Patent Publication Number: US-2022235812-A1

Title: Fastener assemblies and nut plate assemblies for fastener assemblies

Description:
CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATION 
     This application claims priority to U.S. Provisional Application No. 63/140,696 filed Jan. 22, 2021, the content of which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety. 
    
    
     BACKGROUND 
     The field of the disclosure relates generally to fasteners, and more specifically to fastener assemblies including nut plate assemblies with floating nuts. 
     Fasteners commonly include mechanisms or design features for ensuring that fastener elements do not loosen over time, potentially allowing joined elements to loosen or separate. Examples of mechanisms include thread bore inserts and screw thread profiles that deform when tightened. Fasteners accessories like lock members, cotter pins, and lock wires are also commonly used with fasteners to prevent fastener elements from loosening. Adhesive materials, like epoxy, can be applied to fastener threads to stake fastener elements and prevent fastener elements from loosening. However, conventional fastener mechanisms, accessories, and adhesive materials may not be suitable for some applications, such as high temperature environments or with structures subject to extreme vibration. 
     At least some known floating nut plates include a base or bottom plate with an opening and support a nut or similar fastener element that is captured on the base by a retainer or cage component. Such nut plates facilitate holding components, for example panels, together when a fastener is threadably engaged with the nut plate and tightened, while still enabling some movement between the components. In such known nut plates, the nut receives a fastener, such as a bolt, screw, or other threaded component element passed through an opening in the components and threaded into the nut. The opening in the component may be sized to enable the nut and fastener to move laterally to accommodate some movement between the fastened components. 
     At least some known floating nut plates may be used in the aerospace industry. In aerospace applications, the types and numbers of fasteners for a panel assembly can be significant. Some panel fasteners for a particular panel assembly may have different lengths, while otherwise looking similar to other panel fasteners. When the panel assembly is removed, a user may typically place all the panel fasteners in a separate location to keep from misplacing the fasteners. However, when replacing the panel assembly, the user may inadvertently use an incorrect length fastener for a particular panel fastener location. This can lead to an improperly attached panel assembly. 
     SUMMARY 
     In one aspect, a nut plate assembly generally comprises a plate member, a shell member, a floating nut, a lock member, and at least one magnetic component. The shell member includes a first end coupled to the plate member and a second end opposite the first end. The floating nut is disposed within the shell member and defines a bore configured to receive a threaded fastener. The nut plate assembly has a locked configuration in which the lock member is configured to fix rotation of the threaded fastener relative to the floating nut and an unlocked configuration in which the threaded fastener is allowed to rotate relative to the floating nut. The at least one magnetic component is disposed within the shell member and configured to engage the lock member and switch the nut plate assembly between the locked configuration and the unlocked configuration. 
     In another aspect, a fastener assembly generally comprises a threaded fastener and a nut plate assembly. The nut plate assembly includes a plate member having an aperture defined therethrough, a shell member including a wall and having a first end coupled to the plate member and a second end opposite the first end, and a floating nut disposed within the shell member and moveable axially within the shell member. The floating nut defines a bore configured to receive the threaded fastener. The nut plate assembly also includes at least one magnetic component disposed within the shell member and configured to switch the nut plate assembly between a locked configuration and an unlocked configuration. 
     In yet another aspect, a method of assembling a fastener assembly includes coupling a shell member to a plate member. The shell member and the plate member form a nut plate assembly. The method also includes positioning a floating nut within the shell member. The floating nut defines a bore configured to receive a threaded fastener. The method further includes positioning at least one magnetic component within the shell member. The at least one magnetic component is configured to switch the nut plate assembly between a locked configuration and an unlocked configuration. 
    
    
     
       BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS 
       These and other features, aspects, and advantages of the present disclosure will become better understood when the following detailed description is read with reference to the accompanying drawings in which like characters represent like parts throughout the drawings, wherein: 
         FIG. 1  is a perspective view of two components secured together by a fastener assembly; 
         FIG. 2  is a perspective view of the fastener assembly of  FIG. 1  and a tool for use with the fastener assembly; 
         FIG. 3  is a perspective view of the fastener assembly of  FIG. 1 ; 
         FIG. 4  is a sectional view of the fastener assembly of  FIG. 1 ; 
         FIG. 5A  is a sectional view of the fastener assembly of  FIG. 1 , illustrating a nut plate assembly of the fastener assembly in a locked configuration; 
         FIG. 5B  is a sectional view of the fastener assembly of  FIG. 1 , illustrating a nut plate assembly of the fastener assembly in an unlocked configuration; 
         FIG. 6  is a perspective view of a threaded fastener of the fastener assembly of  FIG. 1 ; 
         FIG. 7  is a perspective view of a nut plate assembly of the fastener assembly of  FIG. 1 ; 
         FIG. 8  is a perspective view of a portion of the nut plate assembly of  FIG. 7 ; 
         FIG. 9  is a perspective view of a portion of the nut plate assembly of  FIG. 7 , with a shell removed to illustrate components disposed within the shell; 
         FIG. 10  is a perspective view of a magnetic member of the nut plate assembly of  FIG. 7 ; 
         FIG. 11  is a perspective view of a lock member of the nut plate assembly of  FIG. 7 ; 
         FIG. 12  is a perspective view of a floating nut of the nut plate assembly of  FIG. 7 ; 
         FIG. 13  is a perspective view of another embodiment of a fastener assembly, the fastener assembly including a threaded fastener and a nut plate assembly; 
         FIG. 14  is a sectional view of the fastener assembly of  FIG. 13 , illustrating a shell member, a lock member, and a magnetic component of the nut plate assembly; 
         FIG. 15  is a perspective of the threaded fastener and the lock member of the fastener assembly of  FIG. 13 ; 
         FIG. 16  is a perspective view of another embodiment of a fastener assembly, the fastener assembly including a nut plate assembly with a shell member joined to a plate; 
         FIG. 17  is a sectional view of the fastener assembly of  FIG. 13 ; 
         FIG. 18  is a perspective view of another embodiment of a fastener assembly; 
         FIG. 19  is a sectional view of the fastener assembly of  FIG. 18 ; 
         FIG. 20  is an exploded perspective view of the fastener assembly of  FIG. 18 ; 
         FIG. 21  is a perspective view of portion of the fastener assembly of  FIG. 18 , illustrating a threaded member engaged with a ratchet mechanism; 
         FIG. 22  is a perspective view of another embodiment of a fastener assembly; 
         FIG. 23  is a sectional view of the fastener assembly of  FIG. 22 ; 
         FIG. 24  is another sectional view of the fastener assembly of  FIG. 22 ; 
         FIG. 25  is an exploded perspective view of the fastener assembly of  FIG. 22 ; 
         FIG. 26  is a perspective view of a floating nut of the fastener assembly of  FIG. 22 ; 
         FIG. 27  is a perspective view of a portion of the fastener assembly of  FIG. 22 , illustrating the fastener assembly in a locked configuration; and 
         FIG. 28  is a perspective view of a lock member of the fastener assembly of  FIG. 22 . 
     
    
    
     Unless otherwise indicated, the drawings provided herein are meant to illustrate features of embodiments of the disclosure. These features are believed to be applicable in a wide variety of systems comprising one or more embodiments of the disclosure. As such, the drawings are not meant to include all conventional features known by those of ordinary skill in the art to be required for the practice of the embodiments disclosed herein. 
     DETAILED DESCRIPTION 
     In the following specification and the claims, reference will be made to a number of terms, which shall be defined to have the following meanings. 
     The singular forms “a”, “an”, and “the” include plural references unless the context clearly dictates otherwise. 
     “Optional” or “optionally” means that the subsequently described event or circumstance may or may not occur, and that the description includes instances where the event occurs and instances where it does not. 
     Approximating language, as used herein throughout the specification and claims, may be applied to modify any quantitative representation that could permissibly vary without resulting in a change in the basic function to which it is related. Accordingly, a value modified by a term or terms such as “about,” “approximately,” and “substantially” are not to be limited to the precise value specified. In at least some instances, the approximating language may correspond to the precision of an instrument for measuring the value. Here and throughout the specification and claims, range limitations may be combined and/or interchanged; such ranges are identified and include all the sub-ranges contained therein unless context or language indicates otherwise. 
     Relative descriptors used herein such as upward, downward, left, right, up, down, length, height, width, thickness, and the like are with reference to the figures, and not meant in a limiting sense. Additionally, the illustrated embodiments can be understood as providing exemplary features of varying detail of certain embodiments, and therefore, features, components, modules, elements, and/or aspects of the illustrations can be otherwise combined, interconnected, sequenced, separated, interchanged, positioned, and/or rearranged without materially departing from the disclosed fastener assemblies. Additionally, the shapes and sizes of components are also exemplary and can be altered without materially affecting or limiting the disclosed technology. 
     The fastening devices and systems described herein are typically used to fixedly connect two or more components in a variety of applications such as, and without limitation, surgical implants, industrial applications, aerospace applications, building applications, and military applications. Among other features and benefits, the disclosed fastening devices and systems can provide one or more of quick and easy installation and/or removal, and/or vibration resistant secured tightness. 
     The nut plate assemblies described herein overcome many of the problems associated with nut plate assemblies. In general, nut plate assemblies are used to fixedly connect panels to structures in a variety of applications such as, without limitation, aerospace applications, industrial applications, and building applications, where access to both sides of the nut plate assembly is limited or restricted. Among other features and benefits, the disclosed nut plate assemblies facilitate one or more of the use of captive panel fasteners having varying lengths, quick and easy installation and/or removal of panel fasteners, and/or single end access for blind fastening applications. The advantages, and other features of the technology disclosed herein, will become more readily apparent to those having ordinary skill in the art from the following detailed description of certain preferred embodiments taken in conjunction with the drawings. 
       FIG. 1  is a perspective view of two components  101 ,  103  secured together by a fastener assembly  100 . For example, the components  101 ,  103  may include structures such as an aircraft access panel that is secured to an aircraft frame. The fastener assembly  100  includes a mechanically locking, self-aligning nut plate that is magnetically unlocked. The fastener assembly  100  provides a captive fastener that prevents the fastener from being lost or incorrect fasteners from being used. In addition, the fastener assembly  100  is quick and easy to install and provides tolerances for misalignment of the fastener and/or the components. Moreover, the fastener assembly  100  provides a vibration resistant securement of the components that prevents loosening when the components are exposed to extreme vibration. 
     With reference to  FIGS. 1-9 , the fastener assembly  100  includes a threaded fastener  102  and a nut plate assembly  104 . The nut plate assembly  104  includes a plate member  106 , a shell member  108 , and a floating nut  114  disposed within the shell member and defining a bore  116  configured to receive the threaded fastener  102 . 
     The shell member  108  includes a first end  110  coupled to the plate member, a second end  112  opposite the first end, and a sidewall  122  that extends from the first end  110  to the second end  112  along a longitudinal axis  120 . In the illustrated embodiment, the sidewall  122  forms a hollow space extending along the longitudinal axis  120 . The first end  110  of the shell member  108  is at least partly closed by an end wall  126  that extends radially inward from edges of the sidewall  122 . In the illustrated embodiment, the first end  110  is entirely closed. The second end  112  of the shell member  108  is open. The sidewall  122  and the end wall  126  collectively define a cavity  128  sized to receive the floating nut  114 . 
     The floating nut  114  is moveable axially within the cavity  128  of the shell member  108  along the longitudinal axis  120 . In addition, the floating nut  114  has a diameter that is less than the inner diameter of the cavity  128  of the shell member  108  such that the floating nut  114  may float radially and tilt axially within the cavity to receive and engage the threaded fastener  102  even if the threaded fastener is not perfectly aligned. 
     As seen in  FIGS. 4, 5A, and 5B , the nut plate assembly  104  also includes a first bias member  130  and a second bias member  131  disposed within the shell member  108 . The first bias member  130  is configured to bias the floating nut  114  toward the second end  112  of the shell member  108 . In the illustrated embodiment, the first bias member  130  contacts and extends between the floating nut  114  and the end wall  126  of the shell member  108 . Specifically, the first bias member  130  extends along and around a base  164  and a rim  170  of the floating nut  114  and contacts a shoulder or flange  168  of the floating nut. In other embodiments, the first bias member is positioned on the second end  112  and is attached to the floating nut  114  to provide a tension force and pull the floating nut toward the second end  112 . The first bias member  130  centers the floating nut  114  radially within the cavity  128  and facilitates the floating nut accommodating threaded fasteners  102  that may not be perfectly aligned. For example, the nut plate assembly  104  may accommodate +/−8° angular misalignment of the threaded fastener  102 . 
     In the illustrated embodiment, the first bias member  130  is a helical compression spring and is constructed of a metal such as steel. Accordingly, the first bias member  130  provides a consistent bias force to the floating nut  114  and resists deformation. In embodiments, the first bias member  130  may include any elastic material such as rubber or plastic. In addition, in embodiments, the first bias member  130  may be a leaf spring or have any other suitable shape. 
     With reference to  FIGS. 4-5B , the nut plate assembly  104  includes at least one magnetic component  132  configured to switch the nut plate assembly between a locked configuration (shown in  FIGS. 4 and 5A ) and an unlocked configuration (shown in  FIG. 5B ). For example, the magnetic component  132  is configured to interact with at least one magnet  135  on a tool  134  (shown in  FIG. 5B ). As shown in  FIG. 10 , the at least one magnetic component  132  includes a ring  136  defining an aperture  138  sized to receive the threaded fastener  102 . For example, the ring  136  is constructed of a magnetic material such as a metal. In embodiments, the ring  136  is constructed as a permanent magnet that provides magnetic properties without an inducing field or current. The ring  136  is oriented for the magnetic component  132  to be repelled by the magnet  135  on the tool  134  when the tool  134  is positioned proximate to the second end  112  of the shell member  108 . In other embodiments, the ring  136  is configured to be attracted to the magnet  135  on the tool  134 . 
     As shown for example in  FIG. 9 , the nut plate assembly  104  includes a lock member  140  coupled to the floating nut  114 . The nut plate assembly  104  has a locked configuration ( FIG. 5A ) in which the lock member  140  is configured to fix rotation of the floating nut  114  relative to the threaded fastener  102  and an unlocked configuration ( FIG. 5B ) in which the threaded fastener is allowed to rotate relative to the floating nut. The lock member  140  is configured to engage the at least one magnetic component  132 . For example, the lock member  140  includes a base  142  and a pair of lock arms  144  extending axially from the base. The pair of lock arms  144  are configured to extend along an outer surface of the floating nut  114  and engage the at least one magnetic component  132 . The magnetic component  132  is configured to move the lock member  140  axially to switch the nut plate assembly  104  between the locked configuration and the unlocked configuration when the magnetic component interacts with the magnet  135  on the tool  134 . In some embodiments, the magnetic component  132  and the lock member  140  are formed as a single piece, joined together, mechanically attached to each other, or otherwise coupled together. 
     The second bias member  131  is configured to bias the lock member  140  toward the threaded fastener  102  and the second end  112  of the shell member  108 . In the illustrated embodiment, the second bias member  131  contacts and extends between the lock member  140  and the end wall  126  of the shell member  108 . In the illustrated embodiment, the end wall  126  includes a central recess that is arranged to receive the second bias member  131 . The second bias member  131  has a smaller diameter than the first bias member  130  and is positioned concentrically with the first bias member  130 . The second bias member  131  maintains the lock member  140  in position to engage the threaded fastener  102  when the nut plate assembly  104  is in the locked configuration. 
     In the illustrated embodiment, the second bias member  131  is a helical compression spring and is constructed of a metal such as steel. Accordingly, the second bias member  131  provides a consistent bias force to the lock member  140  and resists deformation. In embodiments, the second bias member  131  may include any elastic material such as rubber or plastic. In addition, the second bias member  131  may be a leaf spring or have any other suitable shape. 
     With reference to  FIG. 5B , the tool  134  is configured to engage and rotate the threaded fastener  102  when the nut plate assembly  104  is in the unlocked configuration. For example, the tool  134  includes a head  146  that engages a recess in a head  148  of the threaded fastener  102 . The tool  134  includes at least one magnet  135  that is configured to interact with the at least one magnetic component  132  within the shell member  108  to switch the nut plate assembly  104  between the locked configuration and the unlocked configuration when the tool  134  engages the threaded fastener  102 . For example, in the illustrated embodiment, the magnet  135  extends around the head  146  of the tool  134  and is positioned proximate the nut plate assembly  104  when the head engages the threaded fastener  102 . 
       FIG. 6  is a perspective view of the threaded fastener  102 . The threaded fastener  102  includes the head  148 , a threaded body  150  extending longitudinally from the head, and a tip  152  on an end of the threaded body opposite the head. The head  148  defines a recess  154  that is sized and shaped to engage the head  146  of the tool  134  (shown in  FIG. 5B ). The threaded body  150  is configured to engage with the floating nut  114  through mating threads when the threaded fastener  102  is inserted into the nut plate assembly  104  and rotated using the tool  134 . 
     In the illustrated embodiment, a retaining ring  155  is positioned on the threaded body  150  proximate the head  148 . The retaining ring  155  is circular and has an inner diameter that is substantially equal to or less than the diameter of the threaded body  150 . The retaining ring  155  extends circumferentially around the threaded body  150 . The retaining ring  155  may be split to facilitate positioning the retaining ring  155  on the threaded body  150 . The retaining ring  155  is fixed in longitudinal position on the threaded fastener  102  and is tapered outward towards the head  148  of the threaded fastener  102 . The retaining ring  155  facilitates the threaded fastener being captured in openings. For example, retaining ring  155  deforms radially when the threaded fastener  102  is inserted into the opening in the component  101  (shown in  FIG. 1 ) and then returns to an undeformed state and engages the component  101  to prevent removal of the threaded fastener  102  from the opening in the component. The retaining ring  155  is able to be fixed in longitudinal position on the threaded fastener  102  because the first biasing member  103  facilitates the floating nut  114  moving axially to accommodate the captured threaded fastener  102  when the component  101  is secured/unsecured to the structure  103 . To remove the threaded fastener  102  from the component, the retaining ring  155  is deformed or collapsed using a tool. The retaining ring  155  may be omitted without departing from some aspects of the disclosure. 
     The tip  152  of the threaded fastener  102  includes at least one tooth  156  that extends radially outward from the threaded fastener and is configured to engage the lock member  140  when the nut plate assembly  104  is in the locked configuration (shown in  FIG. 5A ). In the illustrated embodiment, the tip  152  includes a plurality of engagement teeth  156  arranged about the circumference of the threaded fastener  102  and extending between the threaded body  150  and an end of the threaded fastener. Each engagement tooth  156  has a symmetrical, trapezoid shape in cross-section. The engagement teeth  156  are configured to prevent rotation of the threaded fastener  102  relative to the lock member  140  in the clockwise and counter-clockwise directions when the nut plate assembly  104  is in the locked configuration. For example, both lateral sides of the engagement teeth  156  include substantially planar surfaces that are shaped to engage the lock member  140  and prevent rotation. Accordingly, the fastener assembly  100  provides a more secure connection and reduces wear on locking components. 
     As shown in  FIGS. 7 and 8 , the shell member  108  is removably coupled to a plate  176 . For example, the plate  176  includes tabs  178  defining slots  180  that receive protuberances  177  on the shell member  108 . The tabs  178  may be positionable to release the shell member  108  from the plate  176 . In the illustrated embodiment, the tabs  178  are bent axially and toward the shell member  108  to engage the protuberances  177  on the shell member. In other embodiments, the plate  176  and the shell member  108  are permanently attached. For example, in some embodiments, the plate  176  and the shell member  108  are integrally formed as a single piece. In other embodiments, the plate  176  and the shell member  108  are connected by welds, fasteners, and/or any other suitable attachment means. 
     The plate  176  includes openings  182  to receive fasteners  184  (shown in  FIGS. 3 and 4 ) to secure the plate  176  to the substructure  103 . The fastener assembly  100  provides a captive fastener that can be secured from one side of the panel  101  when the plate  176  is secured to the side of the substructure  103 . 
     As seen in  FIG. 9 , the nut plate assembly  104  may include a retainer  179  positioned at the second end  112  of the shell member  108  to retain components within the cavity of the shell member. The retainer  179  facilitates assembling the components within the shell member  108  and maintaining a position of the components. In some embodiments, the retainer  179  may be omitted and components may be retained within the cavity of the shell member  108  by, for example, the plate  176 . 
     Referring to  FIG. 10 , the ring  136  includes a first annular surface  186 , a second annular surface  188 , an inner circumferential wall  190 , and an outer circumferential wall  192 . The inner circumferential wall  190  defines a first, inner diameter  194  of the ring  136 . The outer circumferential wall  192  defines a second, outer diameter  196  of the ring  136 . The second diameter  196  is larger than the first diameter  194 . The first diameter  194  is sized to receive the floating nut  114  therein. The first annular surface  186  and the second annular surface  188  extend from the inner circumferential wall  190  to the outer circumferential wall  192 . In the illustrated embodiment, the ring  136  is symmetric and can be oriented on the floating nut  114  such that the first annular surface  186  or the second annular surface  188  contact the lock member  140  (shown in  FIGS. 5A and 5B ). 
       FIG. 11  is a perspective view of the lock member  140 . The base  142  of the lock member  140  is a ring and defines an aperture  158  sized to receive the tip  152  of the threaded fastener  102  (shown in  FIG. 6 ) when the nut plate assembly  104  is in the locked position. In addition, the lock member  140  includes a plurality of engagement teeth  160  extending radially inward from the base  142  and defining a plurality of notches  162  therebetween. The notches  162  are sized to receive the engagement teeth  156  of the threaded fastener  102  such that each engagement tooth  156  is positioned between and engaged by engagement teeth  160  on either side of the respective notch. The lateral sides of the engagement teeth  160  include substantially planar surfaces that are shaped to engage the engagement tooth  156 . Accordingly, the engagement teeth  156  of the threaded fastener  102  and the engagement teeth  160  of the lock member  140  are configured to intermesh and prevent relative rotation in either direction when the nut plate assembly  104  is in the locked position and the threaded fastener  102  is secured to the nut plate assembly  104 . 
     The pair of lock arms  144  extend from diametrically opposite sides of the base  142 . The pair of lock arms  144  are sized and shaped to extend along the longitudinal axis of the shell member  108  and engage the at least one magnetic component  132 . For example, each lock arm  144  has a length that is at least half the length of the threaded fastener  102 . In addition, the lock member  140  includes a radially extending tab  145  on a distal end of each lock arm  144 . The radially extending tab is arranged to engage a surface on the magnetic component  132 , as shown in  FIG. 9 . 
     As shown in  FIG. 12 , the floating nut  114  includes a base  164  defining the threaded bore  116 , a flange  168  extending around the base  164 , and a rim  170  extending axially from the base  164 . As shown in  FIG. 9 , the rim  170  defines a recess  172  arranged to receive the base  142  of the lock member  140 . The flange  168  defines notches  174  arranged to receive the arms  144  when the base  142  is positioned within the recess  172 . 
     With reference to  FIGS. 4-5B , in use, the nut plate assembly  104  is coupled to the substructure  103  by, for example, fastening the plate  176  to the substructure using the fasteners  184 . The floating nut  114 , the magnetic component  132 , and the lock member  140  are positioned within the shell member  108 . The threaded fastener  102  extends through openings in the components  101 ,  103  and is received in the floating nut  114  within the shell member  108 . The tool  134  is positioned to engage the head  148  of the threaded fastener  102  and the magnet  135  on the tool interacts with the magnetic component  132  within the shell member  108  to switch the nut plate assembly  104  between the locked configuration and the unlocked configuration. The magnetic component  132  engages the lock member  140  and moves the lock member axially within the shell member  108  such that the engagement teeth  156  of the threaded fastener  102  and the engagement teeth  160  of the lock member  140  are spaced apart. The tool  134  rotates the threaded fastener  102  to tighten or loosen the threaded member when the nut plate assembly  104  is in the unlocked configuration. The tool  134  is removed from the threaded fastener  102  and the nut plate assembly  104  switches to the locked configuration. The magnetic component  132  and the lock member  140  move axially within the shell member  108  to cause the engagement teeth  156  of the threaded fastener  102  to engage the engagement teeth  160  of the lock member  140 . The threaded fastener  102  is rotationally fixed relative to the floating nut  114  to prevent loosening of the fastener assembly  100  when the nut plate assembly  104  is in the locked configuration. 
       FIGS. 13 and 14  illustrate another embodiment of a fastener assembly  200  including a threaded fastener  202  and a nut plate assembly  204 . The fastener assembly  200  is similar to the fastener assembly  100  shown in  FIG. 1  except as noted herein. The nut plate assembly  204  of the fastener assembly  200  includes a shell member  206  that is removably coupled to a plate  208 . For example, the shell member  206  has a threaded end and the plate  208  includes an axially extending collar  210  that threadingly engages the threaded end of the shell member  206 . 
     In addition, as shown in  FIG. 15 , a tip  212  of the threaded fastener  202  of the fastener assembly  200  is shaped to engage a lock member  214  without engagement teeth. For example, the tip  212  of the threaded fastener  202  has a size and shape that matches a size and shape of an opening  216  in the lock member  214 . The tip  212  has axially extending planar surfaces  218  that contact and engage axially extending planar surfaces  220  on the lock member  214 . In the illustrated embodiment, the tip  212  and the opening  216  are hexagonal. In other embodiments, the tip  212  and the opening  216  may be triangular, square, rectangular, octagonal, elliptical, or any other suitable shape. The threaded fastener  202  and the lock member  214  may be simpler to manufacture than members that include lock teeth and the threaded fastener  202  and the lock member  214  may be standard sizes and shapes. 
     Also, the fastener assembly  200  includes a magnetic component  222  that is displaceable axially within the shell member  206 . The magnetic component  222  engages the lock member  214  and moves the lock member axially within the shell member  206  to switch the nut plate assembly  204  between a locked configuration and an unlocked configuration. For example, the magnet component  222  moves the lock member  214  and disengages the lock member  214  from the tip  212  of the threaded fastener  202  when the magnetic component  222  interacts with a magnet, such as the magnet  135  on tool  134  shown in  FIG. 5B . In the locked configuration, the magnetic component  222  is positioned at an end of the shell member  206 , and the lock member  214  engages threaded fastener  202  to prevent rotation of the threaded fastener relative to a floating nut  224  of the nut plate assembly  204 . 
       FIGS. 16 and 17  illustrate another embodiment of a fastener assembly  300  including a threaded fastener  302  and a nut plate assembly  304 . The fastener assembly  300  is similar to the fastener assembly  100  shown in  FIG. 1  except as noted herein. The nut plate assembly  304  of the fastener assembly  300  includes a shell member  306  that is joined to a plate  308 . For example, the shell member  306  and the plate  308  may be integrally formed as a single piece. Accordingly, the fastener assembly  300  may be simpler to assemble and more robust and resistant to failure. 
     Referring to  FIGS. 18-21 , illustrate another embodiment of a fastener assembly  400  including a threaded fastener  402  and a nut plate assembly  404 . The fastener assembly  400  is similar to the fastener assembly  100  shown in  FIG. 1  except as noted herein. 
     The nut plate assembly  404  includes a plate member  406  comprising an aperture defined therethrough, a shell member  408 , a bias member  410  disposed within the shell member, and a floating nut  412  disposed within the shell member. The shell member  408  includes a wall  414  having a first end coupled to the plate member  406  and a second end opposite the first end. The wall  414  can be any suitable shape and is configured to prevent rotation of the floating nut relative to the shell member  408 . In the illustrated embodiment, the shell member  408  is hexagonal in cross-section. In other embodiments, the shell member  408  is a cylinder, star-shaped, pentagon, rectangle, octagon, or any other shape. 
     The floating nut  412  is moveable between a first position proximate the shell member second end and a second position spaced from the shell member second end. The bias member  410  is configured to bias the floating nut toward one of the first position and the second position. In the illustrated embodiment, the bias member  410  extends between and contacts the floating nut  412  and the first end of the shell member  408  and is configured to bias the floating nut toward the second end of the shell member. 
     The threaded fastener  402  includes a head  416 , a threaded body  418 , a tip  420 , and at least one fastener tooth  422  coupled to the tip  420 . In the illustrated embodiment, the threaded fastener  402  includes a plurality of fastener teeth  422  spaced around the circumference of the tip  420  and extending radially outward from the tip. In the illustrated embodiment, the fastener  402  is integrally formed with the plurality of fastener teeth  422  as a single piece. In embodiments, a retainer ring  421  is positioned on the threaded fastener  402 . 
     As shown in  FIG. 21 , the nut plate assembly  404  also includes at least one ratchet member  424  including a plurality of ratchet teeth  426  configured to engage the at least one fastener tooth  422 . For example, the nut plate assembly  404  includes a pair of ratchet members  424  with ratchet teeth  426  extending radially inward towards the fastener  402 . The ratchet members  424  each include a base  428  and ratchet teeth  426  extending from the base. In addition, the base  428  defines a groove  430  on a side of the base opposite the ratchet teeth  426 . The ratchet members  424  are configured to engage the fastener teeth  422  an prevent rotation of the threaded fastener in at least one direction. 
     The nut plate assembly  404  also includes an annular bias member  432  disposed within the shell and configured to bias the plurality of ratchet teeth  426  toward the at least one fastener tooth  422 . For example, the bias member  432  can be a circular spring. The bias member  432  is received in the groove  430  on the base  428  of the ratchet members  424 . The ratchet members  424 , the fastener teeth  422 , and the bias member  432  provide a spring-loaded ratcheting engagement that resists loosening and provides a minimum torque break-away values. 
     Referring to  FIGS. 22-28 , another embodiment of a fastener assembly  500  includes a threaded fastener  502  and a nut plate assembly  504 . The fastener assembly  500  is similar to the fastener assembly  100  shown in  FIG. 1  except as noted herein. 
     The fastener assembly  500  includes a threaded fastener  502  configured to mount in an aperture formed in a panel member (e.g., panel member  101  shown in  FIG. 1 ) and a nut plate assembly  504  adapted for mounting to a mounting structure (e.g., mounting structure  103  shown in  FIG. 1 ). The nut plate assembly  504  includes a plate member  506 , a shell member  508  comprising a first end coupled to the plate member and a second end opposite the first end, and a floating nut  510  disposed within the shell member. In addition, the nut plate assembly  504  includes a ratchet member  516  disposed within the shell member  508  and configured for conjoint rotation with the fastener  502 . The floating nut  510  is threadably engageable with the fastener  502  for coupling the panel member to the mounting structure. The floating nut  510  is moveable between a first position proximate the shell member second end and a second position spaced from the shell member second end. 
     Referring to  FIGS. 23-25 , the nut plate assembly  504  includes a first bias member  512  disposed within the shell member  508 . The first bias member  512  is configured to bias the floating nut  510  toward one of the first position and the second position. 
     As seen in  FIG. 26 , the nut plate assembly  504  also includes at least one lock tooth  514  coupled to the floating nut  510 . In the illustrated embodiment, the lock teeth  514  and the floating nut  510  are a single piece. The lock teeth  514  extend axially from an end of the floating nut  510 . 
     With reference to  FIGS. 27 and 28 , the ratchet member  516  includes an annular body  518  and at least one ratchet tooth  520  configured to engage the at least one lock tooth  514  of the floating nut  510 . The ratchet teeth  520  extend axially from an end of the body  518  of the ratchet member  516 . In the illustrated embodiment, the ratchet teeth  520  are triangular. 
     Also, the body  518  of the ratchet member  516  defines an aperture  522  sized and shaped to receive the threaded fastener  502  and prevent relative rotation between the ratchet member  516  and the threaded fastener. For example, in the illustrated embodiment, the aperture  522  is square. 
     The nut plate assembly  504  includes a second bias member  524  disposed within the shell member  508  and configured to bias the ratchet member  516  toward the at least one lock tooth  514 . In the illustrated embodiment, the ratchet member  516  includes a collar  526  extending from an end of the body  518  opposite the ratchet teeth  520  and arranged to receive the second bias member  524 . The second bias member  524  facilitates engagement of the ratchet member  516  and the floating nut  510  and provides a spring-loaded ratcheting element with minimum break away torque values. 
     In some embodiments, a method of securing a fastener assembly generally includes positioning a threaded member through an aperture in a nut plate and threadingly engaging the threaded member within a threaded bore of a floating nut. The floating nut is biased to provide some tolerance for misalignment of the threaded member. The nut plate assembly includes at least one lock member. For example, the lock member may include at least one magnetic component or any other suitable lock member. The threaded member may be tightened relative to the lock member using a tool that positions the nut plate assembly to an unlocked configuration. When the tool is disengaged, the lock member secures the nut plate assembly in the locked configuration and the fastener assembly is inhibited from loosening. 
     In some embodiments, a nut plate assembly includes a ratchet member that is configured to engage fastener teeth and secure the fastener in position. Also, in some embodiments, the nut plate assembly includes a second bias member that is configured to bias the ratchet member or lock member toward engagement with the fastener teeth. 
     The components as described herein provide spring-loaded nut plate assemblies. For example, as described in the embodiments herein, a floating nut of the nut plate assemblies is biased by a bias member, which enables the use of captive panel screws. This facilitates ease of assembly and disassembly of a panel to an underlying structure. In addition, the spring-loaded nut plate assemblies facilitate varying length captive panel fasteners. The bias member facilitates one of pulling the structure components together or pushing them apart during assembly or removal of the panel structure. In addition, the bias member facilitates preventing damage to the internal threads of the floating nut during installation of the fastener. 
     Technical advantages of the embodiments described herein include, for example, facilitating axial and radial floatation of a nut to accommodate off-axis fasteners and facilitating self-alignment of the fasteners. In addition, embodiments of the fastener assemblies facilitate mechanical locking of the fastener assembly using, for example magnetic components to switch a locked/unlocked state. Accordingly, embodiments of the fastener assemblies do not rely on friction between threads on a nut and threads on a bolt to provide a locking action. As a result, the fastener assemblies may provide a more reliable lock and facilitate more easily switching between locked and unlocked states. 
     Embodiments of fastener assemblies facilitate use of a longitudinally fixed position retaining ring to capture a fastener. The fastener assemblies reduce breaking and binding of the ring that would occur if the ring could travel longitudinally along grooves in the fastener. As a result, breakage of the ring is reduced and foreign object debris from a broken or degraded retaining ring is eliminated. 
     Exemplary embodiments of spring-loaded nut plate assemblies are described above. The systems and methods are not limited to the specific embodiments described herein, but rather, components of the systems and/or operations of the methods may be utilized independently and separately from other components and/or operations described herein. Further, the described components and/or operations may also be defined in, or used in combination with, other systems, methods, and/or devices, and are not limited to practice with only the systems described herein. 
     Although specific features of various embodiments of the disclosure may be shown in some drawings and not in others, this is for convenience only. In accordance with the principles of the disclosure, any feature of a drawing may be referenced and/or claimed in combination with any feature of any other drawing. 
     This written description uses examples to disclose the embodiments, including the best mode, and also to enable any person skilled in the art to practice the embodiments, including making and using any devices or systems and performing any incorporated methods. The patentable scope of the disclosure is defined by the claims, and may include other examples that occur to those skilled in the art. Such other examples are intended to be within the scope of the claims if they have structural elements that do not differ from the literal language of the claims, or if they include equivalent structural elements with insubstantial differences from the literal language of the claims.