Patent ID: 7029216
Filing Date: 2006-04-18
Classification: F16B

Abstract:
1. A locknut adapted for axial engagement of a threaded shaft having an axis and an outer thread, the nut having properties for limiting a tightening torque on the shaft to a predetermined torque, comprising: a first member adapted for rotation about the threaded shaft to facilitate engagement of the outer threads of the shaft; at least one deflection wall included in the first member and having properties for deflecting outwardly in response to a radial force; at least one second member having inner threads and being disposed in a rotatable, coaxial relationship with the first member; at least one deflecting element included in the second member and disposed in an engaging relationship with the deflection wall of the first member, the deflecting element comprising circumferental incline at a leading end and an abrupt shoulder at a trailing end having a greater circumferential incline than said leading end, the leading end incline having a first circumferential distance and being spaced a second circumferential distance from the abrupt shoulder that is greater than the first circumferential distance, the deflecting element having a portion with uniform thickness extending the second circumferential distance between the incline and the trailing end; the deflecting element having a generally engaged relationship with the deflection wall at a torque level not greater than the predetermined torque to maintain the inner threads of the second member in an engaged relationship with the first member; and the deflecting element having a generally disengaged relationship with the deflection wall at a torque level greater than the predetermined torque to maintain the inner threads of the second member in a generally disengaged relationship with the first member.