Method and apparatus for extracting and removing fasteners

Abstract

A method of engaging a stripped fastener in an object using a fastener torque-tool body, a torque arm, and a release bolt is disclosed.SOLUTION: The method includes selecting a torque-tool body suitable for the fastener to be removed, engaging the torque-tool body with the fastener, engaging a torque arm with the torque-tool body, applying a rotational force to the torque arm to rotate the fastener within the object, engaging a release bolt with the torque-tool body, and applying a rotational force to the release bolt to remove the fastener from the torque-tool body.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 8

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] The present invention relates generally to tools and methods for removing fasteners, particularly bolts and nuts. More specifically, the present invention discloses methods for using extraction and removal tools to remove damaged fasteners. [Background technology]

[0002] Threaded devices, such as hex bolts, nuts, and screws, are used to fasten and hold two or more parts together by engaging complementary threads known as female threads. The general structure of this type of fastener is a cylindrical shaft with an external thread and a head at one end. The external threads engage complementary female threads threaded into a hole or nut, locking the fastener in place and fastening the associated parts together. The head is the means by which an external torque force is applied, driving the fastener relative to the female threads. The head is specially shaped to allow an external tool, such as a wrench, to apply torque to the fastener, rotating it and properly engaging the complementary female threads. This type of fastener is simple, highly effective, and inexpensive, making it very popular in modern construction.

[0003] One of the most common problems when using these types of fasteners, whether male or female, is the tool slipping in, on, or out of the head. This is typically caused by either wear, corrosion, or overtightening of the fastener or tool, or damage to the fastener head.

[0004] There are various methods for removing fasteners, some more aggressive than others. If the fastener head is damaged, more aggressive methods must be employed to remove the stuck fastener. A common method used by some users to remove a stuck fastener is to drill a hole through the fastener. While this method has proven effective in some scenarios, it carries a high risk of damaging the threads inside the hole.

[0005] The present invention is a method for eliminating slippage using a fastener extractor and removal tool. The present invention utilizes a fastener extractor with a gripping edge designed to bite into the fastener head, allowing for efficient torque transfer between the extractor bit and the fastener head. The present invention also overcomes another common problem with conventional bolt extraction: the adhesion or sticking of material from the fastener due to heat or the fastener itself to the extraction tool. More specifically, the present invention allows for easy removal of the remaining material and / or the removed fastener from the extractor via the removal tool. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0006] [Figure 1] 1 is a perspective view of a torque tool body, a plurality of engagement portions, and a release bolt according to the present invention. [Figure 2] 1 is a perspective view of a torque tool body according to the present invention and a bottom surface view of a mounting body. [Figure 3] 5 is a top view of a torque tool body according to the present invention showing a plurality of engagement features, the cross-section of the detail shown in FIG. 4. FIG. [Figure 4] FIG. 1 is a detailed view of multiple engagement features taken within section line A. [Figure 5] 7 is a side view of the torque tool body as seen from the cross-sectional view shown in FIG. 6. [Figure 6]6 is a cross-sectional view of the torque tool body taken along line AA in FIG. 5, showing the attachment and engagement bore connected to the distal end. [Figure 7] FIG. 10 is a side view of the release bolt. [Figure 8] 1 is a cross-sectional view of a torque tool body, a plurality of engagement features, and a release bolt. [Figure 9] 11 is a top view of an alternative embodiment of a torque tool body and a plurality of engagement features, showing a cross section of the detail shown in FIG. 10. [Figure 10] 11A is a detailed view of a plurality of engagement features in an alternative embodiment, the torque tool body being viewed from section line A, with the detailed view portion of FIG. 11 shown. [Figure 11] 10 is a detailed view of multiple engagement features of an alternative embodiment (torque tool body shown enclosed by section line B). FIG. [Figure 12] 10 is a top view of an alternative embodiment of a torque tool body and a plurality of engagement features. FIG. [Figure 13] 14 is a side view of another embodiment of a torque tool body, showing the plane in which the cross-sectional view shown in FIG. 13 is taken. [Figure 14] 14 is a cross-sectional view of another embodiment of the torque tool body taken along line AA of FIG. 13, showing a laterally coupled mount; [Figure 15] FIG. 1 is a side view of a torque tool body prior to turning a damaged / stripped fastener. [Figure 16] A side view of the torque tool body attached to the damaged / stripped fastener (each gripping edge cutting a groove into the damaged / stripped fastener). [Figure 17] FIG. 10 is a side view of the torque tool body removed from the damaged / stripped fastener showing the groove of the damaged / stripped fastener. [Figure 18] FIG. 10 is a top view of a torque tool body and multiple engagement features showing the groove cutting radius. [Figure 19] FIG. 10 is a side view of a torque tool body and a plurality of engagement features showing the height of the attachment body being smaller than the combined height of the torque tool body and the plurality of engagement features. [Figure 20] FIG. 10 is a top view of another embodiment of a torque tool body and a plurality of engagement features comprising an intermediate sidewall portion. [Figure 21] FIG. 1 is a perspective view of one embodiment of a torque tool body engaged with a torque arm. [Figure 22] FIG. 1 is a perspective view of one embodiment of a torque tool body engaged with a torque arm. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0007] All figures are for the purpose of illustrating selected versions of the invention and are not intended to limit the scope of the invention.

[0008] The present invention generally relates to methods for using extraction tools and extraction tool accessories. More specifically, the present invention discloses a method for using a fastener removal tool device to remove damaged / stripped fasteners. When a damaged / stripped fastener is removed through the removal tool, removing the damaged / stripped fastener from the removal tool can be a difficult task. The present invention aims to solve this problem by disclosing a release tool that selectively engages with the removal tool. The release tool is used to assist the user in removing pieces of the damaged / stripped fastener that become trapped in the extraction tool during removal. Furthermore, the present invention accommodates male fastener head designs. Fasteners utilizing a male head design, also known as male fasteners, use the outer side of the fastener's head to engage a tool for tightening or loosening. Examples of such fasteners include hex bolts and nuts. Furthermore, the present invention is also useful for internally driven fasteners (also known as socket cap screws) that utilize an external socket head design. An example of a male fastener is a bolt with a hex head. The present invention can be used with both right-hand and left-hand threaded male fasteners. Additionally, the present invention is compatible with any type of male-threaded shaft. While the extraction tools used in the present invention are described as female, the present invention may utilize reverse or inverted male embodiments that use the same elements and incorporate the same functionality as described herein.

[0009] As shown in FIGS. 1 and 8 , the fastener removal tool used in the present invention includes a torque tool body 1 with a threaded opening 4 and a plurality of engagement features 5. The fastener removal tool used in the present invention further includes a release bolt 12. The torque tool body 1 serves as a physical structure that applies a corresponding force to a fastener head 61 or a threaded shaft 62 via the plurality of engagement features 5. For male fasteners, the torque tool body 1 is a tubular extrusion sized to fit interlockingly with the fastener head 61 or threaded shaft 62, similar to a wrench socket. The length, width, and diameter of the torque tool body 1 may vary to accommodate different sizes of fastener heads 61 or threaded shafts 62. The plurality of engagement features 5 prevent slippage during fastener removal and are radially arranged around the rotation axis 2 of the torque tool body 1, as shown in FIG. 3 . More specifically, the plurality of engagement features 5 are circumferentially connected around the base 3 of the torque tool body 1 and grip the fastener head 61 or threaded shaft 62. As a result, the engagement features 5 facilitate torque transmission to the fastener head 61 or threaded shaft 62 by preventing slippage from the torque tool body 1. Furthermore, the engagement features 5 are equally spaced around the torque tool body 1, forming a closed contour as shown in FIGS. 3 and 4. The threaded opening 4 extends concentrically through the base 3 and serves as an attachment means for the release bolt 12. More specifically, the release bolt 12 is threadably engaged with the threaded opening 4 and is located opposite the engagement features 5. As a result, if a damaged / stripped fastener 60 becomes lodged within the engagement features 5 after a removal procedure, the release bolt 12 can be used to push or remove the damaged / stripped fastener 60 from the engagement features 5. In an alternative embodiment, the threaded opening 4 is a separate embodiment and is removable from the torque tool body 1.

[0010] As shown in FIGS. 1 and 2 , the torque tool body 1 may have a plurality of engagement features 5 extending outward from its cross section. This results in a socket-like structure on the inner circumferential surface of the torque tool body 1, with the plurality of engagement features 5 distributed around the rotation axis 2. This is similar to a wrench socket. Furthermore, a wrench handle may be externally and laterally connected to the torque tool body 1 to form a wrench handle attachment. For both the wrench socket and the handle attachment, each of the plurality of engagement features 5 extends along a specific length of the torque tool body 1, thereby defining a space within the torque tool body 1. The aforementioned space serves as a receiving cavity for a fastener head 61 or a threaded shaft 62, allowing the plurality of engagement features 5 to grip the fastener head 61 or the threaded shaft 62.

[0011] Conventional socket wrenches transmit most of the torque to the male fastener 60 through the side corners of the fastener head 61 (the intersection of the two side walls). Over time, however, deterioration of the side corners reduces the efficiency of torque transmission from the socket wrench to the fastener head 61, resulting in slippage. The present invention overcomes this problem by using a fastener removal tool that shifts the point of torque transmission to the side walls 63 of the fastener head 61. This is achieved through the use of multiple engagement features 5. Each of the multiple engagement features 5 is positioned to engage ("bite") the side walls 63 of the fastener head 61 rather than the corner portion of the fastener head 61. This allows sufficient torque to be transferred to the fastener head 61 to initiate rotation, thereby extracting the damaged / stripped fastener 60. When using a fastener extractor according to the present invention to remove a threaded shaft 62, the multiple engagement features 5 are positioned to engage the radial surfaces 64 to initiate rotation and, consequently, removal of the damaged / stripped fastener 60. This provides one of the improvements and advantages of the present invention compared to conventional removal methods: increased tool and fastener life and virtually eliminated tool slippage from the fastener. This feature provides cost, time, and safety benefits.

[0012] 3 and 4 illustrate a preferred embodiment of a fastener extractor and removal tool according to the present invention. The cross section of each of the plurality of engagement features 5 includes a first ramp portion 6, a hollow portion 7, and a second ramp portion 8. More specifically, the first ramp portion 6 is connected to an end of the hollow portion 7. The second ramp portion 8 is connected to an end of the hollow portion 7, with the first ramp portion 6 and the second ramp portion 8 positioned on opposite sides of the hollow portion 7. The lengths of the first ramp portion 6, the hollow portion 7, and the second ramp portion 8 may vary. Similarly, the corresponding angles of the first ramp portion 6, the hollow portion 7, and the second ramp portion 8 may vary, creating a more sharp, tooth-like shape. The first ramp portion 6 and the second ramp portion 8 are preferably flat, but may incorporate a variety of shapes, including concave, angled, straight, convex, or a combination of the aforementioned surfaces.

[0013] In a preferred embodiment of the torque tool body 1, a pair of engagement features 5 define a gripping edge 40 that may be configured to "bite" into the fastener head 61 or threaded shaft 62 during removal of a damaged / stripped fastener 60. More specifically, as shown in FIGS. 3 and 4, the plurality of engagement features 5 includes an optional engagement feature 10 and an adjacent engagement feature 11. An optional engagement feature 10 is any feature within the plurality of engagement features 5 such that the adjacent engagement feature 11 is the feature immediately adjacent to the optional engagement feature 10. Furthermore, the first sloped portion 6 of any engagement feature 10 is connected to the second sloped portion 8 of the adjacent engagement feature 11 at the gripping edge 40. To clearly define the enclosed outline of the plurality of engagement features 5 near the gripping edge 40, the first sloped portion 6 of any engagement feature 10 is connected to the second sloped portion 8 of the adjacent engagement feature 11 at an obtuse angle.

[0014] Furthermore, when the present invention engages the torque tool body 1 with the fastener head 61 or threaded shaft 62, only the gripping edge 40, the first angled portion 6, and the second angled portion 8 contact the fastener surface. The hollow portion 7 does not engage with the fastener surface, thereby forming a hollow space (cavity). That is, the hollow portion 7 is configured to be offset from the fastener 60, thereby defining a hollow space. Furthermore, the shape of the hollow space is preferably curved or radiused, but the shape of the space may be any shape desired by the user.

[0015] As shown in FIGS. 3 and 6 , the present invention further includes an upper flat surface 32 and an upper chamfered surface 33. The upper flat surface 32 of the torque tool body 1 is disposed adjacent to the outer circumferential surface of the plurality of engagement features 5. Furthermore, the transition edge between the upper flat surface 32 and the outer circumferential surface of the plurality of engagement features 5 is preferably a chamfered or curved edge, but may also be a squared edge if desired. The upper flat surface 32 and the upper chamfered surface 33 are radially separated by the plurality of engagement features 5, and the upper flat surface 32 is connected around the entire periphery of the upper chamfered surface 33. Furthermore, the upper flat surface 32 is disposed parallel to the upper surface 35 of the base 3. The upper chamfered surface 33 is oriented toward the upper surface 35 of the base 3 and is therefore disposed at an angle relative to the upper flat surface 32.

[0016] As mentioned above, the torque tool body 1 can be designed to accommodate various fastener head designs. This is achieved by varying the number of engagement features 5 to accommodate different types of fastener head designs. The number of engagement features 5 generally corresponds to the number of sidewalls 63 on the fastener head 61. For example, a pentagonal fastener head has five. To remove a male fastener with a pentagonal head, the user must utilize an embodiment of the present invention in which the number of engagement features 5 is five. Preferably, the number of engagement features 5 that contact the fastener head may be 18, 12, 6, or 4. While the method of the present invention is most commonly applied to fasteners with fastener heads 61 having multiple sidewalls 63, the method of the present invention is also applicable to threaded fasteners with rounded heads, such as wood screws, machine screws, and set screws. Furthermore, the method is also applicable to radial or angled fastener heads with diameters greater than, equal to, or less than the diameter of the fastener's threaded shaft 62.

[0017] 9 to 11 illustrate a first alternative embodiment of the torque tool body 1. The cross section of each of the plurality of engagement features 5 includes a first ramp portion 6, a hollow portion 7, and a second ramp portion 8. The second ramp portion 8 further includes a proximal portion 81 and a distal portion 82. More specifically, the first ramp portion 6 terminates in the hollow portion 7. The proximal portion 81 of the second ramp portion 8 terminates in the hollow portion 7, and the first ramp portion 6 and the proximal portion 81 of the second ramp portion 8 are disposed opposite each other across the hollow portion 7. The distal portion 82 of the second ramp portion 8 terminates in the proximal portion 81 of the second ramp portion 8 and is disposed on the opposite side of the hollow portion 7. The lengths of the first ramp portion 6, the hollow portion 7, and the second ramp portion 8 may vary. Similarly, the corresponding angles of the first ramp portion 6, the hollow portion 7, and the second ramp portion 8 may be varied to create a sharper, tooth-like shape.

[0018] In the first alternative embodiment of the torque tool body 1, the gripping edge 40 is defined between the proximal portion 81 of the second ramp portion 8 and the distal portion of the second ramp portion 8 to bite into the fastener head 61 or threaded shaft 62 during removal of the damaged / stripped fastener 60. More specifically, the plurality of engagement features 5 includes an optional engagement feature 10 and an adjacent engagement feature 11. An optional engagement feature 10 is any feature within the plurality of engagement features 5 such that the adjacent engagement feature 11 is the feature immediately adjacent to the optional engagement feature 10. As shown in FIGS. 10 and 11 , the first ramp portion 6 of any optional engagement feature 10 is connected at a right angle to the distal portion 82 of the adjacent engagement feature 11. The distal portion 82 of the adjacent engagement feature 11 and the proximal portion 81 of the adjacent engagement feature 11 are disposed adjacent to each other at an obtuse angle. Additionally, the proximal portion 81 of the second ramp 8 and the distal portion 82 of the second ramp 8 are oriented at an obtuse angle, thereby defining the gripping edge 40 .

[0019] FIG. 12 illustrates a second alternative embodiment of the torque tool body 1. The cross section of each of the engagement features 5 includes a first inclined portion 6, a hollow portion 7, and a second inclined portion 8. The hollow portion 7 further comprises a first section, a second section, a third section, and a fourth section. More specifically, the first section is adjacent to and connected to the second section. The third section is adjacent to the second section and disposed on the opposite side of the first section. The fourth section is adjacent to the third section and disposed on the opposite side of the second section. As a result, the first inclined portion 6 is connected to the end of the first section. The second inclined portion 8 is connected to the end of the fourth section, and the first inclined portion 6 and the second inclined portion 8 are disposed opposite each other around the hollow portion 7. Furthermore, the first inclined portion 6 and the second inclined portion 8 are disposed collinearly with each other so that the hollow portion 7 is oriented toward the rotation axis 2.

[0020] In the second alternative embodiment of the torque tool body 1, the gripping edge 40 is defined within the hollow portion 7, allowing the gripping edge 40 to bite into the fastener head 61 during removal of the damaged / stripped fastener 60. Furthermore, the first, second, third, and fourth sections may be formed as a plurality of straight sections, a plurality of curved sections, or a combination of straight and curved sections. More specifically, the plurality of engagement features 5 includes an optional engagement feature 10 and an adjacent engagement feature 11. An optional engagement feature 10 is any feature within the plurality of engagement features 5 such that the adjacent engagement feature 11 is the feature immediately adjacent to the optional engagement feature 10. As shown in FIG. 12 , the first sloped portion 6 of any optional engagement feature 10 is connected to the second sloped portion 8 of the adjacent engagement feature 11 at an obtuse angle. In other words, the adjacently disposed first sloped portion 6 and second sloped sloped portion 8 form an obtuse angle and form a connection point between pairs of engagement features 5. The shape of the gripping edge 40 is created inside the hollow portion 7. *See the diagram

[0021] As shown in FIG. 21 , the method of the present invention also incorporates a torque arm 70 that attaches to the torque tool body 1 and increases the torque force applied to the damaged / stripped fastener 60. The torque arm has an engagement end for attachment to the torque tool body 1. This engagement end may be a bifurcated head, socket, or other surface suitable for engaging with the torque tool body 1. The torque arm 70 may be an external torque tool, such as an open-end wrench, box-end wrench, combination wrench, adjustable wrench, ratchet wrench, socket wrench, etc., that attaches to the torque tool body 1.

[0022] As shown in FIGS. 5 and 6 , to facilitate use of the torque arm 70, some embodiments of the torque tool body 1 further include a mounting body 16 and an engagement bore 17 as features for attaching the torque arm 70 to the torque tool body 1. The mounting body 16 is concentrically disposed around the rotation axis 2 of the torque tool body 1 so as to be aligned with the rotation axis 2 of the torque tool body 1. Furthermore, the mounting body 16 is connected adjacent to the base 3 of the torque tool body 1 and is disposed opposite the plurality of engagement features 5. The mounting body 16 is preferably hexagonal in shape with a diameter slightly larger than the diameter of the base 3 of the torque tool body 1. However, depending on the size of the base and the preferred manufacturing method or design, a mounting body 16 with a smaller diameter than the base 3 may also be incorporated. The engagement bore 17 extends through the mounting body 16 concentrically along the rotation axis 2. The engagement bore 17 is configured to receive a male attachment member of a socket wrench, with the preferred shape of the engagement bore 17 being square because most socket wrenches utilize square male attachment members. In alternative embodiments, the shape and design of the engagement bore 17 and the attachment body 16 may vary, including but not limited to, square or cylindrical, to accommodate various torque tools and various attachment means. In alternative embodiments, the outer surface of the attachment body 16 may have a surface grip treatment, such as knurling or other alternative methods, to increase friction between the torque tool body 1 and the driven object. As shown in FIGS. 2 and 6 , the bottom surface 31 of the attachment body 16 tapers away from the engagement bore 17 to prevent the multiple engagement features 5 from striking or damaging the engagement bore 17 when hammered into a damaged / stripped fastener 60. In other words, the height of the mounting body 16 near the engagement bore 17 is slightly greater than the height of the mounting body 16 near the outer surface of the mounting body 16, causing the bottom surface 31 to taper away from the engagement bore 17.

[0023] As shown in FIGS. 13 and 14 , some embodiments of the torque tool body 1 further include only a mounting body 16 as a mounting feature for attaching the torque arm 70 to the torque tool body 1. The mounting body 16 is centered about the rotation axis 2 so as to be aligned with the rotation axis of the torque tool body 1. The mounting body 16 is further laterally connected around the base 3 and the plurality of engagement features 5 of the torque tool body 1. The mounting body 16 is further laterally connected around the base 3 and the plurality of engagement features 5 of the torque tool body 1. Furthermore, as shown in FIG. 19 , the height 50 of the mounting body 16 is less than the combined height 51 of the base 3 and the plurality of engagement features 5 of the torque tool body 1. The mounting body 16 is preferably hexagonal in design, with a diameter slightly larger than the diameter of the base 3 of the torque tool body 1. However, in some alternative embodiments, the diameter of the mounting body 16 may be the same as the diameter of the base 3, or in yet another alternative embodiment, the diameter of the mounting body 16 may be less than the diameter of the base 3. In an alternative embodiment, the outer surface of the mount 16 may be provided with a surface gripping treatment such as knurling or other alternative methods to increase friction between the torque tool body 1 and the driven object. In an alternative embodiment shown in Figures 13 and 14, a threaded opening 4 is incorporated through the mount 16.

[0024] As shown in FIG. 7 , the release bolt 12 used to remove the damaged / stripped fastener 60 includes a base portion 13, a threaded shaft portion 14, and a driver portion 15. More specifically, the base portion 13 and the driver portion 15 are disposed opposite each other about the center of the threaded shaft portion 14, and a preferred embodiment of the threaded shaft portion 14 is cylindrical. The base portion 13, the threaded shaft portion 14, and the driver portion 15 are axially positioned relative to each other so that the base portion 13 is concentrically connected to one end of the threaded shaft portion 14 and the driver portion 15 is concentrically connected to the opposite end of the threaded shaft portion 14. The base portion 13 is preferably a tapered cone, but may be formed in any other shape as long as the base portion 13 can be easily inserted into the threaded opening 4. Furthermore, a cavity may extend laterally through the driver portion 15 so that a torque arm 70 can be engaged to apply torque to the release bolt 12 when the release bolt 12 is engaged in the engagement bore 17. The cavity may be any shape, such as circular, square, or any other geometric shape.

[0025] As shown in FIG. 8 , the threaded shaft portion 14 is designed to fit the threads of each of the threaded openings 4 to facilitate engagement between the threaded openings 4 and the release bolt 12. When a damaged / stripped fastener 60 needs to be removed, the threaded shaft portion 14 engages with the threaded opening 4. As a result, the driver portion 15 is offset relative to the torque tool body 1 so that the base surface of the bottom portion 13 is positioned within and adjacent to the multiple engagement features 5. The user applies an appropriate clockwise or counterclockwise torque to the release bolt 12 via the driver portion 15 until the damaged / stripped fastener 60 is released from the socket, thereby converting the rotational force into a linear force. Because the base surface of the bottom portion 13 is positioned within the multiple engagement features 5, the applied linear force allows the base surface of the bottom portion 13 to contact and remove the damaged / stripped fastener 60. In a preferred embodiment, the driver portion 15 is hexagonal. However, in alternative embodiments, the shape of driver portion 15 may be, but is not limited to, square, round, or internal drive to accommodate various socket wrenches or other similar tools capable of applying rotational force. Base portion 13 may be shaped as a cylinder, square, hexagon, or any other shape preferred by the user or manufacturer. Threaded shaft portion 14 may be any shape shank adapted to accept external threads, including, but not limited to, a semicircular, semisquare, or other geometrically shaped shank.

[0026] The functionality of the gripping edges 40 for the preferred, first, and second alternative embodiments is consistent, ensuring that the torque tool body securely grips around the fastener head 61 or threaded shaft 62. More specifically, the gripping portions 40 are preferably sharp (sharp) points, but may also be small-radius convex, flat, or concave if desired by the manufacturer. As shown in FIGS. 15-17, one unique feature of the gripping edges 40 is their ability to cut, push, and peel away target material to form a groove or recess in the damaged / stripped fastener 60. As a result, each gripping edge 40 can securely secure the present invention to the fastener head 61 or threaded shaft 62, thereby achieving significantly enhanced engagement. The groove or recess is formed parallel to the axis of rotation 2 and perpendicular to the top surface 35 of the base 3. Furthermore, each gripping edge 40 allows the present invention to function equally effectively in both clockwise and counterclockwise directions. Furthermore, because each gripping edge 40 is a sharp point that bites into and engages the fastener head 61 or threaded shaft 62, the present invention eliminates the possibility of slippage that can occur with other helical engagement extraction tools due to the helical engagement features being oriented in the same rotational direction as the torque force applied to facilitate the extraction process. Similarly, conventional socket removal tools that apply rotational forces to the sidewalls of the fastener head are prone to slippage and damage the fastener. The present invention effectively transmits and applies rotational torque to the fastener head 61 or threaded shaft 62 without slippage by cutting a groove into the rotational symmetry. As the gripping edges 40 cut a groove into the fastener head 61 or threaded shaft 62, material that has peeled off from the fastener head 61 or threaded shaft 62 is collected adjacent to the first angled portion 6, and the second angled portion 8 and top chamfered surface 33 provide additional surface area for contact between the present invention and the damaged / stripped fastener 60. As a result, the user can apply greater torque to the damaged / stripped fastener 60.

[0027] As shown in FIG. 18 , the torque tool body 1 further includes a channel cutting radius 34 extending from the rotation axis 2 to the gripping edge 40. In some embodiments, the channel cutting radius 34 is approximately 1-5% smaller than the radius of the fastener head 61 or threaded shaft 62. Preferably, the channel cutting radius 34 is approximately 1-3% smaller than the radius of the fastener head 61 or threaded shaft 62. The radius of the fastener is measured from the fastener's rotation axis from the engagement feature 5 of the torque tool body 1 to the portion of the fastener adjacent to the gripping edge 40. The radius of the fastener corresponds to the distance from the fastener's rotation axis from the engagement feature 5 of the torque tool body 1 to the portion of the fastener adjacent to the gripping edge 40. In other words, the radius of the fastener is defined by the distance from the fastener's rotation axis to the sidewall 63 of the fastener head 61 or the closest portion of the radiused surface 64 of the threaded shaft 62. The method of using the fastener radius according to the present application can be applied to any threaded product, such as a threaded pipe, a threaded nut, or a threaded stud, as long as the threaded product has the potential to become unscrewed or stripped by rotation.

[0028] Furthermore, as shown in FIG. 17 , the gripping edge 40 engages near the center of the sidewall 63 of a conventional male hex fastener head 61. As a result, even after grooves have been cut into the sidewall 63 of a conventional male hex fastener 60 using the present invention, the use of a conventional wrench or socket is not impeded. For example, even after extracting a conventional hex fastener using the present invention, damage from a socket extractor is minimal and the fastener's driving surface is not impeded by standard tools, allowing torque to be applied to the fastener 60 using a typical socket or wrench. Furthermore, the present invention can be used with threaded shafts 62 without causing damage that would impair the use of the nut after removal. That is, when grooves are cut into the surface of a threaded shaft 62 using the torque tool body 1, damage caused by the present invention does not prevent the helical engagement of the threaded shaft and the threaded nut, allowing the threaded nut to be used as a fastener if desired.

[0029] When a rotational torque is applied during engagement with the fastener head 61 or the threaded shaft 62, the first and second inclined portions 6 and 8 are oriented at an angle relative to the side wall 63 of the fastener head 61 or the radial surface 64 of the threaded shaft 62. As a result, the first and second inclined portions 6 and 8 are preferably symmetrical with respect to the side wall 63 of the fastener head 61 or the radial surface 64 of the threaded shaft 63. In other words, the first and second inclined portions 6 and 8 are offset from a plane of symmetry and are not parallel. Preferably, the angles offset relative to the fastener head 61 or the threaded shaft 62 are all equal. However, the relative positions of the first and second inclined portions 6 and 8 are not limited to this option.

[0030] As shown in FIG. 3 , the gripping edges 40 are circumferentially symmetrically and equally spaced along the vertical direction along the axis of rotation. That is, the first and second ramps 6 and 8 are not tapered from the top surface 35 of the base 3 to the top flat surface 32. This feature provides a significant advantage in preventing the present invention from slipping off the fastener 60 by evenly transmitting torque forces to the fastener head 61 or threaded shaft 62 along the entire height of the engagement features 5. It is well known to those skilled in the art that tapered torque tools slip off the fastener head 61 or threaded shaft 62 because the engagement between the tapered extraction tool and the fastener head 61 or threaded shaft 62 is not evenly distributed across the entire height of the engagement features 5. It is well known to those skilled in the art that the tapered torque tool slips off the fastener head 61 or threaded shaft 62 because the engagement between the tapered extractor tool and the fastener head 61 or threaded shaft 62 is not evenly distributed over the entire height of the multiple engagement features 5.

[0031] 19 , the first and second ramps 6, 8 are linear and perpendicular to the top surface 35 of the base 3. Furthermore, the gripping edges 40 of any engagement feature 10 and adjacent engagement features 11 are aligned parallel to the axis of rotation 2. That is, the first and second ramps 6, 8, and gripping edges 40 are perpendicular in a direction from the top surface 35 of the base 3 toward the top chamfered surface 33.

[0032] 20, the torque tool body 1 may further incorporate intermediate sidewall portions between a first adjacent pair of the plurality of engagement features 5 and a second adjacent pair of the plurality of engagement features 5. In other words, the corresponding engagement features adjacent a pair of the plurality of engagement features 5 are replaced with intermediate sidewall portions that may be straight, radiused, flat-sided, or any other shape depending on the user's preference.

[0033] In use, a torque tool body 1 should be selected that matches as closely as possible the overall shape of the fastener 60 to be removed. Selecting the appropriate torque tool body 1 for a particular fastener typically involves matching the number of engagement features 5 on the torque tool body 1 with the number of side walls 63 on the fastener head 61. In some situations, such as with exceptionally severely damaged or asymmetrical fasteners, a torque tool body 1 may be selected based on optimal size and fit for the fastener 60, taking into account the ability of the engagement features 5 to interact with the fastener 60. In some embodiments, it may be preferable for the minimum diameter of the engagement features 5 to be smaller than the minimum diameter of the fastener. Once an embodiment of the torque tool body 1 is selected, the torque tool body 1 can be used to remove the fastener 60.

[0034] To remove a damaged / stripped fastener 60 according to the present invention, the torque tool body 1 is positioned around the damaged / stripped fastener 60 so that the majority of the engagement features 5 are positioned around the fastener head 61 or threaded shaft 62. This means that the user must bite the engagement features 5 into the fastener head 61 or threaded shaft 62. In some embodiments, the impacts are such that each gripping edge 40 cuts a vertical groove in the fastener head 61 or threaded shaft 62. In some cases, these impacts may be accomplished using a hammer or other impact device. Next, the user simply applies a loosening torque force to the torque tool body 1 using the torque arm 70 via the attachment body 16 or engagement bore 17 to rotate the damaged / stripped fastener 60 and remove it from the female threads. When torque is applied to the torque tool body 1, the engagement features 5 "bite" into the sidewall 63 of the fastener head 61 or threaded shaft 62, thereby rotating the fastener 60. In some embodiments of the method, a user may apply a torque force to the torque arm 70 in a tightening direction to loosen the fastener, to loosen the fastener from a jammed condition due to corrosion, rust, or the like, before rotating the fastener in a loosening direction. In situations where the fastener is extremely jammed or where a locking agent has been pre-applied to the fastener 63, the method may include inserting a release bolt 12 into the threaded opening 4 of the torque tool body 1 and applying a rotational torque force to the release bolt 12 to push the torque tool body 1 away from the fastener 60. Once the torque tool body 1 is removed from the fastener 60, heat or an anti-seize agent can be applied to the fastener without disturbing or damaging the torque tool body 1. Once the torque tool body 1 is removed from the fastener 60, heat or an anti-seize agent can be applied to the fastener without disturbing or damaging the torque tool body 1. The fastener loosening process can then be resumed, and the torque tool body can be driven into the fastener again.The method and apparatus of the present invention can be used to engage new, partially damaged, or completely damaged fastener heads 61. In the present invention, the use of multiple engagement features 5 overcomes slippage of the fastener head 61 because each pair of multiple engagement features 5 forms a gripping edge 40.

[0035] To tighten or insert a damaged / stripped fastener 60, the user simply reinserts the removed fastener 60 into the female thread body and uses the torque arm 70 to rotate the torque tool body 1 in the tightening direction to tighten the fastener. If the user needs to insert a damaged / stripped fastener that has been removed from the torque tool body, a procedure similar to that used to remove a damaged / stripped fastener 60 can be used. The torque tool body 1 is positioned around the damaged / stripped fastener 60 so that the majority of the multiple engagement features 5 are positioned around the fastener head 61 or threaded shaft 62. The user then bites the multiple engagement features 5 into the fastener head 61 or threaded shaft 62. Again, a strike may be used to bite each gripping edge 40 into the fastener head 61 or threaded shaft 62. Unlike the removal process, to rotate the damaged / stripped fastener 60 to insert or tighten it, the user applies a torque force in the tightening direction to the torque tool body 1 using the torque arm 70.

[0036] It should be further understood that although the above method describes fastener 60 as a female threaded body being removed from a male threaded fastener body, the present invention is not limited to this option as it may also be used in the opposite method using the same or similar step sequence as the above method, in which torque tool body 1 is used to rotate and remove a female threaded body, commonly known as a threaded nut.

[0037] The described method for removing and inserting damaged / stripped fasteners 60 uses torque forces in the loosening and tightening directions, respectively, for removing and inserting fasteners 60. While the directionality of these torque forces is generally understood to be counterclockwise for loosening and clockwise for tightening, similar to typical fastener operation, torque tool body 1 is bidirectional, and either counterclockwise or clockwise torque forces may be applied to torque tool body 1 for either inserting or removing fasteners 60, depending on the nature of the fastener connection.

[0038] After fastener 60 has been removed or tightened, the release bolt 12 is used to remove the damaged / stripped fastener 60 from the torque tool body 1. The threaded shaft portion 14 engages with the threaded opening 4 of the torque tool body 1. The user then applies the appropriate clockwise or counterclockwise torque to the release bolt 12 via the drive portion 15. This torque can be applied manually or with a tool such as the torque arm 70. In cases where the fastener does not readily release from the torque tool body, an additional step may be taken, such as using a second torque arm 70 to simultaneously apply an opposite torque to the torque tool body 1 and the release bolt 12. During the fastener removal method, the fastener 60 and the release bolt 12 move in the same direction, parallel to the axis of rotation, while the fastener 60 moves vertically away from the torque tool body 1. Additionally, heat and / or lubrication may be applied to the tool in this method to aid in removing the damaged / stripped fastener 60 from the torque tool body 1. The present invention can be used in the manner described above to remove any threaded object or embodiment that can be loosened or tightened in a threaded manner, but its application is not limited to male-threaded fasteners, studs, or female-threaded nuts.

[0039] Although the present invention has been described in relation to its preferred embodiments, it should be understood that many other possible modifications and variations can be made without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention.

Claims

1. providing a threaded fastener having a fastener head and a transversely threaded shaft; providing a torque tool body including a first open end having a plurality of engagement features radially arranged about an axis of rotation of the torque tool body, a gripping edge configured to cut a groove perpendicular to the threaded fastener, and a second open end having a threaded opening opposite the first open end; providing a release bolt, the release bolt including a threaded shaft portion and a driver portion, the release bolt configured to remove the threaded fastener from the torque tool body; engaging the torque tool body with the threaded fastener by aligning the engagement features of the torque tool body with the fastener head and forcing the torque tool body around the fastener head; applying a rotational torque to the torque tool body in a direction to loosen the threaded fastener, thereby loosening the threaded engagement of the threaded fastener; threading the threaded shaft portion of the release bolt into the threaded opening of the torque tool body; applying a rotational torque to the driver portion of the release bolt to remove the threaded fastener from the torque tool body; the release bolt is configured to move parallel to the rotation axis of the torque tool body; The radial distance from the rotation axis to the gripping edge is 1 to 5% smaller than the distance from the rotation axis of the threaded fastener to the side wall of the fastener head; method.

2. the torque tool body further comprises a mounting body; providing a first torque arm; and engaging the first torque arm with the mount; the step of applying a rotational torque to the torque tool body is accomplished by applying a lateral force to the first torque arm. The method of claim 1.

3. the torque tool body further comprising an engagement bore; providing a first torque arm; and engaging the first torque arm with the engagement bore; the step of applying a rotational torque to the torque tool body is accomplished by applying a lateral force to the first torque arm. The method of claim 1.

4. providing a second torque arm; and engaging the second torque arm with a driver portion of the release bolt; the step of applying a rotational torque to the driver portion of the release bolt is accomplished by applying opposing lateral forces to the first torque arm and the second torque arm. The method of claim 2.

5. The step of providing the torque tool body comprises: determining the number of sidewalls of the fastener head; selecting a torque tool body having a number of engagement features equal to the number of side walls of the fastener head. The method of claim 1.

6. further comprising a step of applying a rotational torque to the torque tool body in a tightening direction of the threaded fastener to improve the fastening state. The method of claim 1.

7. The step of engaging the torque tool body with the threaded fastener comprises: further comprising applying a strike to the torque tool body to further engage the torque tool body with the threaded fastener. The method of claim 1.

8. providing a threaded fastener having a fastener head and a transversely threaded shaft; providing a torque tool body having a first open end with a plurality of engagement features arranged radially about an axis of rotation of the torque tool body, a gripping edge configured to cut a groove perpendicular to the threaded fastener, and a second open end having a threaded opening opposite the first open end; providing a release bolt having a threaded shaft portion and a driver portion, the release bolt configured to release the threaded fastener from the torque tool body; engaging the torque tool body with the threaded fastener by aligning the plurality of engagement features of the torque tool body with the fastener head and forcing the torque tool body around the fastener head; applying a rotational torque to the torque tool body in a tightening direction of the threaded fastener to screw in the threaded fastener; threadingly engaging the threaded shaft portion of the release bolt with the threaded opening in the torque tool body; applying a rotational torque to the driver portion of the release bolt to remove the threaded fastener from the torque tool body; the release bolt is configured to move parallel to the rotation axis of the torque tool body; The radial distance from the rotation axis to the gripping edge is 1 to 5% smaller than the distance from the rotation axis of the threaded fastener to the side wall of the fastener head; method.

9. the torque tool body further comprises a mounting body; providing a first torque arm; and engaging a first torque arm with the mount; the step of applying a rotational torque to the torque tool body is accomplished by applying a lateral force to the first torque arm. The method of claim 8.

10. providing a first torque arm; engaging the first torque arm with the driver portion of the release bolt; the step of applying a rotational torque to the driver portion of the release bolt is accomplished by applying a lateral force to the first torque arm. The method of claim 8.

11. providing a second torque arm; and engaging the second torque arm with the driver portion of the release bolt; applying a rotational torque to the driver portion of the release bolt is accomplished by applying opposing lateral forces to the first torque arm and the second torque arm.

10. The method of claim 9.

12. The step of providing the torque tool body comprises: determining the number of sidewalls of the fastener head; selecting a torque tool body having a number of engagement features equal to the number of side walls of the fastener head; The method of claim 8.

13. The torque tool body further includes a step of applying a rotational torque in a direction that loosens the threaded fastener, thereby improving the stuck state. The method of claim 8.

14. The step of engaging the torque tool body with the threaded fastener comprises: further comprising applying a strike to the torque tool body to further engage the torque tool body with the threaded fastener. The method of claim 8.

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