Patent ID: 6669425
Filing Date: 2003-12-30
Classification: F16B,Y10T

Abstract:
A fastener that cuts into or self-threads into an article upon movement of the article towards the fastener, the fastener comprising:a connecting member including a first end which is adapted to be secured to a surface and a second end; a member rotatably mounted on the connecting member while being substantially axially retained with respect to the connecting member; the member comprising an article engaging end and a side portion; the side portion including at least one of a plurality of external threads, a plurality of external spline teeth and a plurality of external rows of teeth; and a stop surface integrally connected to the connecting member and arranged between the first end and the second end, wherein the stop surface is adapted to engage the surface, wherein the stop surface limits a depth of penetration of the first end, and wherein the stop surface is axially and rotatably fixed relative to the connecting member when the first end is not secured to the surface, wherein, when the article is moved into engagement with the side portion of the member of the fastener, the member is caused to rotate with respect to the connecting member and cut into the article, and further comprising at least one of: the member rotates relative to the connecting member without an axial distance between a bottom surface of the member and the stop surface changing; and an axial distance between a bottom surface of the member and the stop surface is the same, before the member rotates relative to the connecting member, as the axial distance between the bottom surface of the member and the stop surface after the member rotates.