Systems comprising a tubular CAM and methods of use thereof

Abstract

Systems comprising a tubular cam and methods of use thereof. The system comprises a tubular cam, a guide, and a die. The tubular cam comprises a first cam end, a second cam end, and a cam elongate portion. The cam elongate portion comprises an inner cam surface defining a cam cavity and defines a longitudinal axis. The guide is at least partially disposed within the cam cavity and extends along the longitudinal axis. In a first configuration of the system, the die is spaced a first radial distance from the longitudinal axis. In a second configuration of the system, the die is spaced a second radial distance from the longitudinal axis. Relative radial rotation between the tubular cam and the guide changes a configuration of the system between the first configuration and the second configuration.

Description

TITLESYSTEMS COMPRISING A TUBULAR CAM AND METHODS OF USE THEREOFBACKGROUND

[0001] Vehicle frames, storage racks, solar panel sub-structures, aircraft parts, and other structures can include numerous mechanical fasteners. For example, a fastener (e.g., a bolt, a structural fastener) can be installed in a bore of a structural component and secured by a fastening collar, such as, for example, a bolt collar and / or a nut. Removing a fastening collar that is secured to a fastener presents challenges.SUMMARY

[0002] In one aspect, a system is provided. The system comprises a tubular cam, a guide, and at least two dies. The tubular cam comprises a first cam end, a second cam end, and a cam elongate portion extending from the first cam end to the second cam end. The cam elongate portion comprises an inner cam surface defining a cam cavity. The cam elongate portion defines a longitudinal axis. The guide is at least partially disposed within the cam cavity and extends along the longitudinal axis. The guide comprises a first guide end, a second guide end, and a guide elongate portion comprising a tubular region adjacent to the first guide end. The tubular cam is capable to rotate independently about the longitudinal axis relative to the guide. The at least two dies are disposed radially about the longitudinal axis and within the cam cavity adjacent to the first cam end. In a first configuration of the system, the at least two dies are spaced a first radial distance from the longitudinal axis. In a second configuration of the system, the at least two dies are spaced a second radial distance from the longitudinal axis. The second radial distance is less than the first radial distance. Relative radial rotation between the tubular cam and the guide changes a configuration of the system between the first configuration and the second configuration.

[0003] In another aspect, a method is provided. The method comprises disposing a collar of a fastener into a guide cavity defined by an inner guide surface of a tubular region of a guide of a system. The system comprises a tubular cam, the guide, and at least two dies. The tubular cam comprises a first cam end, a second cam end, and a cam elongate portion extending from the first cam end to the second cam end. The cam elongate portion comprises an inner cam surface defining a cam cavity. The cam elongate portion defines a longitudinalaxis. The guide is at least partially disposed within the cam cavity and extends along the longitudinal axis. The guide comprises a first guide end, a second guide end, and a guide elongate portion comprising the tubular region adjacent to the first guide end. The tubular cam is capable to rotate independently about the longitudinal axis relative to the guide. The at least two dies are disposed radially about the longitudinal axis and within the cam cavity adjacent to the first cam end. In a first configuration of the system, the at least two dies are spaced a first radial distance from the longitudinal axis. In a second configuration of the system, the at least two dies are spaced a second radial distance from the longitudinal axis. The second radial distance is less than the first radial distance. Relative radial rotation between the tubular cam and the guide changes a configuration of the system between the first configuration and the second configuration. The method comprises forcibly contacting the collar with the at least two dies of the system.

[0004] In yet another aspect, a method is provided. The method comprises disposing a collar of a fastener into a guide cavity defined by an inner guide surface of a tubular region of a guide of a system. The system comprises a tubular cam, the guide, and at least two dies. The tubular cam comprises a first cam end, a second cam end, and a cam elongate portion extending from the first cam end to the second cam end. The cam elongate portion comprises an inner cam surface defining a cam cavity. The cam elongate portion defines a longitudinal axis. The guide is at least partially disposed within the cam cavity and extends along the longitudinal axis. The guide comprises a first guide end, a second guide end, and a guide elongate portion comprising the tubular region adjacent to the first guide end. The tubular cam is capable to rotate independently about the longitudinal axis relative to the guide. The at least two dies are disposed radially about the longitudinal axis and within the cam cavity adjacent to the first cam end. In a first configuration of the system, the at least two dies are spaced a first radial distance from the longitudinal axis. In a second configuration of the system, the at least two dies are spaced a second radial distance from the longitudinal axis. The second radial distance is less than the first radial distance. Relative radial rotation between the tubular cam and the guide changes a configuration of the system between the first configuration and the second configuration. At least two die surfaces are formed on the inner cam surface and adjacent to the first cam end. Each of the at least two dies are capable to contact one or more of the at least two die surfaces such that relative radial rotation between the tubular cam and guide changes a radial position of each of the at least two dies relative to the longitudinal axis. Each die surface has a first region and a second region. Eachfirst region is radially spaced further from the longitudinal axis than each second region. The at least two dies are contacting the first region in the first configuration of the system and the at least two dies are contacting the second region in the second configuration of the system. The method comprises forcibly contacting the collar with the at least two dies of the system by rotation of the tubular cam to rotate the die surfaces about the longitudinal axis, Ai, such that the second regions are no longer contacting the at least two dies and the first regions are contacting the at least two dies.

[0005] In yet another aspect, a system is provided. The system comprises a tubular cam, a guide, and a die. The tubular cam comprises a first cam end, a second cam end, and a cam elongate portion extending from the first cam end to the second cam end. The cam elongate portion comprises an inner cam surface defining a cam cavity. The cam elongate portion defines a longitudinal axis. The guide is at least partially disposed within the cam cavity and extends along the longitudinal axis. The guide comprises a first guide end, a second guide end, and a guide elongate portion comprising a tubular region adjacent to the first guide end. The tubular cam is capable to rotate independently about the longitudinal axis relative to the guide. The die is disposed radially about the longitudinal axis and within the cam cavity adjacent to the first cam end. In a first configuration of the system, the die is spaced a first radial distance from the longitudinal axis. In a second configuration of the system, the die is spaced a second radial distance from the longitudinal axis. The second radial distance is less than the first radial distance. Relative radial rotation between the tubular cam and the guide changes a configuration of the system between the first configuration and the second configuration.

[0006] It will be understood that the inventions disclosed and described in this specification are not limited to the aspects summarized in this Summary. The reader will appreciate the foregoing details, as well as others, upon considering the following detailed description of various non-limiting and non-exhaustive aspects according to this specification.BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0007] The features and advantages of the examples, and the manner of attaining them, will become more apparent, and the examples will be better understood, by reference to the following description taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, wherein:

[0008] FIG. 1 A is a perspective view of a non-limiting embodiment of a system according to the present disclosure;

[0009] FIG. IB is a cross-sectional elevational view of the system of FIG. 1 A taken along line 1B-1B;

[0010] FIG. 1C is a top view of the system of FIG. 1 A;

[0011] FIG. ID is a cross-sectional elevational view of the system of FIG. 1 A taken along line ID-ID;

[0012] FIG. IE is a cross-sectional elevational view of the system of FIG. 1A taken along line IE- IE;

[0013] FIG. IF is an isolated perspective view of the tubular cam of the system of FIG. 1A;

[0014] FIG. 1G is an isolated perspective view of the guide of the system of FIG. 1 A;

[0015] FIG. 1H is an isolated perspective view of the driver of the system of FIG. 1 A;

[0016] FIG. 2 is a flow chart illustrating a non-limiting embodiment of a method of using a system according to the present disclosure;

[0017] FIG. 3 A is a perspective view of a system according to the present disclosure in a first configuration wherein the system is attached to a tool and has received an object;

[0018] FIG. 3B is a cross-sectional elevational view of the system, tool, and object of FIG.3 A taken along line 3B-3B;

[0019] FIG. 4A is a perspective view of a system of FIG. 3 A in a second configuration;

[0020] FIG. 4B is a cross-sectional elevational view of the system, tool, and object of FIG.4A taken along line 4B-4B;

[0021] FIG. 5 is a perspective view of a system according to the present disclosure with a first configuration of cam features;

[0022] FIG. 6 is a perspective view of a system according to the present disclosure with a second configuration of cam features;

[0023] FIG. 7 is a perspective view of a system according to the present disclosure with a third configuration of cam features;

[0024] FIG. 8 is a top view of a system according to the present disclosure comprising crimping dies;

[0025] FIG. 9A is a perspective view of a non-limiting embodiment of a system according to the present disclosure;

[0026] FIG. 9B is a cross-sectional elevational view of the system of FIG. 9A taken along line 9B-9B;

[0027] FIG. 9C is a top view of the system of FIG. 9A;

[0028] FIG. 9D is a cross-sectional elevational view of the system of FIG. 9A taken along line 9D-9D;

[0029] FIG. 9E is a cross-sectional elevational view of the system of FIG. 9A taken along line 9E-9E;

[0030] FIG. 9F is an isolated perspective view of the tubular cam of the system of FIG. 9A;

[0031] FIG. 9G is an isolated perspective view of the guide of the system of FIG. 9A; and

[0032] FIG. 9H is an isolated perspective view of the driver of the system of FIG. 9A.

[0033] Corresponding reference characters indicate corresponding parts throughout the several views. The exemplifications set out herein illustrate certain embodiments, in one form, and such exemplifications are not to be construed as limiting the scope of the appended claims in any manner.DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF NON-LIMITING EMBODIMENTS

[0034] Various examples are described and illustrated herein to provide an overall understanding of the structure, function, and use of the disclosed apparatus and methods. The various examples described and illustrated herein are non-limiting and non-exhaustive. Thus, inventions are not limited by the description of the various non-limiting and non-exhaustive examples disclosed herein. Rather, the inventions are defined solely by the claims. The features and characteristics illustrated and / or described in connection with various examplesmay be combined with the features and characteristics of other examples. Such modifications and variations are intended to be included within the scope of this specification. As such, the claims may be amended to recite any features or characteristics expressly or inherently described in, or otherwise expressly or inherently supported by, this specification. Further, Applicant reserves the right to amend the claims to affirmatively disclaim features or characteristics that may be present in the prior art. The various embodiments disclosed and described in this specification can comprise, consist of, or consist essentially of the features and characteristics as variously described herein.

[0035] Any references herein to “various embodiments,” “some embodiments,” “one embodiment,” “an embodiment,” or like phrases mean that a particular feature, structure, or characteristic described in connection with the example is included in at least one embodiment. Thus, appearances of the phrases “in various embodiments,” “in some embodiments,” “in one embodiment,” “in an embodiment,” or like phrases in the specification do not necessarily refer to the same embodiment. Furthermore, the particular described features, structures, or characteristics may be combined in any suitable manner in one or more embodiments. Thus, the particular features, structures, or characteristics illustrated or described in connection with one embodiment may be combined, in whole or in part, with the features, structures, or characteristics of one or more other embodiments without limitation. Such modifications and variations are intended to be included within the scope of the present embodiments.

[0036] In this specification, unless otherwise indicated, all numerical parameters are to be understood as being prefaced and modified in all instances by the term “about,” in which the numerical parameters possess the inherent variability characteristic of the underlying measurement techniques used to determine the numerical value of the parameter. At the very least, and not as an attempt to limit the application of the doctrine of equivalents to the scope of the claims, each numerical parameter described herein should at least be construed in light of the number of reported significant digits and by applying ordinary rounding techniques.

[0037] Also, any numerical range recited herein includes all sub-ranges subsumed within the recited range. For example, a range of “1 to 10” includes all sub-ranges between (and including) the recited minimum value of 1 and the recited maximum value of 10, that is, having a minimum value equal to or greater than 1 and a maximum value equal to or less than 10. Any maximum numerical limitation recited in this specification is intended to include alllower numerical limitations subsumed therein, and any minimum numerical limitation recited in this specification is intended to include all higher numerical limitations subsumed therein. Accordingly, Applicant reserves the right to amend this specification, including the claims, to expressly recite any sub-range subsumed within the ranges expressly recited. All such ranges are inherently described in this specification.

[0038] The grammatical articles “a,” “an,” and “the,” as used herein, are intended to include “at least one” or “one or more,” unless otherwise indicated, even if “at least one” or “one or more” is expressly used in certain instances. Thus, the foregoing grammatical articles are used herein to refer to one or more than one (i.e., to “at least one”) of the particular identified elements. Further, the use of a singular noun includes the plural, and the use of a plural noun includes the singular, unless the context of the usage requires otherwise.

[0039] As used herein, “intermediate” means that the referenced element is disposed between two elements but is not necessarily in contact with those elements. Accordingly, unless stated otherwise herein, an element that is “intermediate” a first element and a second element may or may not be adjacent to or in contact with the first and / or second elements, and other elements may be disposed between the intermediate element and the first and / or second elements.

[0040] Removing a fastening collar that is secured to a fastener can be difficult and time consuming. Certain conventional removal tools require gripping the pull region of the pin, a significant side clearance, and / or impart substantial rotational forces to an operator during use. The present disclosure provides systems comprising a tubular cam and methods of using the systems. Various non-limiting embodiments of systems according to the present disclosure may not require gripping of the pull region of the pin, significant side clearance in order to remove a fastening collar secured to a fastener, and / or may impart a reduced level of rotational force to an operator during use.

[0041] For example, in various non-limiting embodiments, a system according to the present disclosure comprises a tubular cam, a guide, and at least two dies. The tubular cam comprises a first cam end, a second cam end, and a cam elongate portion extending from the first cam end to the second cam end. The cam elongate portion comprises an inner cam surface defining a cam cavity. The cam elongate portion defines a longitudinal axis. The guide is at least partially disposed within the cam cavity and extends along the longitudinalaxis. The guide comprises a first guide end, a second guide end, and a guide elongate portion comprising a tubular region adjacent to the first guide end. The tubular cam is capable to rotate independently about the longitudinal axis relative to the guide. The dies are disposed radially about the longitudinal axis and within the cam cavity adjacent to the first cam end. In a first configuration of the system, the dies are spaced a first radial distance from the longitudinal axis. In a second configuration of the system, the dies are spaced a second radial distance from the longitudinal axis. The second radial distance is less than the first radial distance. Relative radial rotation between the tubular cam and the guide changes the configuration of the system between the first configuration and the second configuration.

[0042] FIGs. 1 A-1E illustrate a non-limiting embodiment of system 100 according to the present disclosure comprising a tubular cam 102, a guide 104, and at least two dies 106, 108. The system 100 can be capable to move the at least two dies 106, 108 radially relative to a longitudinal axis, Ai, of the tubular cam 102. Although two dies 106, 108 are shown in FIGs.1A-1E, a single die 106 may be used as illustrated in FIGs. 9A-9E and described herein.

[0043] Referring to FIGs. IB, 1C, 3 A, and 3B, the system 100 can be in a first configuration, wherein the dies 106, 108 are spaced a first radial distance, di, from the longitudinal axis, Ai. The first radial distance, di, can enable an object (e.g., object 340 in FIGs. 3A and 3B) to be received in the guide cavity 104h.

[0044] FIGs. 4 A and 4B illustrate the system 100 in a second configuration, wherein the dies 106, 108 are spaced a second radial distance, d2, from the longitudinal axis, Ai. The second radial distance, d2, can be less than the first radial distance, di. The second radial distance, d2, can facilitate deformation of an object received in the guide cavity 104h.

[0045] The system 100 can move between the first configuration as shown in FIGs. IB, 1C, 3 A, and 3B, and the second configuration as shown in FIGs. 4A and 4B, and also can assume various positions therebetween by, for example, relative radial rotation between the tubular cam 102 and the guide 104. The movement between the first configuration and the second configuration can engage at least a portion of an object and at least partially deform the object. For example, the movement can cut into a fastening collar for removal and / or crimp / swage a collar of a fastener.

[0046] For example, movement of dies 106, 108 between the first and second configurations can forcibly contact and deform an object positioned within the guide cavity 104h. Forexample, the dies 106, 108 can move towards the longitudinal axis, Ai, and can at least partially cut into or completely cut through the object 340. The second distance, d2, can be adjusted to facilitate applications in which cutting the object 340 into multiple (i.e., two or more) separate pieces is desired, or applications in which retaining the fastening collar into the least number of pieces (e.g., a single piece, but still cut on a single side) is desired. In various other embodiments, it may be desired that the fastening collar is partially retained by a shank section of the fastener, and then can be removed by a second operation (e.g., pulling). In various embodiments, the second distance, d2, can be limited and / or prevented from decreasing to a size in which the dies 106, 108 can engage an inner cavity of the object 340 (e.g., where a shank portion of the fastener about which the fastening collar is secured is positioned). In various non-limiting embodiments, the dies 106, 108 can engage a shank portion of the fastener about which the fastening collar is secured.

[0047] Referring to FIGs. IB and 1G, the guide 104 can be capable to fix the position of the dies 106, 108 angularly relative to the longitudinal axis, Ai. The guide 104 can extend along the longitudinal axis, Ai. The guide 104 can comprise a first guide end 104a, a second guide end 104b, and a guide elongate portion 104c extending from the first guide end 104a to the second guide end 104b. In various non-limiting embodiments, the second guide end 104b can be closed and the shaft region 104e can be solid.

[0048] The guide 104 can further comprise a tubular region 104d adjacent to the first guide end 104a and a shaft region 104e adjacent to the second guide end 104b. The shaft region 104e can extend from the tubular region 104d. The tubular region 104d can comprise an inner guide surface 104f and an outer guide surface 104g. The inner guide surface 104f can define a guide cavity 104h that can be suitable to receive an object (e.g., object 340), such as, for example, a fastening collar.

[0049] Referring to FIGs. 1 A, IB, 1C, and 1G, at least two guide slots 114, 116 can be defined in the tubular region 104d. For example, the system 100 may comprise at least one guide slot 114, 116 per die 106, 108. Each guide slot 114, 116 can extend from the inner guide surface 104f to the outer guide surface 104g. Each of the dies 106, 108 can be disposed at least partially within one or more of the guide slots 114, 116. The guide slots 114, 116 can fix the angular position of the dies 106, 108 relative to the longitudinal axis, Ai. In certain non-limiting embodiments, the guide slots 114, 116 can be capable to enable the dies 106, 108 to contact the tubular cam 102 and be within the guide cavity 104h simultaneously. Invarious non-limiting embodiments, the guide slots 114, 116 can be elongated in a direction substantially parallel to the longitudinal axis, Ai.

[0050] In certain non-limiting embodiments, the guide slots 114, 116 can extend to the first guide end 104a of the guide 104. For example, the guide slots 114, 116 can enable replacement of the dies 106, 108 without disassembly of the tubular cam 102 relative to the guide 104.

[0051] Referring to FIGs. 1 A, IB, 1C, and IF, the tubular cam 102 can comprises a first cam end 102a, a second cam end 102b, and a cam elongate portion 102c extending from the first cam end 102a to the second cam end 102b. The cam elongate portion 102c can define the longitudinal axis, Ai. The tubular cam 102 can be capable to rotate independently about the longitudinal axis, Ai, relative to the guide 104. The tubular cam 102 can be capable to translate a rotational force into radial motion of the dies 106, 108 relative to the longitudinal axis, Ai. For example, the tubular cam 102 can urge the dies 106, 108 towards the longitudinal axis, Ai.

[0052] The cam elongate portion 102c can comprise an inner cam surface 102d defining a cam cavity 102f and an outer cam surface 102e. The cam cavity 102f can be sized and configured to receive the guide 104. In various non-limiting embodiments, the cam cavity 102f can extend through the tubular cam 102 from the first cam end 102a to the second cam end 102b.

[0053] Referring to FIG. IB, a first portion 102g of the cam cavity 102f adjacent to the first cam end 102a can comprise a first diameter, (|)i (e.g., an inner diameter). A second portion 102h of the cam cavity 102f adjacent to the second cam end 102b can comprise a second diameter, (|)2, (e.g., an inner diameter) that is smaller than the first diameter, (|)i .

[0054] Referring to FIGs. 1 A, IB, and 1C, the guide 104 can be at least partially disposed within the cam cavity 102f. The tubular region 104d of the guide 104 can be disposed within the first portion 102g of the cam cavity 102f, and the shaft region 104e of the guide 104 can be disposed within the second portion 102h of the cam cavity 102f.

[0055] Referring to FIG. IB, the tubular region 104d can comprise a third diameter, (|)3, (e.g., an outer diameter), and the shaft region 104e can comprise a fourth diameter, (|)4 (e.g., an outer diameter). The third diameter, (|)3, can be larger than the second diameter, (|)2, and lessthan the first diameter, <|>i. The fourth diameter, (|)4, can be less than the third diameter, (|)3, and less than the second diameter, <|>2. The tubular region 104d may be inhibited from entering the second portion 102h. In various non-limiting embodiments, the linear position of the tubular cam 102 along the longitudinal axis, Ai, can be fixed relative to the guide 104 due to the second diameter, (|)2, and the third diameter, (|)3.

[0056] Referring to FIGs. 1 A, IB, and IF, at least two die surfaces 110, 112 can be formed on the inner cam surface 102d and adjacent to the first cam end 102a. The at least two die surfaces 110, 112 can be positioned adjacent to the first portion 102g of the cam cavity 102f. The at least two die surfaces 110, 112 can be capable to move the dies 106, 108 relative to the longitudinal axis, Ai.

[0057] Each die surface 110, 112, individually, can be planar and / or curved depending on the motion of the dies 106, 108 desired. In various non-limiting embodiments, each die surface 110, 112 can radially taper relative to the longitudinal axis, Ai. In certain non-limiting embodiments, each die surface 110, 112 can be curving away from the longitudinal axis, Ai such that a radial distance between each die surface 110, 112 and the longitudinal axis, Ai, increases along a length of each die surface 110, 112.

[0058] Referring to FIG. 1C , each die surface 110, 112 comprises a first region 110a, 112a and a second region 110b, 112b, respectively. The positioning of the first regions 110a, 112a, relative to the second regions 110b, 112b can be capable to facilitate positioning the dies 106, 108 during rotation of the tubular cam 102.

[0059] For example, referring to FIG. 1C, the first regions 110a, 112a can be individually radially spaced distances, ds, from the longitudinal axis, Ai. The second regions 110b, 112b can be individually radially spaced distances, d4, from the longitudinal axis, Ai. The distances, ds, can be further from the longitudinal axis, Ai, than the distances, d4. The distances ds and d4 can be fixed relative to the longitudinal axis, Ai.

[0060] As the angular position of the dies 106, 108 can be substantially fixed relative to the guide 104, rotation of the tubular cam 102 can rotate the die surfaces 110, 112 about the longitudinal axis, Ai, which can change the portion of the die surfaces 110, 112, that is in contact with each die 106, 108. For example, in the first configuration of the system 100, the dies 106, 108 can be in contact with the second regions 110b, 112b, respectively. In the second configuration of the system 100, the dies 106, 108 can be in contact with the firstregions 110a, 112a, respectively. Changing the portion of the die surfaces 110, 112, contacting each die 106, 108, can change the radial position of the dies 106, 108 relative to the longitudinal axis, Ai.

[0061] Referring again to FIG. 1C, the system 100 can comprise at least two dies, including dies 106, 108, as shown. In various non-limiting embodiments, the system 100 can comprise, for example, at least three dies, at least four dies, at least five dies, or at least six dies.

[0062] The dies 106, 108 can be disposed radially about the longitudinal axis, Ai, and within the cam cavity 102f adjacent to the first cam end 102a. The positioning of the dies 106, 108 about the longitudinal axis, Ai, may be substantially uniform. The uniform positioning can enable an even and inline distribution of a load applied by the dies 106, 108 to an object within the guide cavity 104h, to reduce a reaction force imparted to the operator and / or enable an enhanced deformation of the object.

[0063] The dies 106, 108 can comprise various configurations as the application may require. In various non-limiting embodiments, the dies 106, 108 can be capable to deform an object received within the guide cavity 104h by the force applied from the movement of the dies 106, 108 towards the longitudinal axis, Ai.

[0064] In various non-limiting embodiments, the dies 106, 108 can comprise a blade capable to cut a fastening collar received by the guide cavity 104h. The force applied by the dies 106, 108 to the object can at least partially cut into an object received by the guide cavity 104h.

[0065] In certain non-limiting embodiments, referring to FIG. 8, the dies 106, 108 can comprise a crimping die (e.g., an anvil) capable to deform a fastening collar received by the guide cavity 104h. For example, the force applied by the dies 106, 108 to the object can at least partially swage an object received by the guide cavity 104h.

[0066] In various non-limiting embodiments, referring again to FIG. 1C, each of the dies 106, 108 can be capable to contact one or more of the die surfaces 110, 112 such that relative radial rotation between the tubular cam 102 and guide 104 changes a radial position of each of the dies relative to the longitudinal axis, Ai. In the first configuration, the dies 106, 108 can be urged away from the longitudinal axis, Ai, towards the die surfaces 110, 112 such that an object received by the guide cavity 104h can be received therein with minimal, if any, contact with the dies 106, 108 until the appropriate time.

[0067] In various non-limiting embodiments, referring to FIG. IB, each die 106, 108 can comprise a pin 122, 124 attached to the respective die 106, 108. The pins 122, 124 individually may be removable or integral with the respective die 106, 108. For example, the pins 122, 124 may be fasteners and may be removably threaded into the dies 106, 108. The pins 122, 124 may be integrally formed with the respective die 106, 108 such that they have been formed from a monolithic piece of material along with the respective dies 106, 108, or are permanently attached thereto (e.g., welded, glued).

[0068] In certain non-limiting embodiments, referring to FIGs. IB and IF, the first portion 102g of the tubular cam 102 can comprise cam slots 118, 120. The cam slots 118, 120 can be capable to receive the pins 122, 124. For example, each cam slot 118, 120 can extend from the inner cam surface 102d a distance into the cam elongate portion 102c. The pins 122, 124 can at least partially extend into the cam slots 118, 120.

[0069] In various non-limiting embodiments, referring to FIG. IB, each cam slot 118, 120 can extend from the inner cam surface 102d to the outer cam surface 102e. In various embodiments in which at least one pin 122, 124 comprises a fastener, the fastener can be inserted from the outer cam surface 102e through the respective cam slots 118, 120, past the inner cam surface 102d and into removable attachment with the respective die 106, 108. The removable fastener can enhance assembly of the system 100 and enable replacement of the dies 106, 108. In various embodiments in which at least one pin 122, 124 comprises a fastener with a head portion, the head portion of the fastener may control a position of the pin 122, 124 and thereby the die 106, 108 attached thereto by contact with the outer cam surface 102e of the tubular cam 102.

[0070] In various non-limiting embodiments, referring to FIGs. IB, 1C, and IF, the cam slots 118, 120 can be elongated in a direction substantially parallel to a direction of rotation of the tubular cam 102 (e.g., a direction substantially perpendicular to the longitudinal axis, Ai, such as directions 150a, 150b). The cam slots 118, 120 can enable the tubular cam 102 to rotate independently about the longitudinal axis, Ai, a certain radial distance independently of the pins 122, 124 in directions 150a and 150b. The cam slots 118, 120 can fix a position of the dies 106, 108 relative to the tubular cam 102 linearly along the longitudinal axis, Ai. For example, the position of the die 106, 108 can be fixed relative to the tubular cam 102 in directions 152a and 152b linearly along the longitudinal axis, Ai.

[0071] Referring to FIG. IB, the tubular cam 102 can be driven directly by rotation (e.g., directly rotated by a rotational actuator) and / or the tubular cam 102 can be driven by a linear force. In various non-limiting embodiments, the system 100 can comprise a driver 126 that can engage the tubular cam 102 to urge the tubular cam 102 to rotate. For example, the driver 126 can be capable to move linearly along the longitudinal axis, Ai, and the linear movement can urge the tubular cam 102 to rotate.

[0072] Referring to FIG. 1 A, IB, and 1H, the driver 126 can comprise a first driver end 126a, a second driver end 126b, an elongate portion 126c extending from the first driver end 126a to the second driver end 126b. The elongate portion 126c can comprise an inner driver surface 126d and an outer driver surface 126e. The inner driver surface 126d can define a driver cavity 126f capable to receive the tubular cam 102.

[0073] The driver 126 and the tubular cam 102 can be configured such that linear motion of the driver 126 rotates the tubular cam 102. For example, the driver 126 and the tubular cam 102 can form a cam linkage. The cam linkage can comprise, for example, a disk cam, a plate cam, a cylindrical cam, a translating cam, a wedge cam, a spiral cam, a conjugate cam, a globoidal cam, and / or a spherical cam.

[0074] The driver 126 can comprise a first cam feature 128, and the tubular cam 102 can comprise a second cam feature 130. The first and second cam features 128, 130 can cooperate to impart a rotation of the tubular cam 102 by linear motion of the driver 126 along the longitudinal axis, Ai. For example, the first cam feature 128 and / or the second cam feature 130 can comprise, respectively, a groove and a protrusion as paired cooperative features.

[0075] In various non-limiting embodiments, the driver 126 can comprise, for example, a single cam feature, at least two first cam features, at least three first cam features, or at least four first cam features, which may be the same or different. The tubular cam 102 can comprise at least two second cam features, at least three second cam features, or at least four second cam features, which may be the same or different. The quantity of second cam features on the driver 126 can match the quantity of first cam features on the tubular cam 102. For example, as illustrated in FIG. ID, the driver 126 comprises three first cam features 128, and the tubular cam 102 comprises three second cam features 130.

[0076] Referring again to FIG. ID, the first cam feature 128 can comprise a protrusion extending from the inner driver surface 126d, and the second cam feature 130 can comprise a groove (e.g., a helical groove) defined by a wall 130a in the outer cam surface 102e. The protrusion can extend at least partially into the groove such that linear movement along the longitudinal axis, Ai, by the driver 126 can cause the protrusion to contact the wall 130a of the groove and rotate the tubular cam 102 about the longitudinal axis, Ai.

[0077] In various non-limiting embodiments, referring to FIG. 5, the first cam feature 128 can comprise a groove defined by a wall in the inner driver surface 126d, and the second cam feature 130 can comprise a protrusion extending from the outer cam surface 102e. The protrusion can extend at least partially into the groove such that linear movement along the longitudinal axis, Ai, by the driver 126 can cause the protrusion to contact the wall 128a of the groove and rotate the tubular cam 102 about the longitudinal axis, Ai.

[0078] In various non-limiting embodiments, the cam cavity 102f can be configured to receive the driver 126. For example, referring to FIG. 6, the first cam feature 128 can comprise a protrusion extending from the outer driver surface 126e, and the second cam feature 130 can comprise a groove (e.g., a helical groove) defined by a wall in the inner cam surface 102d. The protrusion can extend at least partially into the groove such that linear movement along the longitudinal axis, Ai, by the driver 126 can cause the protrusion to contact the wall 130a of the groove and rotate the tubular cam 102 about the longitudinal axis, Ai.

[0079] In various non-limiting embodiments, referring to FIG. 7, the first cam feature 128 can comprise a groove defined by a wall 128a in the outer driver surface 126e, and the second cam feature 130 can comprise a protrusion extending from the inner cam surface 102d. The protrusion can extend at least partially into the groove such that linear movement along the longitudinal axis, Ai, by the driver 126 can cause the protrusion to contact the wall 128a of the groove and rotate the tubular cam 102 about the longitudinal axis, Ai.

[0080] As the linear motion of the driver 126 is translated to rotational movement of the tubular cam 102 by the cam features 128 and 130, the portion of the die surfaces 110, 112 that contacts the dies 106, 108 changes, thereby changing the position of the dies 106, 108 relative to the longitudinal axis, Ai. The positioning of the dies 106, 108 within the guide slots 114, 116 can counteract the rotation applied by the tubular cam 102, thereby reducing, ifnot eliminating, a reaction force imparted to the operator. In certain non-limiting embodiments, referring to FIG. IE, the shaft region 104e of the guide 104 can be at least partially keyed to the inner driver surface 126d of the driver 126 such that relative rotation between the driver 126 and the guide 104 is inhibited while the driver 126 moves linearly along the longitudinal axis, Ai, independently of the guide 104 to urge the tubular cam 102 to rotate about the longitudinal axis, Ai.

[0081] The protrusion of the cam feature 128 and / or 130 can be removably attached or integral with the driver 126 or the tubular cam 102. For example, in certain embodiments in which the cam feature 128 comprises the protrusion, the protrusion can be removably attached or integral with the driver 126. For example, in embodiments in which the cam feature 130 comprises the protrusion, the protrusion can be removably attached or integral with the tubular cam 102.

[0082] In various non-limiting embodiments, the protrusion can comprise an integrally formed portion of the driver 126 or tubular cam and / or a pin (e.g., a press-in pin, a rivet, and / or a screw).

[0083] In various non-limiting embodiments, the system 100 can comprise a spring capable to urge the system 100 into the first configuration.

[0084] The system 100 and its various elements can comprise at least one of a polymer, a metal, a metal alloy, and a composite material. In various embodiments, the metal or metal alloy can comprise at least one of aluminum, an aluminum alloy, titanium, a titanium alloy, nickel, a nickel alloy, iron, and an iron alloy. The composite material can comprise, for example, a carbon fiber composite material.

[0085] The system 100 can be manufactured by various processes, such as, for example, at least one of machining, casting, molding, and additive manufacturing.

[0086] Referring to FIG. 2, a method for using the system 100 is provided. At step 202, an object is disposed in the guide cavity 104h of the guide 104 of the system 100. For example, a fastening collar of a fastener may be disposed in the guide cavity 104h.

[0087] At step 204, the object can be forcibly contacted with the dies 106, 108. In various non-limiting embodiments in which the object comprises a fastening collar and the dies 106,108 comprise blades, forcibly contacting the object can comprise cutting into the fastening collar. In certain non-limiting embodiments in which the object comprises a fastening collar and the dies 106, 108 comprise crimping dies, forcibly contacting the object can comprise deforming the fastening collar onto a pin of the fastener, thereby securing the collar to the pin.

[0088] Optionally, after cutting into the fastening collar, at step 206, the object can be removed from the pin of an object. For example, a fastening collar can be removed from the pin of a fastener.

[0089] Referring to FIG. 3B, a tool 300 can be operatively coupled to the system 100 and can control the action of the driver 126. For example, the tool 300 can comprise an actuator 334 capable to be operatively coupled to the driver 126. The actuator 234 can be capable to move the driver 126 linearly along the longitudinal axis, Ai.

[0090] In certain non-limiting embodiments, the tool 300 can be a battery-powered tool, such as, for example, at least one of a Huck® Range Force™ Battery installation tool; a pneumatic tool, such as, for example, a Huck® 254™ pneumatic tool; and a hydraulic tool, such as, for example, a Huck® SF™ hydraulic tool, all available from Howmet Fastening Systems, Kingston, New York. For example, the actuator 234 may be electrically, hydraulically, or pneumatically driven.

[0091] Referring to FIG. 3B, the shaft region 104e can be operatively coupled to a collet 336 of the tool 300. For example, the shaft region 104e can be attached to an adapter 338 by a retaining collar 350, and the adapter 338 can be attached to the collet 336. The operative coupling between the collet 336 and the shaft region 104e can provide a reaction force when the actuator 234 urges the driver 126 along the longitudinal axis, Ai.

[0092] FIGs. 3 A, 3B, 4A, and 4B illustrate an embodiment of a method for removing a fastening collar 342 secured to a pin 344 of an object. As illustrated in FIGs. 3A-3B, the pin 344 can comprise a shank portion 346, and the fastening collar 342 can be secured to the shank portion 346. The object 340 can be secured to a structure 348 by the fastening collar 342. The shank portion 346 can be, for example, a threaded section, a grooved section, or a substantially smooth section. The object 340 can be, for example, a bolt or a structural fastener (e.g., a lockbolt). The fastening collar 342 can be, for example, a bolt collar or a nut. The fastening collar 342 can comprise a flange portion 352 which can be integral to thefastening collar 342. In various non-limiting embodiments, the fastening collar 342 does not comprise a flange portion. The flange portion 352 can comprise a diameter larger than a diameter of the remainder of the fastening collar 342.

[0093] As illustrated in FIGs. 3 A and 3B, a method for removing the fastening collar 342 comprises positioning the guide cavity 104h of the system 100 in the first configuration around the fastening collar 342 of the object 340. The shank portion 346 of the pin 344 also can be received in the guide cavity 104h. The dies 106, 108 are spaced from the longitudinal axis, Ai, sufficiently to receive the fastening collar 342 and, in various embodiments, a flange portion 352 of the fastening collar 342.

[0094] After positioning the dies 106, 108 about the fastening collar 342, the driver 126 can be linearly moved along the longitudinal axis, Ai, and the tubular cam 102 can be rotated by the interaction therebetween. Due to the rotation of the tubular cam 102, the die surfaces 110, 112 can rotate about the longitudinal axis, Ai, such that the second regions 110b, 112b are no longer contacting the dies 106, 108, and the first regions 110a, 112a are contacting the dies 106, 108, as illustrated in FIGs. 4 A and 4B.

[0095] The change in configuration of the system 100 urges the dies 106, 108 towards the longitudinal axis, Ai, and engage the dies 106, 108 with the fastening collar 342. The fastening collar 342 can be deformed by the dies 106, 108, thereby enabling removal of the fastening collar 342 from the shank portion 346 of the pin 344. For example, dies 106, 108 can at least partially cut into or can cut completely through the fastening collar 342. As illustrated in FIGs. 4A and 4B, the dies 106, 108 have cut the fastening collar 342 into two pieces. In various other embodiments, at least one of dies 106, 108 may not cut entirely through the fastening collar 342 and may leave the fastening collar 342 as a single deformed piece that can be removed from the shank portion 346.

[0096] FIGs. 9A-9E illustrate a non-limiting embodiment of system 900 according to the present disclosure comprising a tubular cam 102, a guide 104, and a single die 106. The system 100 can be capable to move the dies 106 radially relative to a longitudinal axis, Ai, of the tubular cam 102. The system 900 can be configured substantially similar to the system of FIGs. 1A-1E.

[0097] Various aspects of the inventions include, but are not limited to, the aspects listed in the following numbered clauses.

[0098] Clause 1. A system comprising: a tubular cam comprising a first cam end, a second cam end, and a cam elongate portion extending from the first cam end to the second cam end and comprising an inner cam surface defining a cam cavity, wherein the cam elongate portion defines a longitudinal axis; a guide at least partially disposed within the cam cavity and extending along the longitudinal axis, the guide comprising a first guide end, a second guide end, and a guide elongate portion comprising a tubular region adjacent to the first guide end wherein the tubular cam is capable to rotate independently about the longitudinal axis relative to the guide; and at least two dies disposed radially about the longitudinal axis and within the cam cavity adjacent to the first cam end, wherein in a first configuration of the system, the at least two dies are spaced a first radial distance from the longitudinal axis, and in a second configuration of the system, the at least two dies are spaced a second radial distance from the longitudinal axis, wherein the second radial distance is less than the first radial distance, wherein relative radial rotation between the tubular cam and the guide changes a configuration of the system between the first configuration and the second configuration.

[0099] Clause 2. The system of clause 1, wherein at least two die surfaces are formed on the inner cam surface and adjacent to the first cam end, and each of the at least two dies are capable to contact one or more of the at least two die surfaces such that relative radial rotation between the tubular cam and guide changes a radial position of each of the at least two dies relative to the longitudinal axis.

[0100] Clause 3. The system of clause 2, wherein each die surface has a first region and a second region, each first region is radially spaced further from the longitudinal axis than each second region, and the at least two dies are contacting the first region in the first configuration of the system and the at least two dies are contacting the second region in the second configuration of the system.

[0101] Clause 4. The system of any of clauses 2-3, wherein each die surface radially tapers relative to the longitudinal axis.

[0102] Clause 5. The system of any of clauses 2-4, wherein a pin is removably attached to each of the at least two dies and the pin extends at least partially into a cam slot formed within one of the at least two die surfaces.

[0103] Clause 6. The system of any of clauses 2-5, wherein a pin is integral with each of the at least two dies and the pin extends at least partially into a cam slot formed within one of the at least two die surfaces.

[0104] Clause 7. The system of any of clauses 1-6, wherein the tubular region of the guide elongate portion comprises an inner guide surface and an outer guide surface, at least two guide slots are defined in the tubular region and each guide slot extends from the inner guide surface to the outer guide surface, and each of the at least two dies are disposed at least partially within one or more of the at least two guide slots.

[0105] Clause 8. The system of any of clauses 1-7, wherein the cam elongate portion comprises an outer cam surface and a helical groove defined by a wall in the outer cam surface, and the system further comprises: a driver comprising an inner surface defining a driver cavity capable to receive the tubular cam, the driver capable to move linearly along the longitudinal axis, the driver comprising a protrusion extending at least partially into the helical groove such that linear movement along the longitudinal axis by the driver causes the protrusion to contact the wall and rotate the tubular cam about the longitudinal axis.

[0106] Clause 9. The system of clause 8, further comprising an actuator of an installation apparatus operatively coupled to the driver and capable to move the driver linearly along the longitudinal axis.

[0107] Clause 10. The system of clause 9, wherein the guide elongate portion further comprises a shaft extending from the tubular region, and the shaft is operatively coupled to a collet of the installation apparatus.

[0108] Clause 11. The system of any of clauses 1-10, wherein the cam elongate portion comprises an outer cam surface and at least two helical grooves, each groove defined by a wall in the outer cam surface, and the system further comprises: a driver comprising an inner surface defining a driver cavity capable to receive the tubular cam, the driver capable to move linearly along the longitudinal axis, the driver comprising at least two protrusions, each protrusion extending at least partially into one or more of the at least two helical grooves such that linear movement along the longitudinal axis by the driver causes the at least two protrusions to contact the walls defined by each groove in the outer cam surface and rotate the tubular cam about the longitudinal axis.

[0109] Clause 12. The system of any of clauses 1-11, wherein the cam elongate portion comprises an outer surface and a protrusion extending from an outer surface, and the system further comprises: a driver comprising an outer surface and an inner surface defining a driver cavity capable to receive the tubular cam, the driver capable to move linearly along the longitudinal axis, the driver comprising a helical groove defined by a wall in an inner surface of the driver, wherein the protrusion at least partially extends into the helical groove such that linear movement along the longitudinal axis by the driver causes the protrusion to contact the wall and rotate the tubular cam about the longitudinal axis.

[0110] Clause 13. The system of any of clauses 1-12, wherein the cam elongate portion comprises a helical groove defined by a wall in an outer cam surface, and the system further comprises: a driver capable to move linearly along the longitudinal axis, the driver comprising a protrusion at least partially extending into the helical groove such that linear movement along the longitudinal axis by the driver causes the protrusion to contact the wall and rotate the tubular cam about the longitudinal axis.[OHl] Clause 14. The system of any of clauses 1-13, wherein the cam elongate portion comprises a protrusion, and the system further comprises: a driver capable to move linearly along the longitudinal axis, the driver comprising a helical groove defined by a wall in an outer surface of the driver, wherein the protrusion at least partially extends into the helical groove such that linear movement along the longitudinal axis by the driver causes the protrusion to contact the wall and rotate the tubular cam about the longitudinal axis.

[0112] Clause 15. The system of any of clauses 1-14, wherein the tubular region of the guide elongate portion comprises an inner guide surface defining a guide cavity and at least one of one or more of the at least two dies comprises a blade capable to cut a collar received by the guide cavity; and one or more of the at least two dies comprises a crimping die capable to deform a collar received by the guide cavity.

[0113] Clause 16. A tool comprising the system of any of clauses 1-15.

[0114] Clause 17. A method comprising: disposing a collar of a fastener into a guide cavity defined by an inner guide surface of the tubular region of the guide of the system of any of clauses 1-15; and forcibly contacting the collar with the at least two dies of the system.

[0115] Clause 18. The method of clause 17, wherein each of the at least two dies comprises a blade, forcibly contacting the collar comprises cutting into the collar, and the method further comprises: removing the collar from a pin of a fastener.

[0116] Clause 19. The method of any of clauses 17-18, wherein each of the at least two dies comprises a crimping die and forcibly contacting the collar comprises deforming the collar onto a pin of a fastener, thereby securing the collar to the pin.

[0117] Clause 20. A method comprising: disposing a collar of a fastener into a guide cavity defined by an inner guide surface of the tubular region of the guide of the system of any of clauses 3-15; and forcibly contacting the collar with the at least two dies of the system by rotation of the tubular cam to rotate the die surfaces about the longitudinal axis, Ai, such that the second regions are no longer contacting the at least two dies and the first regions are contacting the at least two dies.

[0118] Clause 21. A system comprising: a tubular cam comprising a first cam end, a second cam end, and a cam elongate portion extending from the first cam end to the second cam end and comprising an inner cam surface defining a cam cavity, wherein the cam elongate portion defines a longitudinal axis; a guide at least partially disposed within the cam cavity and extending along the longitudinal axis, the guide comprising a first guide end, a second guide end, and a guide elongate portion comprising a tubular region adjacent to the first guide end wherein the tubular cam is capable to rotate independently about the longitudinal axis relative to the guide; and a die disposed radially about the longitudinal axis and within the cam cavity adjacent to the first cam end, wherein in a first configuration of the system, the die is spaced a first radial distance from the longitudinal axis, and in a second configuration of the system, the die is spaced a second radial distance from the longitudinal axis, wherein the second radial distance is less than the first radial distance, wherein relative radial rotation between the tubular cam and the guide changes a configuration of the system between the first configuration and the second configuration.

[0119] Clause 22. The system of clause 21, wherein a die surface is formed on the inner cam surface and adjacent to the first cam end, and the die is capable to contact the die surface such that relative radial rotation between the tubular cam and guide changes a radial position of the die relative to the longitudinal axis.1

[0120] Clause 23. The system of clause 22, wherein the die surface has a first region and a second region, the first region is radially spaced further from the longitudinal axis than the second region, and the die is contacting the first region in the first configuration of the system and the die is contacting the second region in the second configuration of the system.

[0121] Clause 24. The system of any of clauses 22-23, wherein the die surface radially tapers relative to the longitudinal axis.

[0122] Clause 25. The system of any of clauses 22-24, wherein a pin is removably attached to the die and the pin extends at least partially into a cam slot formed within the die surface.

[0123] Clause 26. The system of any of clauses 22-25, wherein a pin is integral with die and the pin extends at least partially into a cam slot formed within die surface.

[0124] Clause 27. The system of any of clauses 21-26, wherein the tubular region of the guide elongate portion comprises an inner guide surface and an outer guide surface, a guide slot is defined in the tubular region and the guide slot extends from the inner guide surface to the outer guide surface, and the die is disposed at least partially within the guide slot.

[0125] Clause 28. The system of any of clauses 21-27, wherein the cam elongate portion comprises an outer cam surface and a helical groove defined by a wall in the outer cam surface, and the system further comprises: a driver comprising an inner surface defining a driver cavity capable to receive the tubular cam, the driver capable to move linearly along the longitudinal axis, the driver comprising a protrusion extending at least partially into the helical groove such that linear movement along the longitudinal axis by the driver causes the protrusion to contact the wall and rotate the tubular cam about the longitudinal axis.

[0126] Clause 29. The system of clause 28, further comprising an actuator of an installation apparatus operatively coupled to the driver and capable to move the driver linearly along the longitudinal axis.

[0127] Clause 30. The system of clause 29, wherein the guide elongate portion further comprises a shaft extending from the tubular region, and the shaft is operatively coupled to a collet of the installation apparatus.

[0128] Clause 31. The system of any of clauses 21-30, wherein the cam elongate portion comprises an outer cam surface and at least two helical grooves, each groove defined by awall in the outer cam surface, and the system further comprises: a driver comprising an inner surface defining a driver cavity capable to receive the tubular cam, the driver capable to move linearly along the longitudinal axis, the driver comprising at least two protrusions, each protrusion extending at least partially into one or more of the at least two helical grooves such that linear movement along the longitudinal axis by the driver causes the at least two protrusions to contact the walls defined by each groove in the outer cam surface and rotate the tubular cam about the longitudinal axis.

[0129] Clause 32. The system of any of clauses 21-31, wherein the cam elongate portion comprises an outer surface and a protrusion extending from an outer surface, and the system further comprises: a driver comprising an outer surface and an inner surface defining a driver cavity capable to receive the tubular cam, the driver capable to move linearly along the longitudinal axis, the driver comprising a helical groove defined by a wall in an inner surface of the driver, wherein the protrusion at least partially extends into the helical groove such that linear movement along the longitudinal axis by the driver causes the protrusion to contact the wall and rotate the tubular cam about the longitudinal axis.

[0130] Clause 33. The system of any of clauses 21-32, wherein the cam elongate portion comprises a helical groove defined by a wall in an outer cam surface, and the system further comprises: a driver capable to move linearly along the longitudinal axis, the driver comprising a protrusion at least partially extending into the helical groove such that linear movement along the longitudinal axis by the driver causes the protrusion to contact the wall and rotate the tubular cam about the longitudinal axis.

[0131] Clause 34. The system of any of clauses 21-33, wherein the cam elongate portion comprises a protrusion, and the system further comprises: a driver capable to move linearly along the longitudinal axis, the driver comprising a helical groove defined by a wall in an outer surface of the driver, wherein the protrusion at least partially extends into the helical groove such that linear movement along the longitudinal axis by the driver causes the protrusion to contact the wall and rotate the tubular cam about the longitudinal axis.

[0132] Clause 35. The system of any of clauses 21-34, wherein the tubular region of the guide elongate portion comprises an inner guide surface defining a guide cavity and the die comprises a blade capable to cut a collar received by the guide cavity; and the die comprises a crimping die capable to deform a collar received by the guide cavity.

[0133] Clause 36. A tool comprising the system of any of clauses 21-35.

[0134] Clause 37. A method comprising: disposing a collar of a fastener into a guide cavity defined by an inner guide surface of the tubular region of the guide of the system of any of clauses 21-35; and forcibly contacting the collar with the at least two dies of the system.

[0135] Clause 38. The method of clause 37, wherein each of the at least two dies comprises a blade, forcibly contacting the collar comprises cutting into the collar, and the method further comprises: removing the collar from a pin of a fastener.

[0136] Clause 39. The method of any of clauses 37-38, wherein each of the at least two dies comprises a crimping die and forcibly contacting the collar comprises deforming the collar onto a pin of a fastener, thereby securing the collar to the pin.

[0137] Clause 40. A method comprising: disposing a collar of a fastener into a guide cavity defined by an inner guide surface of the tubular region of the guide of the system of any of clauses 23-35; and forcibly contacting the collar with the at least two dies of the system by rotation of the tubular cam to rotate the die surfaces about the longitudinal axis, Ai, such that the second regions are no longer contacting the at least two dies and the first regions are contacting the at least two dies.

[0138] One skilled in the art will recognize that the herein described fasteners, structures, operations / actions, and objects, and the discussion accompanying them, are used as examples for the sake of conceptual clarity and that various configuration modifications are contemplated. Consequently, as used herein, the specific examples / embodiments set forth and the accompanying discussion are intended to be representative of their more general classes. In general, use of any specific exemplar is intended to be representative of its class, and the non-inclusion of specific components, devices, apparatus, operations / actions, and objects should not be taken as limiting. While the present disclosure provides descriptions of various specific aspects for the purpose of illustrating various aspects of the present disclosure and / or its potential applications, it is understood that variations and modifications will occur to those skilled in the art. Accordingly, the inventions described herein should be understood to be at least as broad as they are claimed and not as more narrowly defined by particular illustrative aspects provided herein.

Claims

CLAIMSWhat is claimed is:

1. A system comprising:a tubular cam comprisinga first cam end,a second cam end, anda cam elongate portion extending from the first cam end to the second cam end and comprising an inner cam surface defining a cam cavity, wherein the cam elongate portion defines a longitudinal axis;a guide at least partially disposed within the cam cavity and extending along the longitudinal axis, the guide comprisinga first guide end,a second guide end, anda guide elongate portion comprising a tubular region adjacent to the first guide endwherein the tubular cam is capable to rotate independently about the longitudinal axis relative to the guide; andat least two dies disposed radially about the longitudinal axis and within the cam cavity adjacent to the first cam end,wherein in a first configuration of the system, the at least two dies are spaced a first radial distance from the longitudinal axis, and in a second configuration of the system, the at least two dies are spaced a second radial distance from the longitudinal axis, wherein the second radial distance is less than the first radial distance, wherein relative radial rotation between the tubular cam and the guide changes a configuration of the system between the first configuration and the second configuration.

2. The system of claim 1, whereinat least two die surfaces are formed on the inner cam surface and adjacent to the first cam end, andeach of the at least two dies are capable to contact one or more of the at least two die surfaces such that relative radial rotation between the tubular cam and guide changes a radial position of each of the at least two dies relative to the longitudinal axis.

3. The system of claim 2, whereineach die surface has a first region and a second region,each first region is radially spaced further from the longitudinal axis than each second region, andthe at least two dies are contacting the first region in the first configuration of the system and the at least two dies are contacting the second region in the second configuration of the system.

4. The system of claim 2, wherein each die surface radially tapers relative to the longitudinal axis.

5. The system of claim 2, wherein a pin is removably attached to each of the at least two dies and the pin extends at least partially into a cam slot formed within one of the at least two die surfaces.

6. The system of claim 2, wherein a pin is integral with each of the at least two dies and the pin extends at least partially into a cam slot formed within one of the at least two die surfaces.

7. The system of claim 1, whereinthe tubular region of the guide elongate portion comprises an inner guide surface and an outer guide surface,at least two guide slots are defined in the tubular region and each guide slot extends from the inner guide surface to the outer guide surface, andeach of the at least two dies are disposed at least partially within one or more of the at least two guide slots.

8. The system of claim 1, wherein the cam elongate portion comprises an outer cam surface and a helical groove defined by a wall in the outer cam surface, and the system further comprises:a driver comprising an inner surface defining a driver cavity capable to receive the tubular cam, the driver capable to move linearly along the longitudinal axis, the driver comprising a protrusion extending at least partially into the helical groove such that linearmovement along the longitudinal axis by the driver causes the protrusion to contact the wall and rotate the tubular cam about the longitudinal axis.

9. The system of claim 8, further comprising an actuator of an installation apparatus operatively coupled to the driver and capable to move the driver linearly along the longitudinal axis.

10. The system of claim 9, wherein the guide elongate portion further comprises a shaft extending from the tubular region, and the shaft is operatively coupled to a collet of the installation apparatus.

11. The system of claim 1, wherein the cam elongate portion comprises an outer cam surface and at least two helical grooves, each groove defined by a wall in the outer cam surface, and the system further comprises:a driver comprising an inner surface defining a driver cavity capable to receive the tubular cam, the driver capable to move linearly along the longitudinal axis, the driver comprising at least two protrusions, each protrusion extending at least partially into one or more of the at least two helical grooves such that linear movement along the longitudinal axis by the driver causes the at least two protrusions to contact the walls defined by each groove in the outer cam surface and rotate the tubular cam about the longitudinal axis.

12. The system of claim 1, wherein the cam elongate portion comprises an outer surface and a protrusion extending from an outer surface, and the system further comprises:a driver comprising an outer surface and an inner surface defining a driver cavity capable to receive the tubular cam, the driver capable to move linearly along the longitudinal axis, the driver comprising a helical groove defined by a wall in an inner surface of the driver, wherein the protrusion at least partially extends into the helical groove such that linear movement along the longitudinal axis by the driver causes the protrusion to contact the wall and rotate the tubular cam about the longitudinal axis.

13. The system of claim 1, wherein the cam elongate portion comprises a helical groove defined by a wall in an outer cam surface, and the system further comprises:a driver capable to move linearly along the longitudinal axis, the driver comprising a protrusion at least partially extending into the helical groove such that linear movement alongthe longitudinal axis by the driver causes the protrusion to contact the wall and rotate the tubular cam about the longitudinal axis.

14. The system of claim 1, wherein the cam elongate portion comprises a protrusion, and the system further comprises:a driver capable to move linearly along the longitudinal axis, the driver comprising a helical groove defined by a wall in an outer surface of the driver, wherein the protrusion at least partially extends into the helical groove such that linear movement along the longitudinal axis by the driver causes the protrusion to contact the wall and rotate the tubular cam about the longitudinal axis.

15. The system of claim 1, wherein the tubular region of the guide elongate portion comprises an inner guide surface defining a guide cavity and at least one ofone or more of the at least two dies comprises a blade capable to cut a collar received by the guide cavity; andone or more of the at least two dies comprises a crimping die capable to deform a collar received by the guide cavity.

16. A tool comprising the system of claim 1.

17. A method comprising:disposing a collar of a fastener into a guide cavity defined by an inner guide surface of the tubular region of the guide of the system of claim 1; andforcibly contacting the collar with the at least two dies of the system.

18. The method of claim 17, wherein each of the at least two dies comprises a blade, forcibly contacting the collar comprises cutting into the collar, and the method further comprises:removing the collar from a pin of a fastener.

19. The method of claim 17, wherein each of the at least two dies comprises a crimping die and forcibly contacting the collar comprises deforming the collar onto a pin of a fastener, thereby securing the collar to the pin.

20. A method comprising:disposing a collar of a fastener into a guide cavity defined by an inner guide surface of the tubular region of the guide of the system of claim 3; andforcibly contacting the collar with the at least two dies of the system by rotation of the tubular cam to rotate the die surfaces about the longitudinal axis, Ai, such that the second regions are no longer contacting the at least two dies and the first regions are contacting the at least two dies.

21. A system comprising:a tubular cam comprisinga first cam end,a second cam end, anda cam elongate portion extending from the first cam end to the second cam end and comprising an inner cam surface defining a cam cavity, wherein the cam elongate portion defines a longitudinal axis;a guide at least partially disposed within the cam cavity and extending along the longitudinal axis, the guide comprisinga first guide end,a second guide end, anda guide elongate portion comprising a tubular region adjacent to the first guide endwherein the tubular cam is capable to rotate independently about the longitudinal axis relative to the guide; anda die disposed radially about the longitudinal axis and within the cam cavity adjacent to the first cam end,wherein in a first configuration of the system, the die is spaced a first radial distance from the longitudinal axis, and in a second configuration of the system, the die is spaced a second radial distance from the longitudinal axis, wherein the second radial distance is less than the first radial distance, wherein relative radial rotation between the tubular cam and the guide changes a configuration of the system between the first configuration and the second configuration.

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