint from shear forces. Reducing the bolt sizes in an assembly may reduce cost, materials and weight of an assembly.

[0057] The nut with cylindrical sleeve may be used in combination with a serrated bolt to generate a mechanical lock at both bolted joints.

[0058] Including a nut with a cylindrical sleeve can further reduce part handling and piece price because the reduced bolt size requires less assembly torque as compared to a larger bolt. As a result, there is a potential for using smaller tools during assembly.

[0059] According to an embodiment, the hollow interior of the cylindrical sleeve is threaded. The threads of the hollow interior are configured to engage with the threaded portion of a bolt shaft. Such an engagement between the cylindrical sleeve of the nut and the bolt generates a stronger connection between the nut and the bolt as compared to a cylindrical sleeve of a nut without threads.

[0060] According to an embodiment, the exterior surface of the cylindrical sleeve is configured to generate a mechanical lock between the cylindrical sleeve, the first receiving part, and the second receiving part. Such a mechanical lock may minimize or prevent slipping at the bolted.

[0061] According to an embodiment, the nut is formed of a ferrous material. Ferrous materials, such as phosphorous steel, are strong and cost-effective materials that may be suitable for vehicle parts. Other materials may be suitable for other applications. In addition to being strong and cost effective, ferrous materials are readily available. Nuts made of ferrous materials are able to generate a strong mechanical lock between the cylindrical sleeve of the nut and receiving parts thereby helping to reduce the shear forces that may act upon a bolt or screw.

[0062] According to an embodiment, the cylindrical sleeve of the nut includes an exterior surface that is knurled and / or includes serrations. Such a knurled exterior surface creates friction and / or clamping forces between the cylindrical sleeve and receiving parts of an assembly, and therefore may create a mechanical lock between the cylindrical sleeve and receiving parts. Such a mechanical lock between the cylindrical sleeve and the receiving parts allows the cylindrical sleeve to absorb shear forces that would otherwise act on the bolted joint. The friction, locking and / or clamping force helps to minimize or prevents slippage. The cylindrical sleeve may include other textures on the exterior surface capable of providing the necessary friction and / or clamping force.

[0063] According to an embodiment, the exterior surface of the cylindrical sleeve of the nut may be smooth. Such a smooth surface may make it easier to insert the nut into receiving parts as compared to a nut with a knurled exterior surface while still generating a mechanical lock between the cylindrical sleeve and the receiving parts.

[0064] According to an embodiment, a circumference of the cylindrical sleeve is configured to insert into a first opening of the first receiving part and a second opening of the second receiving part, and the exterior surface is in contact with the first receiving part and the second receiving part. The contact between the exterior surface of the cylindrical sleeve and the receiving parts is such that it ensures a mechanical lock between the nut and the receiving parts.

[0065] According to an embodiment, the nut is fixed as the bolt shaft of a bolt engages with the nut. The nut may be fixed because of friction forces acting between the exterior surface of the cylindrical sleeve of the nut and the receiving parts. Once the nut is inserted into the receiving parts the fixed nut allows tightening of the bolt without access to the nut side of the assembly. As the bolt rotates and engages with the threads of the nut, the receiving parts are assembled with a single tightening tool acting upon a head of the bolt.

[0066] According to an embodiment, an assembly may include a nut as previously described. The assembly may further include a first receiving part; a second receiving part; and a bolt, wherein a cylindrical sleeve of the nut enters the assembly at the first receiving part and extends through to thesecond receiving part, and wherein the bolt enters a hollow interior of the cylindrical sleeve at the second receiving part. The cylindrical sleeve of the nut extends through both receiving parts to align the receiving parts into a desired configuration. The bolt may be inserted into the second receiving part such that an opening of the second receiving part may be larger than the circumference of at least a portion of the bolt shaft. Such an opening at the second receiving part enables the bolt to enter the assembly at a desired alignment with the nut.

[0067] A method of assembling an assembly with the nut as previously described and a bolt allows the bolt to be tightened or loosened without disturbing the mechanical lock between the cylindrical sleeve of the nut and the receiving part.

[0068] According to an embodiment, the bolt is configured to rotate to engage with the nut. This allows assembling of the assembly from a head of the bolt. Rotating the bolt engages a threaded portions of the bolt shaft with the threads of the nut.

[0069] According to an embodiment, the assembly includes a clearance for a tightening tool at a head of the bolt, wherein the tightening tool rotates the bolt to engage the nut and assemble the assembly hollow interior of the cylindrical sleeve. The clearance ensures access to the bolt head to tighten or loosen the bolt with a tool.

[0070] According to an embodiment, the bolt is a serrated bolt such that a portion of a bolt shank of the bolt includes serrations to engage with the second receiving part. This allows the serrations of the bolt to engage with a second receiving part and generate a further mechanical lock. For example, a conventional serrated bolt or a preassembled bolt such as those described in FIGS. 2A-2D of application EP 23207472.4 or FIGS. 3A-3D of application EP 24159985.1 .

[0071] According to an embodiment, the bolt is configured to generate a further mechanical lock. Such that at least a portion of the bolt shank comes into contact with receiving parts at an end of the assembly opposite the nut. The contact between the portion of the bolt shank and the second receiving part generates another mechanical lock which further reduces or prevents slipping.

[0072] According to an embodiment, the opening of the second receiving part is greater than the circumference of at least a portion of a shaft of the bolt. This allows for insertion of the bolt into the assembly. The circumference of the shank of the bolt may be larger than the rest of the bolt shaft to engage with the second receiving part.

[0073] According to an embodiment, a bolt may include a cylindrical sleeve. The cylindrical sleeve may comprise an exterior surface configured to engage with receiving parts when the cylindrical sleeve is inserted into the receiving parts; a hollow interior configured to receive a bolt shaft; an opening at a tapered end, wherein the opening is smaller than the hollow interior and wherein a shape of the opening is configured to limit movement of the tapered end around the bolt shaft such that the tapered end is substantially centered around a center of the bolt shaft. Providing a cylindrical sleeve with such a tapered end results in aid better aligning the sleeve with the bolt and aiding in inserting the combination bolt and sleeve in to receiving parts. Limiting the movement of the cylindrical sleeve aids in guiding the cylindrical sleeve into the receiving parts as the bolt enters the receiving parts.

[0074] The cylindrical sleeve may make it unnecessary to align both the sleeve and the bolt with the opening of the receiving parts. If the bolt shaft is aligned with the opening of the receiving parts, the opening of the tapered end of the cylindrical sleeve will ensure that the tapered end of the cylindrical sleeve is centered around the bolt shaft. When the bolt shaft is aligned to enter an opening of the receiving parts, the cylindrical sleeve will follow.

[0075] The exterior surface of a cylindrical sleeve may create a mechanical lock between the cylindrical sleeve and receiving parts. The cylindrical sleeve helps to protect a bolt used in assembling the receiving parts from shear forces which can help to minimize or prevent slippage. In particular, the exterior surface of the cylindrical sleeve creates friction or clamping forces between the cylindrical sleeve and a surface of the receiving parts. The cylindrical sleeve reduces the shear area to which the bolt is exposed and reduces the exposure of a bolt to shear forces.

[0076] The mechanical lock of the cylindrical sleeve may protect a bolt or screw from shear forces. This allows an assembly to reduce the size of bolts due to the reduced shear forces acting on the bolted joint. Reducing bolt size can be done without sacrificing clamping force because, as compared to a conventional bolt alone, the mechanical lock reduces the need of a larger clamping force. Therefore, such an assembly may replace conventional bolts with smaller bolts or screws with a cylindrical sleeve because the cylindrical sleeve protects the bolted joint from shear forces. Reducing the bolt sizes in an assembly may reduce cost, materials and weight of an assembly.

[0077] Including the cylindrical sleeve with a bolt can further reduce part handling and piece price because the reduced bolt size requires less assembly torque as compared to a larger bolt. As a result, there is a potential for using smaller tools during assembly.

[0078] According to an embodiment, the shape of the opening of the tapered end of the cylindrical sleeve is substantially triangular. The substantially triangular shape may be configured to generate at least three points of contact with the bolt shaft. A cylindrical sleeve with three points of contact with the bolt will limit or eliminate movement of the cylindrical sleeve in a perpendicular, or vertical, direction with respect to the bolt shaft. This aids in insertion of a combination bolt and cylindrical sleeve into receiving parts. Alternatively, the substantially triangular shape may be configured to make near points of contact. The near points of contact provide aid in insertion while ensuring a loose fit around the bolt shank.

[0079] According to an embodiment, the cylindrical sleeve further includes an annular disc, wherein a central hole of the annular disc aligns with the hollow interior. Such an annular disc with a central hole allows a bolt shaft to pass through the annular disc and into the hollow interior of the cylindrical sleeve.

[0080] According to an embodiment, the cylindrical sleeve includes a textured exterior surface. Such a texture may aid in creating a mechanical lock between the cylindrical sleeve and the receiving parts.

[0081] According to an embodiment, the cylindrical sleeve includes a knurled exterior surface. Such a knurled exterior surface creates friction and / or clamping forces between the cylindrical sleeve and receiving parts of an assembly, and therefore may create a mechanical lock between the cylindrical sleeve and receiving parts. Such a mechanical lock between the cylindrical sleeve and the receiving parts allows the cylindrical sleeve to absorb shear forces that would otherwise act on the bolted joint.The friction, locking and / or clamping force helps to minimize or prevents slippage. The cylindrical sleeve may comprise other textures on the exterior surface capable of providing the necessary friction and / or clamping force.

[0082] According to an embodiment, the texture includes a serrations. Such serrations similarly aid in creating a mechanical lock between the cylindrical sleeve and receiving parts.

[0083] According to an embodiment, the cylindrical sleeve includes the annular disc which extends wider than the cylindrical sleeve to form a shoulder around the cylindrical sleeve. Such an annular disc functions as a washer in the assembly of the bolt with the receiving parts.

[0084] According to an embodiment, the cylindrical sleeve a second side of the annular disc is configured to connect to a head of a bolt. Such a connection to the bolt head may further align the cylindrical sleeve at both ends.

[0085] According to an embodiment, the cylindrical sleeve may be formed of a ferrous material. Ferrous materials, such as phosphorous steel, are strong and cost-effective materials that may be suitable for vehicle parts. Other materials may be suitable for other applications. In addition to being strong and cost effective, ferrous materials are readily available. Cylindrical sleeves made of ferrous materials are able to generate a strong mechanical lock between the cylindrical sleeve and receiving parts thereby helping to protect a bolt or screw from shear forces.

[0086] According to an embodiment, the cylindrical sleeve may include a thickness of the sleeve where the thickness of the tapered end is based on a tolerance of an assembly. The thickness of the sleeve wall may determine how snuggly the sleeve fits within the receiving part. The thickness of the tapered may be determined by tolerances in an assembly. For example, a high tolerance may allow for flexibility in determining the thickness of the tapered end. A low tolerance may be more restrictive in determining the thickness of the tapered end. A high tolerance value occurs when there is a relatively large difference between a diameter of the bolt and a diameter of the opening of the receiving part. A low tolerance value occurs when there is a relatively small difference between a diameter of the bolt and a diameter of the opening of the receiving parts.

[0087] Tolerance value may be defined by standardized tolerance values. The thickness of the cylindrical sleeve may be determined by the standardized tolerance values of the assembly. The tolerance of an assembly may be based on a bolt diameter a diameter of an opening for receiving parts. For example, for a bolt shaft with a diameter of approximately 10 mm the hole might be specified with a tolerance range from 10.05 mm to 10.2 mm. The tolerance value may be based on a standard of tolerance by looking up the bolt and hole diameters.

[0088] According to an embodiment, the cylindrical sleeve may include a shape of the opening at the tapered is based on a tolerance of an assembly. For example, an assembly may include an opening in

[0089] receiving parts that has a high tolerance value may allow for movement of the tapered end in a perpendicular direction with respect to the bolt shaft. An opening at the tapered end may be configured to make at least 3 points of contact for an assembly with a low tolerance. This reduces or eliminates movement of the sleeve in the perpendicular direction with respect to the bolt shaft and may ensure that the sleeve is aligned with the opening of a low tolerance assembly. The more points of contact themore limited the movement of the tapered end of the sleeve. The shape of the opening at the tapered end may approach a circle.

[0090] According to an embodiment, the cylindrical sleeve where the exterior surface is configured to generate a mechanical lock between the cylindrical sleeve and the receiving parts. The mechanical lock may ensure an adequate bolt joint.

[0091] According to an embodiment, the cylindrical sleeve where the shape of the opening is substantially triangular. Such a shape may be cost effectively formed during manufacturing and limit movement of the cylindrical sleeve in a perpendicular direction with respect to the bolt shaft.

[0092] According to an embodiment, the cylindrical sleeve may include where the tapered end of the cylindrical sleeve has a thickness configured to deform the tapered end upon assembly. Such a thickness may eliminate any points of contact that were necessary during assembly, but are not required after assembly. Such a deformation may be beneficial where the points of contact which aligned the sleeve during assembly may be detrimental to the use of the receiving parts after assembly.

[0093] The cylindrical sleeve may be connected to a bolt in such a way that the cylindrical sleeve may rotate relative with respect to the bolt when connected to a bolt. This allows the bolt to be loosened or tightened without disturbing the mechanical lock between the cylindrical sleeve and the receiving parts.

[0094] A bolt or screw may include the cylindrical sleeve previously described. The bolt or screw may comprise a head, a shank and a threaded portion. The cylindrical sleeve may be installed on the bolt or screw such that the cylindrical sleeve is between the head and threaded portion of the bolt or screw and around the shank of the bolt or screw.Brief Description of the Drawings

[0095] The present disclosure will now be described in further detail with reference to the drawings that shows one embodiment of the present disclosure:

[0096] FIG. 1 A is a perspective view of a cylindrical sleeve to create a locking function according to at least one example of the disclosure;

[0097] FIG. 1 B is a cross-sectional view of the cylindrical sleeve of FIG. 1A;

[0098] FIG. 1 C is an end view of the cylindrical sleeve of FIG. 1A;

[0099] FIG. 2A is a perspective view of a tapered cylindrical sleeve to create a locking function according to at least one example of the disclosure;

[0100] FIG. 2B is a cross-sectional view of the tapered cylindrical sleeve of FIG. 2A;

[0101] FIG. 2C is an end view of the tapered cylindrical sleeve of FIG. 2A;

[0102] FIGS. 3A - 3E are cross-sectional views of a tapered cylindrical sleeve which is preassembled with a bolt or screw according to at least one example of the disclosure;

[0103] FIG. 4 is a cross sectional view of a tapered cylindrical sleeve which is preassembled with a nut according to at least one example of the disclosure;

[0104] FIGS. 5A- 5F are perspective views of tapered cylindrical sleeves with different surface textures of exterior surface;

[0105] FIG. 6 is a cross sectional view of the tapered cylindrical sleeve connected to a bolt to join two receiving parts;

[0106] FIG. 7 is a cross sectional view of the tapered cylindrical sleeve connected to a nut mated with a bolt to join two receiving parts; and

[0107] FIG. 8 is a cross sectional view of the tapered cylindrical sleeve connected to a bolt and a nut to joint two receiving parts.

[0108] FIG. 9A is a perspective view of a combined washer including a cylindrical sleeve configured to create a locking function according to at least one example of the disclosure;

[0109] FIG. 9B is a cross-sectional view of the combined washer of FIG. 9A;

[0110] FIG. 9C is an end view of the combined washer of FIG. 9A;

[0111] FIGS. 10A - 10D are cross-sectional views of a combined washer which is preassembled with a bolt or screw according to at least one example of the disclosure;

[0112] FIGS. 11 A - 11 D are a cross sectional view of a combined washer which is preassembled with a nut according to at least one example of the disclosure;

[0113] FIGS. 12A - 4E are perspective views of combined washers with different surface textures of cylindrical sleeves;

[0114] FIG. 13 is a cross sectional view of combined washer connected to a bolt to join two parts;

[0115] FIG. 14 is a cross sectional view of combined washer connected to a nut and connected to a bolt to join two parts; and

[0116] FIG. 15 is a cross sectional view of combined washer connected to a bolt and a nut to joint two parts.

[0117] FIG. 16A is a perspective view of a nut with a cylindrical sleeve to create a locking function according to at least one example of the disclosure;

[0118] FIG. 16B is a cross-sectional view of the cylindrical sleeve of FIG. 16A;

[0119] FIG. 16C is an end view of the cylindrical sleeve of FIG. 16A;

[0120] FIG. 17 is a cross-sectional view of a nut with a cylindrical sleeve mated with a bolt;

[0121] FIG. 18 is a cross-sectional view of a nut with a threaded cylindrical sleeve mated with a bolt;

[0122] FIGS. 19A - 19F are perspective views of nuts with cylindrical sleeves with different surface textures of the exterior surface;

[0123] FIG. 20 is a cross sectional view of the nut with a cylindrical sleeve connected to a bolt to assemble an assembly.

[0124] FIG. 21A is a perspective view of a cylindrical sleeve to create a locking function according to at least one example of the disclosure;

[0125] FIG. 21 B is a cross-sectional view of the cylindrical sleeve of FIG. 21 A;

[0126] FIG. 21C is an end view of the cylindrical sleeve of FIG. 21A;

[0127] FIG. 22A is a perspective view of a cylindrical sleeve wherein the sleeve is tapered to create a locking function according to at least one example of the disclosure;

[0128] FIG. 22B is a cross-sectional view of the cylindrical sleeve of FIG. 22A;

[0129] FIG. 22C is an end view of the cylindrical sleeve of FIG. 22A;

[0130] FIG. 23A is a perspective view of a cylindrical sleeve to create a locking function including an annular disc according to at least one example of the disclosure;

[0131] FIG. 23B is a cross-sectional view of the cylindrical sleeve of FIG. 23A;

[0132] FIG. 23C is an end view of the cylindrical sleeve of FIG. 23A;

[0133] FIG. 24 is a cross-sectional view a cylindrical sleeve which is preassembled with a bolt or screw according to at least one example of the disclosure;

[0134] FIGS. 25A- 25C are cross-sectional views of a cylindrical sleeve connected to a bolt to join two receiving parts at different points in time of assembly;

[0135] FIG. 26A is a cross sectional view of the cylindrical sleeve connected to a bolt to join two receiving parts;

[0136] FIG. 26B is a cross sectional view of the cylindrical sleeve connected to a bolt to join two receiving parts.Detailed Description

[0137] The present disclosure is directed to a cylindrical sleeve for use with a fasteners such as bolts, screws, and / or nuts. The cylindrical sleeve includes an exterior surface configured to generate a mechanical lock between the cylindrical sleeve and receiving parts of an assembly and can have any number of different surface textures including but not limited to smooth, dimples, rough turned, serrations, a knurled surface, spiral serrations, a hatched surface, and a pattern of bumps. The cylindrical sleeve may be used with a bolt or nut to create a bolted joint in assembling one or more receiving parts and / or may be included with a preassembled (“SEM”) bolt, screw or nut to fasten one or more receiving parts.

[0138] The following is a description of a circumference of the cylindrical sleeve which is configured to insert into a first opening of a first receiving part and a second opening of a second receiving part, and the exterior surface of the cylindrical sleeve is in contact with the first receiving part and the second receiving part. The contact between the exterior surface of the cylindrical sleeve and the receiving parts is such that it ensures a mechanical lock between the fastener, in combination with the cylindrical sleeve, and the receiving parts.

[0139] FIG. 1A is a perspective view of cylindrical sleeve 100, FIG. 1 B is a cross-sectional view of cylindrical sleeve 100 and FIG. 1 C is an end view of cylindrical sleeve 100. Cylindrical sleeve 100 includes exterior surface 102 with hollow interior 104.

[0140] Cylindrical sleeve 100 includes an exterior surface 102. Exterior surface 102 may include a texture which can extend over all or just part of exterior surface 102. For example, the texture may extend from a middle of cylindrical sleeve 100 to one end of cylindrical sleeve 100. In some embodiments (including that shown in Figs. 1A-1 C), cylindrical sleeve 100 has bevel 106 at one end of cylindrical sleeve 100, which can help with insertion of cylindrical sleeve 100 into a hole or cavity of a receiving part(s) for forming a bolted joint. Cylindrical sleeve 100 is typically hollow and includes hollow interior 104, which is typically cylindrical and extends through the length of cylindrical sleeve 100. Hollow interior 104 may be sized and configured to fit around a shank of the bolt or a threaded length of the bolt.

[0141] The length of cylindrical sleeve 100 may vary but is typically 0,5 to 3 times the diameter of the bolt for which it is intended to be used.

[0142] Cylindrical sleeve 100 may be formed from steel, phosphorus steel, aluminum, plastic or any other material appropriate for the desired assembly depending on assembly requirements.

[0143] Typically, Cylindrical sleeve 100 would be integrally formed, for example, from cutting, stamping, machining, moulding, pressing, printing, or any other suitable method. Texturing of exterior surface 102 could be done by shot peening, knurling, etching, pressing or any other suitable method.

[0144] FIG. 2A is a perspective view of cylindrical sleeve 100’, FIG. 2B is a cross-sectional view of cylindrical sleeve 100’ and FIG. 2C is an end view of cylindrical sleeve 100’. Cylindrical sleeve 100’ includes exterior surface 102’ with hollow interior 104’.

[0145] Cylindrical sleeve 100’ includes an exterior surface 102’. Exterior surface 102’ may include a texture which can extend over all or just part of exterior surface 102’. For example, the texture may extend from a middle of cylindrical sleeve 100’ to one end of cylindrical sleeve 100’. In some embodiments (including that shown in Figs. 2A-2C), cylindrical sleeve 100’ has bevel 106’ at one end of cylindrical sleeve 100’, which can help with insertion of cylindrical sleeve 100’ into a hole or cavity of a receiving part(s) for forming a bolted joint. Cylindrical sleeve 100’ is typically hollow and includes hollow interior 104’, which is typically cylindrical and extends through the length of cylindrical sleeve 100’. Hollow interior 104’ may be sized and configured to fit around a shank of the bolt or a threaded length of the bolt.

[0146] Exterior surface 102’ of cylindrical sleeve 100’ may include a taper. For example, the taper of exterior surface 102’ may be such that cylindrical sleeve 100’ has first circumference 108 at one end of cylindrical sleeve 100’ and second circumference 110. As shown in in FIG. 2B, first circumference 108 is larger than second circumference. The end of first circumference 108 may be face a head of a bolt or a nut while the other end of second circumference 110 may be inserted into a hole or cavity of a receiving part. Cylindrical sleeve 100’ may not include bevel 106’ as the taper between first circumference 108 at one end and second circumference 110 at another end may help with insertion of cylindrical sleeve 100’ into a hole or cavity of a receiving part(s) without bevel 106’.

[0147] For example, according to certain embodiments, the taper of exterior surface 102’ may have an angle of 17 degrees. Such a taper may have a slope from the end with the smaller circumference to the end with a larger circumference. Referring to FIG. 2B, the slope of exterior surface 102’ would rise from the end with circumference 110 to the end with circumference 108 at an angle of 17 degrees.

[0148] The angle may be configured to provide the desired mechanical lock and may further depend on the materials of the cylindrical sleeve 100’, receiving parts, assembly type among other variables.

[0149] The length of cylindrical sleeve 100’ may vary but is typically 0,5 to 3 times the diameter of the bolt for which it is intended to be used.

[0150] Cylindrical sleeve 100’ may be formed from steel, phosphorus steel, aluminum, plastic or any other material appropriate for the desired assembly depending on assembly requirements.

[0151] Typically, Cylindrical sleeve 100’ would be integrally formed, for example, from cutting, stamping, machining, moulding, pressing, printing, or any other suitable method. Texturing of exterior surface 102’ could be done by shot peening, knurling, etching, pressing or any other suitable method.

[0152] FIG. 3A is a cross sectional view of a first example of cylindrical sleeve 100, 100’, which has been preassembled on bolt 300, (hereinafter “SEM bolt”). SEM bolt 300 includes a bolt head 302 and bolt shaft 304. Bolt shaft 304 includes threads 310 and shank 306. Shank 306 extends perpendicularly from head 302 and is typically smooth on the outer surface. Threads 310 extend from an end of shank 306 to a tip (not shown) of SEM bolt 300, though could end before an end of bolt 300 in some embodiments.

[0153] In this example, cylindrical sleeve 100, 100’ is positioned between bolt head 302 and threads 310, positioned on shank 306. Cylindrical sleeve 100, 100’ is in a position on bolt 300 such that surrounds shank 306 for at least part of the length of shank 306. The diameter of cavity 104, 104’ is such that cylindrical sleeve 100, 100’ is loose around shank 306 and can move and / or rotate with respect to shank 306, but not large enough to move over or slide past threads 310. Thus, bolt 300 may rotate without rotating cylindrical sleeve 100, 100’ and vice versa when cylindrical sleeve 100, 100’ installed on bolt 300. For example, the diameter of cavity 104, 104’ is bigger than the outer diameter of shank 306. Additionally, threads 310 have a major diameter 318, which is the outer diameter of the peaks of the threads, that is bigger than the diameter of cavity 104, 104’ and prevents cylindrical sleeve 100, 100’ from sliding onto threads 310.

[0154] Closeup 312 illustrates how major diameter 318 keeps cylindrical sleeve 100, 100’ on SEM bolt 300. The distance 314 from the surface of shank 306 to major diameter 318 is larger than distance 316 from the surface of shank 306 to cylindrical sleeve 100, 100’. For example, distance 314 may be greater than distance 316. Distance 316 should be less than a height of threads 310 but big enough to fit loosely around shank 306. For example, an M14 bolt having a major diameter of 14 mm and a minor diameter of 11 .5 mm may include a cylindrical sleeve 100, 100’ configured for an M14 bolt. This cylindrical sleeve hollow interior 104, 104’ that is between 12.7 mm and 12.8 mm. This allows the cylindrical sleeve to loosely fit around the shank of an M14 bolt without being able to slide past the threads of an M14 bolt. A person of skill in the art understands that cylindrical sleeves configured for different sized bolts will have similarly proportional dimensions.

[0155] Alternatively, or in addition, an end of cylindrical sleeve 100, 100’ could be crimped to ensure that the end of cylindrical sleeve 100, 100’ cannot fit over threads 310, thereby ensuring that cylindrical sleeve 100, 100’ stays connected around bolt 300. Such connection features are especially useful during transport and storage of the bolt, ensuring that the cylindrical sleeve 100, 100’ does not become disconnected to bolt 300.

[0156] FIG. 3B is a cross sectional view of a second example of cylindrical sleeve 100, 100’. Cylindrical sleeve 100, 100’ may be preassembled on bolt 320 to form a SEM bolt. SEM Bolt 320 may be similar to bolt 300, and similar parts have similar numbering. Bolt 320 includes bolt head 322 and bolt shaft 324. Bolt shaft 324 includes threads 330 and shank 326.

[0157] In this example, bolt shank 326 further includes groove 332 around an outer circumference of shank 326. Groove 332 may extend radially into shank 326, for example, an M50 bolt groove 332 may have a depth of up to 5 mm. Cylindrical sleeve 100, 100’ may further include ring 112 configured to fit in groove 332 and restrict cylindrical sleeve 100, 100’ from moving translationally along the length of bolt shank 326. Bolt head 322 may rotate with respect to cylindrical sleeve 100, 100’ when installed on bolt 320. While cylindrical sleeve 100, 100’ is shown in Figs. 3A-3B to be directly next to bolt head 302, 322 there may be some space between in some embodiments, particularly before the bolt 300, 320 is in use.

[0158] Closeup 342 illustrates how ring 112 fits in groove 332. Ring 112 is circular and extends around the inner circumference of hollow interior 104, 104’, though could be interrupted or only extend partway around the inner circumference of the sleeve in other embodiments. In some embodiments, ring 112 could be only a bump, tooth or other protrusion; or a number of bumps, teeth or protrusions. Groove 332 is circular and extends around the full outer circumference of shank 326 extending toward a center of shank 326. Ring 112 and groove 332 are complementary in shape while still allowing for at least rotational movement of cylindrical sleeve 100, 100’ with respect to the bolt 320. In some embodiments, groove 332 may be configured to allow for some translational movement along bolt shank 306, 326 as well. This allows cylindrical sleeve 100, 100’ to be loosely connected to SEM bolt 320 and allows bolt 320 to rotate (for example, when being tightened for use) without rotating cylindrical sleeve 100, 100’, thereby allowing for cylindrical sleeve 100, 100’ to make and maintain a mechanical lock.

[0159] FIG. 3C illustrates cross sectional views of embodiment of bolt 350 which may also be suitable for restricting movement, such as axial movement, of cylindrical sleeve 100, 100’. Bolt 350 restricts movement of cylindrical sleeve 100, 100’ translationally along the length of bolt shank 356.

[0160] Cylindrical sleeve 100, 100’ may be preassembled on bolt 350 to form a SEM bolt. SEM Bolt 350 may be similar to bolt 320, and similar parts have similar numbering. Bolt 350 includes bolt head 352 and bolt shaft 354. Bolt shaft 354 includes threads 360 and shank 356.

[0161] In this example, bolt shank 356 further includes two grooves 352 around an outer circumference of shank 356. Grooves 352 may extend radially into shank 356, for example, an M50 bolt grooves 352 may have a depth of up to 5 mm. Cylindrical sleeve 100, 100’ may further include two rings 112 configured to fit in groove 352 and restrict cylindrical sleeve 100, 100’ from moving translationally along the length of bolt shank 356. Bolt head 352 may rotate with respect to cylindrical sleeve 100, 100’ when installed on bolt 350. While cylindrical sleeve 100, 100’ is shown in Figs. 3A-3C to be directly next to bolt head 302, 322, 352 there may be some space between in some embodiments, particularly before the bolt 300, 320, 352 is in use.

[0162] Closeup 362 illustrates how rings 112 fit in grooves 352. Rings 112 are circular and extend around the inner circumference of hollow interior 104, 104’ at both ends of cylindrical sleeve 100, 100’, though they could be interrupted or only extend partway around the inner circumference of the sleeve in other embodiments. In some embodiments, rings 112 could be only a bump, tooth or other protrusion; or a number of bumps, teeth or protrusions. Grooves 352 is circular and extends around the full outer circumference of shank 356 extending toward a center of shank 356. Rings 112 and grooves 352 are complementary in shape while still allowing for at least rotational movement of cylindrical sleeve 100,100’ with respect to the bolt 350. In some embodiments, grooves 352 may be configured to allow for some translational movement along bolt shank 306, 326, 356 as well. This allows cylindrical sleeve 100, 100’ to be loosely connected to SEM bolt 350 and allows bolt 350 to rotate (for example, when being tightened for use) without rotating cylindrical sleeve 100, 100’, thereby allowing for cylindrical sleeve 100, 100’ to make and maintain a mechanical lock.

[0163] FIG. 3D illustrates cross sectional views of SEM bolt 370 which may also be suitable for restricting movement of cylindrical sleeve 100, 100’. SEM bolt 370 restricts movement of cylindrical sleeve 100, 100’ translationally along the length of bolt shank 376. SEM bolt 370 may include bolt head 372 which further includes shank ring 378 on bolt shank 376. As shown, cylindrical sleeve 100, 100’ fits on bolt shank 376 between bolt head 372 and shank ring 378. Shank ring 378 restricts movement of cylindrical sleeve 100, 100’ and prevents it from coming into contact with threads 380. Embodiments of FIGS. 3A - 3D may be combined or used separately to restrict movement of cylindrical sleeve 100, 100’.

[0164] FIG. 3E illustrates a cross sectional view of SEM bolt 390. SEM bolt 390 is a further embodiment of cylindrical sleeve 100, 100’ preassembled on SEM bolt 390. Cylindrical sleeve 100, 100’ may further include a mechanism to connect to bolt head 391 . As shown here, cylindrical sleeve includes rim 392 which extends from an end of cylindrical sleeve 100, 100’. Rim 392 may fit in a groove of bolt head 391 such that it loosely connects cylindrical sleeve 100, 100’ to bolt head 391 and surrounds bolt shank 393. In this way cylindrical sleeve 100, 100’ may extend perpendicularly form bolt head 391 . SEM bolt 390 may be used in combination with nut 396 to connect receiving parts in an assembly. Nut 396 may receive bolt shaft 395 of SEM bolt 390. Bolt shaft 395 may be configured to fit in nut cavity 397 such that bolt threads 394 of bolt 390 engage with nut threads 398 such that they can assemble one or more receiving parts.

[0165] FIG. 4 illustrates a cross sectional view of Nut 402. Nut 402 includes cavity 404 configured to receive a bolt shaft of bolt 440. Nut 402 further includes internal threads 406 configured to engage with threads 442 of bolt 440. Nut 402 also includes a groove configured to receive nut rim 408 configured to connect to cylindrical sleeve 100, 100’ to Nut 402 such that it is loosely connected to Nut 402. The loose connection allows Nut 402 to rotate while cylindrical sleeve does not.

[0166] Nut rim 408 may extend from one end of cylindrical sleeve 100, 100’ such that when nut rim 408 is connected to a groove of nut 402, cylindrical sleeve 100, 100’ extends perpendicularly form nut 402. Cylindrical sleeve 100, 100’ is connected to nut 402 such that cavity 404 aligns with hollow interior 104, 104’ to receive a bolt shaft of bolt 440. The groove of nut 402 and nut rim 408 are further configured to ensure that cylindrical sleeve 100, 100’ stays connected to nut 402 but to also allow nut 402 to rotate while cylindrical sleeve 100, 100’ does not rotate and vice versa when cylindrical sleeve 100’ is installed on nut 402. Nut 402 is configured to receive a bolt such as bolt 440 such that threads 442 of bolt 440 engage with nut threads 406.

[0167] Nut cavity 404 receives the bolt shaft, and bolt threads 442 pass through cavity 104, 104’ of cylindrical sleeve 100, 100’ into cavity 404 where nut threads 406 engage with bolt threads 442 such that as nut 402 rotates, cylindrical sleeve 100, 100’ does not rotate and bolt 440 is pulled in direction410 into and through nut cavity 404. Conversely, if nut 402 rotates in the opposite direction, cylindrical sleeve 100, 100’ does not rotate and bolt 440 is pushed in direction 412 out of nut 400.

[0168] FIGS. 5A - 5F are views of cylindrical sleeve 100, 100’ with example exterior surfaces 102’. These surfaces are examples of surfaces that may create a locking function in a bolted joint. These examples should be in no way limiting of the type of textured exterior surface capable of generating friction and / or a mechanical lock between cylindrical sleeve 100’ and a receiving part. While FIGS. 5A - 5F show cylindrical sleeve 100’ with a taper, these exterior surfaces may also be applied to exterior surface 102 of cylindrical sleeve 100.

[0169] FIG. 5A illustrates a cylindrical sleeve with a knurled exterior surface 102’.

[0170] FIG. 4B illustrates a cylindrical sleeve with a serrated exterior surface 102’.

[0171] FIG. 4C illustrates a cylindrical sleeve with a spirally serrated exterior surface 102’.

[0172] FIG. 4D illustrates a cylindrical sleeve with a hatched exterior surface 102’.

[0173] FIG. 4E illustrates a cylindrical sleeve with a patten of bumps on the exterior surface 102’.

[0174] FIG. 4F illustrates a cylindrical sleeve with a smooth surface 102’.

[0175] Additionally, in some embodiments, all or part of exterior surface 102’ may also include a textured surface configured to create a locking function between exterior surface 102, 102’ and a surface of a receiving part. While the entire exterior surfaces 102’ are shown as having a texture in Figs. 5A-5F, some embodiments could have only part of the surface be textured with other parts being smooth. A smooth exterior surface may be less costly as compared to producing a cylindrical sleeve with an exterior surface having a rough texture.

[0176] Textured surface can be formed through knurling and / or shot peening or any other suitable process for the defined shape and application of the cylindrical sleeve.

[0177] FIG. 6 illustrates a cross-sectional view of assembly 600 including cylindrical sleeve 100. Assembly 600 includes first receiving part 602 and second receiving part 604 and third receiving part 606. Receiving parts 604 and 606 may be two ends of the same receiving part. Receiving parts 602, 604, 606 may be configured to receive SEM bolt 610 such as those previously described with respect to figures 3A - 3E.

[0178] It is not necessary to access assembly 600 from the side of third receiving part 606 because SEM bolt 610 is inserted in second receiving part 604 and a tightening tool rotates the bolt from only its bolt head, with the exterior surface 102 cylindrical sleeve 100 forming the mechanical connection on the side of assembly 600 closest to the bolt head.

[0179] Cylindrical sleeve 100, 100’ of SEM bolt 610 may fit inside a hole of second receiving part 604 such that exterior surface 102 makes contact with second receiving part 604, thereby creating a mechanical lock between cylindrical sleeve 100, 100’ and second receiving part 604. Typically, cylindrical sleeve 100, 100’ is sized such that it must be press-fit into the hole of receiving parts and there is no space allowing for rotation or other movement of cylindrical sleeve 100, 100’ with respect to second receiving part 604. Cylindrical sleeve 100, 100’ may additionally be sized and configured to extend through second receiving part 604 and make contact with first receiving part 602. Cylindrical sleeve 100, 100’ may make an additional mechanical lock between cylindrical sleeve 100, 100’ and firstreceiving part 602. Cylindrical sleeve 100, 100’ may also help to align a bolt shaft of SEM bolt 610 to pass through receiving parts 602, 604, and 606. Third receiving part 606 may include internal threads to engage bolt threads of SEM bolt 610.

[0180] As previously stated, cylindrical sleeve 100, 100’ may extend through second receiving part 604 and make contact with first receiving part 602. As such, cylindrical sleeve 100, 100’ may align receiving parts 602 and 604 to fix assembly 600 in a desired configuration.

[0181] The mechanical lock created between cylindrical sleeve 100, 100’ and receiving parts creates a bolted joint that is more resistant to shear forces. Cylindrical sleeve 100, 100’ reduces the area that shear forces can act on a bolt, thus reducing the overall shear forces acting on the bolt. As a result, the bolted joint is less likely to slip as compared to a conventional bolted joint. For example, a bolted joint in a motor or engine may be subject to shear forces during operation. Over time, the shear forces may loosen the bolted joint. Incorporating a cylindrical sleeve 100, 100’ into bolted joint reduces the shear area of the bolted joint such that less shear forces are acting on the bolt which minimizes or prevents slippage of the. This in turn may reduce overall maintenance needed on an assembly such as a motor or engine.

[0182] Because cylindrical sleeve 100, 100’ reduces the amount of shear forces acting on a bolt as compared to using conventional bolts alone, bolt size may be reduced without affecting performance. For example, depending on the assembly environment, a conventional M14 bolt in an assembly may be reduced to an M12 bolt with cylindrical sleeve 100, 100’ because the M12 bolt with cylindrical sleeve 100, 100’ can tolerate equal or greater shear forces than a convention M14 bolt.

[0183] FIG. 7 illustrates a cross-sectional view of exemplary assembly 700 including cylindrical sleeve 100, 100’. Assembly 700 includes first receiving part 702, second receiving part 704 and third receiving part 706. Receiving parts 704 and 706 may be two ends of the same receiving part. Receiving parts 702, 704, 706 may be configured to receive bolt 710 and a Nut such as Nut 720 such as the nut previously described with respect to FIG. 4.

[0184] Cylindrical sleeve 100, 100’of Nut 720 may fit inside a hole of third receiving part 706 such that exterior surface 102, 102’ makes contact with third receiving part 706 and creates a mechanical lock between cylindrical sleeve 100, 100’ and third receiving part 706. Cylindrical sleeve 100, 100’ may be configured to extend through third receiving part 706 and make contact with first receiving part 702. Cylindrical sleeve 100, 100’ may make an additional mechanical lock between cylindrical sleeve 100, 100’ and first receiving part 702. Cylindrical sleeve 100, 100’ may be configured to receive a thread length of bolt 710 which passes through cavity of Nut 720 and the threads of the thread length engage with nut threads of Nut 720.

[0185] As previously stated, cylindrical sleeve 100, 100’ may extend through third receiving part 706 and make contact with first receiving part 702. As such, cylindrical sleeve 100, 100’ may align receiving parts 702 and 704 to fix assembly 700 in a desired configuration.

[0186] A conventional serrated bolt, having a serrated shank, may be used in combination with cylindrical sleeve 100, 100’ of Nut 720.

[0187] Assembly 700 requires access for a tightening tool to tighten Nut 720 and access to insert a bolt in second receiving part 704.

[0188] Serration type bolts used in assemblies generate a locking functionality in screw joints. However, a serration type bolt may be replaced by a SEM bolt as previously described in FIGS. 3A - 3E of a smaller size and still generate the locking functionality required for the assembly.

[0189] Reducing bolt size with the use of cylindrical sleeve 100, 100’may reduce the overall weight of an assembly. For example, using an M12 bolt with a cylindrical sleeve instead of a conventional M14 bolt. For M12 and M14 bolts with a nominal reference dimension of 90, an M12 bolt may wight 95 grams as compared to the weight of an M14 bolt of 134 grams. If an assembly requires 10 M14 bolts, they may replace with a preassembled M12 bolt that includes a cylindrical sleeve such as cylindrical sleeve 100, 100’. This would result in a reduced assembly weight of about 390 grams for an assembly that requires 10 bolts. It should be understood that assemblies requiring more bolts will have a greater reduction in weight and assemblies requiring less bolts will have a lesser reduction in weight. Including a cylindrical sleeve may have the potential to reduce weight by 25 - 30% of a bolt or screw. Additionally, surround parts or mating parts of an assembly mays also be reduced.

[0190] FIG. 8 illustrates a cross-sectional view of exemplary assembly 800 including cylindrical sleeve 100,100’. Assembly 800 includes first receiving part 802, second receiving part 804 and third receiving part 806. Receiving parts 804 and 806 may be two ends of the same receiving part. Receiving parts 802, 804, 806 may be configured to receive SEM bolt 810 and Nut 820 which include cylindrical sleeves 100, 100’.

[0191] Third receiving part 806 may not be threaded. Third receiving part 806 may receive Nut 820. Cylindrical sleeve 100, 100’ may be configured to align a bolt shaft of SEM bolt 810 such that threads of SEM bolt 810 may engage with threads of Nut 820. Assembly 800 may require assembly tool access for both a bolt head of SEM bolt 810 and Nut 820. The addition of cylindrical sleeves 100, 100’ on each of SEM bolt 810 and Nut 820 creates a mechanical lock at both ends of assembly 800. For example, creating a mechanical lock at second receiving part 804 and third receiving part 806.

[0192] FIG. 9A is a perspective view of combined washer 900, FIG. 9B is a cross-sectional view of combined washer 900 and FIG. 9C is an end view of combined washer 900. Combined washer 900 includes annular disc 902 with central hole 903, first washer surface 904, and cylindrical sleeve 906 with cylindrical sleeve exterior surface 908, and cavity 910.

[0193] Cylindrical sleeve 906 is cylindrical and extends perpendicularly from first washer surface 904 of disc 902, generally at the center of disc 902. Cylindrical sleeve 906 includes a textured exterior surface 908 which can extend over all or just part of exterior surface of cylindrical sleeve 908, for example, from the side connecting to disc 902 toward the end of cylindrical sleeve but not to the end. In some embodiments (including that shown in Figs. 9A-9C), cylindrical sleeve 906 has a tapered end 905, which can help with insertion of cylindrical sleeve 906 into a hole or cavity for forming a joint. Cylindrical sleeve 906 is typically hollow and includes cavity 910, which is typically cylindrical and extends through the length of cylindrical sleeve 906. Cavity 910 may be sized and configured to fit around a shank of the bolt or a threaded length of the bolt.

[0194] The length of cylindrical sleeve 906 may vary but is typically a 0,5 to 3 times the diameter of the bolt for which it is intended to be used.

[0195] Combined washer 900 may formed from steel, phosphorus steel, aluminum, plastic or any other material appropriate for the desired assembly depending on assembly requirements.

[0196] Typically, combined washer 900 would be integrally formed, for example, from cutting, stamping, machining, moulding, pressing, printing, or any other suitable method. Texturing of surface 908 could be done by shot peening, knurling, etching, pressing or any other suitable method. In some embodiment, disc 902 and cylindrical sleeve 906 could be formed separately and then joined together.

[0197] FIG. 10A is a cross sectional view of a first example of combined washer 900, which has been preassembled on bolt 1000, (hereinafter “SEM bolt”). SEM bolt 1000 includes a bolt head 1002 and bolt shaft 1004. Bolt shaft 1004 includes threads 1010 and shank 1006. Shank 1006 extends perpendicularly from head 1002 and is typically smooth on the outer surface. Threads typically 1010 extend from an end of shank 1006 to a tip (not shown) of SEM bolt 1000, though could end before an end of bolt 1000 in some embodiments.

[0198] In this example, combined washer 900 is positioned between bolt head 1002 and threads 1010, positioned on shank 1006. Combined washer 900 is in a position on bolt 1000 such that cylindrical sleeve 906 and disc 902 extend around shank 1006 for at least part of the length of shank 1006. The diameter of cavity 910 is such that combined washer 900 is loose around shank 1006 and can move and / or rotate with respect to shank 1006, but not large enough to move over or slide past threads 1010. Thus, bolt 1000 may rotate without rotating combined washer 900 and vice versa when combined washer 900 installed on bolt 1000. For example, the diameter of cavity 910 (or inner diameter of cylindrical sleeve 906) is bigger than the outer diameter of shank 1006. Additionally, threads 1010 have a major diameter 1018, which is the outer diameter of the peaks of the threads, which is bigger than the diameter of cavity 910 and prevents combined washer 900 from sliding onto threads 1010.

[0199] Closeup 1012 illustrates how major diameter 1018 keeps combined washer 900 on SEM bolt 1000. The distance 1014 from the surface of shank 1006 to major diameter 1018 is larger than distance 1016 from the surface of shank 1006 to cylindrical sleeve 906. For example, distance 1014 may be greater than distance 1016. Distance 1016 should be less than a height of threads 1010 but big enough to fit loosely around shank 1006. For example, an M14 bolt having a major diameter of 14 mm and a minor diameter of 11.5 mm may include a combined washer 900 configured for an M14 bolt. This combined washer may have a cylindrical sleeve cavity 910 that is between 12.7 mm and 12.8 mm. The washer hole for this combined washer may be between 12.9 mm and 13.7 mm. This allows the combined washer to loosely fit around the shank of an M14 bolt without being able to slide past the threads of an M14 bolt. A person of skill in the art understands that combined washers configured for different sized bolts will have similarly proportional dimensions.

[0200] Alternatively, or in addition, an end of washer 900 could be crimped to ensure that at least the end of cylindrical sleeve 906 cannot fit over threads 1010, thereby ensuring that washer 1000 stays connected around bolt 1000. Such connection features are especially useful during transport andstorage of the bolt, ensuring that the preassembled washer 900 does not become disconnected to bolt 1000.

[0201] FIG. 10B is a cross sectional view of a second example of combined washer 900. Combined washer 900 may be preassembled on bolt 1020 to form a SEM bolt. SEM Bolt 1020 may be similar to bolt 1000, and similar parts have similar numbering. Bolt 1020 includes bolt head 1022 and bolt shaft 1024. Bolt shaft 1024 includes threads 1030 and shank 1026.

[0202] In this example, bolt shank 1026 further includes groove 1032 around an outer circumference of shank 906. Groove 1032 may extend radially into shank 906, for example, an M50 bolt groove 1032 may have a depth of up to 5 mm. Combined washer 900 may further include ring 912 configured to fit in groove 1032 and restrict combined washer 900 from moving translationally along the length of bolt shank 1006. Bolt head 1022 may rotate with respect to combined washer 900 when combined washer 900 is installed on bolt 1020. While disc 902 is shown in Figs. 10A-10B to be directly next to head 1002, there may be some space between in some embodiments, particularly before the bolt 1000, 1020 is in use.

[0203] Closeup 1042 illustrates how ring 912 fits in groove 1032. Ring 912 is circular and extends around the inner circumference of cylindrical sleeve 906, though could be interrupted or only extend partway around the inner circumference of cylindrical sleeve in other embodiments. In some embodiments, ring 912 could be only a bump, tooth or other protrusion; or a number of bumps, teeth or protrusions. Groove 1032 is circular and extends around the full outer circumference of shank 1006 extending toward a center of shank 1006. Ring 912 and groove 1032 are complementary in shape while still allowing for at least rotational movement of the washer 900 with respect to the bolt 1020. In some embodiments, groove 1032 may be configured to allow for some translational movement along bolt shank 1006, 1026 as well. This allows combined washer 900 to be loosely connected to SEM bolt 1020 and allows bolt 1020 to rotate (for example, when being tightened for use) without rotating combined washer 900, thereby allowing for combined washer 900 to make and maintain a mechanical.

[0204] FIG. 10C illustrates cross sectional views of embodiment 1050 which may also be suitable for restricting movement, such as axial movement, of combined washer 900. Embodiment 1050 restricts movement of combined washer 900 translationally along the length of bolt shank 1006. Embodiment 1050 may include bolt 1000 which further includes rim 1052 in bolt head 1002. Rim 1052 may be configured to loosely fit around the outer edge of disc 902 of combined washer 900 to restrict its movements. Optionally, disc 902 may include notch 1054 configured to fit with rim 1052 such that bolt head 1002 does not extend past washer surface 904. Rim 1052 and notch 1054 may provide a loose and secure connection between combined washer 900 and bolt 1000.

[0205] FIG. 10D illustrates cross sectional views of embodiment 1060 which may also be suitable for restricting movement of combined washer 900. Embodiment 1060 restricts movement of combined washer 900 translationally along the length of bolt shank 1006. Embodiment 1060 may include bolt 1000 which further includes shank ring 1062 on shank 1006. As shown, combined washer 900 fits on shank 1006 between bolt head 1002 and shank ring 1062. Shank ring 1062 restricts movement of combinedwasher 900 and prevents combined washer from coming into contact with threads 1010. Embodiments 1050 and 1060 may be combined or separately restrict movement of washer 900.

[0206] FIG. 11A is cross sectional view of a further example of a combined washer 900’. In this embodiment, combined washer 900’ is preassembled on nut 1100. Combined washer 900’ may further include a mechanism to connect to nut 1100. As shown here, nut 1100 has cavity 1102 configured to receive bolt shaft. Nut 1100 further includes internal threads 1104 configured to engage with threads 1010 of bolt 1000. Nut 1100 also includes rim 1106 configured to connect to combined washer 900’.

[0207] Combined washer 900’ may further include notch 914 extending from opposing surface 916, where opposing surface 916 is opposite washer surface 904. Notch 914 generally extends from inside of the hole of disc 902 and is configured to receive rim 1106 such that combined washer 900’ is connected to nut 1100. Combined washer 900’ is connected to nut 1100 such that cavity 910 aligns with cavity 1102 to receive a bolt. Notch 914 and rim 1106 are further configured to ensure that combined washer 900 stays connected to nut 1100 but to also allow nut 1100 to rotate while combined washer 900’ does not rotate and vice versa when combined washer 900’ is installed on nut 1100. The preassembled nut 1100 is configured to receive a bolt such as bolt 1000 such that threads 1010 of bolt 1000 engage with nut threads 1104.

[0208] Cavity 910 receives the bolt shaft, and bolt threads 1150 pass through cavity 910 into cavity 1102 where nut threads 1150 engage with bolt threads 1104 such that as nut 1100 rotates, combined washer 900’ does not rotate and bolt 1140 is pulled in direction 1110 into and through nut 1100. Conversely, if nut 1100 rotates in the opposite direction, combined washer 900’ does not rotate and bolt 1140 is pushed in direction 1112 out of nut 1100.

[0209] FIG. 11 B illustrates cross sectional view embodiment 1120 which may also be suitable for loosely and securely connecting combined washer 900’ to nut 1100. Embodiment 1120 in which nut 1100 may include notch 1122 and washer ring 922 such that washer ring 922 fits inside notch 1122 to loosely and securely connect combined washer 900’ with nut 1100. FIG. 11 B illustrates embodiment 1130 in which nut 1100 may include nut notch 1120 and washer ring 922 such that washer ring 922 fits inside nut notch 1120 to loosely and securely connect combined washer 900’ with nut 1100.

[0210] FIG. 11 C illustrates cross sectional view embodiment 1130 which may also be suitable for loosely and securely connecting combined washer 900’ to nut 1100. Embodiment 1130 in which nut 1100 may include rim 1132. Rim 1132 may be configured to loosely fit around the outer edge of disc 902 of combined washer 900. Optionally, disc 902 may include notch 924 configured to fit with rim 1132 such that rum 1132 of nut 1100 does not extend past washer surface 904. Rim 1132 and notch 924 may provide a loose and secure connection between combined washer 900’ and nut 1100.

[0211] FIG. 11 D illustrates cross sectional view embodiment 1140 which may also be suitable for loosely and securely connecting combined washer 900’ to nut 1100. Embodiment 1140 in which nut 1100 may include notch 1142 and combined washer 900’ may include rim 926. Notch 1142 may be configured to receive rim 926. Notch 1142 and rim 926 may provide a loose and secure connection between combined washer 900’ and nut 1100.

[0212] FIGS. 12A - 12F are views of combined washers 900, 900’ with example textured exterior surfaces 908. These surfaces are examples of surfaces that may create a locking function in a bolted joint. These examples should be in no way limiting of the type of textured exterior surface capable of generating friction and / or a mechanical lock between combined washer 900’ and a receiving part.

[0213] FIG. 12A illustrates a combined washer with a knurled cylindrical sleeve surface 908.

[0214] FIG. 12B illustrates a combined washer with a serrated cylindrical sleeve surface 908.

[0215] FIG. 12C illustrates a combined washer with a spirally serrated cylindrical sleeve surface 908.

[0216] FIG. 12D illustrates a combined washer with a hatched cylindrical sleeve surface 908.

[0217] FIG. 12E illustrates a combined washer with a patten of bumps on the cylindrical sleeve surface 908.

[0218] FIG. 12F illustrates a combined washer with a pattern of bumps on the cylindrical sleeve surface 908 and on washer surface 904.

[0219] Additionally, in some embodiments, all or part of washer surface 904 may also include a textured surface configured to create a locking function between washer surface 904 and a surface of a receiving part. The washer surface 904 may include texture of any of the exterior textured surfaces described in FIGS. 12A - 12E or any other textured surface. For example, FIG. 12F shows a combined washer with an exterior textured surface 908 and washer surface 904 with the same textured surface as that shown in FIG. 12E. While the entire textured surfaces 908 or 904 are shown as having texture in Figs. 12A- 12F, some embodiments could have only part of the surface be textured with other parts being smooth.

[0220] Textured surface can be formed through knurling and / or shot peening or any other suitable process for the defined shape and application of the combined washer.

[0221] FIG. 13 illustrates a cross-sectional view of assembly 1300 including combined washer 900. Assembly 1300 includes first receiving part 1302 and second receiving part 1304 and third receiving part 1306. Receiving parts 1304 and 1306 may be two ends of the same receiving part. Receiving parts 1302, 1304, 1306 may be configured to receive a preassembled bolt such as bolt 1000 or bolt 1020.

[0222] It is not necessary to access assembly 1300 from the side of third receiving part 1306 because a bolt is inserted in second receiving part 1304 and a tightening tool rotates the bolt from only its bolt head, with the textured surface 908 of combined washer 900 forming the mechanical connection on that side.

[0223] Combined washer 900, 900’ of the preassembled bolt may fit inside a hole of second receiving part 1304 such that exterior surface 908 makes contact with receiving part 1304, thereby creating a mechanical lock between combined washer 900, 900’ and receiving part 1304. Typically, combined washer 900, 900’ is sized such that it must be press-fit into the hole of receiving part and there is no space allowing for rotation or other movement of washer 900, 900’ with respect to receiving part 1304. Cylindrical sleeve 906 may additionally be sized and configured to extend through second receiving part 1304 and make contact with receiving part 1302. Combined washer 900, 900’ may make an additional mechanical lock between combined washer 900, 900’ and first receiving part 1302 in that manner. Cylindrical sleeve 906 may also help to align bolt shaft 1004, 1024 to pass through receiving parts 1302, 1304, and 1306. Third receiving part 1306 includes internal threads to engage bolt threads 1010, 230.

[0224] The mechanical lock created between combined washer 900, 900’ and receiving parts creates a bolted joint that is more resistant to shear forces. Combined washer 900, 900’ reduces the area that shear forces can act on a bolt, thus reducing the overall shear forces acting on the bolt. As a result, the bolted joint is less likely to slip as compared to a conventional bolted joint. For example, a bolted joint in a motor or engine may be subject to shear forces during operation. Over time, the shear forces may loosen the bolted joint. Incorporating a combined washer 900, 900’ into bolted joint reduces the shear area of the bolted joint such that less shear forces are acting on the bolt which minimizes or prevents slippage of the. This in turn may reduce overall maintenance needed on an assembly such as a motor or engine.

[0225] Because the combined washer 900, 900’ reduces the amount of shear forces acting on a bolt as compared to using conventional bolts alone, bolt size may be reduced without affecting performance. For example, depending on the assembly environment, a conventional M14 bolt in an assembly may be reduced to an M12 bolt with combined washer 900, 900’ because the M12 bolt with combined washer 900, 900’ can tolerate equal or greater shear forces than a convention M14 bolt.

[0226] FIG. 14 illustrates a cross-sectional view of exemplary assembly 1400 including combined washer 900’. Assembly 1400 includes first receiving part 1402, second receiving part 1404 and third receiving part 1406. Receiving parts 1404 and 1406 may be two ends of the same receiving part. Receiving parts 1402, 1404, 1406 may be configured to receive a bolt and a preassembled nut such as nut 1100.

[0227] Combined washer 900’ of preassembled nut 1100 may fit inside a hole of third receiving part 1406 such that exterior surface 908 makes contact with third receiving part 1406 and creates a mechanical lock between combined washer 900’ and third receiving part 1406. Cylindrical sleeve 906 may be configured to extend through third receiving part 1406 and make contact with first receiving part 1402. Combined washer 900’ may make an additional mechanical lock between combined washer 900’ and first receiving part 1402. Cylindrical sleeve 906 may be configured to receive a thread length of a bolt which passes through cavity 910 and the threads of the thread length engage with nut threads 1104 of nut 1100.

[0228] A conventional serrated bolt, having a serrated shank, may be used in combination with combined washer 900’ of preassembled nut 1100.

[0229] Assembly 1400 requires access for a tightening tool to tighten nut 1100 and access to insert a bolt in receiving part 1404.

[0230] Serration type bolts used in assemblies generate a locking functionality in screw joints. However, a serration type bolt may be replaced by a SEM bolt 1000 of a smaller size and still generate the locking functionality required for the assembly.

[0231] Reducing bolt size with the use of combined washer 900, 900’may reduce the overall weight of an assembly. For example, using an M12 bolt with a combined washer instead of a conventional M14 bolt. For M12 and M14 bolts with a nominal reference dimension of 90, an M12 bolt may wight 95 grams as compared to the weight of an M14 bolt of 134 grams. If an assembly requires 10 M14 bolts, they may replace with a preassembled M12 bolt that includes a combined washer such as combined washer 900,900’. This would result in a reduced assembly weight of about 1190 grams for an assembly that requires 10 bolts. It should be understood that assemblies requiring more bolts will have a greater reduction in weight and assemblies requiring less bolts will have a lesser reduction in weight. Including a combined washer may have the potential to reduce weight by 25 - 30% of a bolt or screw. Additionally, surround parts or mating parts of an assembly mays also be reduced.

[0232] FIG. 15 illustrates a cross-sectional view of exemplary assembly 1500 including combined washer 900,900’. Assembly 1500 includes first receiving part 1502, second receiving part 1504 and third receiving part 1506. Receiving parts 1504 and 1506 may be two ends of the same receiving part. Receiving parts 1502, 1504, 1506 may be configured to receive a bolt such as preassembled bolt 1000 and a preassembled nut such as nut 1100 which include combined washers 900 and 900’ respectively.

[0233] Third receiving part 1506 may not be threaded. Third receiving part 1506 may receive preassembled nut 1100. Cylindrical sleeve 906 of may be configured to align a bolt shaft to cylindrical sleeve 906 such that threads of a bolt may engage with threads 1104. Assembly 1500 may require assembly tool access for both bolt head 1002 and nut 1100. The addition of both combined washers 900 and 900’ creates a mechanical lock at both ends of assembly 1500. For example, creating a mechanical lock at second receiving part 1504 and third receiving part 1506.

[0234] FIG. 16A is a perspective view of nut 1600, FIG. 16B is a cross-sectional view of nut 1600 and FIG. 16C is an end view of nut 1600. Nut 1600 includes cylindrical sleeve 1602 having exterior surface 1604 and hollow interior 1606 and bevel 1608. The nut further includes nut head 1610. Nut 1600 is shown with a hexagonal nut head 1610, but a person of skill in the art will understand that nut head 1610 can be any shape, such as square, domed, round, flat, etc.

[0235] Cylindrical sleeve 1602 includes an exterior surface 1604. Exterior surface 1604 may include a texture which can extend over all or just part of exterior surface 1604. For example, the texture may extend from a middle of cylindrical sleeve 1602 to one end of cylindrical sleeve 1602. In some embodiments (including that shown in Figs. 16A-16C), cylindrical sleeve 1602 has bevel 1608 at one end of cylindrical sleeve 1602, which can help with insertion of cylindrical sleeve 1602 into a hole or cavity of a receiving part(s) for forming a bolted joint. Cylindrical sleeve 1602 is typically hollow and includes hollow interior 1606, which is typically cylindrical and extends through the length of cylindrical sleeve 1602. Hollow interior 1606 may be sized and configured to fit around a shank of the bolt or a threaded length of the bolt.

[0236] The length of cylindrical sleeve 1602 may vary but is typically 0,5 to 3 times the diameter of the bolt for which it is intended to be used.

[0237] Cylindrical sleeve 1602 may be formed from steel, phosphorus steel, aluminum, plastic or any other material appropriate for the desired assembly depending on assembly requirements.

[0238] Typically, nut 1600 would be integrally formed, for example, from cutting, stamping, machining, moulding, pressing, printing, or any other suitable method. Texturing of exterior surface 1604 could be done by shot peening, knurling, etching, pressing or any other suitable method.

[0239] FIG. 17 is a cross-sectional view of nut 1600 in combination with bolt 1700. Nut 1600 includes hollow interior 1606 configured to receive bolt shaft 1702 of bolt 1700. Nut 1600 includes nut head 1610 which further includes threads configured to engage with the threaded portion 1704 of bolt shaft 1702.

[0240] Nut 1600 also includes cylindrical sleeve 1602. Hollow interior 1606 extends through cylindrical sleeve 1602 and nut head 1610 such that hollow interior 1606 can receive bolt shaft 1702.

[0241] A tool may rotate bolt 1700 at bolt head 1706 such that threads of the threaded portion 1704 of bolt shaft 1702 engage with the threads of nut head 1610.

[0242] FIG. 18 is a cross-sectional view of nut 1600 in combination with bolt 1700 similar to the combination of FIG. 17. Nut 1600 includes hollow interior 1606 configured to receive bolt shaft 1702 of bolt 1700. Nut 1600 includes nut head 1610 which further includes threads configured to engage with the threaded portion 1704 of bolt shaft 1702. Nut 1600 may further include threads 1800 which extend through hollow interior 1606 and continue form the threads of nut head 1610.

[0243] A tool may rotate bolt 1700 at bolt head 1706 such that threads of the threaded portion 1704 of bolt shaft 1702 further engages with the threads 1800 of cylindrical sleeve 1602 and extend to the threads of nut head 1610.

[0244] FIGS. 19A - 19F are views of exemplary exterior surfaces 1604 of cylindrical sleeve 1602. These surfaces are examples of surfaces that may create a mechanical locking function in a bolted joint. These examples should be in no way limiting of the type of textured exterior surface capable of generating friction and / or a mechanical lock between cylindrical sleeve 1602 and a receiving part.

[0245] FIG. 19A illustrates a knurled exterior surface 1604.

[0246] FIG. 19B illustrates a serrated exterior surface 1604.

[0247] FIG. 19C illustrates a spiraled serrated exterior surface 1604.

[0248] FIG. 19D illustrates a hatched exterior surface 1604.

[0249] FIG. 19E illustrates a bumped exterior surface 1604.

[0250] FIG. 19F illustrates a smooth exterior surface 1604.

[0251] Exterior surfaces 1604 of FIGS. 19A - 19F generate a mechanical lock between the nut and one or more receiving parts of an assembly. Exterior surface 1604 may depend on the material of the nut and / or the material of the receiving part. It should be understood that exterior surface 1604 may have a texture not pictured in FIGS. 19A - 19F.

[0252] FIG. 20 illustrates a cross-sectional view of assembly 2000 including nut 1600 and bolt 1700. Assembly 2000 includes first receiving part 2002 and second receiving part 2006. Receiving part 2004 may be a third receiving part or may be an opposite end of the same receiving part as first receiving part 2002. Assembly 2000 may be configured to receive bolt 1700 such that bolt shaft 1702 extends through receiving parts 2002, 2004, 2006. Assembly 2000 may be further configured to receive nut 1600 such that cylindrical sleeve 1602 extends through at least first receiving part 2002 and second receiving part 2006.

[0253] For example, cylindrical sleeve 1602 may be configured to align an opening of first receiving part 2002 and an opening of second receiving part 2006 so that assembly 2000 is in a desired configuration.

[0254] Nut 1600 may be configured such that cylindrical sleeve 1602 is press fit into receiving parts 2002 and 2006. This eliminates the need for clearance for a tool at the nut end of assembly 2000. The press fit fixes nut 1600 such that it will not rotate or minimally rotate when receiving bolt 1700. As bolt 1700 rotates, the threaded portion of the bolt shaft engages with the threads 1800 of nut 1600 without rotating.

[0255] The press fit of cylindrical sleeve 1602 puts exterior surface 1604 in contact with receiving parts 2002 and 2006. This contact creates a mechanical lock between nut 1600, and receiving parts 2002 and 2006. Nut 1600 is configured to receive bolt 1700 such the threads of bolt 1700 engage with the threads 1800 of nut 1600. Threads 1800 may extend through all or part of hollow interior 1606. As bolt 1700 rotates and engages with threads 1800 and nut 1600 and bolt 1700 tighten, nut 1600 may minimally rotate.

[0256] The contact between exterior surface 1604 and receiving parts 2002 and 2006 creates a bolted joint with a mechanical lock between nut 1600 and receiving parts 2002 and 2006. The mechanical lock minimizes or prevents the bolted joint from loosening or slipping by absorbing at least some of the shear forces acting on the bolted joint.

[0257] Combing nut 1600 and bolt 1700 may only require clearance for a tool to rotate bolt 1700 at the bolt head end of assembly 2000. Bolt 1700 may enter assembly 2000 at an opening of receiving part 2004. Cylindrical sleeve 1602 may horizontally align bolt shaft 1702 in assembly 2000.

[0258] The opening at receiving part 2004 may be larger than a circumference of the threaded portion of bolt shaft 1702. This allows easier insertion of bolt 1700 into assembly 2000.

[0259] A tool configured to rotate bolt 1700 may engage or disengage bolt 1700 to or from nut 1600. For example, rotating bolt 1700 clockwise may move bolt 1700 in direction 2010 and rotating bolt 1700 counter-clockwise may move bolt in direction 2020. Direction 2010 may be a tightening direction and direction 2020 may be a loosening direction.

[0260] A portion of bolt shaft 1702 nearest bolt head 1706 may have a larger circumference than the threaded portion of bolt shaft 1702. The larger circumference my include serrations such as may be found in a serration screw. As bolt 1700 moves in direction 2010, a portion of the shank of the bolt shaft may be configured contact receiving part 2004. The bolt shank may tightly insert into an opening of receiving part 2004 such that receiving part 2004 is aligned with receiving parts 2002 and 2006.

[0261] Additionally, the contact between the bolt shank of bolt 1700 may generate a further mechanical lock at the bolt end of assembly 2000.

[0262] The mechanical lock created between nut 1600 and receiving parts 2002 and 2006 creates a bolted joint that is more resistant to shear forces. Nut 1600 reduces the area that shear forces can act on a bolt, thus reducing the overall shear forces acting on the bolt. As a result, the bolted joint is less likely to slip as compared to a conventional bolted joint. For example, a bolted joint in a motor or engine may be subject to shear forces during operation. Over time, the shear forces may loosen the bolted joint. Incorporating nut 1600 into bolted joint reduces the shear area of the bolted joint such that less shear forces are acting on the bolt which minimizes or prevents slippage of the. This in turn may reduce overall maintenance needed on an assembly such as a motor or engine.

[0263] Because nut 1600 reduces the amount of shear forces acting on a bolt of a bolted joint as compared to using conventional nuts, bolt size may be reduced without affecting performance. For example, depending on the assembly environment, a conventional M14 bolt in an assembly may be reduced to an M12 bolt with nut 1600 because the M12 bolt with nut 1600 can tolerate equal or greater shear forces than a convention M14 bolt.

[0264] Reducing bolt size in combination with nut 1600 may reduce the overall weight of an assembly. For example, using an M12 bolt with nut 1600 instead of a conventional M14 bolt. For M12 and M14 bolts with a nominal reference dimension of 90, an M12 bolt may wight 95 grams as compared to the weight of an M14 bolt of 134 grams. If an assembly requires 10 M14 bolts, they may replace with a M12 bolt in combination with nut 1600. This would result in a reduced assembly weight of about 390 grams for an assembly that requires 10 bolts. It should be understood that assemblies requiring more bolts will have a greater reduction in weight and assemblies requiring less bolts will have a lesser reduction in weight. Including nut 1600 may have the potential to reduce weight by 25 - 30% of bolt and nut combinations. Additionally, surround parts or mating parts of an assembly mays also be reduced.

[0265] Nut 1600 in combination with bolt 1700, such as a serrated bolt, may align receiving parts of an assembly and created bolted joints with a mechanical lock to prevent or minimize slipping from shear forces acting upon the bolt joints. For example, a vehicle in motion may have shear forces acting upon the bolted joints of the vehicle.

[0266] FIG. 21 A is a perspective view of cylindrical sleeve 2100, FIG. 21 B is a cross-sectional view of cylindrical sleeve 2100 and FIG. 21 C is an end view of cylindrical sleeve 2100. Cylindrical sleeve 2100 includes exterior surface 2102 with hollow interior 2104, tapered end 2106, and opening at the tapered end 2108.

[0267] Cylindrical sleeve 2100 includes an exterior surface 2102. Exterior surface 2102 may include a texture which can extend over all or just part of exterior surface 2102. Exterior surface 2102 may include any number of different textures such as knurled, serrated, spiraled serrations, hatched, bumped, smooth, or any combination thereof. For example, the texture may extend from a middle of cylindrical sleeve 2100 to one end of cylindrical sleeve 2100. In some embodiments (including that shown in Figs. 21A-21 C), cylindrical sleeve 2100 has tapered end 2106 at one end of cylindrical sleeve 2100, which can help with insertion of cylindrical sleeve 2100 into an opening or cavity of a receiving part(s) for forming a bolted joint. Cylindrical sleeve 2100 is typically hollow and includes hollow interior 2104, which is typically cylindrical and extends through the length of cylindrical sleeve 2100. Hollow interior 2104 may be sized and configured to fit around a shank of the bolt or a threaded length of the bolt.

[0268] Tapered end 2106 may narrow the hollow interior 2104 at tapered end 2106 so that movement of the cylindrical sleeve 2100 in a perpendicular direction with respect to a bolt is limited at tapered end 2106. For example, dotted line 2120 represents a bolt inserted into hollow interior 2104. Dotted line 2110 represents a bolt shaft center. Gravity may act on cylindrical sleeve 2100. Tapered end 2106 may limit the movement of cylindrical sleeve 2100 when gravity or other forces are acting upon it. Tapered end 2106 may limit movement such that center of cylindrical sleeve 2100 at tapered end 2106 is in line with center line 2110.

[0269] The length of cylindrical sleeve 2100 may vary but is typically 0,5 to 3 times the diameter of the bolt for which it is intended to be used.

[0270] Cylindrical sleeve 2100 may be formed from steel, phosphorus steel, aluminum, plastic or any other material appropriate for the desired assembly depending on assembly requirements.

[0271] Typically, Cylindrical sleeve 2100 would be integrally formed, for example, from cutting, stamping, machining, moulding, pressing, printing, or any other suitable method. Texturing of exterior surface 2102 could be done by shot peening, knurling, etching, pressing or any other suitable method.

[0272] FIG. 22A is a perspective view of cylindrical sleeve 2100’, FIG. 22B is a cross-sectional view of cylindrical sleeve 2100’ and FIG. 22C is an end view of cylindrical sleeve 2100’. Cylindrical sleeve 2100’ includes exterior surface 2102’ with hollow interior 2104’.

[0273] Cylindrical sleeve 2100’ is similar to cylindrical sleeve 2100. Cylindrical sleeve 2100’ includes an exterior surface 2102’. Exterior surface 2102’ may include a slope which can extend over all or just part of exterior surface 2102’. The slope of exterior 2102’ may further aid in generating a mechanical lock with a receiving part. In some embodiments (including that shown in Figs. 22A-22C), cylindrical sleeve 2100’ has tapered end 2106’ at one end of cylindrical sleeve 2100’, which can help with insertion of cylindrical sleeve 2100’ into a hole or cavity of a receiving part(s) for forming a bolted joint. Cylindrical sleeve 2100’ is typically hollow and includes hollow interior 2104’, which is typically cylindrical and extends through the length of cylindrical sleeve 2100’. Hollow interior 2104’ may be sized and configured to fit around a shank of the bolt or a threaded length of the bolt.

[0274] Exterior surface 2102’ of cylindrical sleeve 2100’ may include a slope. For example, the slope of exterior surface 2102’ may be such that cylindrical sleeve 2100’ has first circumference at one end of cylindrical sleeve 2100’ and second circumference. As shown in in FIG. 22B, the first circumference is larger than the second circumference. The end of first circumference may be face a head of a bolt while the other end of second circumference may be inserted into a hole or cavity of a receiving part.

[0275] For example, according to certain embodiments, the slope of exterior surface 2102’ may have an angle of 17 degrees. Such a slope may extend from the end with the smaller circumference to the end with a larger circumference. Referring to FIG. 22B, the slope of exterior surface 2102’ would rise from the end with larger circumference to the end with the smaller circumference 2108 at an angle of 217 degrees.

[0276] The angle may be configured to provide the desired mechanical lock and may further depend on the materials of the cylindrical sleeve 2100’, receiving parts, assembly type among other variables.

[0277] The length of cylindrical sleeve 2100’ may vary but is typically 0,5 to 3 times the diameter of the bolt for which it is intended to be used.

[0278] Cylindrical sleeve 2100’ may be formed from steel, phosphorus steel, aluminum, plastic or any other material appropriate for the desired assembly depending on assembly requirements.

[0279] Typically, Cylindrical sleeve 2100’ would be integrally formed, for example, from cutting, stamping, machining, moulding, pressing, printing, or any other suitable method. Texturing of exterior surface 2102’ could be done by shot peening, knurling, etching, pressing or any other suitable method.

[0280] FIG. 23A is a perspective view of cylindrical sleeve 2100”, FIG. 23B is a cross-sectional view of cylindrical sleeve 2100” and FIG. 23C is an end view of cylindrical sleeve 2100”. Cylindrical sleeve 2100” includes exterior surface 2102” with hollow interior 2104”.

[0281] Cylindrical sleeve 2100” may differ from Cylindrical sleeve 2100 and Cylindrical sleeve 2100” in that includes annular disc 2130. Annular disc 2130 may act as a washer when assembly cylindrical sleeve 2100” with receiving parts of an assembly. Additionally, Cylindrical sleeve 2100” may serve as a means to attach cylindrical sleeve 2100” to a bolt head .

[0282] FIG. 24 is a cross-sectional view of a cylindrical sleeve 2100, 2100’, which has been preassembled on bolt 2400, (hereinafter “SEM bolt”) according to at least one example of the disclosure. In this example, cylindrical sleeve 2100, 2100’, 2100” is positioned between a bolt head 2406 and threads 2410, positioned on shank 2408. Cylindrical sleeve 2100, 2100’, 2100” is in a position on bolt 2400 such that surrounds shank 2408 for at least part of the length of shank 2408. The diameter of cavity of hollow interior 2104, 2104’, 2104” is such that cylindrical sleeve 2100, 2100’, 2100” is loose around shank 2408 and can move and / or rotate with respect to shank 2408, but not large enough to move over or slide past threads 2410. Thus, bolt 2400 may rotate without rotating cylindrical sleeve 2100, 2100’, 2100” and vice versa when cylindrical sleeve 2100, 2100’, 2100” installed on bolt 2400. For example, the diameter of cavity 2104, 2104’, 2104” is bigger than the outer diameter of shank 2408. Additionally, threads 2410 have a major diameter, which is the outer diameter of the peaks of the threads, that is bigger than the diameter of cavity 2104, 2104’, 2104” and prevents cylindrical sleeve 2100, 2100’, 2100” from sliding onto threads 2410.

[0283] Closeup illustrates how the major diameter keeps cylindrical sleeve 2100, 2100’, 2100” on SEM bolt 2400. The distance 2404 from the surface of shank 2408 to major diameter is larger than distance 2402 from the surface of shank 2408 to cylindrical sleeve 2100, 2100’, 2100”. For example, distance 2404 may be greater than distance 2402. Distance 2402 should be less than a height of threads 2410 but big enough to fit loosely around shank 2408. For example, an M14 bolt having a major diameter of 14 mm and a minor diameter of 11 .5 mm may include a cylindrical sleeve 2100, 2100’, 2100” configured for an M14 bolt. This cylindrical sleeve hollow interior 2104, 2104’, 2104” that is between 12.7 mm and 12.8 mm. This allows the cylindrical sleeve to loosely fit around the shank of an M14 bolt without being able to slide past the threads of an M14 bolt. A person of skill in the art understands that cylindrical sleeves configured for different sized bolts will have similarly proportional dimensions.

[0284] Alternatively, or in addition, an end of cylindrical sleeve 2100, 2100’ could be crimped to ensure that the end of cylindrical sleeve 2100, 2100’, 2100” cannot fit over threads 2410, thereby ensuring that cylindrical sleeve 2100, 2100’, 2100” stays connected around bolt 2400. Such connection features are especially useful during transport and storage of the bolt, ensuring that the cylindrical sleeve 2100, 2100’, 2100” does not become disconnected to bolt 2400.

[0285] FIGS. 25A - 25C illustrate different points in time during an assembly of bolt 2400 in combination with cylindrical sleeve 2100, 2100’, 2100” into assembly 2504. The bolt shaft may engage with nut 2502 to assembly the receiving parts of assembly 2504.

[0286] FIG. 25A illustrates a first point in time where cylindrical sleeve 2100, 2100’, 2100” is on the bolt shaft of bolt 2400. The tapered end 2106, 2106’, 2106” centers the cylindrical sleeve 2100, 2100’, 2100” at the tapered end 2106 around the bolt. As shown in FIG. 25A, the end of cylindrical sleeve 2100, 2100’, 2100” closest to the bolt head may fall and not be aligned with the center of the bolt.

[0287] Bolt 2400 is aligned with an opening of a receiving part(s) of assembly 2504 to assemble the part the receiving parts.

[0288] FIG. 25B illustrates a second point in time where cylindrical sleeve 2100, 2100’, 2100” is on the bolt shaft of bolt 2400. As the cylindrical sleeve 2100, 2100’, 2100” approaches the opening of assembly 2504, tapered end 2106, 2106’, 2106” ensures that the cylindrical sleeve 2100, 2100’, 2100” is aligned with the opening of the assembly to insert into the cavity of assembly 2504 without further manipulation. Here, tapered end 2106, 2106’, 2106” begins to guide cylindrical sleeve 2100, 2100’, 2100” into assembly 2504.

[0289] FIG. 25C illustrates a third point in time where cylindrical sleeve 2100, 2100’, 2100” is on the bolt shaft of bolt 2400. As bolt 2400 is inserted into assembly 2504, cylindrical sleeve 2100, 2100’, 2100” is inserted into the cavity of assembly 2504 until the entire cylindrical sleeve 2100, 2100’, 2100” is inserted and aligned with bolt 2400 and the cavity of assembly 2504.

[0290] The thickness of tapered end 2106, 2106’, 2106” may be determined so that it deforms upon assembly. For example, if opening 2108, 2108’, 2108” is configured to make 3 or more points of contact with bolt shaft 2408, the thickness of tapered end 2106, 2106’, 2106” may be thin enough so that tightening bolt 2400 deforms tapered end 2106, 2106’, 2106” such that at least one point of contact between tapered end 2106, 2106’, 2106” and bolt shaft 2408 is removed.

[0291] Additionally, thickness of cylindrical sleeve 2100, 2100’, 2100” may be determined based on tolerances of assembly 2504. If assembly 2504 has a small value for tolerances, for example, an opening that is slightly bigger than the bolt, than the thickness of cylindrical sleeve 2100, 2100’, 2100” and tapered end 2106, 2106’, 2106” may set to be not be relatively thin such that the diameter of cylindrical sleeve 2100, 2100’, 2100” is slightly bigger than the diameter of bolt 2400. If assembly 2504 has a large value for tolerances, for example, an opening that is considerably bigger than the bolt, than the thickness of cylindrical sleeve 2100, 2100’, 2100” and tapered end 2106, 2106’, 2106” may set to be relatively thick such that the diameter of cylindrical sleeve 2100, 2100’, 2100” is considerably bigger than the diameter of bolt 2400. Tolerance values may be set determined by standardized tolerance values.

[0292] The thickness of cylindrical sleeve 2100, 2100’, 2100” is such that at least part of the circumference of exterior surface 2102, 2102’, 2102” is in tightly in contact with the receiving parts when inserted into an opening of the receiving part.

[0293] The mechanical lock created between cylindrical sleeve 2100, 2100’, 2100” and receiving parts creates a bolted joint that is more resistant to shear forces. Cylindrical sleeve 2100, 2100’, 2100” reduces the area that shear forces can act on a bolt, thus reducing the overall shear forces acting on the bolt. As a result, the bolted joint is less likely to slip as compared to a conventional bolted joint. For example, a bolted joint in a motor or engine may be subject to shear forces during operation. Overtime, the shear forces may loosen the bolted joint. Incorporating a cylindrical sleeve 2100, 2100’, 2100” intobolted joint reduces the shear area of the bolted joint such that less shear forces are acting on the bolt which minimizes or prevents slippage of the. This in turn may reduce overall maintenance needed on an assembly such as a motor or engine.

[0294] Because cylindrical sleeve 2100, 2100’, 2100” reduces the amount of shear forces acting on a bolt as compared to using conventional bolts alone, bolt size may be reduced without affecting performance. For example, depending on the assembly environment, a conventional M14 bolt in an assembly may be reduced to an M12 bolt with cylindrical sleeve 2100, 2100’, 2100” because the M12 bolt with cylindrical sleeve 2100, 2100’, 2100” can tolerate equal or greater shear forces than a convention M14 bolt.

[0295] FIG. 26A is a cross sectional view of the cylindrical sleeve connected to a bolt to join two receiving parts. FIG. 26A may represent a second point in time during assembly as described with respect to FIG 25B. FIG. 26A illustrates how cylindrical sleeve 2100, 2100’, 2100” is centered around bolt 2400 at tapered end 2106, 2106’, 2106”. Center line 2601 represents a center along the length of bolt 2400. The end of cylindrical sleeve 2100, 2100’, 2100” opposite of tapered end 2106, 2106’, 2106” is not aligned with the center of bolt 2400 because gravity or other forces are acing upon cylindrical sleeve 2100, 2100’, 2100”. Center lines 2601 and 2602 intersect at point 2610 which represents that both cylindrical sleeve 2100, 2100’, 2100” and bolt 2400 are aligned at point 2610. Because cylindrical sleeve 2100, 2100’, 2100” and bolt 2400 are aligned at point 2610 cylindrical sleeve 2100, 2100’, 2100” is inserted into the opening of assembly 2504 as bolt 2400 is inserted into the opening of assembly 2504 without the need of other actions.

[0296] FIG. 26B is a cross sectional view of cylindrical sleeve 2620 connected to bolt 2400 to join two receiving parts in assembly 2504. Sleeve 2620 of FIG. 26B does not include a tapered end as illustrated in the previous figures. Without the a tapered end, gravity or other forces act on cylindrical sleeve 2620 and there is no intersection between bolt center line 2601 ’ and sleeve center line 2602’. As shown in FIG. 26B, bolt center line 260T is parallel or nearly parallel to sleeve center line 2602’. As a result, cylindrical sleeve 2620 catches on assembly 2504 and is unable to insert into the opening of assembly 2504 when inserting bolt 2400. Cylindrical sleeve 2620 requires further interference to insert into assembly 504.

[0297] While the present disclosure has been described with reference to exemplary embodiments, it will be understood by those skilled in the art that various changes may be made, and equivalents may be substituted for elements thereof without departing from the scope of the present disclosure. In addition, many modifications may be made to adapt a particular situation or material to the teachings of the present disclosure without departing from the essential scope thereof. Therefore, it is intended that the present disclosure not be limited to the particular embodiments disclosed, but that the present disclosure will include all embodiments falling within the scope of the appended claims.

Claims

Claims1 . A cylindrical sleeve comprising: an exterior surface configured to engage with a first receiving part and a second receiving part when the cylindrical sleeve is inserted in the first receiving part and the second receiving part; and a hollow interior, wherein the cylindrical sleeve, in combination with a fastener, assembles the first receiving part with the second receiving part.

2. The cylindrical sleeve of claim 1 , wherein the cylindrical sleeve is connected to the fastener.

3. The cylindrical sleeve of any of the preceding claims, wherein the cylindrical sleeve is formed of aluminum or a ferrous material.

4. The cylindrical sleeve of any of the preceding claims, wherein the exterior surface is knurled.

5. The cylindrical sleeve of any of the preceding claims, wherein the exterior surface comprises serrations.

6. The cylindrical sleeve of any of the preceding claims, wherein the exterior surface has a taper from the first end of the cylindrical sleeve having a first circumference to a second end of the cylindrical sleeve having a second circumference, wherein the first circumference is greater than the second circumference.

7. The cylindrical sleeve of any of the preceding claims, further comprising: an annular disc with a central hole, The cylindrical sleeve of any of the preceding claims wherein the central hole of the annular disc aligns with the hollow interior of the cylindrical sleeve.

8. The cylindrical sleeve of any of the preceding claims, wherein the fastener is a bolt and the cylindrical sleeve further comprises: a ring extending from the first end, wherein the ring fits into a groove of the bolt to connect the cylindrical sleeve to the bolt, and wherein the bolt can rotate independently of the cylindrical sleeve, wherein the first end faces a bolt head of the bolt.

9. The cylindrical sleeve of claim 8, wherein the cylindrical sleeve is configured to encompass a shank of the bolt between the bolt head and a threaded portion of the bolt.

10. The cylindrical sleeve of claim 9, wherein the annular disc has a larger diameter than the cylindrical sleeve and extends wider than the cylindrical sleeve to form a shoulder around the cylindrical sleeve.

11. The cylindrical sleeve of any of claims 1-7, wherein the fastener is a nut, wherein the sleeve is installed on a nut, wherein the cylindrical sleeve extends from a nut head of the nut, wherein the cylindrical sleeve is configured to extend into the first receiving part and the second receiving part, and wherein the hollow interior configured to receive a bolt shaft, wherein the sleeve aligns the first receiving part and the second receiving part.

12. The cylindrical sleeve of claim 11 , wherein the exterior surface of the cylindrical sleeve is configured to generate a mechanical lock between the cylindrical sleeve, the first receiving part, and the second receiving part.

13. The cylindrical sleeve of any of claims 11 and 12, wherein a circumference of the cylindrical sleeve is configured to insert into a first opening of the first receiving part and a second opening of the second receiving part, and wherein the exterior surface is in contact with the first receiving part and the second receiving part.

14. The cylindrical sleeve of any of claims 11 to 13, wherein the nut is fixed in the second receiving part as the bolt shaft of a bolt engages with the nut.

15. An assembly comprising: a cylindrical sleeve according to any of claims 11-14; a first receiving part; a second receiving part; and a bolt, wherein the cylindrical sleeve enters the assembly at the first receiving part and extends through to the second receiving part, and wherein the bolt enters the hollow interior of the cylindrical sleeve.

16. The cylindrical sleeve of claim 6 further comprising: an opening at the second end, wherein the opening is smaller than the hollow interior and wherein a shape of the opening is configured to limit movement of the cylindrical sleeve at the second end around a bolt shaft such that the second end is substantially centered around a centre of the bolt shaft.

17. The cylindrical sleeve of claim 16, wherein a shape of the opening is substantially triangular.

18. The cylindrical sleeve of any of claims 16 and 17, wherein the cylindrical sleeve further includes an annular disc, wherein a central hole of the annular disc aligns with the hollow interior.

19. The cylindrical sleeve of claim 18, wherein the annular disc is configured to connect to a head of a bolt.

20. The cylindrical sleeve of any of claims 16 - 19, wherein a thickness of the second end is based on a tolerance of an assembly.

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