Decorative security fastener

Abstract

We provide wheel fasteners that can be given a decorative appearance. [Solution] The security fastener assembly 10 comprises a cap 12 having a standard tool bearing surface and a mounting portion formed on the opposite side of the tool bearing surface 24. The fastener body 14 has a mating mounting portion 32 formed at a first end to which the cap 12 is fixed, and a key-type security feature portion formed adjacent to the mating mounting portion 32. The second end 38 of the fastener body 14 has a threaded fastener portion for fixing the fastener assembly 10 to a vehicle. The threaded portion of the fastener body 14 is mounted by rotating it in a first direction. Even if the tool bearing surface 24 of the cap 12 is engaged and rotated in a second direction opposite to the first direction, the threaded portion of the fastener body 14 does not rotate. The fastener body 14 can be removed using the key-type security feature portion.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] Cross - Reference to Related Applications This application claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Application No. 62 / 950,096, filed Dec. 18, 2019, the disclosure of which is incorporated herein in its entirety by reference.

[0002] This application relates to wheel fasteners for vehicles.

Background Art

[0003] Vehicle wheels may be stolen for resale or scrap value. To prevent wheel theft, lock fasteners can be used to "lock" the wheels to the vehicle instead of standard wheel fasteners, preventing the fasteners from being removed. These lock fasteners may have a different appearance from other decorative wheel fasteners on the same wheel and may not be aesthetically pleasing.

Summary of the Invention

[0004] According to one embodiment, a security fastener assembly includes a cap having a standard tool bearing surface and an attachment portion formed on the opposite side of the tool bearing surface. The fastener body has a mating attachment portion formed at a first end to which the cap is fixed and a key - type security feature formed adjacent to the mating attachment portion. The second end of the fastener body has a screw fastener portion for fixing the fastener assembly to the vehicle. The screw portion of the fastener body is attached by rotating in a first direction. Engaging the tool bearing surface of the cap and rotating in a second direction opposite to the first direction does not rotate the screw portion of the fastener body. The fastener body can be removed using the key - type security feature.

[0005] In another embodiment, the key - type security feature is hidden by the cap when the cap is attached to the fastener body.

[0006] In another embodiment, the cap is removable from the fastener body without removing the fastener body from the vehicle.

[0007] In another embodiment, the assembly is configured to be screwed to the vehicle by bringing a standard tool into contact with the tool bearing surface of the cap and rotating the cap and fastener body in a first direction.

[0008] In another embodiment, the cap has a threaded portion, and the fastener body has a mating threaded portion. The cap is rotated in a first direction to engage the threaded portion with the mating threaded portion of the fastener body. When the cap is rotated in a second direction opposite to the first direction, the cap detaches from the fastener body, but the fastener body does not rotate in the second direction.

[0009] In another embodiment, the fastener body has a first thread dimension on the mating threaded portion that differs from the second thread dimension on the threaded fastener portion. The first break-away torque between the cap and the fastener body based on the first thread dimension is smaller than the break-away torque between the fastener body and the vehicle based on the second thread dimension.

[0010] In another embodiment, the first helical angle of the first screw dimension is different from the second helical angle of the second screw dimension. The first release torque between the cap and the fastener body is smaller than the second release torque between the fastener body and the vehicle.

[0011] In another embodiment, at least one of the threaded portion of the cap or the mating threaded portion of the fastener body has a friction modifier coating to reduce the first release torque between the cap and the fastener body.

[0012] In another embodiment, the mounting portion of the cap has an internal bore, and the mating mounting portion of the fastener body has a projection, which, when pushed into the internal bore, holds the cap in place on the fastener body by interference fit.

[0013] In another embodiment, the mating mounting portion further comprises at least one elastomer ring. This elastomer ring is compressed when inserted into the bore, and the cap is held to the fastener body by a tight fit.

[0014] In another embodiment, the internal bore has an annular ridge, and the elastomer ring engages with the annular ridge in a snap fit.

[0015] In another embodiment, the cap body is made of plastic. The internal bore elastically deforms when the mating mounting portion is pressed into the bore, so that the cap is held in place by a tight fit on the fastener body.

[0016] In another embodiment, the projection has an annular rib. The internal bore has a first opening smaller than a second opening. The first opening elastically deforms when the annular rib is pressed into the bore, so that the cap is held in a snap-fit ​​to the fastener body.

[0017] In another embodiment, the cap rotates freely around the projection while it is held in place by the fastener body.

[0018] In another embodiment, the key-type security feature has at least one recess having a unique security shape that cannot be operated with standard tools.

[0019] In another embodiment, the key-type security feature is formed inside the mating mounting portion of the fastener body.

[0020] In another embodiment, the key-type security feature is formed outside the mating mounting portion of the fastener body.

[0021] In another embodiment, the security fastener kit comprises the security fastener assembly of claim 1 and a security drive tool having a tool bearing tip molded to engage with a key-type security feature for removing the fastener body from the vehicle.

[0022] According to another embodiment, a security fastener assembly is provided. The security fastener assembly is a two-piece assembly having a separable cap and a fastener body. The cap has a standard tool wrench face and a threaded mounting portion formed opposite the tool wrench face. The fastener body has a mating threaded mounting portion formed at a first end to which the cap is attached, and a key-type security feature formed adjacent to the mating threaded mounting portion. The second end of the fastener body has a threaded engagement portion for securing the fastener assembly to a vehicle. In the fastener body, the first thread dimension of the mating thread portion is different from the second thread dimension of the threaded engagement portion, and the first release torque between the cap and the fastener body based on the first thread dimension is smaller than the second release torque between the fastener body and the vehicle based on the second thread dimension. When the threaded portion of the fastener body is rotated in the first direction to attach it, it engages with the tool bearing surface of the cap. When rotated in the second direction opposite to the first direction, the threaded portion of the fastener body does not rotate. The fastener body is removable using a key-type security feature. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0023] [Figure 1] Figure 1 is an exploded side view of a security fastener assembly having a decorative cap and a fastener body according to one embodiment. [Figure 2] Figure 2 is an assembled side view of the security fastener assembly shown in Figure 1. [Figure 3] Figure 3 is a top view of one end of the fastener body of the security fastener assembly shown in Figure 1, showing the security drive feature in more detail, which is located within the external screw. [Figure 4] Figure 4A is a top view of the fastener body of FIG. 3 according to one embodiment. Figure 4B is a top view of the fastener body of FIG. 3 according to another embodiment. [Figure 5] Figure 5 is a cross-sectional view of the fastener body of FIG. 1 taken along section line 5-5. [Figure 6] Figure 6 is a bottom view of the cap of the fastener assembly of FIG. 1. [Figure 7] Figure 7 is a cross-sectional view of the cap of FIG. 1 taken along section line 7-7. [Figure 8] Figure 8 is a cross-sectional view of the fastener assembly of FIG. 2 taken along section line 8-8. [Figure 9] Figure 9A is a top view showing a security drive tool. Figure 9B is a cross-sectional view showing the security drive tool. Figure 9C is a bottom view showing the security drive tool. [Figure 10] Figure 10 is a side view of a security fastener assembly having a decorative cap and a fastener body according to one embodiment. [Figure 11] Figure 11 is a cross-sectional view of the fastener assembly of FIG. 10 taken along section line 11-11. [Figure 12] Figure 12 is a top view of the fastener assembly of FIG. 10 according to one embodiment. [Figure 13] Figure 13 is a cross-sectional view of the cap of FIG. 11 with the fastener body removed. [Figure 14] Figure 14 is a side view of the fastener body of FIG. 10 with the cap removed. [Figure 15] Figure 15 is a top view of the fastener body of FIG. 10 with the cap removed. [Figure 16] Figure 16 is a side view of a security fastener assembly having a decorative cap and a fastener body according to one embodiment. [Figure 17] Figure 17 is a cross-sectional view of the fastener assembly of FIG. 16 taken along section line 17-17. [Figure 18]Figure 18 is a top view of the fastener assembly shown in Figure 16, according to one embodiment. [Figure 19] Figure 19 is a side view of the cap from Figure 16 with the fastener body removed. [Figure 20] Figure 20 is a cross-sectional view of the fastener body shown in Figure 17 with the cap removed. [Figure 21] Figure 21 is a top view of the fastener body shown in Figure 16 with the cap removed. [Figure 22] Figure 22 is a side view of a security fastener assembly having a decorative cap and a fastener body according to one embodiment. [Figure 23] Figure 23 is a cross-sectional view of the fastener assembly in Figure 22, taken along section line 23-23. [Figure 24] Figure 24 is a top view of the fastener assembly shown in Figure 22, according to one embodiment. [Figure 25] Figure 25 is a cross-sectional view of the cap from Figure 23 with the fastener body removed. [Figure 26] Figure 26 is a side view of the fastener body shown in Figure 22 with the cap removed. [Figure 27] Figure 27 is a top view of the fastener body shown in Figure 10 with the cap removed. [Figure 28] Figure 28 is a side view of a security fastener assembly having a decorative cap and a fastener body according to one embodiment. [Figure 29] Figure 29 is a cross-sectional view of the fastener assembly in Figure 28, passing through section line 29-29. [Figure 30] Figure 30 is a top view of the fastener body shown in Figure 28 with the cap removed. [Figure 31] Figure 31 is a cross-sectional view of the cap from Figure 29 with the fastener body removed. [Modes for carrying out the invention]

[0024] Where necessary, detailed embodiments of the present invention are disclosed herein, but it should be understood that the disclosed embodiments are merely illustrative examples of the present invention, which can be embodied in various alternative forms. The drawings are not necessarily to scale, and some features may be exaggerated or minimized to illustrate the details of certain components. Accordingly, certain structural and functional details disclosed herein should not be constrained, but rather should be interpreted merely as representative grounds to teach those skilled in the art how to use the invention in various ways.

[0025] Figure 1 shows a decorative security fastener assembly 10. The decorative security fastener assembly 10 comprises a decorative fastener cap 12 coupled to a security fastener body 14. This decorative security fastener assembly 10 can be installed with standard tools, but requires a specific key-type tool to remove.

[0026] As shown in Figure 6, the decorative fastener cap 12 may have a hexagonal bearing surface 24. The bearing surface 24 of the fastener cap 12 is common to other wheel fasteners of the vehicle. Therefore, the security fastener 10 can be installed with standard tools and does not require any special or proprietary tools for installation. The cap 12 may have six bearing surfaces oriented in a hexagon. However, the cap 12 may have a different number of wrench surfaces, or any suitable shape, configuration, or standard tool bearing surface may be used. For example, a fastener cap with three pointed tool bearing surfaces can be used, as described in U.S. Patent Application No. 15 / 487,805 by Larry Wilson et al., or a hybrid bearing surface can be used, as described in U.S. Patent Application No. 15 / 872,386 by Steven Tomaszewski et al., the disclosures of which are incorporated herein by reference.

[0027] The fastener cap 12 has an attachment portion 26 for attaching the cap 12 to the fastener body 14. This attachment portion 26 is formed on the opposite side of the tool bearing surface 24 for attaching the cap 12 to the mating attachment portion 32 of the fastener body 14.

[0028] As shown in the embodiment of Figure 1, the mounting portion 26 has a threaded surface 16. The threaded surface 16 is formed as internal threads 42 formed in the bore 28 opposite the sealed cap end 22. The internal threads 42 of the threaded portion 16 screw into the external threads 44 of the fastener body 14. Once the internal threads 42 are fully seated into the external threads 44 of the fastener body 14, the cap 12 provides a torque channel to the fastener body 14, allowing the security fastener assembly 10 to be secured to the vehicle's wheel studs (not shown) at industry-standard torque levels for securely fastening the wheel to the vehicle.

[0029] The mating mounting portion 32 has a male thread 44 formed on the first end 34 of the fastener body 14. A bearing surface 36 of a tapered, frustoconical, spherical, or other shape is formed on the second end 38 of the fastener body opposite the first end 34. In one example, the bearing surface 36 may be tapered at 60 degrees. In another example, the bearing surface may taper to another suitable taper dimension, such as 45 degrees. The second end 38 comprises an internal bore 40 having a female thread 48 for engaging with the wheel stud of the vehicle. When the female thread 48 fully seats on the stud at a standard torque level, the bearing surface 36 is compressed, tension is applied to the corresponding surface, reducing the tendency for the nut to loosen, thereby allowing the wheel to be securely held to the vehicle.

[0030] As shown in the cross-sectional views of Figures 5 and 8, the second end 38 of the fastener body 14 is formed as a nut body having an engagement surface 30 with an internal thread 48. In another embodiment, the second end 38 of the fastener body 14 may be formed as a bolt having an engagement surface with an internal thread for engaging with a screw hole in a wheel hub, drum brake, or disc.

[0031] When attempting to remove the fastener assembly 10, the fastener cap 12 rotates and detaches from the fastener body 14, revealing the key-type security feature 50. Once the fastener cap 12 is removed, a corresponding key-type security tool is required to remove the fastener body 14 from the wheel stud.

[0032] As shown in Figure 1-2, the key-type security feature 50 is hidden when the cap 12 is attached to the fastener body 14. As shown in Figure 3-5, the key-type security feature 50 is formed inside the mating attachment portion 32 of the fastener body 14. When the cap 12 is attached to the fastener body 14, the key-type security feature 50 is positioned within the bore 28 of the cap 12 and is hidden by the closed cap end 22.

[0033] The key-operated internal drive 50 has uniquely shaped recesses 52 that may have multiple recesses, or recesses of varying undulations, meandering, irregular, or unique shapes, which cannot be gripped by standard tools to apply sufficient torque to remove the fastener body 14. For example, Figures 4A-4B show two examples of key-operated security features 50 having uniquely shaped recesses 52 that do not function to transmit sufficient torque to remove the fastener body 14 from the vehicle by standard tools.

[0034] As shown in Figure 8, the sealed cap end 22 can be sealed with a cover 54 fixed to the cap body 56. The cover 54 may be a stainless steel cover fixed on top of the cap body 56. Examples of covers that cover the cap body are disclosed in Larry Wilson et al., patent applications No. 14 / 976,190, 15 / 144,920 and 16 / 976,190, which are incorporated herein by reference.

[0035] As shown in Figures 9A-9B, the security tool 60 has corresponding ridged, meandering, or uniquely shaped tips 62 for unscrewing the fastener body 14 from the wheel. For example, the fastener body 14 can be manufactured with 15 or more uniquely shaped security recesses, each of which requires a unique tool. As shown in Figure 9B, the unique tool tip 62 corresponds to the key-operated recess 52 shown in Figure 4A. Other tools have corresponding tool tips based on the shape of the security recess. A lock security kit for a vehicle may include four fastener assemblies 10 (one fastener assembly 10 for each wheel), and each fastener body 14 may have the same unique key-operated drive feature 50. The kit also includes one key-operated security drive tool 60 having an engaging tip corresponding to one unique key-operated drive for each of the four fastener assemblies 10 in the kit.

[0036] The fastener body 14 can only be removed from the wheel using a unique key-type security drive tool 60. The cap 12 can be detached from the male thread 44 and removed without losing tension at the fastener joint on the bearing surface 36, while the fastener body 14 remains fixed to the vehicle.

[0037] Since the fastener assembly 10 is formed of two mating elements, a cap 12 and a fastener body 14, these two components can have various material properties and treatments to improve not only performance but also appearance. For aesthetic appeal, most aftermarket locking wheel fasteners are chrome-plated and have a chrome-plated bearing surface. A chrome-plated bearing surface has an unpredictable coefficient of friction and unpredictable compressive tension, which prevents the fastener and bearing surface from securely fastening the wheel to the vehicle. The fastener assembly 10, formed of two components, solves this problem. The fastener body 10 is not chrome-plated and is subjected to organic plating or other appropriate surface treatment to meet the automotive manufacturer's specifications regarding torque control and predictable fastening at the bearing surface. The cap 12 can be separately formed to have a desired appearance such as stainless steel, chrome plating, or black chrome plating, or other surface treatment for a desired appearance. Thus, the fastener assembly 10 can achieve a decorative appearance without having a chrome-plated bearing surface 36.

[0038] Furthermore, most commercially available locking wheel fasteners do not meet the automotive manufacturer's factory specifications regarding wheel fastener performance, deviating from some or all of the requirements, such as hardness, friction, and strength. However, the fastener assembly 10 may have a fastener body 14 formed of a material and treatment that meets the requirements for hardness, friction, and strength.

[0039] Furthermore, conventional locking security fasteners are prone to corrosion because the key-type security drive feature is exposed, resulting in an unsightly appearance. In addition, corrosion and debris can make it difficult to insert a key tool into the key-type drive opening, hindering removal. Since the key-type security drive feature 50 is protected by the cap 12, the fastener assembly 10 also offers advantages over existing locking lug nuts. The key-type security drive feature 50 of this application is not exposed unless the cap 12 is removed, thus providing the advantage that the key-type security drive feature 50 is protected from corrosion and debris during normal use.

[0040] The cap 12 may also include security electronics that enable the fastener assembly 10 to communicate with a vehicle or other receiver, or to provide an alarm in the event of an attempted wheel theft.

[0041] Fastener security electronics for wheel fastener alarms disclosed in U.S. Patent Applications No. 15 / 788,204, No. 16 / 127,999, and No. 17 / 069,649 by David Davis et al. are incorporated herein by reference.

[0042] The cap 12 can be used with another fastener body to cover, conceal, or protect the key-type drive feature. The screw engagement between the cap 12 and the fastener body 14 provides a torque channel and a one-way clutch for driving the fastener body 14 to a seating position that meets precise torque and tension requirements. Since the female thread 42 of the cap 12 has the same handedness as the female thread 48 of the fastener body 14, both the cap 12 and the fastener body 14 can be rotated in the same direction for mounting.

[0043] Subsequently, the cap 12 can be removed without affecting the tension of the fastener body 14 and the wheel connection. In fact, there is no tension on the female thread 42 of the cap 12 and the female thread 44 of the fastener body 14, and there is no clamping load. Therefore, the cap 12 can be removed where the female thread 42 of the cap disengages from the male thread 44 of the fastener body 14, without affecting the seating of the female thread 48 of the fastener body 14 on the wheel stud.

[0044] The removal torque of the cap 12 from the fastener body 14, i.e., the detachment torque, is smaller than the detachment torque of the fastener body 14 from the wheel. In one embodiment, the detachment torque of the cap 12 from the fastener body 14 is less than 95% of the detachment torque of the fastener body 14 from the wheel. In one embodiment, the detachment torque of the cap 12 from the fastener body 14 may be 95% to 75% of the detachment torque of the fastener body 14 from the wheel. However, the difference in detachment torque can be any appropriate difference, as long as the cap 12 does not fall off due to vibration while remaining fixed to the fastener body, but the fastener body can be easily removed without detaching from the wheel.

[0045] To allow the cap 12 to be removed from the fastener body 14 by screwing it off without removing the fastener body 14 from the vehicle, the mounting portion 26 and mating mounting portion 32 of the cap may have a first thread dimension, while the engaging surface 30 may have a second thread dimension. In one embodiment, the threads of the mounting portion 26 and mating mounting portion 32 may be double-lead threads. In a double-lead thread, two threads can be rotated simultaneously. The threads on the engaging surface 30 may be single-lead.

[0046] In one example, the first and second screw dimensions may have different pitch angles. For a single-lead screw, the pitch angle and the helix angle are equal. For a double-lead screw, the pitch angle is half the helix angle.

[0047] The helical angle of the first screw dimension may be greater than the helical angle of the second screw dimension. If the helical angle of the upper mating mounting portion 32 is greater than (i.e., steeper than) the helical angle of the lower engaging surface 30 of the fastener body 14, the torque to the upper mating mounting portion 32 remains constant, but the torque transmitted to the lower engaging surface 30 increases. Therefore, the lower engaging surface 30 exerts a greater clamping force on the vehicle. Consequently, when the cap 12 is turned to remove it from the mating mounting portion 32 of the fastener body 12, the cap 12 comes off with a lower release torque than the fastener body does against the wheel.

[0048] For example, the engagement surface 30 of a bolt or wheel nut 14 may have a single lead with a helix angle of approximately 0.43 radians and a clamping force of approximately 46.2 kN and a release torque of approximately 117 Nm when a standard torque of 140 Nm is applied. Conversely, in one example, if the upper mating mounting portion 32 is a double lead thread, it may have a clamping force of approximately 47.2 kN, a release torque of approximately 113 Nm, and a helix angle of approximately 0.08 radians. Other helix angles and / or thread dimensions are also intended to provide an appropriate difference in the release torque between the upper mating mounting portion 32 and the lower engagement surface 30.

[0049] In another embodiment, the mating mounting portion 32 may have a bearing surface area smaller than the threads of the engaging surface 30. For example, the female thread 42 of the cap 12 and the male thread 44 of the fastener body 14 may have a smaller bearing surface area compared to the wheel stud and the female thread 48 of the fastener body 14.

[0050] In another embodiment, the mating mounting portion 32 may have a smaller thread diameter than the threads of the engaging surface 30. For example, the mounting portion 26 and the mating mounting portion 32 may be M12x1.5, and the threads of the engaging surface 30 may be M4x1.5.

[0051] The fastener body 14 may have a coating for corrosion resistance and abrasion resistance. To further reduce the release torque required to remove the cap 12 from the fastener body 14, a friction modifier coating may be applied to the mounting portion 26 of the cap 12. The friction modifier coating reduces the coefficient of friction, allowing the cap 12 to be easily removed. An example of a friction modifier coating may be a chromium-free zinc-aluminum coating.

[0052] Figure 10-15 shows a decorative security fastener assembly 100 according to another embodiment. The decorative security fastener assembly 100 includes a decorative fastener cap 112 coupled to a security fastener body 114. The fastener assembly 100 can be installed with standard tools, but requires a specific key-type tool to remove.

[0053] As shown in Figure 12, the decorative fastener cap 112 may have a hexagonal bearing surface 124, but this bearing surface 124 can have any standard bearing surface common to other wheel fasteners of the vehicle. As shown, the fastener cap 112 has a mounting portion 126 for attaching the cap 112 to the fastener body 114 and has a female thread 142 formed in a bore 128 opposite the sealed cap end 122. In one embodiment, the bore 128 extends along the entire length of the cap body 158, and the cap end 122 may be surrounded by a cover fixed to the cap body 158. For example, the cover may be a stainless steel cover fixed on the cap body 158. Examples of covers covering the cap are disclosed in U.S. Patent Applications 14 / 976,190, 15 / 144,920 and 16 / 976,190 by Larry Wilson et al., which are incorporated herein by reference.

[0054] The female thread 142 of the threaded portion 16 engages with the male thread 144 of the fastener body 114. Once the female thread 142 is fully seated on the male thread 144 of the fastener body 114, the cap 112 provides a channel for applying torque to the fastener body 114, enabling the security fastener assembly 100 to be secured to the vehicle at an industry-standard torque level.

[0055] As shown in Figure 14, the fastener body 114 is formed as a bolt, and the second end 138 is formed as a bolt body having an engagement surface 130 which is a bolt projection 140 having a male thread 148 for engaging with a screw hole. For example, the male thread 148 can engage with a wheel hub, drum brake, or disc.

[0056] When attempting to remove the fastener assembly 100, the fastener cap 112 rotates and unscrews from the fastener body 114, revealing the key-type security feature 150. As shown in Figure 15, the key-type security feature 150 is formed on the fastener body 114 outside the mating mounting portion 126. The key-type security feature 150 can be formed on a ledge 154 surrounding the mating mounting portion 132. As illustrated, the key-type security feature 150 can be formed as a plurality of security recesses 152 formed on the ledge 154. The plurality of recesses 152 can have any appropriate shape, number, or spacing along the ledge 154. The key-type security recesses 152 are continuous around the mating mounting portion 132 and may be uneven, meandering, or uniquely shaped recesses that cannot be gripped by standard tools to apply sufficient torque to remove the fastener body 114. Once the fastener cap 112 is removed, a matching key-type security tool is required to remove the fastener body 114.

[0057] When the cap 112 is attached to the fastener body 114, the key-type security feature 150 is concealed. When the cap 112 is attached to the fastener body 114, the key-type security feature 150 is concealed by the flange 156 of the cap 112, covering the key-type security feature 150 on the ledge 154. The flange 156 of the cap 112 may have a substantially flat surface adjacent to the ledge 154 to conceal the key-type security feature 150 and surround the recess 152 to prevent debris and corrosion of the security feature 150.

[0058] The threaded engagement between the cap 112 and the fastener body 114 provides a torque channel and a one-way clutch for driving the fastener body 114 to a seating position that meets precise torque and tension requirements. Since the female thread 142 of the cap 112 has the same handedness as the male thread 148 of the fastener body 114, both the cap 112 and the fastener body 114 can be rotated in the same direction for mounting.

[0059] A mating male thread 144 is formed at the first end 134 of the fastener body 114, and a male thread 148 extends to the second end 138 of the fastener body 114. A tapered, spherical, or frustoconical surface 136 may be formed between the first end 134 and the second end 138, opposite the ledge 154. When the male thread 148 is fully seated at a standard torque level, the bearing surface 136 is compressed, and tension is applied to the corresponding surface, reducing the tendency for the bolt to loosen, thereby maintaining a secure fastening of the fastener 100.

[0060] Figure 16-21 shows a decorative security fastener assembly 200 according to another embodiment. The decorative security fastener assembly 200 has a decorative fastener cap 212 that is coupled to a security fastener body 214. The decorative security fastener assembly 200 can be installed with standard tools, but requires a specific key-type tool to remove.

[0061] As shown in Figure 18, the decorative fastener cap 212 may have a hexagonal bearing surface 224. However, the bearing surface 224 may have any standard bearing surface common to other wheel fasteners of the vehicle. As shown in Figure 19, the fastener cap 212 has a mounting portion 226 for attaching the cap 212 to the fastener body 214, which has a solid male thread 242 protruding from the cap body 228. The mounting portion 226 extends to the opposite sealed cap end 222.

[0062] The male thread 242 screws into the female thread 244 formed in the bore 246 of the fastener body 214. Once the male thread 242 is fully seated in the female thread 244 of the fastener body 214, the cap 212 provides the fastener body 214 with a torque passage that allows the security fastener assembly 200 to be secured to the vehicle at an industry-standard torque level.

[0063] As shown in Figure 20, the fastener body 214 may be formed as a bolt having a projection 240 with a male thread 248 for engaging with a screw hole at a second end 238. For example, the male thread 248 can engage with a wheel hub, drum brake, or disc.

[0064] When attempting to remove the fastener assembly 200, the fastener cap 212 rotates and unscrews from the fastener body 214, revealing the key-type security feature 250. As shown in Figure 20, the key-type security feature 250 is formed inside the mating mounting portion 232 of the fastener body 214. The key-type security feature 250 may be formed within the bottom floor 254 of the bore 246. As illustrated, the key-type security feature 250 may be a recess 252. This recess 252 may have any suitable shape or may be formed by multiple recesses. The key-type security recess 252 may be a recess with an uneven, meandering, or unique shape that cannot be gripped by a standard tool in order to apply sufficient torque to remove the fastener body 114. Once the fastener cap 212 is removed, a corresponding key-type security tool is required to remove the fastener body 214.

[0065] As shown in Figure 16-18, when the cap 212 is attached to the fastener body 214, the key-type security feature 250 is hidden. When the cap 212 is attached to the fastener body 214, the cap 212 covers the key-type security feature 250 located on the floor 254 of the bore 246.

[0066] The mating female thread 244 extends from the first end 234 of the fastener body 214 into the bore 246, and the male thread 248 extends to the second end 238 of the fastener body 214. A tapered, spherical, or frustoconical bearing surface 236 may be formed between the first end 234 and the second end 238. When the male thread 248 is fully seated at a standard torque level, the bearing surface 236 is compressed, tensioning the corresponding surface and reducing the tendency for the bolt to loosen, thereby maintaining a secure fastening of the fastener 200.

[0067] The screw engagement between the cap 212 and the fastener body 214 provides a torque channel and a one-way clutch for driving the fastener body 214 to a seating position that meets precise torque and tension requirements. Since the male thread 242 of the cap 212 has the same tightening direction as the male thread 248 of the fastener body 214, both the cap 212 and the fastener body 214 can be rotated in the same direction for mounting.

[0068] Figure 22-27 shows a decorative security fastener assembly 300 according to another embodiment. The decorative security fastener assembly 300 includes a decorative fastener cap 312 coupled to a security fastener body 314. The fastener assembly 300 has the aesthetic appearance of a standard fastener but requires a specific key-type tool to remove it.

[0069] As shown in Figure 24, the decorative fastener cap 312 may have a hexagonal bearing surface 324, although the bearing surface 324 may have any standard bearing surface common to other wheel fasteners of the vehicle. As shown in Figure 25, the fastener cap 312 has a mounting portion 326 for attaching the cap 312 to the fastener body 314. The mounting portion 326 is an internal bore 328 opposite the sealed cap end 322. The mating mounting portion 332 of the fastener body 314 is pressed into the mounting portion 326 of the cap 312. The mating mounting portion 332 of the fastener body 314 is held in place by interference fit in the mounting portion 326 of the cap 312. In one embodiment, the bore 328 may extend along the entire length of the cap body 358, and the cap end 322 may be enclosed by a cover fixed to the cap body 358. For example, the cover may be a stainless steel cover fixed to the cap body 358. Examples of covers for the cap body are disclosed in Larry Wilson et al., U.S. Patent Applications No. 14 / 976,190, 15 / 144,920, and 16 / 197,190, which are incorporated herein by reference.

[0070] The mating mounting portion 332 has a projection 344 extending from the fastener 354, which defines the first end 334 of the fastener body 314. The second end 338 of the fastener body 314 defines an engagement surface 330 which is a bolt having an internal thread. In another embodiment, the second end 338 of the fastener body 314 may be formed as a nut body having an engagement surface with an internal thread.

[0071] The mating mounting portion 332 has at least one annular groove 346 formed around the projection 344. As shown in the figure, two annular grooves 346 are formed along the projection 344. Each annular groove 346 is arc-shaped and sized to hold an elastomer ring 360, such as an O-ring. The outer diameter of the elastomer ring 360 is larger than the inner diameter of the internal bore 328, and when the mating mounting portion 332 is pressed into the cap 312, it is compressed to create an interlocking fit.

[0072] The mounting portion 326 of the cap 312 also has at least one annular ridge 362 extending into the bore 328. When the elastomer ring 360 is pressed over the ridge 362, the elastomer ring 360 is further compressed to create a snap fit, providing additional retention to prevent the fastener body 314 from being pulled away from the cap 312.

[0073] When attempting to remove the fastener assembly 300 by rotating the fastener cap 312, the cap 312 twists and rotates, but the fastener assembly 300 does not come off. When the fastener cap 312 is pulled out from the fastener body 314, the key-type security feature 350 is revealed. As shown in Figure 27, the key-type security feature 350 is formed on the outside of the mating mounting portion 332 of the fastener body 314.

[0074] The key-type security feature 350 can be formed on a ledge 354 surrounding the mating mounting portion 332. As shown in Figure 27, the key-type security feature 150 can be formed as a plurality of security recesses 352 formed on the ledge 354. The plurality of recesses 352 can have any appropriate shape, number, or spacing along the ledge 354. The key-type security recesses 352 may be continuous around the mating mounting portion 332 and may be uneven, meandering, or uniquely shaped recesses that cannot be gripped by a standard tool to apply sufficient torque to remove the fastener body 314. Once the fastener cap 312 is removed, a matching key-type security tool is required to unscrew and remove the fastener body 314. The key-type security tool can also be used to install the fastener body 314 before pressing in the cap 312.

[0075] When the cap 312 is attached to the fastener body 314, the key-type security feature 350 is concealed. When the cap 312 is attached to the fastener body 314, the key-type security feature 350 is concealed by the flange 356 of the cap 312, covering the key-type security feature 350 on the ledge 354. The flange 356 of the cap 312 may have a substantially flat surface adjacent to the ledge 354 in order to conceal the key-type security feature 350.

[0076] The engaging portion 330 of the fastener body 314 has a male thread 348 extending to the second end 338. A tapered or frustoconical bearing surface 336 is formed between the first end 334 and the second end 338 on the opposite side of the ledge 354. When the male thread 348 is fully sealed at a standard torque level, the bearing surface 336 is compressed, tensioning the corresponding surface and reducing the tendency for the bolt to loosen, thereby keeping the fastener 300 firmly fixed. The bearing surface 336 may be tapered, spherical, frustoconical, or other suitably shaped bearing surface 336 formed between the first end 334 and the second end 338.

[0077] Subsequently, the cap 312 can be removed without affecting the tension of the fastener body 314 and the vehicle. The cap 312 is removed in a linear direction parallel to the central axis of the fastener body, from which the screw-engaged fastener body 314 rotates. Thus, the cap 312 can be removed without affecting the scaling from the male thread 348 of the fastener body 314 to the vehicle. Similarly, the cap 312 can rotate or twist on the elastomer ring 360 if the frictional force twisting the cap 312 around the elastomer ring 360 is less than the release torque of the threaded portion 330 of the fastener body.

[0078] Figure 28-31 shows a decorative security fastener assembly 400 according to another embodiment. This decorative security fastener assembly 400 comprises a decorative fastener cap 412 coupled to a security fastener body 414. The cap 414 has the aesthetic appearance of a standard fastener, but the fastener body 414 requires a specific key-type tool to remove.

[0079] As shown in Figure 28, the decorative fastener cap 412 may have a hexagonal bearing surface 424, but the bearing surface 424 may have any standard bearing surface common to other wheel fasteners of the vehicle. As shown in Figure 29, the fastener cap 412 has a mounting portion 426 for attaching the cap 412 to the fastener body 414. The mounting portion 426 is an internal bore 428 opposite the cap end 422 for receiving the mating mounting portion 432 of the fastener body 414. The mating mounting portion 432 of the fastener body 414 is pressed into the mounting portion 426 of the cap 412. The mating mounting portion 432 of the fastener body 414 is held in place by an interference fit with the mounting portion 426 of the cap 412.

[0080] The mating mounting portion 432 has a projection 444 extending from the fastener knowledge 454 and defining the first end 434 of the fastener body 414. The second end 438 of the fastener body 414 defines an engagement surface 430 which is a bolt having a male thread 448. In another embodiment, the second end 438 of the fastener body 414 can be formed as a nut body having an engagement surface 430 with a female thread.

[0081] As shown in Figure 31, the mounting portion 426 of the cap 412 defines a bore 428, which has a first opening 460 having a smaller diameter than the second bore opening 462. The inner cap body 466 may be formed of plastic. The inner cap body 466 may also be formed of a polymer or other suitable elastically deformable material. The inner cap body 466 is covered with a metal cover 470 or layer so that the cap 412 has an aesthetic appearance with the other fastener. For example, the cap 112 may have a metal cover such as a stainless steel cover as disclosed in U.S. Patent Application No. 13 / 766,199 by Scan K. Milligan, which is incorporated herein by reference. The inner cap body 466 and cover 470 may also have a flange 456, as shown in Figure 29.

[0082] As shown in Figure 29, the mating mounting portion 432 has at least one annular rib 446 formed around the projection 444. The annular rib 446 has an outer diameter larger than the inner diameter of the first opening 460 of the inner bore 428. When the mating mounting portion 432 is pressed into the bore 428 formed in the inner cap body 466, the annular rib 446 elastically deforms the first opening 460. The annular rib 446 is pressed into the second bore opening 462, creating a snap fit that holds and prevents the fastener body 414 from being pulled out of the cap 412. Alternatively, the mounting portion 326 of the cap 312 may have at least one annular ridge extending into the bore 428. When the annular rib 446 is pressed beyond the ridge, the elastomer ring 360 is further compressed, providing additional retention and creating a snap fit that prevents the fastener body 414 from being pulled out of the cap 412.

[0083] The outer diameter of the annular rib 446 may be smaller than the inner diameter of the second bore opening 462, allowing the cap 412 to rotate freely around the projection 444. If an attempt is made to remove the fastener assembly 400 by rotating the fastener cap 412, the cap 412 will twist and rotate freely, but the fastener assembly 400 will not come off. As shown in Figures 28 and 30, the key-type security feature 450 may be formed along the fastener body 414 along the periphery 468 of the ledge 454.

[0084] When the male thread 448 is fully seated at the standard torque level, the bearing surface 436 is compressed, tension is applied to the corresponding surface, reducing the tendency for the bolt to loosen and thereby keeping the fastener 400 firmly fixed. The bearing surface 436 may be a tapered, spherical, frustoconical, or other suitably shaped bearing surface 436 formed between the first end 434 and the second end 438.

[0085] The key-type security feature 450 can be formed on a ledge 454 surrounding the mating mounting portion 432. As shown in Figures 28 and 30, the key-type security feature 450 can be formed as a plurality of security notches 452 formed along the periphery 468 of the ledge 454. The plurality of notches 452 may have any appropriate shape, number, or spacing along the ledge 454. The key-type security notches 452 may also form a periphery that is uneven, meandering, or uniquely shaped so that it cannot be gripped by a standard tool to apply sufficient torque to remove the fastener body 414. The key-type security feature 450 may also be formed on a ledge 454 adjacent to the bearing surface 436 so that the security notches 452 along the periphery 468 extend to the bearing surface 436.

[0086] A matching key-type security tool is required to remove the fastener body 414 by screwing it off. The key-type security tool can also be used to install the fastener body 414. In another embodiment, when the fastener cap 412 is pulled out from the fastener body 414, the key-type security feature of the ledge 454 may be exposed as described above.

[0087] While exemplary embodiments have been described above, these embodiments are not intended to describe all possible forms of the invention. Rather, the terms used herein are descriptive rather than limiting, and it should be understood that various modifications can be made without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention. Furthermore, features of various embodiments can be combined to form further embodiments of the invention.

Claims

1. A security fastener assembly, A cap having a standard tool bearing surface and a screw mounting portion formed on the opposite side of the tool wrench surface, A fastener body having a mating screw mounting portion formed at a first end to which the cap is fixed, and a key-type security feature portion formed near the mating screw mounting portion, wherein the second end of the fastener body has a screw engagement portion for fixing the fastener assembly to a vehicle, The fastener body has a first thread dimension of the mating thread portion that differs from the second thread dimension of the thread engagement portion, and the first release torque between the cap and the fastener body based on the first thread dimension is smaller than the second release torque between the fastener body and the vehicle based on the second thread dimension. The threaded portion of the fastener body is mounted by rotating it in a first direction, and even when the tool bearing surface of the cap is engaged and rotated in a second direction opposite to the first direction, the threaded portion of the fastener body does not rotate. The fastener body can be removed using the key-type security feature, in a security fastener assembly.

2. The security fastener assembly according to claim 1, wherein the key-type security feature is hidden by the cap when the cap is attached to the fastener body.

3. The security fastener assembly according to claim 1, wherein the assembly is configured to be screw-fixed to a vehicle by bringing a standard tool into contact with the tool bearing surface of the cap and rotating the cap and the fastener body in a first direction.

4. The security fastener assembly according to claim 1, wherein the helical angle of the first screw dimension is different from the second helical angle of the second screw dimension, such that the first release torque between the cap and the fastener body is smaller than the second release torque between the fastener body and the vehicle.

5. A security fastener assembly, A cap having a standard tool bearing surface and a mounting portion formed on the opposite side of the tool bearing surface, A fastener body having a mating attachment portion formed at a first end to which the cap is fixed, and a key-type security feature portion formed near the mating attachment portion, wherein the second end of the fastener body has a screw fastener portion for fixing the fastener assembly to a vehicle, The threaded portion of the fastener body is mounted by rotating it in a first direction, and even when the tool bearing surface of the cap is engaged and rotated in a second direction opposite to the first direction, the threaded portion of the fastener body does not rotate. The fastener body can be removed using the key-type security feature, in a security fastener assembly.

6. The security fastener assembly according to claim 5, wherein the key-type security feature is hidden by the cap when the cap is attached to the fastener body.

7. The security fastener assembly according to claim 5, wherein the cap is removable from the fastener body without removing the fastener body from the vehicle.

8. The security fastener assembly according to claim 5, wherein the mounting portion of the cap has a threaded portion, the fastener body has a mating threaded portion, when the cap is rotated in a first direction, the threaded portion engages with the mating threaded portion of the fastener body, and when the cap is rotated in a second direction opposite to the first direction, the cap is removed from the fastener body, but the fastener body does not rotate in the second direction.

9. The security fastener assembly according to claim 8, wherein the first thread dimension of the mating threaded portion of the fastener body is different from the second thread dimension of the threaded fastener portion, and the first release torque between the cap and the fastener body based on the first thread dimension is smaller than the release torque between the fastener body and the vehicle based on the second thread dimension.

10. The security fastener assembly according to claim 8, wherein at least one of the threaded portion of the cap or the mating threaded portion of the fastener body has a friction modifier coating for reducing a first release torque between the cap and the fastener body.

11. The security fastener assembly according to claim 5, wherein the mounting portion of the cap has an internal bore, and the mating mounting portion of the fastener body has a protrusion, and when this protrusion is pushed into the internal bore, the cap is held in place by a crimping fit on the fastener body.

12. The security fastener assembly according to claim 11, wherein the mating mounting portion further comprises at least one elastomer ring, the elastomer ring being compressed when inserted into the bore, and the cap being held to the fastener body by a tight fit.

13. The security fastener assembly according to claim 12, wherein the internal bore has an annular ridge, and the elastomer ring snap-fits with the annular ridge.

14. The security fastener assembly according to claim 11, wherein the cap body is made of plastic, and when the mating mounting portion is pressed into the bore, the internal bore elastically deforms so that the cap is held in place on the fastener body by a tight fit.

15. The security fastener assembly according to claim 14, wherein the projection has an annular rib, the internal bore has a first opening smaller than a second opening, and the first opening elastically deforms when the annular rib is pressed into the bore, so that the cap is held in a snap-fit ​​to the fastener body.

16. The security fastener assembly according to claim 14, wherein the cap rotates freely around the protrusion when the cap is held in place by the fastener body.

17. The security fastener assembly according to claim 5, wherein the key-type security feature portion has at least one recess having a unique security shape that cannot be operated with standard tools.

18. The security fastener assembly according to claim 17, wherein the key-type security feature is formed inside the mating mounting portion of the fastener body.

19. The security fastener assembly according to claim 17, wherein the key-type security feature is formed on the outside of the mating mounting portion of the fastener body.

20. It is a security fastener kit, The security fastener assembly according to claim 5, A security fastener kit characterized by comprising a security drive tool having a tool bearing tip molded to engage with the key-type security feature portion for removing the fastener body from the vehicle.

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