Nose and mounting assembly for a fixing

Abstract

Installation Nose and Installation Assembly for a Fastener The present invention relates to an installation nose (100) for a fastener (12) in a structure (14), the fastener comprising: a screw (16) having a head (22); a gripping element (26); and a shear groove (28); the installation nose comprising: - a hollow body (110), including a first front opening (120), adapted to receive the gripping element (26); - a sleeve (112), movable relative to the hollow body and including a second front opening (130), aligned with the first front opening; - a retaining device (114), adapted to lock the gripping element (26) in the second front opening; and - a tubular element (115); the retaining device and the tubular element being movable in translation within the sleeve between a first and a second axial position. Figure for the abstract: Figure 4

Description

Title of the invention: Fixing nose and fixing assembly

[0001] The present invention relates to a fixing nose for a fixing in a structure, the fixing being of the type comprising: a screw extending along a fixing axis and provided with a head; a gripping element, projecting axially with respect to said head; and a shear groove, disposed between said head and said gripping element, said groove being capable of being sheared under the application of a shearing torque around the fixing axis; the fixing nose comprising: a hollow body, extending along a principal axis, a front end of the hollow body comprising a first front opening, adapted to receive the gripping element of the fixing; a sleeve, received in the hollow body and movable in translation and rotation with respect to said hollow body, a front end of the sleeve comprising a second front opening, axially aligned with the first front opening of the hollow body;and a retaining device, capable of locking the gripping element of the fastener in the second front opening of the sleeve.

[0002] The present invention relates in particular to the assembly of blind fixings, especially in a structure comprising only one accessible face.

[0003] Such a posing nose is described in particular in document EP3539685, on behalf of the Applicant.

[0004] The operation of this installation nose and the associated installation tooling requires that the gripping element, detached from the installed fastener, be ejected from the front of the installation nose before a new fastener is inserted. The gripping element is thus ejected manually from the installation nose by an operator pulling a ring backward, the gripping element being pushed by an ejection rod with a certain pushing force. If the operator does not have a container nearby, the gripping element may be ejected to the ground or inside the structure, which could present a risk of accident for the operator or may necessitate a search to locate the lost gripping element.

[0005] In order to solve these problems, the invention relates to a mounting nose of the aforementioned type, further comprising a first tubular element, extending in the sleeve along the main axis, between an open front end and a rear end; the front end of the first tubular element being held in contact with the retaining device; an internal radial dimension of the first tubular element, from the front end to the rear end, being greater than or equal to a maximum radial dimension of the gripping element of the fastener; the retaining device and the first tubular element being movable in translation in the sleeve between a first and a second axial positions.

[0006] Such a mounting nose allows the gripping element of the fastener to be evacuated from the rear of the tooling or to be temporarily stored in a compartment of said tooling.

[0007] According to other advantageous aspects of the invention, the mounting nosepiece comprises one or more of the following features, taken individually or in all technically possible combinations:

[0008] - the holding device comprises at least two clamps, at least partially received in the sleeve and arranged around the main axis; a front end of each of the grippers comprising a hook; the grippers being radially movable relative to the hollow body between a deployed and a retracted configuration, each hook being closer to the main axis in the retracted configuration than in the deployed configuration;

[0009] - in the first position, the clamps are held in a retracted configuration and in the second position, the clamps are in the deployed configuration;

[0010] - the second front opening of the sleeve has a first dimension radial; the front end of the sleeve has an internal surface widening towards the rear, such that at a non-zero distance from the second opening, said internal surface has a second radial dimension, strictly greater than the first radial dimension; and in the first axial position of the clamps, the hooks are arranged in the second front opening of the sleeve;

[0011] - the mounting nose further comprises: a first compression spring, extending along the main axis between two ends; and a second tubular element, extending in the first tubular element along the main axis between an open front end and a rear end, the second tubular element being fixed in translation relative to the sleeve, the first compression spring being abutted respectively against the first tubular element and against one of the second tubular element and the sleeve, the first and second positions of the first tubular element corresponding respectively to a first and a second state of compression of the first spring;

[0012] - the posing nose further comprises a training surface, adapted to cooperate with the gripping element of the fixing to rotate said gripping element;

[0013] - the drive surface is supported by the front end of the first element tubular;

[0014] - the drive surface is formed by the grippers in retracted configuration;

[0015] - the holding device further comprises a clamp body integral with a rear end of each of the clamps, the clamp body being blocked from rotation in the sleeve;

[0016] - the front end of the sleeve has at least two axial slots, arranged around the main axis; the front end of the first tubular element has a front surface, substantially perpendicular to the main axis; each clamp has a tab, suitable for sliding in one of the axial slots of the sleeve, between the first and second axial positions; and a rear end of each of the clamps has a rear surface, suitable for sliding radially against the front surface of the front end of the first tubular element;

[0017] - the front surface of the front end of the tubular element forms an angle between 0° and 15° with a perpendicular to the main axis.

[0018] The invention also relates to an assembly for installing a fastener in a structure, comprising an installation nose as described above.

[0019] The invention will become clearer upon reading the following description, given solely by way of non-limiting example, and made with reference to the drawings in which:

[0020] [Fig-1] [Fig. 1] is a side view of a posing assembly according to a mode of realization of the invention;

[0021] [Fig.2] [Fig.3] Figures 2 and 3 are partial, cross-sectional views of the assembly of placement of the [Fig.l];

[0022] [Fig.4] [Fig.4] is a cross-sectional view of a nose assembly according to a first method of realization of the invention, forming part of the assembly of poses in figures 1 to 3;

[0023] [Fig. 5] [Fig. 5] is a cross-sectional view of a nosepiece in a second position. realization of the invention;

[0024] [Fig.6] [Fig.6] is an exploded view of the posing nose of [Fig.5]; and

[0025] [Fig.7] [Fig.7] is a cross-sectional view of a fastener suitable for installation using Figures 1 to 3.

[0026] Figure 1 shows a mounting assembly 10 according to an embodiment of the invention. The assembly 10 is specifically designed for mounting a fastener 12, visible in Figures 1, 4, and 7, in a structure 14 visible in Figure 4. The assembly 10 will be described in detail below.

[0027] The fastener 12 ([Fig. 7]) includes, in particular, a fixing rod 16, said rod 16 comprising: a solid shaft 18, extending along a fixing axis 20; and a head 22, disposed at a first end of the shaft. In the embodiment shown, the solid shaft 18 is cylindrical and the head 22 is milled.

[0028] In the embodiment shown, the fixing rod 16 is a screw and further comprises a threaded portion 24, aligned with the solid shank 18 opposite the head 22. In the following description, the fixing rod 16 will be referred to as "the screw 16".

[0029] In the embodiment shown, the fastener 12 further comprises: a gripping element 26; a breaking groove 28; and a sleeve 30.

[0030] The gripping element 26 is formed as a single piece with the screw 16 and comprises: a gripping rod 32 and a gripping button 34.

[0031] The gripping rod 32 extends along the fixing axis 20, from the head 22 of the screw 16, opposite the solid barrel 18.

[0032] The gripping button 34 is located at one end of the gripping rod 32, opposite the head 22 of the screw. The gripping button 34 forms a radial projection relative to the gripping rod 32.

[0033] Preferably, the gripping button 34 comprises a first drive surface 36 arranged around the fixing axis 20. The first drive surface 36 comprises, for example, grooves parallel to the fixing axis 20.

[0034] The gripping element 26 has a maximum radial dimension 38 perpendicular to the fixing axis 20. In particular, the maximum radial dimension 38 corresponds to a radial dimension of the gripping button 34.

[0035] The break groove 28 is provided between the head 22 of the screw 16 and the gripping rod 32. As will be described below, the break groove 28 is capable of being broken under the application of a break torque around the fixing axis 20, so as to separate the screw 16 and the gripping element 26 from each other.

[0036] The socket 30 comprises: a tubular barrel 40; a collar 42; and a threaded portion 44.

[0037] The tubular shaft 40 is arranged around the solid shaft 18 of the screw 16 along the fixing axis 20. The flange 42, adjacent to a first end of said tubular shaft 40, is intended to come into contact with the head 22 of the screw. In the embodiment shown, an internal surface of the flange 42, of frustoconical shape, is substantially complementary to a milled surface of the head 22.

[0038] The collar includes a bearing surface 46, perpendicular to the fixing axis 20 and forming one end of said collar.

[0039] The threaded portion 44, adjacent to a second end of the tubular shaft 40, is intended to cooperate with the threaded portion 24 of the screw.

[0040] In the embodiment shown, the tubular shaft 40 has a deformable zone 48 ([Fig.4]), close to the threaded portion 44. As described below, said deformable zone 48 is intended to form a radial bead when the fastener 12 is installed.

[0041] A similar fixation 12 to that described above is described in particular in document EP2894356 on behalf of the Applicant.

[0042] The structure 14 comprises a first 50 and a second 52 substantially parallel faces. In the embodiment shown, the first 50 and second 52 faces are planar.

[0043] The structure 14 further includes a hole 54 opening onto the first 50 and second 52 faces. On the side of the first face 50, the hole 54 has a milling suitable for receiving the collar 42 of the sleeve 30.

[0044] In the embodiment shown in [Fig.1], the installation assembly 10 comprises: an installation nose 100; an installation tool 200; and an interface device 300 between the installation nose 100 and the installation tool 200.

[0045] In the embodiment shown, the posing nose 100, the interface device 300 and the tool 200 are assembled together, in a manner which will be described later; and aligned along a first axis 102. In the following description, reference will be made to the first axis 102 to describe each of the posing nose 100, the posing tool 200 and the interface device 300 as such.

[0046] The posing nose 100 is visible in figures 1 and 3-4. Figures 5 and 6 represent a posing nose 400 according to an alternative embodiment, which can replace the posing nose 100 in assembly 10.

[0047] The 100 and 400 posing nosepieces will be described simultaneously below. The common elements will be designated by the same reference numbers. The 400 posing nosepiece is considered to extend also along the first axis 102.

[0048] The installation nose 100, 400 comprises: a hollow body 110, 410; a sleeve 112, 412; a retaining device 114, 414; a first tubular element 115, 415 and a second tubular element 116, 416. In the embodiments shown, the installation nose 100, 400 further comprises: a first compression spring 118; and a second drive surface 119, 419.

[0049] The hollow body 110, 410 extends along the first axis 102 between a first and a second end, hereinafter referred to as the "front end" and "rear end". In the embodiments shown, the hollow body 110, 410 has a substantially cylindrical external radial surface of revolution.

[0050] The front end of the hollow body 110, 410 includes a first front opening 120, suitable for receiving the gripping element 26 of the fastener 12. In the following description of the assembly 10, the "front" orientation corresponds to the orientation towards the fastener 12 assembled to the mounting nose 100.

[0051] In the embodiment shown, the front end of the hollow body 110, 410 further comprises a front lip 122, arranged around the first front opening 120 and oriented outwards from the hollow body. The front lip 122 forms a flat ring, perpendicular to the first axis 102.

[0052] Preferably, said flat crown formed by the front lip 122 is substantially superimposable on the bearing surface 46 of the collar 42 of the socket of the fastener 12. In other words, the front lip 122 and the bearing surface 46 have annular surfaces close to each other.

[0053] In an alternative not shown, the flat crown formed by the front lip 122 is suitable for surrounding the bearing surface 46 of the collar 42. In other words, the front lip 122 has an external diameter greater than the external diameter of the bearing surface 46.

[0054] In the embodiment shown, the front end of the hollow body 110, 410 further includes a stop 124, 424, arranged around the first front opening 120 and oriented towards the interior of the hollow body.

[0055] The rear end of the hollow body 110, 410 includes a flange 126, projecting radially from the external radial surface of said hollow body.

[0056] The sleeve 112, 412 is received in the hollow body 110, 410 and extends along the first axis 102 between a front end and a rear end. The front end of the sleeve 112, 412 includes a second front opening 130, axially aligned with the first front opening 120 of the hollow body.

[0057] In the embodiment shown, the front end of the sleeve 112, 412 further comprises an internal chamber 131, 431 and an internal annular surface 132, 432.

[0058] The internal chamber 131, 431 has a radial dimension strictly greater than a radial dimension of the second front opening 130. The internal annular surface 132, 432 is arranged around the second front opening 130 and is located axially between said second front opening 130 and the internal chamber 131, 431.

[0059] In the embodiments shown, the internal annular surface 132, 432 has a concave frustoconical shape which flares out towards the internal chamber 131, 431 from the second front opening 130.

[0060] The rear end of the sleeve 112, 412 includes a coupling member 133, 433 for coupling with an element of the setting tool 200, as described later. The coupling member 133, 433 includes, for example, a threaded hole formed on an internal surface of the sleeve.

[0061] Optionally, as in the setting nose 100 of figures 3-4, the coupling member 133 includes an intermediate ring 134 to compensate for a difference in diameters between the sleeve and the setting tool.

[0062] As described in more detail below, the sleeve 112, 412 is mobile in translation and rotation relative to the hollow body 110, 410.

[0063] The retaining device 114, 414 is suitable for locking the gripping element 26 of the fastener 12 in the second front opening 130 of the sleeve 112, 412.

[0064] Preferably, the retaining device 114, 414 comprises at least two clamps 135, 435, more preferably at least three clamps. Said clamps 135, 435 are at least partially received in the sleeve 112, 412 and arranged angularly around the first axis 102. A front end of each of the clamps includes a hook 136.

[0065] In the embodiments shown, each of the clamps includes an external annular surface 138, 438, arranged near the hook 136. More specifically, in the embodiments shown, each external annular surface 138, 438 has the shape of a portion of a truncated cone complementary to the internal annular surface 132, 432 of the sleeve 112, 412.

[0066] The clamps 135, 435 are radially movable relative to the hollow body 110, 410 between a deployed configuration (not shown) and a retracted configuration (Figures 3-4 and 5-6), each hook 136 being closer to the first axis 102 in the retracted configuration than in the deployed configuration.

[0067] The clamps 135, 435 are blocked in rotation relative to the sleeve 112, 412, said sleeve being able to drive the clamps in translation and in rotation relative to the hollow body 110, 410.

[0068] The clamps 135, 435 are movable in translation in the sleeve 112, 412 between a front position and a rear position.

[0069] In the forward position of the grippers 135, 435, said grippers are held in retracted configuration by the sleeve 112, 412. In the embodiments shown, said holding in retracted configuration is achieved by the contact between the external annular surface 138, 438 of each gripper, in the forward position, and the internal annular surface 132, 432 of the sleeve.

[0070] In the rear position of the grippers 135, 435, the external annular surface 138, 438 of each gripper is axially separated from the internal annular surface 132, 432 of the sleeve. The grippers are able to move radially away from each other within the internal chamber 131, 431 of said sleeve.

[0071] The retaining device 114, 414 will be described in more detail below.

[0072] The first tubular element 115, 415 extends within the sleeve 112, 412 along the first axis 102, between an open front end and a rear end. The front end of the first tubular element 115, 415 includes a bearing surface intended to contact an internal surface of the clamps 135, 435, as will be described in more detail later. The first tubular element 115, 415 also includes a bearing surface for the first compression spring 118.

[0073] In the example of the mounting nose 100 in Figures 3 and 4, the rear end of the first tubular element 115 includes the bearing surface intended to receive one end of the first compression spring 118. This bearing surface is formed in this example by an internal shoulder of a ring located at the rear of the tubular element. In the example of the mounting nose 400 in [Fig. 5], the bearing surface is a flange located at the front of the first tubular element 415. Other embodiments of the bearing surface may be considered.

[0074] The hooks 136 of the clamps 135, 435 are arranged axially between the first front opening 120 of the hollow body 110, 410 and the front end of the first tubular element 115, 415.

[0075] The second tubular element 116, 416 extends partially into the first tubular element 115, 415 along the first axis 102, between an open front end and a rear end. The front end of the second tubular element 116, 416 rests against an internal surface of the first tubular element 115, 415 adapted to form a stop.

[0076] An internal radial dimension of the second tubular element 116, 416, from the front end to the rear end of said second tubular element, is greater than or equal to the maximum radial dimension 38 of the gripping element 26 of the fastener 12.

[0077] Preferably, the second tubular element 116, 416 comprises a principal internal surface 140, substantially cylindrical in revolution. More preferably, a radial dimension of the principal internal surface 140 is strictly greater than the maximum radial dimension 38 of the gripping element 26.

[0078] The second tubular element 116, 416 is fixed in translation relative to the sleeve 112, 412.

[0079] As will be described later, the sleeve 112, 412 is able to drive the first tubular element 115, 415 in translation and rotation relative to the hollow body 110, 410. The first tubular element 115, 415 is also free to slide relative to the sleeve 112, 412 and relative to the second tubular element 116, 416 under the effect of an axial thrust on the hooks 135, 435.

[0080] The first compression spring 118 is arranged radially between the first tubular element 115, 415 and the sleeve 112, 412. Said first compression spring 118 extends along the first axis 102 between two ends.

[0081] In the example of the mounting nose 100 of figures 3 and 4, said ends are respectively abutted against the internal shoulder of the crown arranged at the rear of the first tubular element 115 and against a washer 142 arranged on a portion of the second tubular element 116.

[0082] In the example of the mounting nose 400 of [Fig.5], said ends are abutted respectively against the collar arranged at the front of the first tubular element 115 and against a ring 442 arranged around a portion of the first 415 and the second tubular element 416. The ring 442 is integral with the sleeve 412.

[0083] The first tubular element 115, 415 is thus movable in translation within the sleeve 112, 412 between a forward position and a rear position relative to the first axis 102. In the forward position of the first tubular element 115, 415, said first tubular element is closer to the first front opening 120 of the body hollow; and the first spring 118 is in a first state of compression. In the rear position of the first tubular element 115, 415, said first tubular element is further from the first front opening 120 of the hollow body; and the first spring 118 is in a second state of compression, more compressed than the first state of compression.

[0084] The second drive surface 119, 419 is adapted to cooperate with the gripping element 26 of the fastener 12 to rotate said gripping element. More specifically, the second drive surface 119, 419 is adapted to assemble with the first drive surface 36 of the gripping button 34. The second drive surface 119, 419 will be described in more detail below.

[0085] The nose 100 pose of figures 1 and 3-4 will now be described more precisely.

[0086] The nose 100 holding device 114 comprises a clamp body 144 of annular shape, arranged in the sleeve 112 around the first tubular element 115. A rear end of each clamp 135 is integral with said clamp body 144.

[0087] Each clamp 135 is elastically deformable between the retracted and extended configurations. In the embodiment shown, the retaining device 114 comprises six elastically deformable clamps 135.

[0088] The clamp body 144 is blocked against rotation in the sleeve 112. In the embodiment shown, the clamp body 144 has flats 146 and is assembled to the sleeve by keys 148 which allow said clamp body 144 to slide axially in the sleeve 112.

[0089] The second tubular element 116 is rotationally locked within the gripper body 144. In the illustrated embodiment, the gripper body 144 has an axially extending recess on the outer surface of its crown. The recess has a semi-circular cross-section and receives a rod with a circular cross-section. The rear portion of the gripper body 144 includes, on a portion of its inner surface, an axially extending, semi-circular recess. The second tubular element 116 is attached to the gripper body by the rod. The presence of the rod prevents rotation of one element relative to the other.

[0090] Furthermore, in the nose 100 of the installation, the second drive surface 119 is formed by the front end of the first tubular element 115.

[0091] The 400 posing nose of figures 5 and 6 will now be described more precisely.

[0092] The nose 400 holding device 414 comprises a plurality of tabs 446, each of said tabs being attached to one of the clips 435. In the embodiment shown, the retaining device 414 comprises three clips 435 and three tabs 446.

[0093] Furthermore, the front end of the sleeve 412 has a plurality of axial slots 448, arranged angularly around the first axis 102. Each tab 446 is disposed in one of the axial slots 448 and able to slide in said axial slot, between the front position and the rear position of the corresponding clamp 435.

[0094] Furthermore, the front end of the first tubular element 415 has a front surface 450; and a rear end of each of the clamps has a rear surface 452, capable of sliding radially against said front surface 450.

[0095] The front surface 450 has a non-zero angle with the first axis 102. Preferably, said front surface 450 forms an angle between 0° and 15° with a plane perpendicular to the first axis 102.

[0096] In the embodiment shown, the front surface 450 of the first tubular element 415 has the shape of a convex truncated cone and the rear surface 452 of each clamp 435 has the shape of a portion of a concave truncated cone, substantially complementary to the front surface 450.

[0097] Furthermore, in the posing nose 400, the second drive surface 419 is formed by the inner surfaces of the grippers 435 in their retracted configuration. More specifically, each gripper 435 has an inner surface 454, oriented towards the first axis 102 and forming a portion of the second drive surface 419.

[0098] The tool 200 for setting the assembly 10, visible in figures 1 and 2, will now be described.

[0099] The laying tool 200 comprises: a housing 202; a tube 204; a first 206 and a second 208 sleeves; a first rotating shaft 210; and a first 212 and a second 214 transmission devices. In the embodiment shown, the laying tool 200 further comprises: a second rotating shaft 216; a motor 218; an electrical circuit 219 connected to the motor; and a first switch 220.

[0100] The housing 202 has an open front end 221 and a rear end 222, aligned along the first axis 102. In the embodiment shown, the rear end 222 of the housing includes a removable receptacle 223, arranged along the first axis 102.

[0101] Furthermore, in the embodiment shown, the housing 202 comprises: a main housing 224, through which the tube 204 extends; and a handle 225. The handle 225 is suitable for being grasped by an operator.

[0102] The tube 204 is received in the housing 202 and extends along the first axis 102, between an open front end 226 and a rear end 228. The front end 226 of the tube 204 projects axially relative to the front end 221 of the housing 202. The rear end 228 of the tube 204 is received inside the housing 202. In the embodiment shown, the rear end 228 of the tube 204 opens onto the receptacle 223.

[0103] In the embodiment shown, the tube 204 is fixed relative to the housing 202.

[0104] An internal radial dimension of the tube 204, from the front end 226 to the rear end 228 of said tube, is greater than or equal to the maximum radial dimension 38 of the gripping element 26 of the fastener 12. Preferably, the tube 204 has a substantially constant internal radial dimension along the first axis 102. Said internal radial dimension is substantially equal to the radial dimension of the main internal surface 140 of the second tubular element 116, 416 of the previously described mounting nose 100, 400.

[0105] The first sleeve 206 extends in the housing 202 along the first axis 102, between a front end 230 and a rear end 232. The first sleeve 206 is arranged around the tube 204.

[0106] The first sleeve 206 is close to the front end 221 of the housing 202. More precisely, the front end 230 of the first sleeve 206 is axially projecting relative to the front end 221 of the housing 202 and relative to the front end 226 of the tube 204.

[0107] In the assembly 10, the front end 230 of the first sleeve 206 is fixed to the rear end of the sleeve 112 of the nose 100 of installation, by means of the coupling member 133.

[0108] Furthermore, in the assembly 10, the front end 230 of the first sleeve 206 is arranged around the rear end of the second tubular element 116 of said laying nose 100, so as to connect said second tubular element 116 and the tube 204 along the first axis 102.

[0109] As detailed below, the first sleeve 206 is mobile in rotation and translation relative to the housing 202 along the first axis 102.

[0110] The second sleeve 208 extends in the housing 202 along the first axis 102, between a front end 234 and a rear end 236. The second sleeve 208 is arranged around the tube 204.

[0111] The second sheath 208 is closer to the rear end 222 of the case 202 than the first sheath 206. More specifically, the front end 234 of the second sheath 208 is assembled to the rear end 232 of the first sheath 206.

[0112] As detailed below, the second sleeve 208 is configured to drive the first sleeve 206 in translation relative to the housing, along the first axis 102.

[0113] The first rotating shaft 210 is received in the housing 202 and extends along a second axis 240, the first 102 and second 240 axes being separated by a first non-zero distance 242. In the embodiment shown, the first 102 and second 240 axes are parallel.

[0114] In the embodiment shown, the first rotating shaft 210 is arranged in the main housing 224 of the casing.

[0115] The first transmission device 212 is received in the housing 202 and connected to the first rotating shaft 210. As detailed below, the first transmission device 212 is capable of driving the first sleeve 206 in rotation under the effect of a rotation of the first rotating shaft 210 in a first direction.

[0116] The second transmission device 214 is received in the housing 202 and connected to the first rotating shaft 210. As detailed below, the second transmission device 214 is capable of driving the second sleeve 208 in translation under the effect of a rotation of the first rotating shaft 210 in a second direction, opposite to the first direction.

[0117] The second rotating shaft 216 is received in the housing 202 and extends along a third axis 244, between a front end 246 and a rear end 248. Said third axis is separated from the first 102 and second 230 axes, respectively, by a second 250 and a third 252 non-zero distances. Preferably, the third axis 244 is parallel to the first axis 102. In the embodiment shown, the third axis 244 is parallel to the first 102 and second 240 axes.

[0118] In the embodiment shown, the second rotating shaft 216 is arranged in the main housing 224 of the casing.

[0119] The first transmission device 212 includes a first gear train 254, a bearing 217 and a first freewheel 256.

[0120] The first 210 and second 216 rotating shafts are connected by the first gear train 254, such that a rotation of the first rotating shaft 210 in each direction of rotation drives the second rotating shaft 216 in a corresponding direction of rotation.

[0121] The front end 246 of the second rotating shaft 216 is connected to the bearing 217, which is, for example, a roller bearing. More specifically, the bearing 217 connects the second rotating shaft 216 to the first freewheel 256, which is located on the first sleeve 206.

[0122] The first freewheel 256 is capable of rotating the first sleeve 206 by means of a rotation of the first rotating shaft 210 in the first direction, via the first transmission device 212. If the first rotating shaft 210 rotates in the second direction, the first freewheel 256 does not rotate the first sleeve 206.

[0123] Furthermore, the second transmission device 214 comprises: the first gear train 254, a second gear train 255, a hollow shaft 257, a second freewheel 260; and a drive element 262, adapted to be driven in rotation by said second freewheel, under the effect of a rotation of the first rotating shaft 210 in the second direction. Said drive element 262 cooperates with the second sleeve 208, so as to move said second sleeve in translation along the first axis.

[0124] The second gear train 255 connects the second rotating shaft 216 to the hollow shaft 257. The hollow shaft 257 is disposed on a rear portion of the tube 204. The second free wheel 260 is disposed along the first axis 102 and interposed between the hollow shaft 257 and a rear end of the drive element 262. When the first rotating shaft 210 rotates in the first direction, the second free wheel 260 does not drive the drive element 262 in rotation.

[0125] In the embodiment shown, the drive element 262 is a ball screw. In an alternative not shown, the drive element 262 is a threaded screw, a roller screw, or a worm screw.

[0126] The motor 218 is an electric motor received in the housing 202, preferably in the main housing 224. In the embodiment shown, the first rotating shaft 210 forms an output shaft of said motor.

[0127] The electrical circuit 219 is connected to the motor 218. In the embodiment shown, the installation tool 200 includes an electronic module 264 which materializes at least partially the electrical circuit 219.

[0128] The first switch 220 is received inside the housing 202 and integrated into the electrical circuit 219. The first switch 220 is mechanically movable between an open state, shown in [Fig. 2], and a closed state. In the open state of the first switch 220, the electrical circuit 219 is open.

[0129] Preferably, the first switch 220 includes a spring blade 265 which, at rest, keeps said first switch open. Pressing on said spring blade closes said first switch.

[0130] In the illustrated embodiment, the installation tool 200 further comprises a power supply 266 for the motor, connected to the electrical circuit 219. The power supply is, for example, an electric battery 266 connected to the housing 202. Preferably, said electric battery 266 is removably attached to the handle 225, opposite the main housing 224. The electric battery 266 thus forms a counterweight to said main housing, for improved ergonomics of the tool 200.

[0131] Furthermore, in the embodiment shown, the laying tool 200 also includes: a second switch (not shown); and a trigger 268.

[0132] The second switch is integrated into the electrical circuit 219 and is movable between an open state and a closed state. In the open state of the second switch, the electrical circuit 219 is interrupted.

[0133] The trigger 268 is installed on the handle 225 of the housing 202. Preferably, a press by the operator on the trigger places the second switch in the closed state; and in the absence of a press on the trigger, the second switch is in the open state.

[0134] Preferably, when each of the first 220 and second switches is in the closed state, the electrical circuit 219 is closed and allows the electric battery 266 to power the motor 218.

[0135] The interface device 300 of the assembly 10, visible in figures 1 and 3, will now be described.

[0136] The interface device 300 comprises: an interface body 302; an assembly ring 304; at least one second compression spring 306; and a contact rod 308. Preferably, as specified below, the interface device 300 further comprises a pressure sensor (not shown).

[0137] The interface body 302 has an annular shape and extends along the first axis 102 between a front end and a rear end.

[0138] The front end of the interface body 302 has a front face 312 in the shape of a flat crown, perpendicular to the first axis 102.

[0139] The front end of the interface body 302 further comprises at least one spring housing 314 opening onto the front face 312. Preferably, the front end of the interface body 302 comprises several spring housings 314 distributed angularly around the first axis 102.

[0140] The interface body 302 further includes a through hole 316, parallel to the first axis 102. The through hole 316 is open on the front face 312 and on the rear end of the interface body 302.

[0141] The assembly ring 304 has an annular shape and extends along the first axis 102 between a front end and a rear end. The assembly ring 304 has an internal shoulder 318 oriented towards the rear end of said assembly ring.

[0142] The rear end of the assembly ring 304 is assembled to the front end of the interface body 302, for example by a threading / tapping system. The assembly ring 304 thus comprises an internal cavity 320, delimited along the first axis 102 by the internal shoulder 318 on one side and by the front face 312 of the interface body 302 on the other.

[0143] At least one second compression spring 306 is fixed to the interface body 302 and projecting axially from the front face 312. In the embodiment shown, a rear end of said second compression spring 306 is inserted into the or one of the spring housings 314.

[0144] In a first compression state of the second spring 306, a front end of said second spring is disposed in the internal cavity 320, projecting axially with respect to the front face 312 of the interface body 302. In a second compression state of the second spring 306, more compressed than the first state, the end The front of said second spring is disposed in the spring housing 314 and is flush with the front face 312 of the interface body.

[0145] Preferably, the interface device 300 comprises several second compression springs 306, the rear end of each of said second springs being inserted into one of the spring housings 314.

[0146] The contact rod 308 extends parallel to the first axis 102 between a front end and a rear end. The contact rod 308 is disposed in the through hole 316 of the interface body 302 and is adapted to slide axially in said through hole.

[0147] Preferably, the front end of the contact rod 308 includes a threaded housing, open towards the front, capable of receiving a threaded screw 310, in order to manually adjust the misalignment stroke of the contact rod, in particular as a function of the stiffness of the compression springs 314.

[0148] As described below, the rear end of the contact rod 308 is adapted to actuate the first switch 220 of the setting tool 200. In the embodiment shown, the rear end of the contact rod 308 comprises an actuating arm 324, disposed in the housing 202 of the setting tool.

[0149] Furthermore, the interface device 300 includes a third compression spring 326, extending parallel to the first axis 102. A front end of said third spring 326 is assembled to the rear end of the contact rod 308. A rear end of said third spring 326 rests on, or is fixed to, the housing 202 of the setting tool 200.

[0150] The optional screw 310 is disposed in the housing 322 of the contact rod 308. Preferably, as seen in [Fig.3], the screw 310 is assembled to the housing 322 so that a front end of said screw protrudes slightly from the front end of the contact rod 308.

[0151] Preferably, the interface body 302 comprises at least one strain gauge, and preferably at least three strain gauges, so as to constitute the pressure sensor. The pressure sensor is connected to the electronic module 264 of the setting tool 200. The pressure sensor makes it possible to measure the tensile force on the screw 16 by measuring the compressive force between the structure 14 and the housing 202 of the setting tool, when the front lip 122 of the setting nose 100 rests on the collar 46 of the sleeve inserted into the bore 54 of the structure and when tension is applied to the screw 16.

[0152] In a first configuration of the assembly 10, visible in [Fig. 3], the flange 126 of the hollow body 110 of the nose 100 is in contact with the internal shoulder 318 of the assembly ring 304; each of the second springs 306 is in the first state of compression; the front end of the screw 310 or the rod of contact 308 is axially projecting relative to the front face 312 of the interface body; and the first switch 220 is open.

[0153] In a second configuration (not shown) of the installation assembly 10, the flange 126 of the hollow body of the installation nose is in contact with the front face 312 of the interface body; the front end of the screw 310 or the contact rod 308 is in contact with said flange 126 and substantially coplanar with said front face 312; each of the second springs 306 is in the second compression state, more compressed than the first state; and the first switch 220 is closed.

[0154] More specifically, in the first configuration of the installation assembly 10, the third spring 326 is in a first state of compression; and the actuating arm 324 of the contact rod 308 is at a distance from the first switch 220 along the first axis 102; and in the second configuration of the installation assembly 10, the third spring 326 is in a second state of compression, more compressed than the first state; and the actuating arm 324 of the contact rod 308 presses on the first switch 220 so as to keep said first switch closed.

[0155] According to an alternative embodiment (not shown) of the setting assembly, said setting assembly does not include the interface device 300; and the setting nose 100, 400 and the setting tool 200 are assembled by an interface nut 500, visible in [Fig. 5]. The flange 126 of the hollow body 110, 410 of the setting nose 100, 400 is then axially fixed relative to the front end 221 of the housing 202 of the setting tool.

[0156] According to said embodiment of the installation assembly, including the interface nut 500, the first switch 220 of the installation tool 200 is kept permanently closed.

[0157] A method for installing the fastener 12 in the structure 14, using the installation assembly 10, will now be described.

[0158] The installation method includes in particular: a first placement step; a second actuation step; and a third removal step.

[0159] The first implementation step, for example, proceeds as follows:

[0160] First, the fastener 12 is inserted into the hole 54 in the structure 14. More specifically, the tubular shaft 40 of the sleeve 30, containing the screw 16, is inserted into the hole 54 as shown in [Fig. 4]. The head 22 of the screw 16 and the flange 42 of the sleeve 30 are thus positioned on the side of the first face 50; and the deformable area 48 of the tubular shaft 40 of the sleeve emerges on the side of the second face 52.

[0161] Next, an operator brings the setting assembly 10 close to the gripping element 26 of the fastener 12. The operator presses the trigger 268, thereby closing the second switch of the setting tool 200; and inserts the gripping button 34 into the first front opening 120 of the setting nose 100, 400. The operator positions the setting assembly 10 so that the first axis 102 is aligned with the fastening axis 20.

[0162] The assembly 10 is then in the first configuration previously described. In other words, the flange 126 of the nose 100, 400 of setting is in contact with the internal shoulder 318 of the clamping ring 304; and the first switch 220 is open, the power supply to the motor 218 of the setting tool 200 being thus cut off.

[0163] Next, the operator exerts a push on the laying assembly 10 towards the structure 14 along the first axis 102. The gripping button 34 comes into contact with the hooks 136 of the clamps 135, 435 in retracted configuration.

[0164] As the axial thrust continues, the first spring 118 compresses and the grippers 135, 435 and the tubular element 116, 416 move from the front position to the rear position. The gripping button 34, in contact with the hooks 136, radially moves the grippers 135, 435 from the retracted configuration to the deployed configuration. In the first embodiment of the application nose 100, the grippers 135 deform elastically around the gripper body 144. In the second embodiment of the application nose 400, the posterior surface 452 of each gripper 435 slides radially against the front surface 416 of the first tubular element 115.

[0165] As the axial thrust continues, the hooks 136 of the grippers protrude beyond the gripping button 34 and close onto the gripping rod 32. The grippers 135, 435 thus return to their retracted position. Simultaneously, the first spring 118 relaxes, and the grippers 135, 435 and the first tubular element 115, 415 move from the rear position to the front position; and the second drive surface 119, 419 of the positioning nose 100, 400 assembles with the first drive surface 36 of the fastener.

[0166] The gripping element 26 of the fixing 12 is thus locked in the sleeve 112, 412 by the retaining device 114, 414 of the nose 100, 400 of installation.

[0167] As the axial thrust continues, the front lip 122 of the nose 100, 400 of the setting comes into contact with the bearing surface 46 of the collar 42 of the sleeve 30. The hollow body 110, 410 of the nose 100, 400 of the setting is then moved rearward relative to the tool 200.

[0168] During said rearward movement of said hollow body 110, 410, the rear stop 124, 424 of said hollow body comes into contact with the hooks 136 of the clamps 135, 435.

[0169] Furthermore, said rearward movement of said hollow body 110, 410 causes the assembly 10 to move from the first configuration to the second configuration. In other words, the flange 126 of the hollow body 110, 410 moves rearward in the internal cavity 320 of the clamping ring 304, pushing back the contact rod 308. The actuating arm 324 of said contact rod places the first switch 220 in the closed position, allowing the motor 218 of the setting tool 200 to be powered.

[0170] The first installation step is thus completed. According to one embodiment, the locking of the gripping element 26 of the fastener by the device maintenance 114, 414 of the nose 100, 400 of installation is carried out before the insertion of the fixing 12 into the drilling of the structure 14.

[0171] The second actuation step proceeds, for example, as follows:

[0172] An actuation method is then implemented by the tool 200. Said method is for example executed by a program stored in the electronic module 264. In particular, the electronic module 264 is capable of processing the signals emitted by the pressure sensor to determine a tensile force, command the stopping of the first rotating shaft 210 in the second direction when the tensile force reaches a predetermined force setpoint, then command the rotation of said first rotating shaft 210 in the first direction.

[0173] In a first phase of the actuation process, the first rotating shaft 210 of the setting tool 200 is rotated in the second direction. The second sleeve 208 of the tool 200 is thus moved in translation towards the rear, by means of the second transmission device 214.

[0174] The second sleeve 208 drives the first sleeve 206 in translation towards the rear, while the axial thrust of the nose 100, 400 of the mounting towards the structure 14 is maintained. The screw 16 of the fastener 12 is thus pulled rearwards, while the bushing 30 is held in place by the contact between the front lip 122 and the bearing surface 46.

[0175] The pull on the screw 16 causes the deformable area 48 of the sleeve 30 to form a radial bulge against the second face 52 of the structure 14, as described in document EP2894356.

[0176] In a second phase of the actuation process, the rotation of the motor in the second direction is stopped; then the first rotating shaft 210 of the setting tool 200 is set to rotate in the first direction. The first sleeve 206 of the tool 200 is thus driven in rotation by means of the first transmission device 212.

[0177] The threaded portion 24 of the screw 16 is thus screwed into the tapped portion 44 of the sleeve 30, until the head 22 of the screw is in contact with the collar 42 of the sleeve.

[0178] The rotation of the first sleeve 206 continues until the rupture groove 28 breaks, under the effect of the torsional torque applied to the gripping element 26. Upon rupture of the groove, the electronic module 264 commands the motor to stop rotating. The second actuation stage is thus completed. Optionally, during said second actuation stage, the pressure sensor described above measures the compression between the hollow body 110, 410 of the insertion nose and the interface body 302.

[0179] The third withdrawal step proceeds, for example, as follows:

[0180] After the rupture groove 28 of the fastener 12 breaks, the operator releases the axial force of the positioning assembly 10 towards the structure 14. The positioning assembly 10, now separated from the structure 14, moves from the second configuration to the first configuration. The motor 218 can therefore no longer be started unexpectedly, even if the operator presses the trigger 268.

[0181] The screw 16 and the socket 30 remain assembled to the structure 14 while the gripping element 26, dissociated from the screw 16, remains retained in the nose 100, 400 of installation.

[0182] Next, the operator tilts the laying nose 100, 400 upwards. The gripping element 26 then moves by gravity along the first axis 102, from the front end of the tubular element 116, 416 of the laying nose 100, 400 to the rear end 228 of the tube 204 of the laying tool. The gripping element 26 is thus stored in the removable receptacle 223, which prevents it from being unexpectedly ejected from the laying tool 200.

[0183] Alternatively, the gripping element 26 is evacuated towards the tube 204 of the tool 200 by the insertion, in the nose 100, 400 of installation, of the gripping element 26 of a new fixing 12.

[0184] According to the above-described embodiment of the installation assembly, including the interface nut 500, only the second switch of the installation tool 200 allows the electrical circuit 219 to be opened or closed. The starting of the motor 218 therefore depends solely on the actuation of the trigger 268 by the operator, and not on the axial support of the installation assembly against the structure 14.

[0185] The assembly 10 of installation described above, in particular the nose 100, 400 of installation, allows the gripping element 26 of the fixing 12 to be evacuated after breakage from the rear of the assembly 10. The insertion of a new gripping element into the nose of installation is thus facilitated.

[0186] Furthermore, the assembly 10 of the installation allows said gripping element 26 to be temporarily stored in the receptacle 223, which prevents said gripping element from being unexpectedly ejected and presenting a risk to the operator, or from being lost in the structure.

Claims

Demands

1. Nose (100, 400) for mounting a fastener (12) in a structure (14), the fastener being of the type comprising: a screw (16) extending along a fixing axis (20) and having a head (22); a gripping element (26), projecting axially relative to said head; and a shear groove (28), disposed between said head and said gripping element, said groove being capable of being broken under the application of a shearing torque around the fixing axis; the mounting nose comprising: - a hollow body (110, 410), extending along a principal axis (102), a front end of the hollow body comprising a first front opening (120), suitable for receiving the gripping element (26) of the fastener; - a sleeve (112, 412), received in the hollow body and movable in translation and rotation relative to said hollow body, a front end of the sleeve comprising a second front opening (130), axially aligned with the first front opening of the hollow body;and - a retaining device (114, 414), capable of locking the gripping element (26) of the fastener in the second front opening of the sleeve; the mounting nose being characterized in that it further comprises a first tubular element (115, 415), extending in the sleeve along the main axis, between an open front end and a rear end; the front end of the first tubular element being held in contact with the retaining device; an internal radial dimension of the first tubular element, from the front end to the rear end, being greater than or equal to a maximum radial dimension (38) of the gripping element (26) of the fastener; the retaining device (114, 414) and the first tubular element (115, 415) being movable in translation in the sleeve between a first and a second axial positions.

2. A mounting nose according to claim 1, wherein the retaining device (114, 414) comprises at least two clamps (135, 435), at least partially received in the sleeve (112, 412) and arranged around the main axis; a front end of each clamp comprising a hook (136); the clamps being radially movable relative to the hollow body (110, 410) between a configuration deployed and a retracted configuration, each hook being closer to the main axis (102) in the retracted configuration than in the deployed configuration.

3. Installation nose according to claim 2, wherein, in the first position, the clamps (135, 435) are held in retracted configuration and in the second position, the clamps are in deployed configuration.

4. A mounting nose according to claim 3, wherein: the second front opening of the sleeve has a first radial dimension; the front end of the sleeve has an internal surface (132, 432) widening towards the rear, such that at a non-zero distance from the second opening, said internal surface has a second radial dimension, strictly greater than the first radial dimension; and in the first axial position (135, 435) of the clamps, the hooks (136) are arranged in the second front opening of the sleeve.

5. A mounting nose according to any one of the preceding claims, further comprising: a first compression spring (118), extending along the main axis (102) between two ends; and a second tubular element (116, 416), extending in the first tubular element (115, 415) along the main axis between an open front end and a rear end, the second tubular element being fixed in translation relative to the sleeve, the first compression spring being abutted respectively against the first tubular element (115, 415) and against one of the second tubular element (416) and the sleeve (412), the first and second positions of the first tubular element corresponding respectively to a first and a second state of compression of the first spring (118).

6. A mounting nose according to any one of the preceding claims, further comprising a drive surface (119, 419), suitable for cooperating with the gripping element (26) of the fastener to drive said gripping element in rotation.

7. Installation nose (100) according to claim 6, wherein the drive surface (119) is carried by the front end of the first tubular element (116).

8. Installation nose (400) according to claim 6 taken in combination with claim 2, wherein the drive surface (419) is formed by the clamps (435) in retracted configuration.

9. A setting nose (100) according to any one of claims 2 to 7, wherein the retaining device (114) further comprises a clamp body (144) integral with a rear end of each of the clamps (135), the clamp body being locked against rotation in the sleeve (112).

10. A mounting nose (400) according to claim 9, wherein: the front end of the sleeve (412) has at least two axial slots (448), arranged around the main axis (102); the front end of the first tubular element (416) has a front surface (450), substantially perpendicular to the main axis; each clamp has a tab (446), adapted to slide in one of the axial slots (448) of the sleeve, between the first and second axial positions; and a rear end of each of the clamps has a rear surface (452), adapted to slide radially against the front surface (450) of the front end of the first tubular element.

11. Installation nose (400) according to claim 10, wherein the front surface (450) of the front end of the tubular element (416) forms an angle between 0° and 15° with a perpendicular to the main axis.