ADJUSTABLE LENGTH ROD END ASSEMBLY HAVING AN INTEGRAL SECONDARY LOCKING FEATURE

Abstract

A precision length adjustable rod end assembly (10) is described and provides a fastener for mechanical assemblies that eliminates the need for a separate secondary locking device. The device includes a connecting rod (12), an end connector (14) or rod end, and a locking nut assembly (16). The end connector (14) threadably engages the connecting rod (12). The locking nut assembly (16) engages both the end connector (14) and the connecting rod (12). The threaded engagement between the end connector and the connecting rod allows the rod end assembly to be set to a precise working length (e.g., as measured along the central longitudinal axis).The locking nut assembly (16) maintains the precisely set working length of the rod end assembly even when the rod end assembly is exposed to severe operating conditions, such as exposure to extreme vibration.

Description

Title of Invention: ADJUSTABLE LENGTH ROD END ASSEMBLY HAVING AN INTEGRAL SECONDARY LOCKING FEATURE

[0001] CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

[0002] The present application claims priority from provisional application No. 63 / 354,417, filed on June 22, 2022.

[0003] DOMAIN

[0004] The present disclosure relates to adjustable rod ends, turnbuckles and the like for machines, equipment and mechanical assemblies, particularly of the type requiring secondary locking devices.

[0005] CONTEXT

[0006] This section provides background information regarding the present disclosure which is not necessarily prior art. Machines, equipment, mechanical assemblies, and mechanisms often include a connector or fastener that provides a connection or joint that maintains a fixed point of contact between two parts as well as freedom of rotation. Rod ends and turnbuckles are types of such connectors that can secure or support loads (e.g., compression and tension) and / or connect to and control the movement of components (e.g., linkages and pivot points) of associated assemblies and mechanisms. Rod ends and turnbuckles commonly provide a variable length that allows the connection to be adjusted to achieve the dimensional accuracy that is necessary for a particular mechanical application.In this regard, the rod ends and turnbuckles may include a threaded connection that allows the relative position of the components of the fastener (e.g., a connecting rod and a rod end) to be adjusted, so that the overall length of the fastener is changed.

[0008] Precision rod ends and turnbuckles are fasteners known for use in mechanical assemblies and mechanisms that are subject to severe operating conditions, such as extreme vibration. It is understood that in many applications it is important to ensure that the threaded connection and the relative position between the rod end and the rod does not loosen or change during normal operation or use of the mechanical assembly. This is particularly the case in aircraft applications, where precision length adjustment of the fastener can be vital to ensure the proper functioning of the mechanical assemblies or systems used on the aircraft.

[0009] One known way to maintain the relative positions of the connecting rod and a rod end and to reduce a tendency for the connecting rod and / or the rod end to move relative to each other, and thus impact a precisely set length, is to use a locking device, such as a simple locking nut. In addition, some applications require a secondary locking device with the fastener. A secondary locking device that is often used in a rod end is a wire (e.g., a locking wire) that is used to secure to the locking nut against possible loosening of the locking nut. See Prior Art [Fig. 1].

[0010] Locking wire, also known as safety wire, is often used in situations where mechanical reliability is critical. For example, in aircraft applications, safety wire is used to secure locking nuts on rod ends and turnbuckles, as well as with other fasteners in the aircraft. This is because significant vibration and other forces acting on the aircraft and its components and mechanisms can contribute to the inadvertent loosening of fasteners.

[0011] For the maintenance of mechanical components and mechanisms or other systems that include wire-lock fasteners, however, such as for inspection, maintenance, repair, replacement and the like, the wire lock must be cut and disconnected from the fastener before the fastener can be loosened and removed. After inspection and other work are performed, the fasteners can be reused but must be re-wire-locked. This process requires specialized skills and training, is labor intensive and time consuming. Thus, the costs for performing routine maintenance, inspection or other service activities are increased.

[0012] Furthermore, in some applications, maintenance, inspection, repair, replacement, or other service activity must be performed on the apparatus that can be positioned so that there is limited space to easily use or manipulate the tools that are necessary to remove the locking wire, loosen the fasteners, and / or re-wire the fasteners after maintenance. These conditions add further difficulty, labor, and cost to other routine tasks.

[0013] SUMMARY

[0014] This section provides a general summary of the disclosure and is not a comprehensive disclosure of its entire scope or features.

[0015] The disclosure provides an adjustable length rod end assembly. This can be set to a precise working length (e.g., as measured along a central longitudinal axis). The rod end assembly incorporates both a main locking feature and a locking feature. secondary that maintains the precisely set working length of the rod end assembly even when the rod end assembly is exposed to severe working conditions, such as exposure to extreme vibration.

[0016] The rod end assembly includes an end connector extending along a central longitudinal axis and having a first male-threaded shaft. Also included is a connecting rod extending along the central longitudinal axis and including a second female-threaded shaft including a first head defining a face and a first engagement feature consisting of two opposed parallel planar outer surfaces. The outer surfaces are symmetrical about the central longitudinal axis and separated by a first distance. The first male-threaded shaft of the end connector threadably engages the second female-threaded shaft of the connecting rod to establish an overall length of the rod end assembly.

[0017] Also included is a locking nut assembly engaging both the end connector and the connecting rod and configured to determine the precise overall length of the rod end assembly. The locking nut assembly has a combined primary locking feature and secondary locking feature and consists of a thrust nut releasably connected to the end connector and a locking ring releasably connected to the connecting rod. The thrust nut includes a female-threaded opening extending through the thrust nut and along the central longitudinal axis, a second head, a ratcheting interface, and a tapered leading end positioned at a longitudinal end of the thrust nut opposite the second head.The female threaded opening threadedly engages the first male threaded shaft of the end connector.

[0018] The second head of the thrust nut is configured to house a tool for applying torque to the thrust nut to rotate the thrust nut in a first rotational direction about the central longitudinal axis.

[0019] The leading end of the thrust nut abuts or bears, with force, against the face of the connecting rod head to provide the primary locking feature of the rod end assembly.

[0020] The snap-in interface has an outer cylindrical wall in which are included a plurality of concave-shaped snaps that are equally spaced about a circumference of the outer cylindrical wall. Adjacent snaps are separated from each other by discrete sections of the outer cylindrical wall.

[0021] The locking ring includes a conically shaped body positioned between a plurality of resilient beam fingers and a second engaging feature. The plurality of resilient beam fingers are arranged and spaced equally spaced about a circumference of the body and each of the plurality of resilient beam fingers extends in a first direction from the cantilevered body, from a proximal end to a distal end and in a first direction. Each of the plurality of resilient beam fingers extends generally parallel to the central longitudinal axis.

[0022] The body further comprises a second engagement feature consisting of two discrete projections, extending from the body in a second direction that is opposite the first direction. The two projections are symmetrical about the central longitudinal axis. Each projection consists of a planar inner surface and a non-planar outer surface. The two planar inner surfaces are opposite each other and separated by a second distance that is greater or slightly greater than the first distance. The first engagement feature of the connecting rod is nested within the second engagement feature of the locking ring so as to be able to cooperate to prevent relative rotational movement between the connecting rod and the locking ring about the central longitudinal axis.

[0023] Additionally, the finger tips of the beam fingers mechanically interact with the ratchet interface to prevent rotation of the thrust nut in a second rotational direction about the central longitudinal axis opposite the first rotational direction to provide the secondary locking feature of the rod end assembly.

[0024] In other aspects of the disclosure, the non-planar outer surfaces of the two projections are each semi-cylindrical. Alternatively or additionally, the distal ends of the beam fingers each include a plurality of beveled surfaces.

[0025] Other areas of applicability will become more apparent from the description provided herein. The specific description and examples in this summary are intended for illustrative purposes only and are not intended to limit the scope of this disclosure. Brief description of the drawings

[0026] The drawings described herein are for illustrative purposes only of embodiments and do not represent all possible implementations and are not intended to limit the scope of the present disclosure.

[0027] [Fig.l] [Fig.l] represents a conventional rod end of the prior art;

[0028] [Fig.2] [Fig.2] is a top-front-right isometric view of a rod end adjustable with automatic locking according to the principles of this disclosure;

[0029] [Fig.3] [Fig.3] is an exploded top-front-right isometric view of the self-locking adjustable rod end of [Fig.2];

[0030] [Fig.4] [Fig.4] is an enlarged detailed sectional view taken on line 4-4 of [Fig.2];

[0031] [Fig.5A] [Fig.5A] is a top-front-right isometric view of a self-locking adjustable rod end locking ring of [Fig.2];

[0032] [Fig.5B] [Fig.5B] is a top-left-front isometric view of the locking ring of [Fig.5A];

[0033] [Fig.6A] [Fig.6A] is a top-front-right isometric view of a self-locking adjustable rod end thrust nut of [Fig.2]; and

[0034] [Fig.6B] [Fig.6B] is a top-left-front isometric view of the thrust nut of [Fig.6A].

[0035] Corresponding references indicate corresponding parts in the various views of the drawings. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0036] Exemplary embodiments will now be described more fully with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0037] The self-locking adjustable rod end assembly 10 of the present disclosure (e.g., Figures 2-6) provides a fastener or connector for use on machines, equipment, mechanical assemblies, and similar apparatus that allows for precision adjustment and includes a self-locking feature that eliminates the need for a secondary locking device such as a locking wire. The self-locking adjustable rod end assembly 10 extends lengthwise along a central longitudinal axis X.

[0038] Referring to Figures 2 and 3, the self-locking adjustable rod end assembly 10 of the present disclosure generally comprises a connecting rod 12, an end connector or rod end 14, and a locking nut assembly 16. The end connector 14 threadably engages the connecting rod 12. The locking nut assembly 16 engages both the end connector 14 and the connecting rod 12. The rod end assembly 10 extends a working length along the central longitudinal axis X. The threaded engagement between the end connector 14 and the connecting rod 12 allows the rod end assembly 10 to be set to a precise working length (e.g., as measured along the central longitudinal axis X). The locking nut assembly 16 maintains the precisely set working length of the rod end assembly 10 even when the rod end assembly 10 is exposed to severe operating conditions, such as exposure to extreme vibration.

[0039] The connecting rod 12 may be generally understood to be configured similarly to any of a number of well-known internally threaded or externally threaded connecting rods, turnbuckle connecting rods, or hollow female threaded rods. For example, as shown in Figures 2 and 3, the connecting rod 12 may extend along the central longitudinal axis X for a length L1 from a first or proximal end 18 to a second or distal end 20. The length L of the connecting rod may vary. The connecting rod may include a shaft 22 and an engaging portion or head 24. The external shape or configuration of the shaft 22 may be generally cylindrical or polygonal or other suitable shape. The shape of the shaft 12 may be symmetrical or asymmetrical about the longitudinal axis X.The shaft 22 may have an external dimension (e.g., a diameter d or a height and width, as applicable).

[0040] The shaft 22 may be partially or completely hollow and define an inner surface or inner wall 26 at least at the distal end 20. Some or all of the inner wall 26 may be threaded (e.g., may include female threads). The threads may have a fine or coarse thread pitch. As can be appreciated, the finer the thread pitch, the greater the precision with which the working length of the rod end assembly 10 can be adjusted.

[0041] The engaging portion or head 24 of the connecting rod 12 may be incorporated at the distal end 20 of the shaft 22. The head 24 may be integrally formed with the shaft 22 or may be secured or affixed to the distal end 20 of the shaft 22. The external shape or configuration of the head may be formed similarly to the shaft 22. The external shape of the head 24 may further define one or more external surfaces of the head and in an end profile, a diameter, a height and width, a circumference and / or a perimeter of the head, as appropriate. The head 24 may extend radially outwardly from the shaft 22 (i.e., generally transverse to the central longitudinal axis X). As observed in [Fig.4], an external dimension Ds (e.g. a height) of the head may be greater than the external dimension Ds of the shaft 22.The head 24 may be symmetrical or asymmetrical about the central longitudinal axis X.

[0042] The head 24 may include an engagement feature 28 that may cooperate with a coupling engagement feature 30 included in the locking ring 32, as described in more detail herein. The engagement feature engagement feature 28 of the head 24a may be incorporated into one or more of the outer surfaces of the head 24 and / or the circumference or perimeter of the head 24. For example, the engagement feature 28 may include one or more planar surfaces or "flats." As shown in [Fig. 3], the head 24 may include a pair of planar surfaces disposed at opposite sides of the head 24. The planar surfaces may be opposite and parallel to each other. The planar surfaces may be separated by a distance (Dl).

[0043] The end connector or rod end 14 may be generally understood to be configured similarly to any of a number of well-known internally threaded or externally threaded rod ends. For example, an end connector or rod end 14 is also shown in Figures 2 and 3. The end connector 14 may extend along the central longitudinal axis X over a length L2 from a first or proximal end 34 to a second or distal end 36. The length L2 of the end connector may vary. The end connector 14 may include a shaft 38 and the connecting portion 40. The shaft 38 may be partially or fully threaded (e.g., include male threads). The male threads may have a fine or coarse thread pitch.The male threads may mate with and couple with the female threads of the connecting rod 12. The connecting portion 40 may be integrally formed with the shaft 38 of the end connector 14. The connecting portion 40 may include a rod end bolt, a ball joint rod end, a ball joint link, a clevis rod end, a pivot shaft rod end, or another known connecting feature. As shown in Figures 2 and 3, the connecting portion 40 is a rod end bolt having a cylindrical mounting hole extending through the rod end bolt along a central axis Y and proximate the distal end 36 of the end connector 14.

[0044] With reference to Figures 2, 3, 5A, 5B, 6A and 6B, the locking nut assembly 16 for the self-locking adjustable rod end assembly 10 of the present disclosure may be understood. The locking nut assembly 16 may have a locked condition and an unlocked condition. The locking nut assembly 16 may include a thrust nut 42 and a locking ring 32. The thrust nut 42 may be threaded onto the shaft 38 of the end connector 14 proximate the proximal end 34 of the end connector 14. The locking ring 32 may be disposed between the thrust nut 42 and the connecting rod 12. The locking ring 32 may be rotationally fixed relative to the connecting rod 12 about the central longitudinal axis X, such as this will be described in more detail herein. The thrust nut 42 can be rotated about the central longitudinal axis X and tightened to place the locking nut assembly 16 in the locked condition. In the locked condition of the locking assembly 16, the thrust nut 42 can capture the locking ring 32 along the central longitudinal axis X against the connecting rod 12. In the locked condition of the locking nut assembly 16, the locking ring 32 can engage the thrust nut 42 and prevent unintentional loosening rotation of the thrust nut 42.

[0045] As shown in the figures and in particular in Figures 6A and 6B, the locking ring 32 includes a body 44 and a plurality of flexible and resilient beam fingers 46. The beam fingers 46 may extend from the body 44 in a first direction. The body 44 may have a generally annular tapered portion 48. The beam fingers 46 may be arranged around a circumference of the tapered portion 48 of the body 44. It should be noted that the number of beam fingers 46 may vary. For example, about 12 to 20 beam fingers may be included.

[0046] The body 44 may also include an engagement feature 30. The engagement feature 30 of the body 44 of the locking ring 32 may cooperate and couple with the engagement feature 28 of the head 24 of the connecting rod 12. As shown in the figures, the engagement feature 30 of the locking ring 32 may include a pair of opposed spaced projections 50 extending from the tapered portion 48 in a second direction that is opposite the first direction. The projections 50 may extend generally parallel to the central longitudinal axis X. Each of the projections 50 may include an outer surface 52 and an inner surface 54. For example, as shown, the outer surface 52 may be a semi-cylindrical surface and the inner surface 54 may be a planar surface. The inner surfaces 54 may be parallel to each other.The inner surfaces 54 may be spaced apart by a distance (D2) that is slightly larger than a distance (D1). In this regard, the head 24 of the connecting rod 12 may be disposed between the opposing projections 50 of the locking ring 32. Thus, the respective engagement features 28, 30 of the connecting rod 12 and the locking ring 32 may be engaged. For example, the planar surfaces of the head 24 may be tightly fitted into the opposing planar surfaces 54 of the locking ring 32. In this way, relative rotational movement between the connecting rod 12 and the locking ring 32 is prevented.

[0047] Referring again to Figures 6A and 6B, each beam finger 46 of the locking ring 32 extends or projects in the first direction from the annularly shaped tapered portion 48 of the body 44 from the proximal end 56 to a distal end 58. The beam fingers 46 extend cantilevered. The beam fingers 46 are substantially parallel to the central longitudinal axis X. The distal ends 58 of the beam fingers 46 define finger tips 60. The finger tips 60 of the beam fingers 46 each include a plurality of beveled surfaces 62. In one aspect of the disclosure, the beveled surfaces 62 are positioned on the inner sides (i.e., facing inwardly toward the central longitudinal axis) of the finger tips 60. The inner sides of the finger tips define a diameter (Df).

[0048] The beam fingers 46 are resilient and, due to the cantilever arrangement, the beam fingers 46 may exhibit limited spring-like flexibility or elastic deformation in a direction generally transverse to the central longitudinal axis X (i.e., diametrically inward and outward) when subjected to a force, particularly a normal force at the finger tips 60. As described in more detail herein, the finger tips 60 of the beam fingers 46 are configured to mechanically interact with a ratchet interface 68 of the thrust nut 42 to prevent unintentional rotation of the thrust nut 42 relative to the locking ring 32, which may lead to loosening of the locking nut assembly 16.

[0049] The thrust nut 42 of the locking nut assembly 16 is best seen in Figures 5A and 5B. For example, the thrust nut 42 may be a threaded fastener. The thrust nut 42 may have a generally cylindrically shaped hollow body 64 extending along the central longitudinal axis X. The hollow interior of the thrust nut body 64 may define an inner surface or inner wall 66 extending through the body 64. Some or all of the inner wall 67 may be threaded, for example, to include female threads. The threads may have a fine or coarse thread pitch. The female threads may correspond to and mate with the male threads of the shaft 38 of the end connector 14. The thrust nut 42 may be threaded onto the shaft 38 of the end connector 14.

[0050] The outer side of the body 64 may be described as defining a head 66, a ratchet interface 68, and a leading end or abutment portion 70. The head 66 of the outer side of the body 64 is configured to receive a tool for applying torque to the thrust nut 42 and for rotating the thrust nut 42 about the central longitudinal axis X, when the female threads on the inner wall 67 of the thrust nut 42 engage the male threads on the shaft 38 of the end connector 14. For example, the head 66 may include one or more tool engaging surfaces 72 or “flats.” In particular, as shown in [Fig. 5A], the head 66 may have a polygonal (e.g., hexagonal) shape and have a plurality (e.g. 6) of exterior surfaces that a wrench or similar tool can engage to act on the thrust nut 42.

[0051] Referring again to Figures 5A and 5B, the snap-in interface 68 may be formed or positioned on the outer side of the body 64 between the head 66 and the abutment portion 70. More specifically with reference to the snap-in interface 68, a portion of the outer side of the body 64 may define an outer circumferential wall 74 having a diameter (Di). The diameter (Di) of the outer circumferential wall 74 may be larger than the diameter (Df) defined by the inner sides of the finger tips 60.

[0052] Included around the circumference of the generally cylindrical outer circumferential wall 74 are a plurality of equally spaced, concave-shaped depressions or detents 76. The depths of the detents define a diameter (Dd) that may be substantially the same as the diameter (Df) defined by the inner sides of the finger tips 60. Adjacent detents 76 may be separated from one another by discrete sections of the outer circumferential wall 74. It should be noted that the number of detents 76 may vary. For example, about 12 to 20 detents 76 may be included around the outer circumferential wall 74. The number of detents 76 may be the same as the number of beam fingers 46.

[0053] Further, it is contemplated that the detent interface 68 may be integrally formed with the outer side of the body 64 of the thrust nut 42. Alternatively, the detent interface 68 may be provided by means of a separate component (e.g., a detent ring) that may be assembled with and / or secured to the outer side of the body 64 of the thrust nut 42. In this regard, the separate detent ring may include the cylindrical outer circumferential wall 74 comprising the plurality of detents 76. In addition, the separate detent ring may have an inner side that may be secured to the outer side of the body of the thrust nut. The detent ring may be secured to the thrust nut 42, for example, by press fit, screw threads, welding, or otherwise.

[0054] The abutment portion 70 of the thrust nut 42 may provide a tapered leading end to the thrust nut 42. The abutment portion 70 may have a first outer diameter (Dal) that is less than the diameter (Df) defined by the inner sides of the finger tips 60 and a second outer diameter (Da2) that is less than an inner diameter (Db) of the tapered portion 48 of the body 44 of the locking ring 32. When the locking nut assembly 16 is in the locked condition, the abutment portion 70 of the thrust nut 42 may be nested within the locking ring 32 and abut against the head 24 of the connecting rod 12. The thrust nut 42 may capture the locking ring 32 against the connecting rod 12. See for example [Fig. 4].

[0055] Referring now to [Fig. 4], an enlarged sectional detail view of the self-locking adjustable rod end assembly 10 of the present disclosure taken along line 4-4 of [Fig. 2] is illustrated. The rod end assembly 10 is shown in an assembled and locked condition (i.e., the locking nut assembly 16 is engaged). In the locked condition, the ratchet interface 68 may cooperate with the locking ring 32 to prevent unintentional rotation of the thrust nut 42 relative to the locking ring 32.

[0056] As shown in [Fig. 4], the rod end 14 is screwed onto the connecting rod 12 to obtain the precise working length (L) of the rod end assembly 10. The locking ring 32 is engaged with the connecting rod 12 and the thrust nut 42 is screwed onto the rod end 14. In the locked condition, the thrust nut 42 is rotated by tightening and moved along the shaft 38 of the rod end 14 toward the connecting rod 12 (e.g., in the direction of the arrow (T)). When the thrust nut 42 moves in the direction of the arrow (T), the beam fingers 46 of the locking ring 32 can engage the ratchet interface 68 of the thrust nut 42.

[0057] As previously described, the cantilevered beam fingers 46 are resiliently flexible and the inner sides of the finger tips 60 define a diameter (Df). As the thrust nut 42 rotates, the finger tips 60 of the beam fingers 46 may alternately engage the detents 76 (as seen in [Fig. 4]) and the outer circumferential wall 74 of the detent interface 68 by "snapping". That is, when the finger tips 60 engage the outer circumferential wall 74 of the ratchet interface 68, the resilient beam fingers 46 are biased outwardly, normal to the central longitudinal axis X. Thus, the beam fingers 46 apply a normal force against the ratchet interface 68 of the locking ring 32 and produce a tangential frictional force against the thrust nut 42.The beveled surfaces 62 of the finger tips 60 assist in the smooth engagement between the beam fingers 46 and the detent interface 68. As continued rotation of the thrust nut 42 causes the beam fingers 46 to engage the detents 76, the bias against the beam fingers 46 is removed and the beam fingers 46 "snap" into engagement with the detents 76. Accordingly, the locking ring 32 produces resistance to rotation of the thrust nut 42 that must be overcome during both tightening and loosening of the thrust nut 42. As can be appreciated, tightening of the thrust nut 42 can be readily accomplished with a tool and loosening without a tool is substantially prevented.

[0058] The self-locking adjustable rod end assembly 10 of the present disclosure and its various components may be fabricated or formed from any of a variety of materials well known in the art, such as metals and plastics. In addition, the self-locking adjustable rod end assembly 10 may take the form of a single-end adjustable length attachment or a double-end adjustable length attachment (e.g., a turnbuckle). Still further, at least some of the threaded connections described may be reversed (e.g., the internal threads may be the external threads and vice versa).

[0059] The self-locking adjustable rod end assembly 10 of the present disclosure eliminates the need for a secondary locking device, such as the locking wire. With the self-locking adjustable rod end assembly 10 of the present disclosure, therefore, the need to cut and remove the locking wire attached to the rod end 14 to perform maintenance, inspection, repair, replacement, or other service activities on the rod end itself, or on the machines, equipment, or mechanical assemblies with which the rod end is associated, and then to reattach the locking wire when the task is completed, is eliminated.

[0060] In various embodiments, an adjustable length rod end assembly includes an end connector extending along a central longitudinal axis and including a first male-threaded shaft; a connecting rod extending along the central longitudinal axis and including a second female-threaded shaft including a first head defining a face and a first engagement feature consisting of two opposed parallel planar outer surfaces, wherein the outer surfaces are symmetrical about the central longitudinal axis and separated by a first distance; wherein the first male-threaded shaft of the end connector threadably engages the second female-threaded shaft of the connecting rod to define a precise overall length of the adjustable length rod end assembly along the central longitudinal axis;a locking nut assembly engaging both the end connector and the connecting rod and configured to determine the overall length of the rod end assembly along the central longitudinal axis, the locking nut assembly including a combined primary locking feature and secondary locking feature and consisting of a thrust nut releasably connected to the end connector and a locking ring releasably connected to the connecting rod; wherein the thrust nut includes a female-threaded opening extending through the thrust nut and along the central longitudinal axis, a second head, ; a ratchet interface and a tapered leading end positioned at a longitudinal end of the thrust nut opposite the second head; wherein the female threaded opening threadably engages the first male threaded shaft of the end connector; wherein the second head of the thrust nut is configured to receive a tool for applying torque to the thrust nut to rotate the thrust nut in a first rotational direction about the central longitudinal axis; wherein the leading end of the thrust nut includes a stop portion which, in an assembled state of the adjustable length rod end assembly, bears, with force, against the face of the head of the connecting rod to provide the primary locking feature of the rod end assembly;wherein the detent interface comprises an outer cylindrical wall having included therein a plurality of concave-shaped detents that are equally spaced about a circumference of the outer cylindrical wall, wherein adjacent detents are separated from each other by discrete sections of the outer cylindrical wall; wherein the locking ring comprises a conically shaped body located between a plurality of resilient beam fingers and a second engaging feature;wherein the plurality of resilient beam fingers are arranged and spaced, equidistantly, around a circumference of the body, wherein each of the plurality of resilient beam fingers extends in a first direction from the cantilevered body, from a proximal end to a distal end, wherein each of the plurality of resilient beam fingers extends generally parallel to the central longitudinal axis;wherein the body further comprises a second engaging feature consisting of two discrete projections extending from the body in a second direction that is opposite the first direction, wherein the two projections are symmetrical about the central longitudinal axis, wherein each projection consists of a planar inner surface and a semi-cylindrical outer surface, wherein the two planar inner surfaces are opposite each other and separated by a second distance that is slightly greater than the first distance;wherein the first engagement feature of the connecting rod is nested within the second engagement feature of the locking ring such that, in the assembled condition of the adjustable length rod end assembly, the first engagement feature of the connecting rod and the second engagement feature of the locking ring can cooperate to prevent relative rotational movement about the central longitudinal axis between the connecting rod and the locking ring; and wherein the finger tips of the beam fingers mechanically interact with the ratchet interface to; preventing rotation of the thrust nut in a second direction of rotation about the central longitudinal axis that is opposite to the first direction of rotation about the central longitudinal axis to provide the secondary locking feature of the adjustable length rod end assembly.

[0061] In other aspects of the rod end assembly, the distal ends of the beam fingers each include a plurality of beveled surfaces.

[0062] In yet other aspects, an adjustable length rod end assembly includes a connecting rod extending along a central longitudinal axis and including a first female-threaded shaft having a first head defining a face and a first engagement feature consisting of two opposed parallel planar outer surfaces, wherein the surfaces are symmetrical about the central longitudinal axis and separated by a first distance; and an end connector extending along the central longitudinal axis and including a second male-threaded shaft, the second male-threaded shaft of the end connector threadably engaging the first female-threaded shaft of the connecting rod to define a precise overall length of the rod end assembly;and a locking nut assembly engaging both the connecting rod and the end connector, the locking nut assembly comprising a locking ring that releasably connects to the first head of the connecting rod and a thrust nut that threadably engages the end connector; wherein the locking ring comprises a body positioned between a plurality of resilient beam fingers and a second engaging feature; wherein the plurality of resilient beam fingers are arranged generally parallel to the central longitudinal axis and equidistant around a circumference of the body, wherein each beam finger extends in a first direction from the cantilevered body from a proximal end to a distal end;wherein the body further comprises a second engagement feature consisting of a pair of projections extending from the body in a second direction that is opposite the first direction, the second engagement feature cooperating with the first engagement feature of the first head of the connecting rod to prevent relative rotational movement between the locking ring and the connecting rod about the central longitudinal axis; wherein the thrust nut comprises an opening extending along the central longitudinal axis, a second head, a ratchet interface and a tapered leading end; wherein the opening is at least partially threaded and threadably engages the second male-threaded shaft of the end connector;wherein the second head of the thrust nut is configured to receive a tool for applying torque to the thrust nut to; rotating the thrust nut in a first direction of rotation about the central longitudinal axis; wherein the detent interface comprises an outer circumferential wall having included therein a plurality of spaced apart concavely shaped detents that are equally spaced about a perimeter of the outer circumferential wall, wherein adjacent detents are separated from each other by discrete sections of the outer circumferential wall; wherein the leading end of the thrust nut bears directly against the head face of the connecting rod; and wherein the finger tips of the beam fingers mechanically interact with the detent interface to prevent rotation of the thrust nut in a second direction of rotation about the central longitudinal axis opposite the first direction of rotation.

[0063] In still other aspects of the self-locking adjustable rod end assembly, the projections extend generally parallel to the central longitudinal axis; each of the projections includes an outer surface and an inner surface; the outer surface is semi-cylindrical; and the inner surface is planar.

[0064] In other aspects of the self-locking adjustable rod end assembly, the inner surfaces are spaced apart by a distance D2, wherein the distance D2 is greater than the distance D1.

[0065] In still other aspects of the self-locking adjustable rod end assembly, the first engagement feature of the connecting rod is received, by nesting, in the second engagement feature of the locking ring.

[0066] In yet another aspect of the self-locking adjustable rod end assembly, the distal ends of the beam fingers each include a plurality of beveled surfaces that mechanically interact with the ratchet interface.

[0067] These and other areas of applicability will become more apparent from the description provided herein. The specific description and examples in this summary are intended for illustrative purposes only and are not intended to limit the scope of this disclosure.

Claims

1. Claims An adjustable length rod end assembly (10) comprising: an end connector (14) extending along a central longitudinal axis (X) and comprising a first male threaded shaft (38); a connecting rod (12) extending along the central longitudinal axis (X) and comprising a second female-threaded shaft (22) comprising a first head (24) defining a face and a first engagement feature (28) consisting of two opposed parallel planar outer surfaces, wherein the outer surfaces are symmetrical about the central longitudinal axis (X) and separated by a first distance (Dl); wherein the first male-threaded shaft (38) of the end connector (14) threadably engages the second female-threaded shaft (22) of the connecting rod (12) to define a precise overall length of the adjustable-length rod end assembly along the central longitudinal axis (X); a locking nut assembly (16) engaging both the end connector (14) and the connecting rod (12) and configured to determine the overall length of the adjustable length rod end assembly along the central longitudinal axis (X), the locking nut assembly (16) including a combined primary locking feature and secondary locking feature and consisting of a thrust nut (42) releasably connected to the end connector (14) and a locking ring (32) releasably connected to the connecting rod (12); wherein the thrust nut (42) comprises a female threaded opening (67) extending through the thrust nut (42) and along the central longitudinal axis (X), a second head (66), a snap-in interface (68) and a tapered leading end positioned at a longitudinal end of the thrust nut (42) opposite the second head (66); wherein the female threaded opening (67) threadably engages the first male threaded shaft (38) of the end connector (14); wherein the second head (66) of the thrust nut (42) is configured to accommodate a tool for applying torque to the thrust nut (42) to rotate the thrust nut in a first rotational direction about the central longitudinal axis (X); wherein the leading end (70) of the thrust nut (42) comprises a stop portion (70) which, in the assembled condition of the adjustable length rod end assembly (10), bears, with force, against the face of the first head (24) of the connecting rod (12) to provide the primary locking feature of the adjustable length rod end assembly; wherein the detent interface (68) comprises an outer cylindrical wall (74) having included therein a plurality of concave-shaped detents (76) which are equally spaced about a circumference of the outer cylindrical wall (74), wherein adjacent detents (76) are separated from each other by discrete sections of the outer cylindrical wall (74); wherein the locking ring (32) comprises a body having a tapered portion (48) positioned between a plurality of resilient beam fingers (46) and a second engagement feature (30); wherein the plurality of resilient beam fingers (46) are arranged and spaced equidistantly about a circumference of the body (44), wherein each of the plurality of resilient beam fingers (46) extends in a first direction from the cantilevered body (44) from a proximal end (56) to a distal end (58), wherein each of the plurality of resilient beam fingers (46) extends generally parallel to the central longitudinal axis (X); wherein the body (44) further comprises the second engaging feature (30) consisting of two discrete projections (50) extending from the body (44) in a second direction that is opposite the first direction, wherein the two projections (50) are symmetrical about the central longitudinal axis (X), wherein each projection (50) consists of a planar inner surface (54) and a semi-cylindrical outer surface (52), wherein the two planar inner surfaces are opposed to each other

2.

3. they are separated by a second distance (D2) which is greater than the first distance (Dl); wherein the first engagement feature (28) of the connecting rod (12) is nested within the second engagement feature (30) of the locking ring such that, in the assembled condition of the adjustable length rod end assembly, the first engagement feature (28) of the connecting rod (12) and the second engagement feature (30) of the locking ring (32) can cooperate to prevent relative rotational movement about the central longitudinal axis (X) between the connecting rod (12) and the locking ring (32); and wherein the distal ends (58) of the beam fingers (46) include finger tips (60) that mechanically interact with the ratchet interface (68) to prevent rotation of the thrust nut (42) in a second direction of rotation about the central longitudinal axis (X) that is opposite to the first direction of rotation about the central longitudinal axis (X) to provide the secondary locking feature of the adjustable length rod end assembly (10). The adjustable length rod end assembly (10) of claim 1, wherein the finger tips (60) of the beam fingers (46) each comprise a plurality of beveled surfaces (62). An adjustable length rod end assembly (10) comprising: a connecting rod (12) extending along the central longitudinal axis (X) and including a first female-threaded shaft (22) having a first head (24) defining a face and a first engagement feature (28) consisting of two opposed parallel planar outer surfaces, wherein the two opposed parallel planar outer surfaces are symmetrical about the central longitudinal axis (X) and separated by a first distance (Dl); an end connector (14) extending along the central longitudinal axis (X) and including a second male-threaded shaft (38), the second male-threaded shaft (38) of the end connector (14) threadably engaging the first female-threaded shaft (22) of the connecting rod (12) to define an accurate overall length of the rod end assembly (10); and a locking nut assembly (16) engaging both the connecting rod (12) and the end connector (14), the locking nut assembly (16) comprising a locking ring (32) which releasably connects to the first head (24) of the connecting rod (12) and a thrust nut (42) which threadably engages the end connector (14); wherein the locking ring (32) comprises a body (44) positioned between a plurality of resilient beam fingers (46) and a second engagement feature (30); wherein the plurality of resilient beam fingers (46) are arranged generally parallel to the central longitudinal axis (X) and equidistant around a circumference of the body (44), wherein each beam finger (46) extends in a first direction from the cantilevered body (44) from a proximal end (56) to a distal end (58); wherein the second engagement feature consists of a pair of projections (50) extending from the body (44) in a second direction which is opposite to the first direction, the second engagement feature (30) being cooperable with the first engagement feature (28) of the first head (24) of the connecting rod (12) to prevent relative rotational movement between the locking ring (32) and the connecting rod (12) about the central longitudinal axis (X); wherein the thrust nut (42) comprises an opening (67) extending along the central longitudinal axis (X), a second head (66), a snap-in interface (68) and a tapered leading end (70); wherein the opening (67) is at least partially threaded and threadably engages the second male threaded shaft (38) of the end connector (14); wherein the second head (66) of the thrust nut (42) is configured to accommodate a tool for applying torque to the thrust nut (42) to rotate the thrust nut (42) in a first rotational direction about the central longitudinal axis (X); wherein the detent interface (68) comprises an outer circumferential wall (74) having included therein a plurality of concavely spaced detents (76) which are equally spaced around a perimeter of the outer circumferential wall (74), wherein adjacent detents (76) are separated from each other by discrete sections of the outer circumferential wall (74); wherein the leading end (70) of the thrust nut (42) bears, directly, against the face of the first head (24) of the connecting rod (12); and wherein the distal ends (58) of the beam fingers (46) comprise finger tips (60) which mechanically interact with the ratchet interface (68) to prevent rotation of the thrust nut (42) in a second direction of rotation about the central longitudinal axis (X), opposite to the first direction of rotation.

4. The adjustable length rod end assembly (10) of claim 3, wherein the projections (50) extend generally parallel to the central longitudinal axis (X); wherein each of the projections (50) includes an outer surface (52) and an inner surface (54); wherein the outer surface (52) is semi-cylindrical; and wherein the inner surface (54) is planar.

5. The adjustable length rod end assembly (10) of claim 4, wherein the inner surfaces (54) are spaced apart by a second distance (D2), wherein the second distance (D2) is greater than the first distance (D1).

6. The adjustable length rod end assembly (10) of claim 5, wherein the first engagement feature (28) of the connecting rod (12) is received, by snap fit, in the second engagement feature (30) of the locking ring (32).

7. An adjustable length rod end assembly (10) according to claim 6, wherein the finger tips (60) of the beam fingers (46) each comprise a plurality of beveled surfaces (62) that mechanically interact with the snap-in interface (68).

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