Multi-piece fastener and fastening method

Abstract

Multi-piece fasteners and fastening methods are provided. The multi-piece fastener may include a sleeve and a retainer. The sleeve may include an elongate portion defining a longitudinal axis and having an inner surface defining a sleeve cavity. The sleeve may further include a first ratchet feature coupled to the elongate portion. The retainer may include a first surface and a second surface extending from the first surface. The second surface may include a second ratchet feature configured to engage with the first ratchet feature, thereby preventing the sleeve from moving along the longitudinal axis when a first force applied to the sleeve along the longitudinal axis is less than a predetermined force, and allowing the sleeve to move along the longitudinal axis when a second force applied to the sleeve toward the longitudinal axis is equal to or greater than the predetermined force.

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] FIELD OF THE DISCLOSURE The present disclosure relates to multi-piece fasteners and fastening methods. [Background technology]

[0002] Vehicle frames, storage racks, solar panel substructures, aircraft parts, electrical panels, and other structures may include numerous mechanical fasteners. For example, mechanical fasteners may be installed in holes in structural components to secure the parts together. Properly installing the mechanical fasteners before drilling holes in the structure presents a challenge. Summary of the Invention

[0003] One non-limiting aspect of the present disclosure is directed to a multi-piece fastener including a sleeve and a retainer. The sleeve defines a longitudinal axis and includes an elongate portion with an inner surface defining a sleeve cavity, and a first ratchet feature coupled to the elongate portion. The retainer includes a first surface and a second surface extending from the first surface and including a second ratchet feature. The second ratchet feature is configured to engage with the first ratchet feature, thereby preventing the sleeve from moving along the longitudinal axis when a first force applied to the sleeve along the longitudinal axis is less than a predetermined force. The second ratchet feature is also configured to allow the sleeve to move along the longitudinal axis when a second force applied to the sleeve along the longitudinal axis is equal to or greater than the predetermined force.

[0004] Another non-limiting aspect of the present disclosure is directed to a multi-piece fastener including a sleeve and a retainer. The sleeve includes a first sleeve end, a second sleeve end, and an elongated portion extending from the first sleeve end to the second sleeve end and defining a longitudinal axis. The elongated portion defines a sleeve cavity and includes an inner surface including a first portion extending along the longitudinal axis and including threads having a minor diameter. The inner surface includes a second portion extending along the longitudinal axis that forms a cylindrical shape defining a first diameter. The first diameter is larger than the minor diameter of the threads. The first portion of the inner surface is disposed intermediate the second portion and the first sleeve end.

[0005] Yet another non-limiting aspect of the present disclosure is directed to a method for fastening. The method includes coupling a retainer of a multi-piece fastener to a structure. The multi-piece fastener includes a sleeve and the retainer. The sleeve defines a longitudinal axis and includes an elongated portion having an inner surface defining a sleeve cavity, and a first ratchet feature coupled to the elongated portion. The retainer includes a first surface and a second surface extending from the first surface and including a second ratchet feature. The second ratchet feature is configured to engage with the first ratchet feature. The method includes forming a hole in the structure after coupling the retainer to the structure, and inserting a pin of the multi-piece fastener through the hole and into the sleeve cavity of the sleeve. The pin engages an inner surface of the sleeve to move the sleeve along the longitudinal axis toward the structure when a force applied along the longitudinal axis is equal to or greater than a predetermined force.

[0006] It will be understood that the invention disclosed and described herein is not limited to the aspects summarized in this Summary. These and other details will become apparent to the reader upon consideration of the following detailed description of various non-limiting and non-exhaustive aspects according to the present disclosure.

[0007] The features and advantages of the embodiments, as well as the manner in which they are achieved, will become more apparent and the embodiments will be better understood by referring to the following description in conjunction with the accompanying drawings. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0008] [Figure 1] FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a non-limiting embodiment of a multi-piece fastener according to the present disclosure. [Figure 2] FIG. 2 is a side cross-sectional view of the multi-piece fastener of FIG. [Figure 3] FIG. 3 is an exploded view of the multi-piece fastener of FIG. [Figure 4] 4 is a perspective view of the multi-piece fastener of FIG. 1 shown in a second position. [Figure 5] FIG. 5 is a perspective view of a non-limiting embodiment of a retainer according to the present disclosure. [Figure 6] FIG. 6 is a perspective view of a non-limiting embodiment of a retainer according to the present disclosure. [Figure 7] FIG. 7 is a perspective view of a non-limiting embodiment of a retainer according to the present disclosure. [Figure 8] FIG. 8 is a detailed view of region 8 of the multi-piece fastener of FIG. [Figure 9] FIG. 9 is a detailed view of region 9 of the multi-piece fastener of FIG. [Figure 10] FIG. 10 is a detailed view of region 10 of the multi-piece fastener of FIG. [Figure 11] FIG. 11 is a partial cross-sectional view of a non-limiting embodiment of a multi-piece fastener and structure according to the present disclosure shown in a first configuration. [Figure 12] 12 is a partial cross-sectional view of the multi-piece fastener and structure of FIG. 11 shown in a second configuration. [Figure 13] FIG. 13 is a partial cross-sectional view of the multi-piece fastener and structure of FIG. 12 shown in a third configuration. [Figure 14] FIG. 14 is a partial cross-sectional view of the multi-piece fastener and structure of FIG. 13 shown in a fourth configuration. [Figure 15] FIG. 15 is a partial cross-sectional view of the multi-piece fastener and structure of FIG. 14 shown in a fifth configuration. [Figure 16] FIG. 16 is a partial cross-sectional view of the multi-piece fastener and structure of FIG. 15 shown in a sixth configuration. [Figure 17] FIG. 17 is a cross-sectional view of a non-limiting embodiment of a multi-piece fastener according to the present disclosure. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0009] Corresponding reference characters indicate corresponding parts throughout the several views. The examples set forth herein illustrate certain non-limiting embodiments in one form, and such examples should not be construed as limiting the scope of the appended claims in any manner.

[0010] Various embodiments are described and illustrated herein to provide a thorough understanding of the structure, function, and use of the disclosed multi-piece fasteners and fastening methods. The various embodiments described and illustrated herein are non-limiting and non-exhaustive. Accordingly, the present invention is not limited by the description of the various non-limiting and non-exhaustive embodiments disclosed herein. Rather, the present invention is defined solely by the claims. Features and characteristics illustrated and / or described in connection with various embodiments may be combined with features and characteristics of other embodiments. Such modifications and variations are intended to be included within the scope of this specification. Accordingly, the claims may be amended to recite any feature or characteristic explicitly or inherently described herein, or otherwise explicitly or inherently supported by this specification. Further, applicants reserve the right to amend the claims to approvingly disclaim any feature or characteristic that may exist in the prior art. The various embodiments disclosed and described herein may comprise, consist of, or consist essentially of the features and characteristics variously described herein.

[0011] As used herein, "intermediate" means that the referenced element is disposed between two elements, but not necessarily in contact with them. Thus, unless otherwise stated herein, an element "intermediate" between a first element and a second element may or may not be adjacent to, or in contact with, the first and / or second element, and other elements may be disposed between the intermediate element and the first and / or second element.

[0012] As used herein, "at least one of" a list of elements means one of the elements or any combination of two or more of the listed elements. As an example, "at least of A, B, and C" means A only, B only, C only, A and B, A and C, B and C, or A, B, and C.

[0013] Typically, to assemble two structural panels together, the two panels are properly aligned and then clamped together. Holes are drilled through the clamped panels, forming holes through both panels, the clamp is removed, and the nut portion of the fastener is installed on the inner panel and aligned with the holes. After the nut portion is installed, a sealant is applied between the panels, and a screw is installed through the drilled hole and engages the nut to hold the panels together. The inventors have developed a multi-piece fastener that can be installed before holes are drilled in the structural panels or other elements, advantageously allowing for more efficient assembly of the elements. The inventors have also developed a related method for advantageously fastening structural panels or other elements with a multi-piece fastener.

[0014] 1-3, a non-limiting embodiment of a multi-piece fastener 100 according to the present disclosure is provided. The multi-piece fastener 100 includes a sleeve 102 and a retainer 122 configured such that the sleeve 102 can move between a first position relative to the retainer 122, as illustrated in FIG. 1, and a second position relative to the retainer 122, as illustrated in FIG. 4. The retainer 122 is configured to be attached to a structure, such as structure 170 shown in FIG. 11.

[0015] 1 and 4 , in the second position, the sleeve 102 is closer to the first surface 124 of the retainer 122 than when the sleeve 102 is in the first position. The movement of the sleeve 102 allows a gap g to exist between the sleeve 102 and the structure (e.g., structure 170 illustrated in FIG. 11 ) prior to forming a hole in the structure. The gap g provides clearance for a forming tool (e.g., a drill bit, a machine bit, a punch) to create a hole in the structure after installation of the multi-piece fastener 100, while reducing undesired damage to the multi-piece fastener 100.

[0016] The retainer 122 can be configured to engage with or be engaged with a structure to support the sleeve 102. The retainer 122 includes a first surface 124 that can be configured to couple with the structure via at least one of fasteners (e.g., rivets, screws), pins, and adhesives. For example, as shown in FIG. 3 , the first surface 124 can include holes 162a and 162b, each of which can receive a fastener that mechanically attaches the retainer 122 to the structure 170. In various non-limiting embodiments, with reference to FIG. 5 , the retainer 122 can lack the holes 162a and 162b for attaching the retainer 122 to the structure, and instead, an adhesive can be used to couple the retainer 122 to the structure. In a particular non-limiting embodiment, with reference to FIG. 6 , the retainer 122 can include locating pins 160a and 160b that can be used to position the retainer 122 at a desired location on the structure. 7, retainer 122 may be free of holes 156, and first surface 124 may be a continuous surface from second surface 126 to third surface 130. Locating pins 160a and 160b may include holes 164a and 164b that receive fasteners to attach retainer 122 to a structure.

[0017] 3 , the retainer 122 can include a second surface 126 extending from a first surface 124 and a third surface 130 extending from the first surface 124. For example, the first surface 124 can extend from the second surface 126 to the third surface 130, and the first, second, and third surfaces (124, 126, and 130, respectively) can form a C-shape configured to receive the sleeve 102. In various non-limiting embodiments, the first surface 124 and the second surface 126 are substantially perpendicular to one another, and the first surface 124 and the third surface 130 are substantially perpendicular to one another. In various embodiments, the second surface 126 can be substantially parallel to the third surface 130.

[0018] The sleeve 102 can include a single component or multiple components. For example, as illustrated in Figures 1-3, the sleeve 102 can include a first component 103 and a clip 140. The first component 103 can include a first sleeve end 104, a second sleeve end 106, an elongated portion 108 located intermediate the first sleeve end 104 and the second sleeve end 106, and an inner surface 116. The elongated portion 108 is oriented along a longitudinal axis A of the sleeve 102. l The inner surface 116 may define a sleeve cavity 110 extending from the first sleeve end 104 toward the second sleeve end 106. In various non-limiting embodiments, the inner surface 116 extends from the first sleeve end 104 through the elongated portion 108 and through the second sleeve end 106. The inner surface 116 may define a sleeve cavity 110 in the elongated portion 108, extending from the first sleeve end 104 toward the second sleeve end 106. In various non-limiting embodiments, the sleeve cavity 110 extends completely through the elongated portion 108 such that the sleeve 102 is generally tubular when the first sleeve end 104 and the second sleeve end 106 are open.

[0019] 2, the sleeve cavity 110 of the sleeve 102 can be configured to at least partially receive the shank of a pin (e.g., pin 138 of FIG. 13) therein. The sleeve 102, including the inner surface 116, can be configured to retain the pin 138, such as by a friction fit. The inner surface 116 can include a threaded portion 154 suitable for engaging threads on the shank of the pin 138.

[0020] As illustrated in FIG. 2, in certain non-limiting embodiments, the inner surface 116 of the sleeve 102 is aligned with the longitudinal axis A. lThe inner surface 116 may include a first portion 172 extending along the longitudinal axis and including a threaded portion 154 having a root diameter dr. The inner surface 116 may further include a second portion 174 extending along the longitudinal axis and including a cylindrical shape defining a first diameter d1. The first portion 172 of the inner surface 116 may be disposed intermediate the second portion 174 and the second sleeve end 106. The first diameter d1 may be larger than the root diameter dr so that a forming tool can enter the second portion 174 without damaging the threaded portion 154 within the first portion 172. The second portion 174 may enable installation of the multi-piece fastener 100 onto the structure 170 with the sleeve 102 in various non-limiting embodiments where the second position or ratchet feature illustrated in FIG. 4 may not be present. In certain embodiments, the first diameter d1 may be at least 10% larger than the root diameter dr, such as at least 20% larger than the root diameter dr.

[0021] The sleeve 102 can include one or more ratchet features, and the retainer 122 can include one or more corresponding ratchet features, such that each ratchet feature is configured to allow movement of the sleeve 102 from a first position illustrated in FIG. 1 to a second position illustrated in FIG. 4 and to prevent movement of the sleeve 102 from the second position back to the first position. The sleeve 102 can include one or more ratchet features coupled to the elongated portion 108. For example, the one or more ratchet features can be integral with the sleeve 102 (e.g., integral with the elongated portion 108), or, as illustrated in FIGS. 1-3, the clip 140 can include the ratchet features 120-121 and 134-135, and the clip 140 can be mechanically coupled to the elongated portion 108.

[0022] In various embodiments, retainer 122 can include one or more ratchet features on second surface 126 and / or third surface 130. For example, as illustrated in FIG. 3, second surface 126 can include ratchet features 128-129, and third surface 130 can include ratchet features 132-133.

[0023] 3, ratchet features 120-121, 128-129, and 132-135 may include any suitable shape to hold sleeve 102 in a desired position relative to retainer 122. For example, ratchet features 120-121, 128-129, and 132-135 may engage with corresponding ratchet features to hold sleeve 102 in a desired position relative to retainer 122. l Depending on the force applied to the longitudinal axis A l 1-2, ratchet features 120-121, 128-129, and 132-135 may include physical features configured to selectively prevent or allow movement of sleeve 102 along longitudinal axis A. For example, with reference to FIGS. l When the sleeve 102 is applied to the longitudinal axis A in the direction 168b, l The ratchet features 120-121, 128-129, and 132-135 are configured to engage with each other to prevent movement along the longitudinal axis A. l When applied to the sleeve 102, the sleeve 102 is aligned along the longitudinal axis A. l 168b along the axis of the arrows 164a and 164b.

[0024] 3, ratchet feature 120 may correspond to and be configured to engage with ratchet feature 128, ratchet feature 121 may correspond to and be configured to engage with ratchet feature 129, ratchet feature 134 may correspond to and be configured to engage with ratchet feature 132, and ratchet feature 135 may correspond to and be configured to engage with ratchet feature 133. Ratchet features 120-121, 128-129, and 132-135 may individually comprise at least one of holes, protrusions, teeth, and other ratchet features. 1-3 , ratchet features 120-121 and 134-134 are protrusions, and ratchet features 128-129 and 132-133 each include two holes. For example, ratchet feature 128 includes first hole 128a and second hole 129a, ratchet feature 129 includes first hole 129a and second hole 129b, ratchet feature 132 includes first hole 132a and second hole 132b, and ratchet feature 133 includes first hole 133a and second hole 133b. Each of first holes 128a, 129a, 132a, and 133a may be substantially coplanar, and each of second holes 128b, 129b, 132b, and 133b may be substantially coplanar.

[0025] The corresponding ratchet features 120-121, 128-129, and 132-135 are configured such that a first force less than a predetermined force causes the ratchet feature to rotate in a direction 168b along the longitudinal axis A. l When the sleeve 102 is attached to the longitudinal axis A l1 illustrates sleeve 102 in a first position, where: ratchet feature 120 engages with and extends into first hole 128a of ratchet feature 128, ratchet feature 121 engages with and extends into first hole 129a of ratchet feature 129, ratchet feature 134 engages with and extends into first hole 132a of ratchet feature 132, and ratchet feature 135 engages with and extends into first hole 133a of ratchet feature 133.

[0026] In various embodiments, ratchet features 120-121 and 134-135 can include a tapered surface 136. For example, as illustrated in FIG. 10 , tapered surface 136 of ratchet feature 120 can be substantially coplanar with second surface 126 at first end 136a of tapered surface 136. Tapered surface 136 is aligned with longitudinal axis A. l The tapered surface 136 of each ratchet feature 120-121 and 134-135 can extend away from the second surface 126 as it moves along the longitudinal axis A toward the second end 136b of the tapered surface. The tapered surface 136 of each ratchet feature 120-121 and 134-135 can enable movement of the respective ratchet feature 120-121 and 134-135 from the first holes 128a, 129a, 132a, and 133a of the respective ratchet features 128, 129, 132, and 133 to the second holes 128b, 129b, 132b, and 133b of the respective ratchet features 128, 129, 132, and 133. This movement is facilitated by the first end 136a of the tapered surface 136, which allows movement of the respective ratchet feature 120-121 and 134-135 along the longitudinal axis A. l This can occur because application of at least a predetermined force in direction 168b along the tapered surface 136 allows ratchet features 120-121 and 134-135 to disengage from their respective first holes 128a, 129a, 132a, and 133a. For example, tapered surface 136 can act as a wedge to allow sleeve 102 to slide along retainer 122 from a first position illustrated in FIG. 1 to a second position illustrated in FIG. 4.

[0027] The tapered surface 136 of each ratchet feature 120-121 and 134-135 can prevent movement of the respective ratchet feature 120-121 and 134-135 from the second holes 128b, 129b, 132b, and 133b of the respective ratchet features 128, 129, 132, and 133 to the first holes 128a, 129a, 132a, and 133a of the respective ratchet features 128, 129, 132, and 133. The second ends 136b of the tapered surfaces 136 engage the ratchet features 120-121 and 134-135 to prevent movement of the respective ratchet features 128, 129, 132, and 133 along the longitudinal axis A. l 1. For example, tapered surface 136 may act as a stop to prevent sleeve 102 from sliding along retainer 122 from the second position illustrated in FIG. 4 to the first position illustrated in FIG.

[0028] 1, clip 140 may include a slot 144, and first component 103 may include a protrusion 158 configured to extend into and slidably engage slot 144. Referring to FIG. 8, protrusion 158 and slot 144 may be sized to allow movement of protrusion 158 in various directions 166a, 166b, 168a, 168b within slot 144, thereby providing tolerance for the installation location of multi-piece fastener 100 on the structure. For example, a pin (e.g., pin 138 illustrated with respect to FIG. 13) may be introduced into sleeve cavity 110 for engagement with sleeve 102 during installation of multi-piece fastener 100 on the structure. Sleeve 102 has tolerances in various directions 166a, 166b, 168a, and 168b to allow movement of the sleeve in directions 166a, 166b, 168a, and 168b, thereby allowing pin 138 to engage sleeve 102 even if pin 138 and sleeve 102 are slightly misaligned. As shown in FIG. 9, protrusion 158 of sleeve 102 can be moved to a different position while sleeve 102 is in the second position than when sleeve 102 is in the first position illustrated in FIG.

[0029] 17 , in various non-limiting embodiments, the retainer 122 can be configured to form a cavity enclosed by the structure in which the sleeve 102 can be enclosed by the retainer 122. In such a configuration, the sleeve 102 may not be accessible during installation of the multi-piece fastener 100. Alternatively, in certain non-limiting embodiments, the sleeve 102 can be partially enclosed by the retainer 122, for example, to allow partial access to the retainer 122 during installation.

[0030] 3, clip 140 may be flexible to allow movement of ratchet features 128-129 and 132-133, thus allowing sleeve 102 to move from the second position illustrated in FIG. 4 to the first position illustrated in FIG. 1 and / or allowing clip 140 to be removed from retainer 122. For example, clip 140 may include flanges 142a-142b. Flanges 142a-142b of clip 140 may be configured such that when flanges 142a-142b are compressed toward one another, ratchet features 120-121 and / or 134-135 disengage from ratchet features 128-129 and / or 132-133, respectively. When the pin does not engage the sleeve 102 upon disengagement of the ratchet features 120-121 and / or 134-135, the sleeve 102 rotates along the longitudinal axis A. l 168b along the direction 168c.

[0031] Flanges 142a-142b of clip 140 may be configured such that when flanges 142a-142b are bent away from one another, first component 103 can be attached to and / or removed from clip 140. For example, flanges 142a-142b may be bent such that protrusions 158 disengage from slots 144, allowing first component 103 to be removed from clip 140.

[0032] As described above, the multi-piece fastener 100 can be attached to a variety of structures prior to forming holes in the structure. In certain non-limiting embodiments, the structure can include two or more layers of material. For example, as illustrated in FIG. 11 , the structure 170 can include a first layer 170a and a second layer 170b, which can include the same or different materials. The first layer 170a can be positioned intermediate the second layer 170b and the retainer 122 when the multi-piece fastener 100 is attached. In various non-limiting embodiments, the second layer 170b is adjacent to or in contact with the pin 138.

[0033] Structure 170 may include, for example, at least one of a metal, a metal alloy, a composite material, or other suitable material. For example, in certain non-limiting embodiments, structure 170 may include one or more of aluminum, an aluminum alloy, titanium, a titanium alloy, nickel, a nickel alloy, iron, an iron alloy, and a carbon fiber composite material. In various non-limiting embodiments, structure 170 includes aluminum and / or an aluminum alloy (e.g., 7075 aluminum alloy, etc.). In various non-limiting embodiments, structure 170 may be configured as at least one, or at least one portion or region of, an aircraft component or structure, an automotive component or structure, a transportation component or structure, an architecture and construction component or structure, or other component or structure.

[0034] To install the multi-piece fastener 100, the retainer 122 of the multi-piece fastener can be coupled to the structure 170. For example, the retainer 122 can be coupled to the structure 170 by at least one fastener, by friction-fitting the retainer 122 to the structure 170 with a pin, by adhesively bonding the retainer 122 to the structure 170, and using other attachment techniques. As illustrated in FIG. 11 , the retainer 122 is coupled to the structure 170 with a rivet 180, and the sleeve 102 is in a first position relative to the retainer 122. The sleeve 102 can be inserted into the retainer 122 before coupling the retainer 122 to the structure 170, or after coupling the retainer 122 to the structure 170, such that the ratchet features 120-121 and 134-135 engage with the first holes 128a, 129a, 132a, and 133a.

[0035] After the retainer 122 is coupled to the structure 170, a hole can be formed in the structure that is substantially aligned with the sleeve 102. For example, with reference to FIG. 12 , after the retainer 122 is coupled to the structure 170 by a forming tool 182, a hole 176 is created in the structure 170. As illustrated, the forming tool 182 can traverse through the structure 170 at least partially into the gap g. The gap g can prevent damage to the sleeve 102.

[0036] 7, in various non-limiting embodiments in which retainer 122 does not include a hole upon connection to structure 170, forming tool 182 can form the hole in retainer 122 at the same time as forming hole 176 in structure 170. After forming hole 176, forming tool 182 can be removed. Optionally, with reference to FIG. 13, a chamfer 184 or other suitable feature can be formed in second layer 170b of structure 170 so that the head of a fastener can be countersunk into structure 170.

[0037] The pin 138 may be positioned to align with the hole 176 in the second layer 170b of the structure 170 and may be inserted into the hole 176. The pin 138 may be inserted until the pin 138 enters the sleeve cavity 110 and engages with the sleeve 102, as illustrated in FIG. 14 . The pin 138 may include a first pin end 146, a second pin end 148, and a shank 150. The shank 150 may define a longitudinal axis of the pin 138 that extends from the first pin end 146 to the second pin end 148. The longitudinal axis of the pin 138 is aligned with the longitudinal axis A of the sleeve 102. l The shank 150 may be coextensive with the first pin end 146 and the second pin end 148. The shank 150 may include a shape that can be received within the sleeve cavity 110 of the sleeve 102. The shank 150 may be intermediate the first pin end 146 and the second pin end 148. The shank 150 may be sized such that it can be inserted into the sleeve cavity 110 and extend at least partially into the sleeve cavity 110.

[0038] In various non-limiting embodiments, the shank 150 includes a threaded portion 152 that is complementary to a threaded portion 154 on the inner surface 116 of the sleeve 102. The threaded portions 152, 154 may include various suitable threads, such as, for example, right-handed, left-handed, single-start, multiple-start, and / or other thread types.

[0039] 14 , the pin shank 150 is inserted into the sleeve cavity 110 of the sleeve 102, with the threaded portions 152 and 154 engaging one another. As illustrated, the first pin end 146 is positioned proximal to the second sleeve end 106, and the second pin end 148 is positioned adjacent to the second layer 170b. As shown, the second pin end 148 can prevent the pin 138 from passing completely through the hole in the structure or can contact a structure or other feature to prevent the pin 138 from extending beyond a predetermined distance. In various non-limiting embodiments, the second pin end 148 can be tapered and / or configured to mount flush with the structure 170.

[0040] 14, the sleeve 102 is in a first position relative to the retainer 122. The pin 138 is in a first position relative to the longitudinal axis A when a force equal to or greater than a predetermined force is applied. l 102 (e.g., along the longitudinal axis A l The force urges sleeve 102 toward first surface 124 of retainer 122, reducing gap g.

[0041] As illustrated in FIG. 15, the sleeve 102 is oriented along a longitudinal axis A l15 toward the structure 170. The ratchet features 120-121 and 134-135 move from the first holes 128a, 129a, 132a, and 133a to the second holes 128b, 129b, 132b, and 133b, thereby preventing movement of the sleeve 102 from the second position illustrated in FIG. 15 back to the first position illustrated in FIG. 14. In various non-limiting embodiments, the sleeve 102 can remain in the first position even if the pin 138 is removed from the sleeve 102. Referring to FIG. 16, insertion of the pin 138 into the sleeve 102 reduces the width of the gap between the first and second layers 170a, 170b of the structure 170, if a gap exists, and can force the second pin end 148 of the pin 138 into contact with the structure 170. In various non-limiting embodiments, head portion 178 can be configured to break upon application of an attachment force equal to or greater than a force threshold. For example, as illustrated in FIG. 16 , head portion 178 of pin 138 has been broken and removed from pin 138 such that pin 138 is flush with second layer 170b of structure 170.

[0042] The multi-piece fastener 100 may be sized appropriately for its intended use. For example, in certain non-limiting embodiments, the diameter of the shank 150 may range from 0.06 inches to 4 inches, and the sleeve 102 may be sized to receive the shank 150.

[0043] The multi-piece fastener 100, including the sleeve 102 and the retainer 122, may comprise any suitable material, such as, for example, a metal, a metal alloy, a polymer, a composite material, or another suitable material. For example, in various non-limiting embodiments, the multi-piece fastener 100 may comprise at least one of aluminum, an aluminum alloy, titanium, a titanium alloy, nickel, a nickel alloy, iron, an iron alloy, and a carbon fiber composite material.

[0044] Various aspects of non-limiting embodiments of the invention according to this disclosure include, but are not limited to, the aspects listed in the following numbered clauses:

[0045] Article 1. an elongate portion defining a longitudinal axis and having an inner surface defining a sleeve cavity; a sleeve including a first ratchet feature coupled to the elongate portion; a first surface, and a second ratchet feature extending from the first surface, the second ratchet feature engaging the first ratchet feature, whereby preventing the sleeve from moving along the longitudinal axis when a first force applied to the sleeve along the longitudinal axis is less than a predetermined force; a retainer having a second surface configured to allow the sleeve to move along the longitudinal axis when a second force applied to the sleeve along the longitudinal axis is equal to or greater than a predetermined force.

[0046] Article 2. 10. The multi-piece fastener of claim 1, wherein the sleeve is configured to move from a first position to a second position when a second force applied to the sleeve along the longitudinal axis is at least a predetermined force, the second position being closer to the first surface than the first position.

[0047] Article 3. 3. The multi-piece fastener of clause 2, wherein each of the first ratchet feature and the second ratchet feature individually includes at least one of a hole, a protrusion, and a tooth.

[0048] Article 4. the first ratchet feature comprises a protrusion; a second ratchet feature comprising a first hole configured to receive the protrusion and a second hole configured to receive the protrusion; 4. A multi-piece fastener as described in any of clauses 2-3, wherein the protrusion is configured to be received by the first hole when the sleeve is in the first position and configured to be received by the second hole when the sleeve is in the second position.

[0049] Article 5. 5. The multi-piece fastener of clause 4, including a tapered surface that allows movement of the protrusion from the first hole to the second hole and prevents movement of the protrusion from the second hole to the first hole.

[0050] Article 6. further comprising a third surface extending from the first surface; 6. The multi-piece fastener of any of clauses 1-5, wherein the first surface extends from a third surface to the second surface, the third surface comprising a third ratchet feature, and the sleeve further comprising a fourth ratchet feature coupled to the elongate portion and configured to engage the third ratchet feature.

[0051] Article 7. 7. The multi-piece fastener of clause 6, wherein the first surface is a continuous surface from the second surface to the third surface.

[0052] Article 8. the second surface comprises a fifth ratchet feature, and the sleeve further comprises a sixth ratchet feature coupled to the elongate portion and configured to engage the fifth ratchet feature; 8. The multi-piece fastener of any of clauses 6-7, wherein the third surface comprises a seventh ratchet feature, and the sleeve further comprises an eighth ratchet feature coupled to the elongate portion and configured to engage the seventh ratchet feature.

[0053] Article 9. 9. The multi-piece fastener of any of clauses 1-6 and 8, wherein the first surface of the retainer includes a hole configured to receive the pin, the hole being substantially aligned with the longitudinal axis of the elongated portion.

[0054] Article 10. 10. The multi-piece fastener of any of clauses 1-9, wherein the sleeve includes at least two components, including a first component including the elongated portion and a clip including the first ratchet feature.

[0055] Article 11. 11. The multi-piece fastener of clause 10, wherein the clip is positioned intermediate the first component and the retainer.

[0056] Article 12. 12. The multi-piece fastener of clause 11, wherein the clip comprises a slot and the first component comprises a protrusion slidably engaged with the slot.

[0057] Article 13. The method further includes a pin, the pin comprising: a first pin end; a second pin end; and a shank extending from the first pin end to the second pin end, the shank including a first threaded portion; 13. The multi-piece fastener of any of clauses 1-12, wherein the inner surface of the sleeve comprises a second threaded portion configured to engage the first threaded portion.

[0058] Article 14. 14. The multi-piece fastener of any of clauses 1-13, wherein the sleeve is positioned within a retainer, the retainer configured to allow formation of a cavity enclosed by the structure.

[0059] Article 15. 15. The multi-piece fastener of any of clauses 1-14, wherein the first surface of the retainer is configured to couple with the structure by at least one of a fastener, a pin, and an adhesive.

[0060] Article 16. a first sleeve end; a second sleeve end; and an elongate portion extending from the first sleeve end to the second sleeve end and defining a longitudinal axis, the elongate portion having an inner surface defining a sleeve cavity, the inner surface comprising: a first portion extending along the longitudinal axis and including threads having a minor diameter; and a sleeve including an elongate portion extending along a longitudinal axis and including a second portion including a cylindrical shape defining a first diameter, the first diameter being greater than a minor diameter of the threads, the first portion being disposed intermediate the second portion and a second sleeve end; a first surface, and a retainer having a second surface extending from the first surface, the second surface coupled to the sleeve.

[0061] Article 17. 17. The multi-piece fastener of clause 16, wherein the first diameter is at least 10% larger than the minor diameter.

[0062] Article 18. 1. Connecting a retainer of a multi-piece fastener to a structure, the multi-piece fastener comprising: an elongate portion defining a longitudinal axis and having an inner surface defining a sleeve cavity; a sleeve including a first ratchet feature coupled to the elongate portion; a first surface, and a retainer having a second surface extending from the first surface and having a second ratchet feature configured to engage the first ratchet feature; and forming a hole in the structure after connecting the retainer to the structure; Inserting a pin of the multi-piece fastener through the hole and into the sleeve cavity of the sleeve; engaging a pin with an inner surface of the sleeve and moving the sleeve along the longitudinal axis toward the structure when a force applied along the longitudinal axis is equal to or greater than a predetermined force.

[0063] Article 19. 19. The method of clause 18, wherein coupling the retainer to the structure includes at least one of fastening the retainer to the structure with a fastener, friction-fitting the retainer to the structure with a pin, and adhering the retainer to the structure with an adhesive.

[0064] Article 20. the first ratchet feature comprises a protrusion, the second ratchet feature comprises a first hole configured to receive the protrusion and a second hole configured to receive the protrusion; 20. The method of any of clauses 18-19, wherein engaging the pin with the inner surface of the sleeve and moving the sleeve along the longitudinal axis toward the structure includes moving the protrusion from the first hole to the second hole.

[0065] Article 21. connecting a retainer of a multi-piece fastener according to any one of clauses 1 to 15 to a structure; forming a hole in the structure after connecting the retainer to the structure; Inserting a pin of the multi-piece fastener through the hole and into the sleeve cavity of the sleeve; engaging a pin with an inner surface of the sleeve and moving the sleeve along the longitudinal axis toward the structure when a force applied along the longitudinal axis is equal to or greater than a predetermined force.

[0066] Article 22. connecting a retainer of a multi-piece fastener according to any of clauses 16 to a structure; forming a hole in the structure after connecting the retainer to the structure; Inserting a pin of the multi-piece fastener through the hole and into the sleeve cavity of the sleeve; and engaging the pin with an inner surface of the sleeve.

[0067] Those skilled in the art will recognize that the fastening sleeves, multi-piece fasteners, structures, methods, operations / acts, and objects described herein, and the accompanying descriptions, are presented as non-limiting examples for conceptual clarity, and that various modifications to the disclosed configurations are contemplated. Accordingly, as used herein, the specific examples / embodiments described and the accompanying discussion are intended to be representative of their more general class. In general, the use of any specific example is intended to be representative of its class, and the absence of inclusion of particular components, devices, apparatus, operations / acts, and objects should not be construed as limiting. While this disclosure provides descriptions of various specific aspects for the purpose of illustrating various aspects of the disclosure and / or their potential applications, those skilled in the art will recognize that variations and modifications will occur. Accordingly, it should be understood that the invention(s) described herein are at least as broad as they are claimed, and not more narrowly defined by the specific exemplary aspects provided herein.

[0068] Any reference herein to "various embodiments," "some embodiments," "one embodiment," "one embodiment," "non-limiting embodiment," or similar phrases means that a particular feature, structure, or characteristic described in connection with an example is included in at least one embodiment. Thus, appearances of the phrases "various embodiments," "some embodiments," "one embodiment," "in one embodiment," "non-limiting embodiment," or similar phrases herein do not necessarily refer to the same embodiment. Furthermore, particular described features, structures, or characteristics may be combined in any suitable manner in one or more embodiments. Thus, a particular feature, structure, or characteristic illustrated or described in connection with one embodiment may be combined, in whole or in part, without limitation, with a feature, structure, or characteristic of one or more other embodiments. Such modifications and variations are intended to be included within the scope of the present embodiments.

[0069] In this specification, unless otherwise indicated, all numerical parameters should be understood to be prefaced and modified in all instances by the term "about," given the inherent variability characteristic of the underlying measurement technique used to determine the numerical value of the parameter. At the very least, and not as an attempt to limit the application of the doctrine of equivalents to the scope of the claims, each numerical parameter set forth herein should at least be construed in light of the number of reported significant digits and by applying ordinary rounding techniques.

[0070] Additionally, any numerical range recited herein includes all subranges subsumed within the recited range. For example, a range of "1 to 10" includes all subranges between (and including) the recited minimum of 1 and the recited maximum of 10, i.e., all subranges having a minimum of 1 or greater and a maximum of 10 or less. Any maximum numerical limitation recited herein is intended to include all lower numerical limitations subsumed therein, and any minimum numerical limitation recited herein is intended to include all higher numerical limitations subsumed therein. Accordingly, applicants reserve the right to amend this specification, including the claims, to expressly recite any subranges subsumed within the expressly recited range. All such ranges are inherently described herein.

[0071] The grammatical articles "a," "an," and "the," as used herein, unless otherwise indicated, are intended to include "at least one" or "one or more," even if "at least one" or "one or more" is expressly used in a particular instance. Accordingly, the foregoing grammatical articles are used herein to refer to one or more than one (i.e., "at least one") of the particular identified elements. Furthermore, unless the context of usage requires otherwise, the use of a singular noun includes the plural and the use of a plural noun includes the singular.

Claims

1. an elongate portion defining a longitudinal axis and having an inner surface defining a sleeve cavity; a sleeve including a first ratchet feature coupled to the elongate portion; a first surface, and a second ratchet feature extending from the first surface, the second ratchet feature engaging the first ratchet feature, whereby preventing the sleeve from moving along the longitudinal axis when a first force applied to the sleeve along the longitudinal axis is less than a predetermined force; a retainer comprising a second surface configured to allow the sleeve to move along the longitudinal axis when a second force applied to the sleeve along the longitudinal axis is equal to or greater than a predetermined force.

2. 2. The multi-piece fastener of claim 1, wherein the sleeve is configured to move from a first position to a second position when the second force applied to the sleeve along the longitudinal axis is at least a predetermined force, the second position being closer to the first surface than the first position.

3. 3. The multi-piece fastener of claim 2, wherein the first ratchet feature and the second ratchet feature each individually comprise at least one of a hole, a protrusion, and a tooth.

4. the first ratchet feature comprises a protrusion; the second ratchet feature comprises a first hole configured to receive the protrusion and a second hole configured to receive the protrusion; 3. The multi-piece fastener of claim 2, wherein the protrusion is configured to be received by the first hole when the sleeve is in the first position and configured to be received by the second hole when the sleeve is in the second position.

5. 5. The multi-piece fastener of claim 4, wherein the protrusion comprises a tapered surface that allows movement from the first hole to the second hole and prevents movement of the protrusion from the second hole to the first hole.

6. further comprising a third surface extending from the first surface; 10. The multi-piece fastener of claim 1, wherein the first surface extends from the third surface to the second surface, the third surface comprising a third ratchet feature, and the sleeve further comprises a fourth ratchet feature coupled to the elongate portion and configured to engage the third ratchet feature.

7. 7. The multi-piece fastener of claim 6, wherein said first surface is a continuous surface from said second surface to said third surface.

8. the second surface comprises a fifth ratchet feature, and the sleeve further comprises a sixth ratchet feature coupled to the elongate portion and configured to engage the fifth ratchet feature; 7. The multi-piece fastener of claim 6, wherein the third surface comprises a seventh ratchet feature, and the sleeve further comprises an eighth ratchet feature coupled to the elongate portion and configured to engage the seventh ratchet feature.

9. 10. The multi-piece fastener of claim 1, wherein the first surface of the retainer includes a hole configured to receive a pin, the hole being substantially aligned with a longitudinal axis of the elongated portion.

10. 2. The multi-piece fastener of claim 1, wherein the sleeve includes at least two components, including a first component including the elongated portion and a clip including the first ratchet feature.

11. The multi-piece fastener of claim 10, wherein the clip is positioned intermediate the first component and the retainer.

12. 12. The multi-piece fastener of claim 11, wherein the clip includes a slot and the first component includes a protrusion slidably engaged with the slot.

13. and a pin, the pin comprising: a first pin end; a second pin end; and a shank extending from the first pin end to the second pin end, the shank including a first threaded portion; 10. The multi-piece fastener of claim 1, wherein the inner surface of the sleeve comprises a second threaded portion configured to engage the first threaded portion.

14. The multi-piece fastener of claim 1 , wherein the sleeve is positioned within the retainer, the retainer configured to allow for the formation of a cavity surrounded by a structure.

15. The multi-piece fastener of claim 1 , wherein the first surface of the retainer is configured to couple to a structure with at least one of a fastener, a pin, and an adhesive.

16. a first sleeve end; a second sleeve end; and an elongate portion extending from the first sleeve end to the second sleeve end and defining a longitudinal axis, the elongate portion having an inner surface defining a sleeve cavity, the inner surface comprising: a first portion extending along the longitudinal axis and including threads having a minor diameter; and a sleeve including an elongate portion extending along the longitudinal axis and including a second portion including a cylindrical shape defining a first diameter, the first diameter being greater than a minor diameter of the threads, the first portion being disposed intermediate the second portion and the second sleeve end; a first surface, and a retainer having a second surface extending from the first surface, the second surface coupled to the sleeve.

17. 17. The multi-piece fastener of claim 16, wherein the first diameter is at least 10% larger than the minor diameter.

18. 1. Connecting a retainer of a multi-piece fastener to a structure, the multi-piece fastener comprising: an elongate portion defining a longitudinal axis and having an inner surface defining a sleeve cavity; a sleeve including a first ratchet feature coupled to the elongate portion; a first surface, and a retainer having a second surface extending from the first surface and having a second ratchet feature configured to engage the first ratchet feature; and forming a hole in the structure after connecting the retainer to the structure; inserting a pin of the multi-piece fastener through the hole and into the sleeve cavity of the sleeve; engaging the pin with the inner surface of the sleeve and moving the sleeve along the longitudinal axis toward the structure when a force applied along the longitudinal axis is equal to or greater than a predetermined force.

19. 20. The method of claim 18, wherein coupling the retainer to the structure comprises at least one of securing the retainer to the structure with a fastener, friction-fitting the retainer to the structure with a pin, and adhering the retainer to the structure with an adhesive.

20. the first ratchet feature comprises a protrusion, the second ratchet feature comprises a first hole configured to receive the protrusion and a second hole configured to receive the protrusion; 20. The method of claim 18, wherein engaging the pin with an inner surface of the sleeve and moving the sleeve along the longitudinal axis toward the structure comprises moving the protrusion from the first hole to the second hole.

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