Abstract:
Described herein are embodiments of fastening systems that can provide easily removed and reapplied fasteners and that provide a hindrance to those that might tamper with the fasteners. In some embodiments, fasteners are also described that are configured to reduce the accumulation of dust and dirt inside the fasteners. In further embodiments, fasteners are provided for improving the aerodynamics of the fastener, and some embodiments describe provision of commercial advertising or other messages on the fastener.

Description:
RELATED APPLICATIONS  
       [0001]     This Application claims priority benefit of U.S. Provisional Application No. 60/760,809, filed Jan. 20, 2006; entitled, “Low Profile Fastening System,” the entirety of which is incorporated herein by reference. 
     
    
     FIELD OF THE INVENTIONS  
       [0002]     The present disclosure relates to fasteners and drivers, and more particularly to fasteners and drivers that are configured to have security features.  
       BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTIONS  
       [0003]     Fasteners are used is several industries and for several purposes. For example, in aerospace, fasteners are used to secure together portions of aircraft or spacecraft. Fasteners are used to secure portions of the body together in surgical uses, and they are used to bind structures together in industrial applications. Fasteners that are used are bolts, rivets, screws, and nails.  
       SUMMARY OF THE INVENTIONS  
       [0004]     One existing problem with many fasteners is that once they are applied, they are functionally irremovable. For example, rivets and nails, once applied, cannot easily be removed and reapplied. Another problem is that many fasteners are removed or applied by the use of common tools. For example, bolts and screws present easy targets for those that might tamper with fasteners.  
         [0005]     Described herein are embodiments of fastening systems that can provide easily removed and reapplied fasteners and that provide a hindrance to those that might tamper with fasteners. In some embodiments, fasteners are also described that are configured to reduce the accumulation of dust and dirt inside the fasteners. In further embodiments, fasteners are provided for improving the aerodynamics of the fastener, and some embodiments describe provision of commercial advertising or other messages on a fastener.  
         [0006]     In some embodiments, a security fastener is described having a head with a recessed top with a circumferential wall. The circumferential wall preferably has a plurality of indentations therein that are spaced below an upper edge of the wall to permit engagement of the fastener by a tool with retractable projections that are matable with the indentations. In some embodiments, the fastener further includes a cap that is sized and configured to be received within the recessed top. The cap can include an indentation in a side for providing a pry hole. Preferably, the indentation can be concealed when the cap is inserted into the recessed top. In some embodiments, a fastening system is provided that includes the tool with which the fastener is used.  
         [0007]     In some embodiments, a security fastener driver is provided. The driver is for driving a security fastener that includes a head having a recessed top with a circumferential wall. The circumferential wall preferably has a plurality of indentations therein spaced below an upper edge of the wall to permit engagement of the fastener by the driver. The fastener further includes a cap that is sized and configured to be received within the recessed top. The cap preferably includes an indentation in a side of the cap for providing a pry hole. The indentation is preferably concealed when the cap is initially inserted into the recessed top. The security fastener driver includes a plurality of elongate arms that extend in a longitudinal direction. The elongate arms further include distal portions that extend generally transverse to the longitudinal direction and are movable generally transverse to the longitudinal direction such that said distal portions are configured to extend into the indentations of the circumferential wall and engage the fastener. The driver further includes an actuatable member that is configured to move in the longitudinal direction to move the elongate arms transverse to the longitudinal direction to engage and disengage the distal portions with the fastener.  
         [0008]     The above-summary is offered to merely provide a brief description of some embodiments described herein. The summary is not intended to list all novel embodiments, and the claims and the description below should not be limited by the above summary. 
     
    
     BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS  
       [0009]     The aspects and advantages of the present disclosure will be described with reference to the drawings of several preferred embodiments, which embodiments are intended to illustrate and are not intended to limit the invention.  
         [0010]      FIG. 1  is an exploded isometric view of an embodiment of a fastener in accordance with the disclosure contained herein.  
         [0011]      FIG. 2  is an exploded isometric view of another embodiment of a fastener.  
         [0012]      FIG. 3  is an exploded isometric view of another embodiment of a fastener with a logo imprinted on a cap portion.  
         [0013]      FIG. 4  is an isometric view of the fastener of  FIG. 3  with the cap portion coupled to the fastener.  
         [0014]      FIG. 5  is an exploded isometric view of an embodiment of a fastener.  
         [0015]      FIG. 6  is an exploded isometric view of another embodiment of a fastener.  
         [0016]      FIG. 7  is an exploded isometric view of another embodiment of a fastener.  
         [0017]      FIG. 8  is an exploded isometric view of another embodiment of a fastener.  
         [0018]      FIG. 9  is a cross-sectional plan view of one embodiment of a fastener and a cap portion attached thereto.  
         [0019]      FIG. 10  is a cross-sectional plan view of another embodiment of a fastener and a cap portion attached thereto.  
         [0020]      FIG. 11  is a cross-sectional plan view of another embodiment of a fastener and a cap portion attached thereto.  
         [0021]      FIG. 12  is an isometric view of an embodiment of a driver and fastener in accordance with the disclosure contained herein.  
         [0022]      FIG. 13  is an isometric view of a driver engaging a fastener in accordance with the disclosure contained herein.  
         [0023]      FIG. 14  is an isometric view of another embodiment of a driver.  
         [0024]      FIG. 15  is a bottom view of the driver of  FIG. 9 .  
         [0025]      FIGS. 16   a - 16   f  are isometric views of embodiments of prongs of a driver.  
         [0026]      FIG. 17  is an isometric view of another embodiment of a driver engaging a fastener.  
         [0027]      FIG. 18  is a partial cross-sectional view of an embodiment of a driver and fastener in accordance with the disclosure contained herein.  
         [0028]      FIG. 19  is a partial cross-sectional view of a driver engaging a fastener in accordance with the disclosure contained herein. 
     
    
     DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS  
       [0029]     With reference to the figures, certain embodiments will be described, which embodiments provide fasteners, such as screws, that are configured to reduce the accumulation of dust and dirt inside the fastener, to provide a tamper resistant system, to increase the aerodynamics of the fastener, and to provide commercial advertising or other messages on the fastener.  
         [0030]     With initial reference to  FIG. 1 , one embodiment of a fastener  30  is illustrated, wherein the fastener includes a cap  32 , a head  34 , and a threaded portion  36 . The head  34  includes a recessed portion  38  into which the cap  32  may be disposed. When the cap  32  is disposed within the recessed portion  38  of the head  34 , a top surface  40  of the cap  32  and a top surface  42  of the head  34  preferably cooperate to make a substantially uniform profile along the top of the head when assembled. The substantially uniform profile of the top surfaces  40 ,  42  provide several advantages. For example, the surfaces provide an increased aerodynamic surface. In surgical applications, the smooth profile of the top surfaces  40 ,  42  can facilitate body tissue to pass over the top of the fastener  30  while reducing the friction between the fastener  30  and the tissue. When the cap  32  is disposed within the recessed portion  38 , accumulation of dirt and dust is reduced within the recessed portion  38 , thereby preserving the utility of the fastener  30 . Additionally, the cap  32  may be disposed within the recessed portion  38  to provide a tamper resistant fastener  30  by limiting access to the recessed portion  38 . Further advantages and embodiments will be described herein.  
         [0031]     The recessed portion  38  is preferably located on the top surface  42  of the head  34 . The recessed portion  38  includes a wall  44  that extends between the top surface  42  and a recessed base  46 . Disposed within the wall  44  are preferably a plurality of slots  48 . A recessed hole  50  is preferably disposed in the recessed base  46  extending away from the top surface  42  of the head  34 .  
         [0032]     The cap  32  preferably has a bottom surface  52  on an opposing side of the top surface  40 . A cap edge  54  preferably extends between the bottom surface  52  and the top surface  40  around the periphery of the cap  32 . In one embodiment, as illustrated in  FIG. 1 , the cap edge  54  includes a middle portion  56  that protrudes from the cap  32  around the periphery of the cap edge  54 , such that the circumference of the middle portion  56  is greater than the circumference of the top surface  40 . The circumference of the middle portion  56  preferably is also greater than the circumference of the bottom surface  52 . The wall  44  preferably has a corresponding profile to accommodate the cap edge  54  when the cap  32  is disposed within the recessed portion  38 . For example, in the illustrated embodiment of  FIG. 1 , the recessed edge preferably includes a middle portion  58  that extends along the periphery of the wall  44 . The middle portion  58  of the wall  44  preferably has a greater circumference than the circumference of the top surface  42  along the wall  44 . In some embodiments, the middle portion  58  may also have a greater circumference than the circumference of the wall  44  along the recessed base  46 . Accordingly, the profile of the cap edge  54  corresponds to the profile of the wall  44 , thus permitting the cap  32  to be disposed within the recessed portion  38 . When the cap  32  is disposed within the recessed portion  38 , the smaller circumference of the top surface  42  around the wall  44  limits the cap  32  from being removed by engaging the corresponding middle portion  56  of the cap edge  54 .  
         [0033]     In application, after the fastener  30  is applied to the desired material by the threaded portion  36 , the cap is brought adjacent to the recessed portion  38  and the cap  32  is pressed down into the recessed portion  38  until the cap  32  snaps into place within the recessed portion  38 . In one embodiment, the cap  32  is made of or includes a softer material than that of the head  34 . For example, in some embodiments, the cap  32  may include a softer metal or a polymer. In this way, a portion of the cap  32  may be elastically deformed upon insertion into the head  34  of the fastener  30 . In other embodiments, the cap  32  is made of or includes the same material as the head  34 . In some embodiments the base of the cap  32  may be substantially hollow to permit the sides of the cap  32  to flex inward during insertion or removal of the cap into or from the recessed portion  38 . The cap  32  may be molded, machined, or formed in ways that will be readily apparent to one of ordinary skill in the related art. The cap  32  may be made of one material or may include a plurality of materials. For example, the cap  32  may be made of two materials, one material for the portion of the cap  32  that substantially includes the top surface  40  and bottom surface  52  and a second material for the cap edge  54  or the middle portion  56 . In this embodiment, the second material may be more compliant than the first material, thus facilitating insertion of the cap  32  into the recessed portion  38 . In one embodiment, the middle portion  56  may be made of a rubber that is compressed during insertion and removal of the cap. In yet further embodiments, the middle portion  56  can be similar to a snap ring that is configured to expand or contract during application. For example, the middle portion  56  may include a discontinuous portion that permits the middle portion  56  to expand or contract upon the application of pressure.  
         [0034]     In some embodiments, a tool may be provided for inserting the cap  32  into the recessed portion  38 . For example, the tool may be secured or positioned on the head  34  of the fastener  30  and can facilitate the application of pressure to insert the cap  32  into position. The tool may also operate to facilitate insertion of the cap  32  into the head  34  of the fastener  30  without being secured or positioned on the head  34 .  
         [0035]     With reference to  FIG. 2 , another embodiment of a cap  32  is illustrated having a different edge cap profile than that illustrated in  FIG. 1 . In  FIG. 2 , the cap edge  54  preferably includes a first ridge  58  axially spaced from a second ridge  60 . The first ridge  58  and the second ridge  60  are preferably separated by an edge channel  62  that extends circumferentially about the cap edge  54 . The first ridge  58  and the second ridge  60  preferably have a greater circumference than the edge channel  62 . The wall  44  of the head  34  preferably includes a plurality of wall ridges  64  that are disposed along the periphery of the wall  44  and which extend radially inward of the recessed portion  38 . The wall ridges  64  are preferably axially spaced from the recessed base  46  and the top surface  42 . The wall ridges  64  are preferably configured to be received within the edge channel  62  when the cap  32  is disposed within the recessed portion  38 . Accordingly, when the cap  32  is pressed into place within the recessed portion  38 , the second ridge  60  is disposed beneath the wall ridges  64  of the wall  44 , and axial movement of the cap  32  is limited. When the cap  32  is disposed within the recessed portion  38 , the wall ridges  64  preferably reside within the edge channel  62 , and the wall ridges  64  engage or are engageable with the second ridge  60  to limit removal of the cap  32 .  
         [0036]     In one embodiment, the cap  32  and the head  34  are made of the same material. In other embodiments, the cap  32  and the head  34  may be made of different materials. For example, in one embodiment, the head  34  may be made of a metal, and the cap  32  may be made of a polymer. In yet further embodiments, the cap  32  or the head  34  may each be made of different materials. For example, the cap  32  may be made of a metal material, and the first and second ridges  58 ,  60  may be made of a polymer. In another example, the head  34  may be made of a metal, and the wall ridges  64  may be made of a polymer.  
         [0037]     The cap  32  may include an axially extending semi-cylindrical notch  66  disposed along the cap edge  54  between the top surface  40  and the bottom surface  52 . The notch  66  is preferably configured to provide a space between the cap edge  54  and the wall  44  when the cap  32  is disposed within the recessed portion  38 . In this embodiment, the notch  66  provides a pry hole which a person can use to pry the cap  32  from the recessed portion  38 . While the notch  66  is described and depicted as an axially extending semi-cylindrical shape, the notch  66  can have other shapes. For example, the notch  66  can have a triangular or other polygonal or irregular shapes.  
         [0038]     In some embodiments, as illustrated in  FIG. 3 , the notch  66  may extend only part way through the cap edge  54 . For example,  FIG. 3  illustrates a cap  32  having a partial notch  66  that extends from the middle portion  56  to the bottom surface  52 . The partial notch does not extend from the middle portion  56  to the top surface  40 . In this embodiment, when the cap  32  is disposed within the recessed portion  38 , the notch  66  is not visible to one looking at the fastener  30 . The notch  66  may be used as a pry hole by punching through or breaking the material extending from the middle portion  56  to the top surface  40  above the notch  66 . By puncturing the material above the notch  66 , a notch  66  will be created that extends from the top surface  40  to the bottom surface  52 , in which an instrument can be inserted to pry the cap  32  from the recessed portion  38 . In the embodiment illustrated in  FIG. 2 , the notch  66  can extend through the second ridge  60 , but not entirely through the first ridge  58 . In some embodiments, the notch  66  can extend through about 50% of the material of the cap  32  or ridge  58 . In other embodiments, the notch  66  can extend through between about 25% and about 95% of the material of the cap  32  or ridge  58 . In yet further embodiments, the notch  66  can extend through less than about 25% or more than about 95% of the material of the cap  32  or ridge  58 . Accordingly, the material of the first ridge  58  may be punctured, thereby permitting access to the notch  66  to dislodge the cap  32  from the recessed portion  38 .  
         [0039]     In some embodiments, the cap  32  may have a visual indicator located above the notch  66  that indicates where a notch may be created by punching through or breaking the material. The visual indicator can be an indentation or protrusions in the material above the notch  66 , or the indicator can be provided after manufacturing. For example, the indicator may be painting or etched on the material. Additionally, in some embodiments, the cap  32  provides an indentation to receive the material when the notch  66  is created by punching or breaking through the material. For example, the cap  32  may include a radially extending indentation that permit the material to be received when the material folds down when exposing the notch  66 .  
         [0040]     With reference to  FIG. 5 , the cap  32  can have a cap edge  54  that extends parallel to an axis of the cap  32  or an axis of the fastener  30 . The wall  44  may also extend between the top surface  42  and the recessed base  46  parallel to an axis extending through the cap  32  or the fastener  30 . Accordingly, the cap  32  can be configured to fit within the recessed portion  38  without requiring engagement of the cap edge  54  within the wall  44 . In this embodiment, adhesive  68  can be disposed along the periphery of the cap edge  54  such that when the cap  32  is disposed within the recessed portion  38 , the adhesive  68  couples the cap edge  54  with the wall  44  to secure the cap  32  in place. The adhesive  68  can also be disposed one the bottom surface  52  of the cap  32  to secure the cap  32  in place.  
         [0041]     The cap  32  and the recessed portion  38  in the figures are illustrated as having a generally cylindrical shape. In some embodiments, the cap  32  and the recessed portion  38  can have different shapes. For example, the cap  32  may have a triangular, rectangular, pentagonal, hexagonal, or other polygonal or irregular shapes. The recessed portion  38  preferably has a shape that corresponds to the shape of the cap  32 . Additionally, the cap  32  is depicted in the figures as having a smooth or rounded top surface  40 . In some embodiments, the top surface  40  can be beveled, conical, or other shapes. While the cap edge  54  and wall  44  have been described in various embodiments, such description should not limit the scope of the disclosure of the fastener  30 . The cap edge  54  and the wall  44  may have several different profiles that will permit the cap to be snap-fitted within the recessed portion  38 . Such alternative embodiments are herein contemplated and are within the breadth of this disclosure.  
         [0042]     With reference to  FIGS. 3 and 4 , the cap  32  may also include a logo displayed on the top surface  40 . In one embodiment, the logo is an advertisement, permitting the logo to be visible when the fastener  30  is used. In another embodiment, the logo can include a design for decorative purposes. In yet further embodiments, the logo may be used to designate a particular use or purpose for which the fastener  30  is used. For example, the logo may be used to designate handicapped, or disabled, facilities.  
         [0043]     With reference to  FIGS. 1, 2 , and  3 , the slots  48  are preferably configured to receive a tool therein to operate the fastener  30 . For example, in  FIGS. 1 and 2 , the slots  48  are depicted as rectangular holes or channels disposed along the periphery of the wall  44 . The slots  48  are thus configured to receive a prong on a driver, described herein, to rotate the fastener  30  into place. In one embodiment, the fastener  30  has at least one slot  48  for operating the fastener  30 . In other embodiments, the fastener  30  may have anywhere between 2 and 10 slots  48 . In yet further embodiments, the fastener  30  may have 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, or 8 slots  48 . In additional embodiments, the fastener  30  may have more than 10 slots. The slots may be configured in a number of shapes that preferably correspond to the shape of the tool that will be inserted therein to operate the fastener  30 . For example, as illustrated in  FIG. 3 , the slots  48  can also have a circular shape. Additional shapes will be described herein with respect to the tool that is used to be inserted within the slots  48 , and corresponding slots  48  are preferably disposed within the recessed edge  48  to accommodate the shape of the tool.  
         [0044]     The threaded portion  36  of the fastener  30  can have a variety of thread types. Threads that can be used for a variety of material can also be used with respect to the fastener. For example, threads may be used for wood, sheet metal, plastics, or other applications. The threaded portion  36  may have a self-tapping portion  70 , as depicted in  FIG. 2 . In some embodiments, the fastener  30  is configured for use with respect to rivet replacements (e.g., aircraft rivet replacement). In some embodiments, the fastener may have a plurality of portions along the threaded portion  36  that have different functions when used with respect to fastening materials together. For example, with respect to  FIG. 2 , the threaded portion  36  includes a self-tapping portion  70 , a transitional portion  72 , and a fine threaded portion  74 , which operates as a thread lock pattern disposed under the head  34 . Accordingly, as the fastener is inserted into the material, the self-tapping portion  70  taps into the material and widens the aperture that is disposed in the material through the transition portion  72 , and the fine threaded portion  74  cooperates with the self-tapping portion  70  to secure the fastener  30  in place.  
         [0045]     In other embodiments, the threads may include one or more adhesive pockets that include an adhesive  68  and a skin  69  for securing the fastener  30  in place. For example,  FIGS. 9-11  depict a fastener having a plurality of adhesive pockets that include adhesive  68  surrounded by a skin layer  69  to contain the adhesive  68 . The skin layer  69  may be made of a soft or malleable metal, a polymer, or other material that can break or tear when the fastener  30  is used. In application, as the fastener  30  is applied, the skin layer  69  is configured to break or tear and release the adhesive  68  contained therein. The adhesive pocket on the threaded portion  36  can distribute adhesive  68  among the threads of the fastener  30  and secure the fastener  30  in place once the adhesive  68  solidifies. The adhesive pocket on the underside of the head  34  can break or tear as the head  34  approaches the material into which the fastener  30  is being inserted. The adhesive secures the head  34  of the fastener  30  to the material into which the fastener  30  is inserted. Accordingly, adhesive  68  can be provided with the fastener  30  and can be used in a single step of applying the fastener  30  to assist with securing the fastener  30  in place.  
         [0046]     In another embodiment, the adhesive  68  depicted in  FIGS. 9-11  can be a homogeneous material that does not require a distinct skin layer  69  for application on the fastener  30 . For example, the adhesive  68  can be a material that will remain substantially in place following application of the adhesive  68  to the fastener  30 . Glue that hardens on the surface without hardening throughout could be used in such an application.  
         [0047]     In other embodiments, the material within the skin layer  69  may include an anti-seize agent or an anti-corrosion agent. For example, the anti-seize agent can be used in applications in which the fastener  30  is intended to be removed at least once. The anti-corrosion agent may be used with the adhesive  68  or the anti-seize agent, and may reduce the likelihood that the fastener  30  or the material into which the fastener  30  is placed will be corroded.  
         [0048]      FIGS. 9-11  depict the slots  48  at 90 degrees with respect to the recessed portion  38  and substantially parallel with the recessed base  46 . In some embodiments, the slots  48  may extend into the head  34  at an angle different than 90 degrees with respect to the recessed portion  38  or parallel with the recessed base  46 . For example, in one embodiment, the slots  48  can extend at 45 degrees with respect to the length-wise axis of the fastener or with respect to the recessed base  46 . In another embodiment, the slots  48  can extend between about 30 degrees and about 60 degrees with respect to the fastener axis or with respect to the recessed base  46 . In other embodiments, the slots  48  can extend less than about 30 degrees or greater than about 60 degrees with respect to the fastener axis or with respect to the recessed base  46 . In yet further embodiments, the angle of the slots  48  provided above may be with respect to the top surface  42  of the head  34  or other portions of the fastener.  
         [0049]     Incorporating angled slots  48  in the fastener  30  can provide several advantages. For example, angled slots  48  can ease manufacture of the fastener  30  facilitating insertion of a drill within the recessed portion  38  at an angle to drill or machine the slots  48 . Additionally, the angled slots  48  may facilitate coupling of a driver during operation. As the fastener  30  and a driver can be coupled together during the application of the fastener  30 , the driver can be used with one hand or can even be robotically applied. For example, once the driver engages the slots  48  of the fastener  30 , the fastener  30  is less likely to be dropped during the application. The coupling feature of the fastener  30  and the driver can be used in microapplications, including surgical applications.  
         [0050]     With reference to  FIGS. 5 through 8 , the fastener  30  may also be used with respect to Phillips screwdrivers, flat-head screwdrivers, Allen wrenches, and other tools used with fastening devices. In these embodiments, the recessed base  46  preferably includes a Phillips screw recess, a flat-head recess, an Allen wrench recess, or some other recess that corresponds to the tool that is used to operate the fastener  30 . The cap  32  can include a protrusion that corresponds to the Phillips screw recess, the flat-head screw recess, or the Allen wrench recess and is configured to be inserted within the recess. Accordingly, the fastener  30  may be configured to be used with tools other than those described herein. Although the caps  32  in  FIGS. 5 through 8  are depicted as including an adhesive  68  on the cap edge  54 , other cap edges may be used as discussed herein with respect to previous or later embodiments.  
         [0051]     With reference to  FIGS. 9 through 11 , the fastener  30  may have different profiles. For example,  FIG. 9  illustrates one embodiment in which the fastener and the cap form a substantially curvilinear top surface. In another embodiment, as illustrated in  FIG. 10 , the profile of the fastener  30  may be similar to that of a flat-head screw, in which the top surface of the fastener  30  in cap  32  are substantially flat. The underside of the head of the fastener  30  illustrated in  FIG. 10  is preferably tapered from the top surface of the fastener  30  to the threaded portion  36 . In yet another embodiment, as illustrated in  FIG. 11 , the head  34  of the fastener  30  may be similar to that of the knob-head screw. In this embodiment, the cross-sectional profile of the head  34  of the fastener  30  is substantially rectangular.  
         [0052]     With reference to  FIG. 12 , a driver  80  is shown that can be used with the fasteners  30  described herein. In the illustrated embodiment, the driver  80  preferably includes a handle  82  on a proximal portion of the driver  80 . A plurality of supporting struts  84  preferably extend distal of the handle  82  in parallel relation with each other. A plurality of supporting struts  84  preferably include an axially-extending elongated channel  86  extending from a proximal portion of the supporting strut  84  to a distal section of the supporting strut  84 . Disposed within the elongated channel  86  is preferably an actuator  88  that is coupled to a collar  90 , which extends between the plurality of supporting struts  84 . Also disposed between the supporting struts  84  and extending the length of the supporting strut  84  are a plurality of prong struts  92  that can be coupled to the handle  82  on their proximal end and extend beyond the distal section of the supporting strut  84 . The prong strut  92  includes a distal portion that extends about 90 degrees with respect to the prong strut  92 . This distal portion preferably extends about one-half of the length of which the supporting struts  84  are separated. Accordingly, this distal portion can constitute a plurality of prongs  94  that extend beyond the periphery of the supporting struts  84 . The prong struts  92  are preferably biased inward of the supporting struts  84  such that the prongs  94  are brought inward and the radial distance between the ends of the prongs  94  is reduced. When the actuator  88  and the collar  90  are in a proximal position, as illustrated in  FIG. 12 , the distal ends of the prong struts  92  are permitted to move inward, thereby reducing the radial distance between the ends of the prongs  94 . This configuration can be a pre-deployment configuration in preparation for coupling the driver  80  with the head  34  of a fastener  30 .  
         [0053]     In some embodiments, the prongs  94  can extend at the distal portion at angles other than 90 degrees with respect to the prong strut  92 . For example, the prongs  94  can extend at angles corresponding to the angle of the slots  48  of the fastener  30 . In some embodiments, the prongs  94  can extend at about 45 degrees or about 135 degrees with respect to the prong struts  92 . In some embodiments, the prongs  94  can extend between about 30 degrees and about 150 degrees with respect to the prong struts  92 . In further embodiments, the prongs can extend at less than about 30 degrees and more than about 150 degrees with respect to the prong struts  92 .  
         [0054]     In application, the driver  80  is brought adjacent to the fastener  30 , and the distal end of the supporting struts  84  is inserted into the recessed portion  38  of the head  34 . When the distal portion of the supporting struts  84  is inserted into the recessed portion  38 , the actuator  88  and the collar  90  are moved distally along the elongated channels  86 . The collar  90  is preferably configured to press the portion of the prong strut  92  that is adjacent to the collar  90  against the inward wall of the supporting strut  94 . This may be accomplished by a protrusion extending on the inward portion of the collar  90  between the prong struts  92 . Accordingly, as the actuator  88  is moved distally along the elongated channel  86 , the prong struts  92 , which are biased inward, are forced against the inward wall of the supporting struts  84 . As the prong struts  92  are forced against the inward wall of the supporting struts  84 , the prongs  94  are moved to an outward position, in which the radial distance between the ends of the prongs  94  is increased. With the distal end of the support struts  84  disposed in the recessed portion  38 , and with the actuator  88  moving to the distal position along the elongated channel  86 , the prongs  94  extend into the slots  48  in the wall  44  of the recessed portion  38 . When the prongs  94  are inserted into the slots  48 , the driver  80  may be used to operate the fastener  30  by rotating the handle  82 , which rotation is translated through the supporting struts  84  and the prong struts  92  to the prongs  94  and to the head  34  of the fastener  30 , thereby rotating the fastener  30 . After a user is finished driving the fastener  30 , the actuator  88  is withdrawn proximally along the elongated channel  86 , thereby disengaging the prongs  94  from the slots  48  and releasing the driver  80  from being interlocked with the head  34  of the fastener  30 .  
         [0055]     With reference to  FIGS. 14 and 15 , additional embodiments of the driver  80  are illustrated. In  FIG. 14 , the supporting struts  84  of  FIG. 13  have been replaced with a substantially cylindrical supporting strut  96 , which substantially encases the prong struts  92 . The cylindrical supporting strut  96  preferably includes an elongated channel  86  that extends from a proximal portion of the cylindrical supporting strut  96  to a distal portion of the cylindrical supporting strut  96 . Disposed within the elongated channel  86  is preferably an actuator  88  that is coupled to a collar  90  disposed within the cylindrical supporting strut  96 . On the distal end of the driver  80 , a plurality of prongs  94  extend radially with respect to an axis extending through the cylindrical supporting strut  96 . The plurality of prongs  94  may be actuated by a collar  90  different than the collar  90  described above. With a plurality of prongs  94  circumferentially aligned along the cylindrical supporting strut  96 , the collar  90  may be constructed as a cone, which, when slid distally by the actuator  88 , engages the respective prong struts  92 , forcing the prong struts against the inward surface of the cylindrical supporting strut  96 .  
         [0056]      FIG. 15  illustrates a bottom view of one embodiment of a driver  80  having a cylindrical supporting strut  96  and a plurality of circumferentially disposed prongs  94 . In one embodiment, a plurality of guides  97  may be disposed on the distal end of the cylindrical supporting strut to separate and direct the prongs  94  as they are extended and withdrawn radially. The guides  97  may include a plurality of discontinuous protrusions disposed circumferentially along the distal end of the cylindrical supporting strut  96 . The prongs  94  are preferably disposed between the discontinuous portions of the guides  97 . In this way, the prongs  94  may be guided when extended radially into the slots  48  of the fastener  30 .  
         [0057]      FIGS. 16A-16F  illustrate various embodiments of prongs  94  with various shapes to be inserted into corresponding slots  48  of the fastener  30 . With reference to  FIGS. 16A, 16B , and  16 F, the distal tip of the prong  94  may be modified to engage corresponding shapes of the slot  48 . In  FIGS. 16C, 16D , and  16 E, the cross-sectional shape of the prong  94  tip may be modified for corresponding slots  48  within the head  34 . For example, the slots  48  may be cylindrical, thereby permitting the prong  94  of  FIG. 16E  to be inserted therein. In another embodiment, the slot  48  may include a triangular protrusion extending from the base of the slot  48 , thereby requiring a prong such as the one illustrated in  FIG. 16D  to be inserted therein. The illustrated embodiments of the tips of the prongs  94  are not intended to encompass all of the possible shapes and configurations of prong tips, and are provided only as examples of various shapes and configurations of the tips of the prongs  94 .  
         [0058]     With reference to  FIG. 17 , another embodiment of the driver  80  is illustrated. In this embodiment, a handle  82  is provided on a proximal end of the driver  80 . Extending from a distal end of the handle  82  is a flexible elongated tube having a plurality of prongs  94  extending from a distal end  100  thereof. The elongated flexible tube  98  is preferably configured to translate rotational movement of the handle  82  to the distal end  100  of the elongated flexible tube  98 . The elongated flexible tube  98  preferably includes a spring coil  102  disposed therein to provide axial and radial integrity of the elongated flexible tube  98  and to limit kinking of the tube  98 . Disposed within the spring coil  102  is preferably a flexible rod  104  that extends from a proximal end of the handle  82  to an actuating wedge  106  disposed in the distal end  100  of the elongated flexible tube  98 . The flexible rod  104  is preferably connected to an actuating member  108  on the handle  82 . In  FIG. 17 , the actuating member  108  is a button disposed on the proximal end of the handle  82 . When the actuating member  108  is depressed, distal movement of the actuating member  108  is translated through the flexible rod  104  to the actuating wedge  106 . Distal movement of the actuating wedge  106  forces a plurality of prong struts  92  disposed in the distal end  100  of the elongated flexible tube  98  against the wall of the distal end  100  of the elongated flexible tube  98 . Although the prong struts  92  of  FIG. 17  are depicted as extending partially through the elongated flexible tube  98 , in some embodiments, the struts  92  extend the length of the flexible tube  98  to the handle  82 . Movement of the prong struts  92  against the inner wall of the distal end  100  moves the prongs  94  extending from the distal end  100  radially apart, permitting the prongs  94  to engage the slots  48  of the fastener  30 . When the actuating member  108  is withdrawn proximally, the flexible rod  104  and the actuating wedge  106  are withdrawn proximally, thereby permitting the prong struts  92  and the prongs  94  to be withdrawn radially inward and to disengage the slots  48  of the fastener  30 .  
         [0059]     In some embodiments, the prongs  94  can be hinged with respect to the prong struts  92  and configured to snap into place as the tool is inserted into the recess  38 . This would advantageously work by placing indentations in the middle of the circumferential wall  44  that are configured to snap the prongs  94  into a deployed configuration upon insertion of the tool into the recess  38 .  
         [0060]     With reference to  FIGS. 18 and 19 , a driver  80  is illustrated having a handle  82  on a proximal portion of the driver  80  and an actuating member  108  on a proximal portion of the handle  82 . The driver preferably includes a plurality of supporting struts  84  extending distally of the handle  82  and coupled thereto. Disposed within the supporting struts  84  are preferably a plurality of prong struts  92  that extend distally of the supporting struts  84  and are bent radially outward in about a 90 degree relation with respect to the prong strut  92 , thereby constituting a plurality of prongs  94 . Extending distally of the prongs  94  is preferably a biasing member  110 . The biasing member  110  is preferably coupled to the actuating member  108  via a biasing member rod  112  that extends between the prong struts  92 . The biasing member  110  preferably has an expanding configuration as it extends distally of the driver  80 . In this embodiment, when the biasing member  110  is axially spaced from the prongs, the prong struts  92  are permitted to be biased inward and engage the biasing member rod  112 . When the biasing member  110  is withdrawn proximally, the expanding edges of the biasing member  110  engage the prongs  94 , and as the biasing member  110  is withdrawn further, the prongs  94  are forced radially outward into a deployed configuration, such as illustrated in  FIG. 19 . In this configuration, the prongs  94  are configured to be inserted into the slots  48  of the head  34 . When the biasing member  110  is moved distally, the edges of the biasing member  110  permit the prongs  94  to be radially withdrawn, thereby disengaging the prongs  94  from the slots  48 .  
         [0061]     In one embodiment, a mechanism disposed within the handle  82  of the driver  80  may operate similar to a ballpoint pen mechanism that permits the withdrawal and protrusion of the ballpoint pen. Accordingly, when the driver  80  is brought adjacent to the fastener  30 , and the biasing member is inserted into the recessed hole  50 , as the biasing member  110  engages the recessed hole  50 , the biasing member  110  is moved proximally to a point at which a spring or other mechanism withdraws the biasing member  110  and biasing member rod  112  proximally to a deployed configuration. The biasing member  110  preferably remains in the deployed configuration until the actuating member  108  releases the biasing member  110  from the deployed configuration, thereby permitting the biasing member  110  to move distally of the handle  82 , thus releasing the prongs  94  from engagement within the slots  48 . The actuating member may include a button that is in a depressed configuration  108  when the biasing member is in a pre-deployment configuration, and which extends proximally from the handle  82  when the biasing member  110  is in a deployed configuration. Accordingly, when the driver  80  is in a deployed configuration, a user can depress the actuating member  108  to release the biasing member  110  and the prongs  94  from engaging the fastener  30 .  
         [0062]     Although the present disclosure has been explained in the context of certain preferred embodiments and examples, it will be understood by those skilled in the art that the present disclosure extends beyond the specifically disclosed embodiments to other alternative embodiments and/or uses of the disclosure, obvious modifications and equivalents thereof. In addition, while a number of variations of the disclosure have been shown and described in detail, other modifications, which are within the scope of this disclosure, will be readily apparent to those of skill in the art based upon this disclosure. It is also contemplated that various combinations or subcombinations of the specific features and aspects of the embodiments may be made and still fall within the scope of the disclosure. Accordingly, it should be understood that various features and aspects of the disclosed embodiments can be combined with or substituted for one another in order to form varying modes of the present disclosure. Thus, it is intended that the scope of the present disclosure should not be limited by the particular disclosed embodiments described above.