Floating connector fasteners

Abstract

Floating connector fasteners and bulkhead assemblies using floating connector fasteners are described. An example fastener includes a float sleeve, a bias spring positioned within the float sleeve, and a standoff screw extending within the float sleeve, though a center of the bias spring, and through a shank aperture at an end of the float sleeve. The float sleeve includes a spring barrel region and a head float region. The standoff screw includes a head positioned within the head float region and a shank that extends through the shank aperture at an end of the float sleeve. The bias spring applies forces against a head of the standoff screw and an inner bearing surface within the float sleeve. When used to secure connectors in a bulkhead assembly, the fasteners are designed to absorb forces associated with over-mate conditions on the connectors and provide other benefits.

Description

FLOATING CONNECTOR FASTENERSBACKGROUND

[0001] A range of input / output (I / O) connectors are designed for power, data, and power and data interconnect systems, including board-to-board, wire-to-wire, and wire-to-board systems. A variety of designs exist for each type of system, depending on the requirements of the power and data communications environment in which the connectors are used. As one example, a wire-to- board system includes a free-end connector attached to one or more wires and a fixed-end connector attached to a printed circuit board (PCB). As another example, a wire-to-wire system includes a first free-end connector attached to one or more wires and a second free free-end connector attached to one or more other wires.

[0002] A range of computing, telecommunications, and related systems often rely upon arrays of connectors to provide data connectivity between different computing devices, switches, routers, and other equipment. In some cases, the arrays of connectors are arranged with and secured to connector panels or bulkheads using fasteners, such as screws, bolts, rivets, clips, latches, and other fasteners.SUMMARY

[0003] Floating connector fasteners and bulkhead assemblies using floating connector fasteners are described. An example fastener includes a float sleeve, a bias spring positioned within the float sleeve, and a standoff screw extending within the float sleeve, through a center of the bias spring, and through a shank aperture at an end of the float sleeve. The float sleeve includes a spring barrel region and a head float region. The standoff screw includes a head positioned within the head float region and a shank that extends through the shank aperture at an end of the float sleeve. The bias spring applies forces against a head of the standoff screw and an inner bearing surface within the float sleeve. When used to secure connectors in a bulkhead assembly, the fasteners are designed to absorb forces associated with over-mate conditions on the connectors. Additionally, the axial floating bearing surfaces of the fasteners are pre-loaded with a spring bias that is greater than the typical maximum mating forces applied to the connectors during mating, while also providing clearance between the bearing surfaces and the connectors. Thus, duringinitial mating sequences, the connectors can float in multiple directions for alignment before overmate conditions occur.

[0004] In other aspects, the shank aperture extends through the float sleeve at an end of the spring barrel region. The standoff screw includes a head with a bearing surface positioned within the head float region of the float sleeve. The standoff screw also includes a shank that extends through the shank aperture at an end of the spring barrel region of the float sleeve. The bias spring extends and applies forces against the bearing surface of the standoff screw and an inner float bearing surface at the end of the spring barrel region.

[0005] In other aspects, the head float region includes a ring channel, and the ring channel includes a cylindrically-shaped recess from an inner surface of the head float region. The fastener also includes an interference ring seated within the ring channel in the head float region. The interference ring provides a mechanical interference to enclose or secure the head of the standoff screw within the float sleeve. In other aspects, the fastener includes a cap with a threaded inner surface. The head float region of the float sleeve includes a threaded outer surface. The threaded inner surface of the cap mates with the threaded outer surface of the float sleeve to enclose or secure the head of the standoff screw within the float sleeve.

[0006] An example bulkhead assembly includes a support wall with an opening and a connector mounted to the support wall with a fastener. The connector extends through the opening. The fastener includes a float sleeve, a bias spring positioned within the float sleeve, and a standoff screw extending in part within the float sleeve, through a center of the bias spring, and through a shank aperture at an end of the float sleeve. The bias spring applies forces against a head of the standoff screw and an inner bearing surface within the float sleeve. The fastener is designed to absorb forces associated with over-mate conditions on the connector and provide other benefits.

[0007] Another example fastener includes a bias spring, a float bearing ring, and a standoff screw. The standoff screw includes a head with a bearing surface and a shank. The shank extends through a center of the bias spring and through the float bearing ring. The bias spring extends and applies forces against the bearing surface of the standoff screw and against the float bearing ring.

[0008] In other aspects, the shank includes a locking rim, and the float bearing ring is seated at the locking rim with the shank extending through a center of the float bearing ring. In other aspects, the shank of the standoff screw includes a bearing slide region, the bearing slide regionincludes a locking rim and a taper ring, and the float bearing ring is seated at the locking rim with the shank extending through a center of the float bearing ring.

[0009] In other aspects, the fastener also includes a locking clip secured onto the bearing slide region and against the locking rim, and the float bearing ring is seated over the locking clip with the shank extending through a center of the float bearing ring. The float bearing ring can include an annular recess having an inner circumferential surface larger than an outer circumferential surface of the locking clip. The locking clip provides a mechanical interference against a spring bias of the bias spring and between the locking rim of the shank and the float bearing ring.BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0010] Many aspects of the present disclosure can be better understood with reference to the following drawings. The components in the drawings are not necessarily to scale, with emphasis instead being placed upon clearly illustrating the principles of the disclosure. Moreover, in the drawings, like reference numerals designate corresponding parts throughout the several views.

[0011] FIG. 1 illustrates an example connector bulkhead assembly according to various aspects of the present disclosure.

[0012] FIG. 2 illustrates a rear view of an example connector in the bulkhead assembly shown in FIG. 1 according to various aspects of the present disclosure.

[0013] FIG. 3 A illustrates a rear view of a connector in the bulkhead assembly shown in FIG. 1 according to various aspects of the present disclosure.

[0014] FIG. 3B illustrates another view of the connector shown in FIG. 3A according to various aspects of the present disclosure.

[0015] FIG. 4A illustrates a perspective view of an example floating connector fastener according to various aspects of the present disclosure.

[0016] FIG. 4B illustrates a top-down view of the floating connector fastener shown in FIG. 4 A according to various aspects of the present disclosure.

[0017] FIG. 4C illustrates a bottom-up view of the floating connector fastener shown in FIG. 4 A according to various aspects of the present disclosure.

[0018] FIG. 4D illustrates a side view of the floating connector fastener shown in FIG. 4A according to various aspects of the present disclosure.

[0019] FIG. 4E illustrates the standoff screw and bias spring of the floating connector fastener shown in FIG. 4 A according to various aspects of the present disclosure.

[0020] FIG. 4F illustrates the cross-sectional view the float sleeve of the floating connector fastener designated A-A in FIG. 4B according to various aspects of the present disclosure.

[0021] FIG. 5A illustrates a cross-sectional view of the floating connector fastener designated A-A in FIG. 4B in the bulkhead assembly shown in FIG. 1 and the according to various aspects of the present disclosure.

[0022] FIG. 5B illustrates another cross-sectional view of the floating connector fastener designated A-A in FIG. 4B in the bulkhead assembly shown in FIG. 1 and the according to various aspects of the present disclosure.

[0023] FIG. 6A illustrates a perspective view of another example floating connector fastener according to various aspects of the present disclosure.

[0024] FIG. 6B illustrates the floating connector fastener shown in FIG. 6A with the cap of the fastener omitted according to various aspects of the present disclosure.

[0025] FIG. 6C illustrates a cross-sectional view of the floating connector fastener shown in FIG. 6A with the cap removed according to various aspects of the present disclosure.

[0026] FIG. 7A illustrates a perspective view of another example floating connector fastener according to various aspects of the present disclosure.

[0027] FIG. 7B illustrates an exploded view of components of the floating connector fastener shown in FIG. 7A according to various aspects of the present disclosure.

[0028] FIG. 7C illustrates a sectional view of a bearing ring of the floating connector fastener shown in FIG. 7A according to various aspects of the present disclosure.

[0029] FIG. 7D illustrates a sectional view of the floating connector fastener shown in FIG. 7A according to various aspects of the present disclosure.DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0030] As noted above, a range of input / output (I / O) connectors are designed for power, data, and power and data interconnect systems, including board-to-board, wire-to-wire, and wire-to- board systems. A variety of designs exist for each type of system, depending on the requirements of the power and data communications environment in which the connectors are used. As one example, a wire-to-board system includes a free-end connector attached to a wire and a fixed -endconnector attached to a board. Computing, telecommunications, and related systems often rely upon arrays of connectors to provide data connectivity between different computing devices and systems, switches, routers, and other equipment.

[0031] Arrays of connectors can be arranged and secured to connector panels or bulkheads using fasteners, such as screws, bolts, rivets, clips, latches, and other fasteners. In that context, a connector bulkhead can refer to a structure, such as a wall or related barrier, to which one or more connectors are mounted or otherwise secured. The connectors can extend through openings or apertures through the bulkhead in some cases. The connector bulkhead thus supports the connectors and secures them in place with respect to each other and the surrounding system, device, or apparatus. Connector bulkheads can be particularly helpful for wire-to-wire systems including multiple free-end connectors. The bulkhead can support a first group of the free-end connectors, and a second group of free-end connectors can be mechanically and electrically connected to the first group of the free-end connectors.

[0032] It can be difficult to achieve and maintain precise alignment among the connectors supported on a connector bulkheads and the electrical terminals within the connectors. Particularly when connectors are arranged in a connector bulkhead, the inter-connector spacings among the connectors, the housings of the connectors, and the electrical terminals within the connectors can fall outside of the specifications for alignment. Connector bulkheads, the connectors supported on the bulkheads, and the electrical terminals within the connectors can be damaged in some cases due to such misalignments. Additionally, over-mate conditions can result in damage to the connectors supported on a bulkhead, damage to the bulkhead, or damage to both the connectors and the bulkhead. Over-mate damage can occur when an individual applies excessive forces between a pair of mating connectors or connector assemblies supported by the bulkhead.

[0033] Aspects of the embodiments are directed to floating connectors, fasteners for floating connectors, and floating connectors on connector bulkheads. In that context, floating connectors are designed to allow some degree of movement, misalignment, or both movement and misalignment between connected components. The term floating suggests a level of flexibility, tolerance, or play in movement, permitting the accommodation of variations in alignment, position, angle, and forces applied among structures. The flexibility can be helpful to accommodate manufacturing tolerances, thermal expansion, vibration, and other factors in connectors and connector bulkheads. Floating connectors can be helpful in applications whereprecise dimensional spacing is challenging among connectors, where shocks, over-mate conditions, vibrations, and other factors are expected, and in other situations.

[0034] In the context described above, floating connector fasteners and bulkhead assemblies using floating connector fasteners are described. An example fastener includes a float sleeve, a bias spring positioned within the float sleeve, and a standoff screw extending within the float sleeve, through a center of the bias spring, and through a shank aperture at an end of the float sleeve. The float sleeve includes a spring barrel region and a head float region. The standoff screw includes a head positioned within the head float region and a shank that extends through the shank aperture at an end of the float sleeve. The bias spring applies forces against a head of the standoff screw and an inner bearing surface within the float sleeve. When used to secure connectors in a bulkhead assembly, the fasteners are designed to absorb forces associated with over-mate conditions on the connectors. Additionally, the axial floating bearing surfaces of the fasteners are pre-loaded with a spring bias that is greater than the typical maximum mating forces applied to the connectors during mating, while also providing clearance between the bearing surfaces and the connectors. Thus, during initial mating sequences, the connectors can float in multiple directions for alignment before over-mate conditions occur.

[0035] Turning to the drawings, FIG. 1 illustrates an example connector bulkhead assembly 10 (also “bulkhead assembly 10”) according to various aspects of the present disclosure. The bulkhead assembly 10 is illustrated as a representative example and is not drawn to any particular scale or size. The shape, size, proportion, and other characteristics of the bulkhead assembly 10 can vary as compared to that shown. The number, shape, size, proportion, and other characteristics of the connectors in the bulkhead assembly 10 can also vary as compared to that shown. The bulkhead assembly 10 and connectors in the bulkhead assembly 10 can be used in a range of high speed backplane and related interconnect applications, but the concepts are not limited to use with such interconnect applications or systems. The concepts can be extended to use in other types of interconnect applications and systems.

[0036] The bulkhead assembly 10 includes a support wall 12 and a number of connectors 20- 23, among others, that are secured to the support wall 12. The support wall 12 includes a front surface 12A and a rear surface 12B. The support wall 12 can be formed from a range of different materials. As examples, the support wall 12 can be formed from metal, polymer materials (e.g., plastics), wood, fiberglass, resin, glass, composite materials (e.g., combinations of materials) andother suitable materials, and the support wall 12 can be formed in one or more layers, including laminated layers in some cases. The overall size of the support wall 12, including the length, width, and depth or thickness of the support wall 12 can vary.

[0037] The connectors 20-23 are arranged in a type of grid or array, as shown in FIG. 1, and are supported by the support wall 12 in that configuration. Each of the connectors 20-23 extends through an opening or aperture in the support wall 12. More particularly, the connectors 20 and 21 extend through the openings 30 and 31, respectively, and other connectors in the bulkhead assembly 10 extend through other openings. The openings 30 and 31 are relatively larger than the connectors 20 and 21.

[0038] The connectors 20-23 are secured to the support wall 12 using fasteners. A range of different fasteners can be used to secure connectors to bulkhead assemblies, including the bulkhead assembly 10. A number of different fasteners are described herein. In the example shown in FIG. 1, the bulkhead assembly 10 includes a number of threaded eyelets. The connector 20, for example, is secured to the support wall 12 using fasteners that are screwed into the thread ed eyelets 40 and 41. The other connectors of the bulkhead assembly 10 are also secured to the support wall 12 using similar fasteners and threaded eyelets.

[0039] According to aspects of the embodiments, the connectors 20-23 in the bulkhead assembly 10 are floating connectors. The connectors 20-23 are fastened to the support wall 12 using floating connector fasteners, which are described in further detail below. The floating connector fasteners are designed to allow some degree of movement between the connectors 20- 23 and the support wall 12. The bulkhead assembly 10 thus permits a level of flexibility, tolerance, or play in movement among the connectors 20-23, permitting the accommodation of variations in alignment position, angle, and forces applied to the connectors 20-23. The flexibility can be helpful to accommodate thermal expansion, vibration, and other factors that result in relative movement between connectors and connector assemblies. Floating connectors can also be helpful in applications where precise dimensional spacing is challenging among connectors, where shocks, over-mate conditions, vibrations, and other factors are expected, and in other situations.

[0040] FIG. 2 illustrates a rear view of the connector 20 in the bulkhead assembly 10 shown in FIG. 1. Only a part or portion of the support wall 12 is shown in FIG. 2, for simplicity. The connector 20 is an example of a free-and connector, as it is positioned at the end of the wires 50. Conductors of the wires 50 are electrically coupled to pin terminals and ground shields within theconnector 20, as would be understood in the field. The concepts and floating connector fasteners described herein are not limited to use with any particular type of connector or connector assembly, however, and the concepts can be applied to a range of other connectors, bulkhead assemblies, and other assemblies. The connector 20 is also illustrated as a representative example, and the concepts described herein are not limited to use with any particular type or style of connector.

[0041] FIG. 2 illustrates that the connector 20 extends through the opening 30 and is secured to the support wall 12 using fasteners. The connector 20 is secured to the support wall 12 using a screw 60, among possibly other screws and fasteners. More particularly, the connector 20 includes a number of mounting flanges, including the mounting flange 20A, which is integral with the housing of the connector 20. A shank of the screw 60 extends through an opening in the mounting flange 20A of the connector 20. A threaded region of the shank of the screw 60 extends further through the opening in the mounting flange 20A and into the threaded eyelet 40 (see FIG. 1) in the support wall 12, where it is threaded in place. The bearing surface of the head of the screw 60 is thus compressed against the outer surface of the mounting flange 20 A, towards the rear surface 12B of the support wall 12, and secures the connector 20 in place with the support wall 12. Although it is obscured from view in FIG. 2, another screw also extends through another mounting flange at an opposite comer of the connector 20. That screw extends through the mounting flange at the opposite comer (i.e., opposite comer as compared to the mounting flange 20A) of the connector 20 and into the threaded eyelet 41 (see FIG. 1 ) in the support wall 12, where it is threaded in place.

[0042] The connector 20 is securely mounted to the support wall 12 in the configuration shown in FIG. 2. As a fastener, the screw 60 is not designed to permit relative motion between the connector 20 and the support wall 12. Thus, the connector 20 is not a floating connector in the sense of the other connectors described below. The screw 60 is not designed to absorb forces associated with over-mate conditions for the connector 20. The screw 60 is also not designed to facilitate manufacturing tolerances or the accommodation of variations in alignments, positions, angles, or forces among the connector 20 and the support wall 12.

[0043] FIG. 3 A illustrates a rear view of the connector 20 shown in FIG. 1, and FIG. 3B illustrates another view of the connector 20 shown in FIG. 3A according to various aspects of the present disclosure. The connector 20 is not secured to the support wall 12 using typical screws, such as the screw 60, in the examples shown in FIGS 3 A and 3B. Instead, the connector 20 issecured to the support wall 12 using the floating connector fasteners 100 and 200 (also “fastener 100” and “fastener 200”). The fasteners 100 and 200 are floating fasteners or floating connector fasteners according to the embodiments. The fasteners 100 and 200 are designed to permit relative motion between the connector 20 and the support wall 12 in at least one direction as forces act upon one or both of them. Thus, as shown in a comparison between FIGS. 3A and 3B, the mounting flange 20A contacts the rear surface 12B of the support wall 12 in FIG. 3 A and is separated from the rear surface 12B in FIG. 3B. The mounting flange 20A is separated from the rear surface 12B by the distance “D” shown in FIG. 3B, and the fasteners 100 and 200 accommodate at least the separation distance “D” between the mounting flange 20A and the support wall 12.

[0044] In the examples shown in FIGS. 3A and 3B, the connector 20 is a floating connector of the bulkhead assembly 10 because the connector 20 can move in one or more directions (e.g., the directions “X,” “Y,” and “Z” shown in FIG. 1A) with respect to the support wall 12 and the opening 30 through the support wall. Any number, including all, of the connectors of the bulkhead assembly 10 can be secured to the support wall 12 using floating fastener similar to the fasteners 100 and 200. The fasteners 100 and 200 are designed to hold the connector 20 in place within the opening 30 of the support wall 12 in the manner shown in FIG. 3 A. However, the fasteners 100 and 200 are also designed to absorb forces associated with over-mate conditions for the connector 20. Thus, forces associated with over-mate conditions, such as a force in the direction “F” shown in FIG. 3B, will counteract against and overcome the spring bias provided by the fasteners 100 and 200. Depending on the direction of the forces applied to the connector 20, the fasteners 100 and 200 can also permit the connector 20 to tilt or twist to some extent within the opening 30.

[0045] The fasteners 100 and 200 are also designed to facilitate manufacturing tolerances and the accommodation of variations in alignments, positions, angles, and forces among the connector 20, the support wall 12, and mating connectors. In some cases, the connector 20 can shift or move to some extent in the “X,” “Y,” and “Z” directions shown in FIG. 1 A, as a clearance exists between the fasteners 100 and 200 and the mounting flanges of the connector 20. More particularly, the fasteners 100 and 200 can be designed to permit or provide a minimal clearance between the surfaces of the mounting flange 20A of the connector 20, for example, and the floating surfaces (e.g., the float bearing surface 113 A described below) of the fasteners 100 and 200. Thus, duringinitial mating sequences, the connector 20 can float in multiple directions for alignment before mating and over-mate conditions occur.

[0046] FIG. 4A illustrates a perspective view of the fastener 100 according to various aspects of the present disclosure. FIG. 4B illustrates a top-down view of the fastener 100, FIG. 4C illustrates a bottom-up view of the fastener 100, and FIG. 4D illustrates a side view of the fastener 100 shown in FIG. 4A. Additionally, FIG. 4F illustrates a standoff screw and bias spring of the fastener 100, and FIG. 4E illustrates the cross-sectional view of the float sleeve designated A-A in FIG. 4B. The fastener 100 is a floating fastener or a floating connector fastener as described herein. The fastener 100 is illustrated as representative example and is not drawn to any particular scale or size. The shape, size, proportion, and other characteristics of the fastener 100 can vary as compared to that shown in other embodiments.

[0047] Referring among FIGS. 4A-4F, the fastener 100 includes a float sleeve 110, a standoff screw 160, a bias spring 170, and an interference ring 180. The standoff screw 160 and bias spring 170 are shown in FIG. 4E, in which the float sleeve 110 is omitted from view. Both the standoff screw 160 and the bias spring 170 are positioned and extend within the float sleeve 110 when the fastener 100 is assembled. More particularly, the standoff screw 160 extends in part within the float sleeve 110 and also extends in part outside of or beyond the float sleeve 110. The bias spring 170 also extends within the float sleeve 110. The bias spring 170 is positioned around the standoff screw 160, with the shank 164 of the standoff screw 160 extending through the center of the bias spring 170, as best shown in FIG. 4E.

[0048] The float sleeve 110 can be formed from a plastic or polymer, such as liquid crystal polymer (LCP), polyethylene (PE), polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE), fluoropolymer, or other plastic or insulating material(s) in some cases. In other cases, the float sleeve 110 can be formed from a metal, fiberglass, resin, glass, composite materials, or other suitable materials. The float sleeve 110 can be formed using any suitable additive or subtractive manufacturing techniques, including molding, injection molding, printing, and other techniques.

[0049] The float sleeve 110 includes a spring barrel region 112 and a head float region 114. As shown among FIGS. 4A-4D, the float sleeve 110 is cylindrical in shape, and both the spring barrel region 112 and the head float region 114 are cylindrical. The outer surface circumference of the spring barrel region 112 is relatively smaller than the outer surface circumference of the head float region 114. The spring barrel region 112 is relatively longer than the head float region114, as measured along the longitudinal axis “L” of the fastener 100 in FIG. 4D, although the individual and relative lengths of the regions 112 and 114 can vary as compared to that shown Additional aspects and features of the float sleeve 110 are described below.

[0050] FIG. 4E illustrates the standoff screw 160, bias spring 170, and interference ring 180 of the fastener 100, with the float sleeve 110 omitted from view. The standoff screw 160 includes a head 162, a shank 164, a threaded region 166, and a tip 167 at an end of the shank 164. The threaded region 166 extends for a shorter distance along the longitudinal axis of the standoff screw 160 than the shank 164. The threaded region 166 of the standoff screw 160 can be threaded into the threaded eyelet 40 of the support wall 12, for example, until the shaft bearing surface 165 contacts the rear surface 12B of the support wall 12, which prevents the standoff screw 160 from being threaded any further into the threaded eyelet 40.

[0051] Overall, the standoff screw 160 can be embodied as any suitable size and style of screw, including a screw with a torx, star, Phillips, pin, or other type of head with any suitable style of threading (e.g., angle, pitch, and lead thread style). The head 162 is formed as a recessed flat torx head in the example shown, although other types of heads can be relied upon. The threaded region 166 extends for a shorter distance along the longitudinal axis of the standoff screw 160 than the shank 164. The threaded region 166 of the standoff screw 160 can be threaded into the threaded eyelet 40 of the support wall 12, for example, until the shaft bearing surface 165 contacts the rear surface 12B of the support wall 12, which prevents the standoff screw 160 from being threaded any further into the threaded eyelet 40. Additional aspects of the standoff screw 160 are described below.

[0052] The bias spring 170 can be embodied as a spring formed from high-carbon spring steel, alloy spring steel, stainless spring steel, copper-based spring alloys, nickel-based spring alloys, or other suitable materials. The bias spring 170 can be selected or manufactured to have a suitable spring constant, k, for holding or biasing the connector 20 against the support wall 12 during the static state shown in FIG. 3 A. The spring constant, k, can also be selected for absorbing the forces applied to the connector 20 during over-mate conditions. The bias spring 170 can be formed to any suitable length, include any number of turns, and is sized so that the shank 164 of the standoff screw 160 can extend through the center of the bias spring 170 with a clearance between them.

[0053] FIG. 4F illustrates the cross-sectional view the float sleeve 110 designated A-A in FIG. 4B. The float sleeve 110 includes a spring barrel region 112 and a head float region 114. Thefloat sleeve 110 is cylindrical in shape, and both the spring barrel region 112 and the head float region 114 are cylindrical. The inner surface circumference of the spring barrel region 112 is relatively smaller than the inner surface circumference of the head float region 114. The spring barrel region 112 is relatively longer than the head float region 114, as measured along the longitudinal axis “L,” although the individual and relative lengths of the regions 112 and 114 can vary as compared to that shown. The inner surface circumference and inner diameter of the spring barrel region 112 is sized to be large enough to accommodate the outer diameter of the bias spring 170 with a clearance between them. The inner surface circumference and inner diameter of the head float region 114 is sized to be large enough to accommodate the outer diameter of the head 162 of the standoff screw 160.

[0054] The float sleeve 110 includes a butt end cap 115 at an end of the spring barrel region 112 and first distal end of the float sleeve 110. A shank aperture 122 is formed through the butt end cap 115. The shank aperture 122 is formed to be large enough in diameter to permit the shank 164 of the standoff screw 160 to extend through it with a clearance but small enough to prevent the bias spring 170 from passing through it. The butt end cap 115 includes an outer float bearing surface 113A at the end of the spring barrel region 112 and first distal end of the float sleeve 110. The butt end cap 115 also includes an inner float bearing surface 113B at the end of the spring barrel region 112. One end of the bias spring 170 contacts the inner float bearing surface 113B when the fastener 100 is assembled, as described in further detail below.

[0055] The float sleeve 110 also includes a head opening 124 at an end of the head float region 114 and second distal end of the float sleeve 110. The head opening 124 is formed large enough to permit the head 162 of the standoff screw 160 to fit within the head opening 124. A resting ring surface 117 is formed and positioned within the float sleeve 110, as shown in FIG. 4F. The resting ring surface 117 is positioned between the spring barrel region 112 and the head float region 114. The resting ring surface 117 extends in a plane that is substantially orthogonal to the direction of the longitudinal axis “L”.

[0056] A ring channel 116 is formed in the head float region 114, relatively close to the second distal end of the float sleeve 110. The ring channel 116 is formed as a cylindrically-shaped depression or recess from the inner surface of the head float region 114. The ring channel 116 extends around the full circumference of the float sleeve 110 in the example shown, but the ring channel 116 can extend less than the full circumference in some cases. The shape, size, andposition of the ring channel 116 can vary as compared to that shown depending, for example, on the shape, size, and style of the interference ring 180. The interference ring 180 can be positioned and fit into the ring channel 116 as part of the assembly of the fastener 100, as described below. The interference ring 180 is retained within the ring channel 116 of the float sleeve 110 based on a mechanical interference between the interference ring 180 and the ring channel 116.

[0057] To assemble the fastener 100, the tip 167 of the standoff screw 160 can be inserted through the center of the bias spring 170 so that the bias spring 170 is coiled around the shank 164 of the standoff screw 160 as shown in FIG. 4E. The standoff screw 160 and bias spring 170 can then be inserted, together, through the head opening 124 of the float sleeve 110 starting with (z. e. , inserting first) the tip 167 of the standoff screw 160. As the standoff screw 160 and bias spring 170 are inserted within the float sleeve 110 in the direction “Di” shown in FIG. 4F, the tip 167 of the standoff screw 160 will extend through the shank aperture 122 in the butt end cap 115 of the float sleeve 110. One end of the bias spring 170 will contact the inner float bearing surface 113B at the end of the spring barrel region 112, and the head 162 of the standoff screw 160 will extend and fit within the head float region 114 of the float sleeve 110.

[0058] After the standoff screw 160 and bias spring 170 are inserted and positioned within the float sleeve 110, they can be enclosed within the float sleeve 110 using the interference ring 180. That is, the interference ring 180 can be positioned to fit or snap within the ring channel 116. The interference ring 180 comprises a ring body 181 and ring bulkheads 182 and 183 at opposite ends of the ring body 181. Eyelets 184 and 185 are formed through the ring bulkheads 182 and 183, respectively. Pliers or a similar tool can be inserted into the eyelets 184 and 185, and the ring body 181 of the interference ring 180 can be compressed together by squeezing or pulling the ring bulkheads 182 and 183 together. In that compressed form, the interference ring 180 can then be inserted into the ring channel 116 within the head float region 114 of the float sleeve 110. The interference ring 180 can then be released, and it will expand and fit within the ring channel 116. The interference ring 180 is thus retained within the ring channel 116 based on a mechanical interference between the interference ring 180 and the ring channel 116. The ring body 181 and ring bulkheads 182 and 183 will then provide a mechanical interference that prevents the head 162 of the standoff screw 160 from exiting back out of the head opening 124 of the float sleeve 110 as shown in FIG. 4A.

[0059] FIG. 5 A illustrates a cross-sectional view of the fastener 100 designated A-A in FIG. 4B. In the view shown in FIG. 5 A, the fastener 100 is installed in the bulkhead assembly 10, as also shown in FIG. 1, and sectional views of the support wall 12 and the mounting flange 20A of the connector (see FIG. 3 A) are also shown in FIG. 5A. FIG. 5B illustrates another cross-sectional view of the fastener 100 designated A-A in FIG. 4B in the bulkhead assembly 10. FIGS. 5A and 5B are illustrated as representative examples to convey the functional operation ofthe fastener 100 and are not drawn to any particular scale or size. The shape, size, proportion, and other characteristics of the fastener 100 can vary as compared to that shown.

[0060] In both FIGS. 5A and 5B, the shank 164 ofthe screw 60 extends through the mounting flange 20 A of the connector 20 and is threaded into the support wall 12. A clearance can exist between the shank 164 of the screw 60 and an aperture extending through the mounting flange 20A of the connector 20 in some cases. The standoff screw 160 has been threaded into the support wall 12 until the shaft bearing surface 165 contacts the rear surface 12B of the support wall 12, which prevents the standoff screw 160 from being threaded any further. In FIG. 5 A the bias spring 170 is extended and pushes or applies opposing forces against and between the bearing surface 163 of the head 162 of the standoff screw 160 and the inner float bearing surface 113B within the end of the float sleeve 110. The bias spring 170 applies opposing forces in the arrangement shown in FIG. 5A to maintain the mounting flange 20A of the connector 20 in place (see FIG. 3A). It is noted, however, that the fastener 100 can be designed to permit or provide a minimal clearance 90 between the mounting flange 20A and the float bearing surface 113B. Thus, during initial mating sequences, the connector 20 can float in multiple directions for alignment before mating and overmate conditions occur.

[0061] The fastener 100 is designed to absorb forces associated with over-mate conditions for the connector 20 and to permit limited movement of the connector 20 within a range of motion or distance. For example, forces associated withover-mate conditions, such as a force in the direction “F” shown in FIG. 5B, will counteract against and overcome the spring bias provided by the bias spring 170 in the fastener 100. Forces associated with an over-mate condition on the connector 20 will translate to the mounting flange 20A. The mounting flange 20A will then push, at least in part, in the direction “F” against the float bearing surface 113 A of the float sleeve 110. This will result in compression of the bias spring 170 within the float sleeve 110, although FIG. 5B does not directly illustrate compression of the bias spring 170 within the float sleeve 110. The bias spring170 can be compressed within the float sleeve 110 until the bearing surface 163 of the head 162 of the standoff screw 160 contacts the resting ring surface 117 (see FIG. 5 A) within the float sleeve 110, which is located between the spring barrel region 112 and the head float region 114. At that point, the bias spring 170 cannot be compressed further, and the rigidity of the float sleeve 110 will prevent further movement of the connector 20.

[0062] As shown in a comparison between FIGS. 5A and 5B, the mounting flange 20A contacts the rear surface 12B of the support wall 12 in FIG. 5 A and is separated from the rear surface 12B in FIG. 5B. The mounting flange 20A is separated from the rear surface 12B by the distance “D” shown in FIG. 5B, and the fastener 100 accommodates at least the separation distance “D” between the mounting flange 20A and the support wall 12. The bias spring 170 in the fastener 100 provides a spring bias that acts to secure the connector 20 against the support wall 12 in the manner shown in FIG. 5A. However, the fastener 100 is also designed to absorb forces associated with over-mate conditions for the connector 20. Thus, forces associated with over-mate conditions, such as a force in the direction “F” shown in FIG. 5B, will counteract against and overcome the spring bias provided by the fastener 100. The fastener 100 is designed to facilitate manufacturing tolerances and the accommodation of variations in alignments, positions, angles, or forces among the connector 20 and the support wall 12.

[0063] Turing to other embodiments, FIG. 6A illustrates a perspective view of another floating connector fastener 300 (also “fastener 300”) according to various aspects of the present disclosure. FIG. 6B illustrates the fastener 300 shown in FIG. 6A with the cap of the fastener 300 omitted from view, and FIG. 6C illustrates a cross-sectional view of the fastener 300 shown in FIG. 6A with the cap removed. The fastener 300 is a floating fastener or a floating connector fastener as described herein. The fastener 300 is illustrated as representative example and is not drawn to any particular scale or size. The shape, size, proportion, and other characteristics of the fastener 300 can vary as compared to that shown in other embodiments. Although different in some design aspects, the function of the fastener 300 is similar to that of the fastener 100, and the fastener can be relied upon to secure the connector to the support wall 12 in the bulkhead assembly 10 shown in FIG. 1. The fastener 300 is designed with a spring bias that acts to secure the connector 20 against the support wall 12 in the manner shown in FIG. 3 A. However, the fastener 300 is also designed to absorb forces associated with over-mate conditions for the connector 20.

[0064] Referring among FIGS. 6A-6C, the fastener 300 includes a float sleeve 310, a standoff screw 360, a bias spring 370, and a cap 380. Both the standoff screw 360 and the bias spring 370 are positioned and extend within the float sleeve 310 when the fastener 300 is assembled. More particularly, the standoff screw 360 extends in part within the float sleeve 310 and also extends in part outside of or beyond the float sleeve 310. The bias spring 370 also extends within the float sleeve 310. The bias spring 370 is positioned around the standoff screw 360, with the shank 364 of the standoff screw 360 extending through the center of the bias spring 370, as best shown in FIG. 6C.

[0065] The float sleeve 310 can be formed from a plastic or polymer, such as LCP, PE, PTFE, fluoropolymer, or other plastic or insulating material(s) in some cases. In other cases, the float sleeve 310 can be formed from a metal, fiberglass, resin, glass, composite materials, or other suitable materials. The float sleeve 310 can be formed using any suitable additive or subtractive manufacturing techniques, including molding, injection molding, printing, and other techniques. The cap 380 can also be formed from a plastic or polymer, such as LCP, PE, PTFE, fluoropolymer, or other plastic or insulating material(s). The cap 380 can also be formed from a metal, fiberglass, resin, glass, composite materials, or other suitable materials. The cap 380 can be formed using any suitable additive or subtractive manufacturing techniques, including molding, injection molding, printing, and other techniques.

[0066] The float sleeve 310 includes a spring barrel region 312 and a head float region 314, as identified in FIG. 6C. The float sleeve 310 is cylindrical in shape, and both the spring barrel region 312 and the head float region 314 are cylindrical. The spring barrel region 312 is relatively longer than the head float region 314, although the individual and relative lengths of the regions 312 and 314 can vary as compared to that shown.

[0067] The standoff screw 360 includes a head 362, a shank 364, and a threaded region 366. The threaded region 366 extends for a shorter distance along the longitudinal axis of the standoff screw 360 than the shank 364. The threaded region 366 of the standoff screw 360 can be threaded into the threaded eyelet 40 of the support wall 12, for example. Similar to the standoff screw 160 described above, the standoff screw 360 can be embodied as any suitable size and style of screw, including a screw with a torx, star, Phillips, pin, or other type of head with any suitable style of threading (e.g., angle, pitch, and lead thread style).

[0068] The bias spring 370 can be embodied as a spring formed from high-carbon spring steel, alloy spring steel, stainless spring steel, copper-based spring alloys, nickel-based spring alloys, or other suitable materials. The bias spring 370 can be selected or manufactured to have a suitable spring constant, k, for holding or biasing the connector 20, for example, against the support wall 12. The spring constant, k, can also be selected for absorbing the forces applied to the connector 20 during over-mate conditions. The bias spring 370 can be formed to any suitable length, include any number of turns, and is sized so that the shank 364 of the standoff screw 360 can extend through the center of the bias spring 370 with a clearance between them.

[0069] Referring to FIG. 6C, the float sleeve 310 includes the spring barrel region 312 and the head float region 314. The float sleeve 310 is cylindrical in shape, and both the spring barrel region 312 and the head float region 314 are cylindrical. The inner surface circumference of the spring barrel region 312 is relatively smaller than the inner surface circumference of the head float region 314. The inner surface circumference and inner diameter of the spring barrel region 312 is sized to be large enough to accommodate the outer diameter of the bias spring 370 with a clearance between them. The inner surface circumference and inner diameter of the head float region 314 is sized to be large enough to accommodate the outer diameter of the head 362 of the standoff screw 360.

[0070] The head float region 314 of the float sleeve 310 includes threads formed on an outer surface. The cap 380 includes mating threads on an inner surface. The cap 380 also includes a head 381 formed at one end and an opening 382 through the head 381. The head 381 is formed in the shape of a hex bolt in the example shown, although the head 381 can be formed in other shapes. The hex bolt shape of the head 381 facilitates the use of tools to secure (e.g., twist) the cap 380 onto the threads of the head float region 314 of the float sleeve 310.

[0071] To assemble the fastener 300, the standoff screw 360 can be inserted through the center of the bias spring 370. The standoff screw 360 and bias spring 370 can then be inserted, together, through the head opening of the float sleeve 310. As the standoff screw 360 and bias spring 370 are inserted within the float sleeve 310, the tip of the standoff screw 360 will extend through the shank aperture in the butt end cap of the float sleeve 310. One end of the bias spring 370 will contact the inner float bearing surface at the end of the spring barrel region 312, and the head 362 of the standoff screw 360 will extend and fit within the head float region 314 of the float sleeve 310. After the standoff screw 360 and bias spring 370 are inserted and positioned within the floatsleeve 310, they can be enclosed within the float sleeve 310 using the cap 380. The hex bolt shape of the head 381 facilitates the use of tools to secure (e.g., twist) the cap 380 onto the threads of the head float region 314 of the float sleeve 310.

[0072] FIG. 7 A illustrates a perspective view of another example floating connector fastener 400 (also “fastener 400”) according to various aspects of the present disclosure. FIG. 7B illustrates an exploded view of components of the fastener 400. The fastener 400 is a floating fastener or a floating connector fastener as described herein. The fastener 400 is illustrated as a representative example and is not drawn to any particular scale or size. The shape, size, proportion, and other characteristics of the fastener 400 can vary as compared to that shown in other embodiments.

[0073] Referring between FIGS. 7 A and 7B, the fastener 400 includes a standoff screw 460, a bias spring 470, a float bearing ring 480, and a locking clip 490. The standoff screw 460 can be embodied as any suitable size and style of screw, including a screw with a torx, star, Phillips, pin, or other type of head with any suitable style of threading (e.g., angle, pitch, and lead thread style). The standoff screw 460 includes a head 462, a shank 464, a threaded region 466, and a tip 467 at an end of the shank 464. The head 462 is formed as a recessed flat torx head in the example shown, although other types of heads can be relied upon. The threaded region 466 extends for a shorter distance along the longitudinal axis “L” of the standoff screw 460 than the shank 464. The threaded region 466 of the standoff screw 460 can be threaded into the threaded eyelet 40 of the support wall 12 (see FIG. 1), for example, until the shaft bearing surface 465 contacts the rear surface 12B (see FIG. 3A) of the support wall 12, which prevents the standoff screw 460 from being threaded any further into the threaded eyelet 40.

[0074] As shown in FIG. 7B, the shank 464 of the standoff screw 460 includes a bearing slide region 450 that extends a distance along the longitudinal axis “L” of the shank 464. The size or length of the bearing slide region 450 is shown as an example in FIG. 7B and can vary as compared to that shown. The bearing slide region 450 is a length of the shank 464 that has a reduced outer surface circumference as compared to remaining portion of the shank 464. The bearing slide region 450 includes a locking rim 452 at one end and a taper ring 454 at another end. The locking rim 452 includes an annular ring surface extending in a plane that is substantially perpendicular to the longitudinal axis “L” of the shank 464. The taper ring 454 is a conical region that tapers from the reduced circumference of the bearing slide region 450, which is closer to the tip 467, to theincreased circumference of the remaining shank 464, which is closer to the head 462. The function and purpose of the bearing slide region 450 is described in further detail below.

[0075] The bias spring 470 can be embodied as a spring formed from high-carbon spring steel, alloy spring steel, stainless spring steel, copper-based spring alloys, nickel-based spring alloys, or other suitable materials. The bias spring 470 can be selected or manufactured to have a suitable spring constant, k, for holding or biasing the connector 20, as one example, against the support wall 12 during the static state shown in FIG. 3 A. The spring constant, k, can also be selected for absorbing the forces applied to the connector 20 during over-mate conditions. The bias spring 470 can be formed to any suitable length, include any number of turns, and is sized so that the shank 464 of the standoff screw 460 can extend through the center of the bias spring 470 with a clearance between them.

[0076] The float bearing ring 480 can be embodied as a ring formed of metal, polymer materials, or other suitable materials. The float bearing ring 480 includes a ring bearing surface 482 and a spring bearing surface 484, both of which are annular, flat, and extend in separate and substantially parallel planes. A central aperture 486 extends through the float bearing ring 480 and the surfaces 482 and 484. The locking clip 490 can be embodied as a C-shaped clip formed of metal, polymer materials, or other suitable materials. The locking clip 490 includes a lock bearing surface 492 and a float bearing surface 494. The lock bearing surface 492 and float bearing surface 494 are both flat and extend in separate and substantially parallel planes.

[0077] To assemble the fastener 400, the tip 467 of the standoff screw 460 can be inserted through the center of the bias spring 470 so that the bias spring 470 is coiled around the shank 464 and positioned against the head 462 of the standoff screw 460 as shown in FIG. 7A. The tip 467 of the standoff screw 460 can also be inserted through the central aperture 486 of the float bearing ring 480. The float bearing ring 480 can be pushed against and contacted with the end of the bias spring 470. A force in the direction “F” shown in FIG. 7A can then be applied to the float bearing ring 480 to compress the bias spring 470 and reveal the bearing slide region 450. The locking clip 490 can then be snapped into and onto the bearing slide region 450 of the shank 464, and the float bearing ring 480 can be released. The float bearing ring 480 will then be biased to seat against the locking clip 490 by the extension of the bias spring 470.

[0078] FIG. 7C illustrates a sectional view of the float bearing ring 480 of the fastener 400. As shown in FIG. 7C, the float bearing ring 480 includes an annular recess 488. The size of theannular recess 488 is sufficient to encompass (i.e., extend around or extend over) the locking clip 490. In other words, the inner circumferential surface within the annular recess 488 is larger than the outer circumferential surface of the locking clip 490, with a clearance between them.

[0079] FIG. 7D illustrates a sectional view of the fastener 400. As shown, the bias spring 470 is coiled around the shank 464. In the configuration shown in FIG. 7D, the bias spring 470 applies spring forces against the bearing surface 463 of the standoff screw, at one end, and against the spring bearing surface 484 of the float bearing ring 480, at another end. The shank 464 of the standoff screw 460 extends through the central aperture of the float bearing ring 480. The float bearing ring 480 is seated upon the locking clip 490, with the locking clip 490 being positioned within the annular recess 488 of the float bearing ring 480. The locking clip 490 contacts and is seated upon the locking rim 452 of the bearing slide region 450 (see FIG. 7B). Thus, the locking clip 490 provides a mechanical interference that prevents the bias spring 470 from pushing the float bearing ring 480 any further towards the tip 467 of the standoff screw 460.

[0080] The float bearing ring 480 can slide along the bearing slide region 450 (see FIG. 7B) and along the shank 464 of the standoff screw 460, toward the head 462 of the standoff screw 460, based on application of a force in the direction “F” shown in FIG. 7A. That is, to the extent that the force in the direction “F” overcomes the spring bias provided by the bias spring 470, the float bearing ring 480 can slide along the bearing slide region 450 and the shank 464 of the standoff screw 460. The locking clip 490, on the other hand, can slide along the bearing slide region 450 but cannot slide along the shank 464 of the standoff screw 460. Instead, the taper ring 454 (see FIG. 7B) prevents the locking clip 490 from sliding past or beyond the bearing slide region 450.

[0081] The fastener 400 is designed to secure the connector 20, as an example, against the support wall 12 in the manner shown in FIG. 3 A. The fastener 400 is also designed to absorb forces associated with over-mate conditions. Thus, forces associated with over-mate conditions, such as a force in the direction “F” shown in FIG. 7A, will counteract against and overcome the spring bias provided by the fastener 400. The fastener 400 is designed to facilitate manufacturing tolerances and the accommodation of variations in alignments, positions, angles, or forces among the connector 20 and the support wall 12. Depending on the direction of the forces applied to the connector 20, the fastener 400 can also permit the connector 20 to tilt or twist to some extent within the opening 30. The floating surfaces 492 and 482 of the fastener 400 are pre-loaded with a spring bias that is greater than the typical maximum mating forces applied to connectors, such as theconnector 20, during mating. In some cases, the fastener 400 is designed to permit or provide a minimal clearance between the surfaces of the mounting flange 20A of the connector 20 and the floating surfaces 492 and 482 of the fastener 400. Thus, during initial mating sequences, the connector 20 can float in multiple directions for alignment before mating and over-mate conditions occur.

[0082] Terms such as “top,” “bottom,” “side,” “front,” “back,” “right,” and “left” are not intended to provide an absolute frame of reference. Rather, the terms are relative and are intended to identify certain features in relation to each other, as the orientation of structures described herein can vary. The terms “comprising,” “including,” “having,” and the like are synonymous, are used in an open-ended fashion, and do not exclude additional elements, features, acts, operations, and so forth. Also, the term “or” is used in its inclusive sense, and not in its exclusive sense, so that when used, for example, to connect a list of elements, the term “or” means one, some, or all of the elements in the list.

[0083] Combinatorial language, such as “at least one of X, Y, and Z” or “at least one of X, Y, or Z,” unless indicated otherwise, is used in general to identify one, a combination of any two, or all three (or more if a larger group is identified) thereof, such as X and only X, Y and only Y, and Z and only Z, the combinations of X and Y, X and Z, and Y and Z, and all of X, Y, and Z. Such combinatorial language is not generally intended to, and unless specified does not, identify or require at least one of X, at least one of Y, and at least one of Z to be included. The terms “about” and “substantially,” unless otherwise defined herein to be associated with a particular range, percentage, or related metric of deviation, account for at least some manufacturing tolerances between a theoretical design and manufactured product or assembly, such as the geometric dimensioning and tolerancing criteria described in the American Society of Mechanical Engineers (ASME®) Y14.5 and the related International Organization for Standardization (ISO®) standards. Such manufacturing tolerances are still contemplated, as one of ordinary skill in the art would appreciate, although “about,” “substantially,” or related terms are not expressly referenced, even in connection with the use of theoretical terms, such as the geometric “perpendicular,” “orthogonal,” “vertex,” “collinear,” “coplanar,” and other terms.

[0084] The above-described embodiments of the present disclosure are merely examples of implementations to provide a clear understanding of the principles of the present disclosure. Many variations and modifications can be made to the above-described embodiments without departingsubstantially from the spirit and principles of the disclosure. In addition, components and features described with respect to one embodiment can be included in another embodiment. All such modifications and variations are intended to be included herein within the scope of this disclosure.

Claims

CLAIMSWhat is claimed is:

1. A fastener, comprising: a float sleeve; a bias spring positioned within the float sleeve; and a standoff screw extending in part within the float sleeve, through a center of the bias spring, and through a shank aperture at an end of the float sleeve.

2. The fastener according to claim 1, wherein the float sleeve comprises the shank aperture at the end of the float sleeve and a head opening at another end of the float sleeve.

3. The fastener according to claim 1, wherein the standoff screw comprises a head with a bearing surface, a shank, a threaded region, and a tip.

4. The fastener according to claim 1, wherein the float sleeve comprises: a spring barrel region; and a head float region.

5. The fastener according to claim 4, wherein: the shank aperture extends through the float sleeve at an end of the spring barrel region; the standoff screw comprises a head with a bearing surface positioned within the head float region of the float sleeve and a shank that extends through the shank aperture at an end of the spring barrel region of the float sleeve; and the bias spring extends and applies forces against the bearing surface of the standoff screw and against an inner float bearing surface at the end of the spring barrel region.

6. The fastener according to claim 4, wherein: the head float region comprises a ring channel; and the ring channel comprises a cylindrically-shaped recess from an inner surface of the head float region.

7. The fastener according to claim 6, further comprising an interference ring seated within the ring channel in the head float region.

8. The fastener according to claim 7, wherein the interference ring provides a mechanical interference to enclose a head of the standoff screw within the float sleeve.

9. The fastener according to claim 4, further comprising: a cap comprising a threaded inner surface, wherein: the head float region of the float sleeve comprises a threaded outer surface; and the threaded inner surface of the cap mates with the threaded outer surface of the float sleeve to enclose a head of the standoff screw within the float sleeve.

10. A bulkhead assembly, comprising: a support wall comprising an opening; and a connector mounted to the support wall with a fastener, the connector extending through the opening, wherein the fastener comprises: a float sleeve; a bias spring positioned within the float sleeve; and a standoff screw extending in part within the float sleeve, through a center of the bias spring, and through a shank aperture at an end of the float sleeve.

11. The bulkhead assembly to claim 10, wherein the float sleeve comprises the shank aperture at the end of the float sleeve and a head opening at another end of the float sleeve.

12. The bulkhead assembly to claim 10, wherein the float sleeve comprises: a spring barrel region; and a head float region.

13. The bulkhead assembly to claim 12, wherein: the shank aperture extends through the float sleeve at an end of the spring barrel region;the standoff screw comprises a head with a bearing surface positioned within the head float region of the float sleeve and a shank that extends through the shank aperture at an end of the spring barrel region of the float sleeve; and the bias spring extends and applies forces against the bearing surface of the standoff screw and against an inner float bearing surface at the end of the spring barrel region.

14. The bulkhead assembly to claim 12, wherein: the head float region comprises a ring channel; and the ring channel comprises a cylindrically-shaped recess from an inner surface of the head float region.

15. The bulkhead assembly to claim 14, wherein the fastener further comprises an interference ring seated within the ring channel in the head float region.

16. A fastener, comprising: a float sleeve comprising a spring barrel region and a head float region; a bias spring positioned within the float sleeve; and a standoff screw extending in part within the float sleeve, through a center of the bias spring, and through a shank aperture at an end of the spring barrel region of the float sleeve.

17. The fastener according to claim 16, wherein: the shank aperture extends through the float sleeve at an end of the spring barrel region; the standoff screw comprises a head with a bearing surface positioned within the head float region of the float sleeve and a shank that extends through the shank aperture at the end of the spring barrel region of the float sleeve; and the bias spring extends and applies forces against the bearing surface of the standoff screw and against an inner float bearing surface at the end of the spring barrel region.

18. The fastener according to claim 16, wherein: the head float region comprises a ring channel;the ring channel comprises a cylindrically-shaped recess from an inner surface of the head float region; and the fastener further comprises an interference ring seated within the ring channel in the head float region.

19. The fastener according to claim 18, wherein the interference ring provides a mechanical interference to enclose a head of the standoff screw within the float sleeve.

20. The fastener according to claim 19, further comprising: a cap comprising a threaded inner surface, wherein: the head float region of the float sleeve comprises a threaded outer surface; and the threaded inner surface of the cap mates with the threaded outer surface of the float sleeve to enclose a head of the standoff screw within the float sleeve.

21. A fastener, comprising: a bias spring; a float bearing ring; and a standoff screw comprising a head witha bearing surface and a shank, the shank extending through a center of the bias spring and through the float bearing ring, wherein the bias spring extends and applies forces against the bearing surface of the standoff screw and against the float bearing ring.

22. The fastener according to claim 21, wherein: the shank comprises a locking rim; and the float bearing ring is seated at the locking rim with the shank extending through a center of the float bearing ring.

23. The fastener according to claim 21, wherein: the shank of the standoff screw comprises a bearing slide region; the bearing slide region comprises a locking rim and a taper ring; and the float bearing ring is seated at the locking rim with the shank extending through a center of the float bearing ring.

24. The fastener according to claim 21, wherein: the shank of the standoff screw comprises a bearing slide region; the bearing slide region comprises a locking rim and a taper ring; the fastener further comprises a locking clip secured onto the bearing slide region and against the locking rim; and the float bearing ring is seated over the locking clip with the shank extending through a center of the float bearing ring.

25. The fastener according to claim 24, wherein the float bearing ring comprises an annular recess having an inner circumferential surface larger than an outer circumferential surface of the locking clip.

26. The fastener according to claim 25, wherein the locking clip provides a mechanical interference against a spring bias of the bias spring and between the locking rim of the shank and the float bearing ring.

Images