Patent ID: 7901171
Filing Date: 2011-03-08
Classification: F16B,Y10T

Abstract:
1. A blind fastener, comprising: a setting head portion having a predetermined outside diameter, and being shaped for abutting engagement with an apertured workpiece; and a shank portion having one end thereof connected with said setting head portion, and an opposite end thereof having one of an internal thread and a threaded bolt receptacle; said shank portion also having a longitudinal axis, and a sidewall with an outside diameter that is smaller than said outside diameter of said setting head portion, and is configured for close reception in an aperture of the workpiece prior to being upset, as well as a deformation area that is upset radially outwardly to secure said fastener to the workpiece; said deformation area of said shank portion being disposed between said setting head portion and said one of said internal thread and said threaded bolt receptacle, and including a precisely located central circumferential region thereof which provides the sole weakening for said sidewall, and is substantially imperforate except for a plurality of radially oriented apertures arranged transversely relative to said longitudinal axis of said shank portion, which accurately and reliably commence the radially outwardly inelastic expansion of said deformation area at said central circumferential region when said deformation area is being upset, and thereby form a doubled over, annularly-shaped bead which extends substantially continuously about said sidewall of said shank portion, and bears tightly against the aperatured workpiece directly opposite said setting head portion at a location radially adjacent to the center of the workpiece aperture to create a very secure and low profile blind fastener.