US 4,309,123 A · Method and apparatus for fastening misaligned structural members

Abstract

Set out herein is a fastener assembly which, together with a fastening tool may be used to align and secure structural members to each other, the structural members having misaligned securing apertures. Particularly, this invention relates to a device consisting of two eccentric bushings nested and swaged together while still permitting their relative rotation, and a special tool used for their installation. The present invention also relates to the use of the nested eccentric bushings with multiple threaded fasteners and nuts, and spiral cam ended pins with spring retainers to achieve a quick-release attachment. In addition, this invention relates to the retention of the fastener members in the nested bushing assembly and the retention of the bushing assembly in the access panel when the panel is removed. The present invention relates to the use of the nested eccentric bushings in conjunction with standard round shank screws, bolts, platenuts, nuts, washers and other fastener hardware. More particularly, each bushing of an assembly provides a means of indexing the installation tool. The tool holds the fastener and simultaneously rotates each eccentric bushing independently until hole alignment of the mating parts is achieved. Further, at this point, the tool injects the fastener through the hole in the lower structure and is then used to rotate the fastener sufficiently to engage its receptacle.

Claims8

Dependent claims

Apparatus for attaching one structural member to another wherein said one structural member includes a first fastener opening and said another structural member includes a second fastener opening adapted for alignment subjacent said first fastener opening comprising:

a set of eccentrically nested bushings including an interior bushing having a fastener bore formed therein in eccentric alignment relative a first circular exterior surface thereof and an exterior bushing having a second circular exterior surface conformed for receipt in said first fastener opening and seating surface on the interior thereof eccentrically aligned relative said second circular exterior surface, said seating surface being conformed to mate with said first exterior surface on said interior bushing said interior and exterior bushings including turning means for aligning the eccentrication thereof relative said first fastener opening, said nested bushings each include exposed edges provided with engaging structures for the independent manipulation thereof, said interior bushing is axially retained within said exterior bushing, and said exterior bushing is axially retained within said first fastener opening by swaging;
a fastener conformed for insertion in said fastener opening bore and adapted to extend through said second fastener opening upon the eccentric alignment of said interior and exterior bushings within said fastener opening;
and
fastener engaging means attached to said another structural member for engaging the inserted end of said fastener.

1 more element

Dependencies are inferred from the claim text.

Method and apparatus for fastening misaligned structural members

Life of this patent

Method and apparatus for fastening misaligned structural members

Life of this patent

Abstract

Claims8