Patent ID: 6405425
Filing Date: 2002-06-18
Classification: F16B,Y10T

Abstract:
A method of fastening a multi-layered laminate together, said method comprising the steps of:orbital hole machining a throughhole in the laminate, the throughhole having a length extending from a first outer surface of the laminate to a second outer surface of the laminate, the throughhole having a first width at the first outer surface, a second width at the second outer surface, and a third width at a point along the length of the throughhole between the first outer surface and the second outer surface, the third width being less than each of the first width and the second width; inserting a substantially annular fastener device into the throughhole through the second outer surface of the laminate such that a first axial end of said fastener device is adjacent to the first outer surface and a second axial end of said fastener device is adjacent to the second outer surface of the laminate, said first axial end of said fastener device having an axial opening; placing an elongate element into said axial opening of said fastener device before said inserting step; biasing a peripheral surface of said fastener device against an inner surface of the throughhole in the laminate; and passing said elongate element through said axial opening until both said fastener device and said elongate element are substantially entirely disposed to one side of the first outer surface of the laminate.