Patent Description:
This application relates to lock nuts and, more specifically, to lock nuts for wheel spindles.

A wheel hub assembly is mounted on the spindle of a vehicle axle to provide a rotatable mounting surface on which to mount a wheel. Wheel hub assemblies are provided in many different designs dependent upon the specific application for which the hub assembly is intended. Regardless of the hub assembly design, hub assemblies generally have the following components: wheel studs, driven axle studs, seals, inboard and outboard bearing such as tapered roller bearings, and a wheel hub to house these components. Depending upon the specifics of the design, wheel hub assemblies may also include an anti-lock brake ring and a spacer placed between the inboard and outboard tapered roller bearings. A spindle nut is threaded onto the spindle to affix the hub assembly onto the spindle. The spindle nut performs the function of axially retaining the hub assembly on the spindle while still allowing rotation of the hub.

Existing spindle nut configurations are shown, for example, in <CIT>. One embodiment of the spindle nut disclosed in the '<NUM> patent includes a lock ring and a washer that has holes corresponding to tabs on the lock ring. This configuration helps secure the spindle nut in position on the wheel end. However, the components of the spindle nut are installed on a spindle in several steps which may complicate installation of the spindle nut.

<CIT> discloses lock nuts of the type in which the nut is provided with a hub or extension having teeth or the like thereon, which teeth engage with a pawl or cooperating teeth formed on a washer splined to the bolt, and in which means are provided for keeping the nut and washer in engagement the one with the other. A lock nut in combination with a bolt has spline grooves lengthwise therein. A hub is formed with the nut and ratchet teeth are formed upon the face of said hub. A locking washer is splined upon the bolt and ratchet teeth are formed upon the base of said washer, adapted to engage the teeth upon the hub. A cap surrounds the hub and encloses the washer. Lugs are carried by said cap for engagement with bayonent slots formed in the hub, whereby said cap may be locked to and unlocked from the hub. A spring is interposed between the top of the cap and the washer for forcing the teeth of the latter into engagement with the teeth carried by the hub.

According to a first aspect of the present invention, there is provided a lock nut for a vehicle spindle, the lock nut comprising: a washer, a threaded body, and an actuator that are distinct from one another; the washer having an opening sized to receive the vehicle spindle, the washer configured to form a non-rotatable connection with the vehicle spindle; the threaded body having threads to engage threads of the vehicle spindle; the actuator having a rotary drive structure, the actuator configured to be turned in a tightening direction to cause turning of the threaded body in the tightening direction relative to the washer; a lock operably coupled to the actuator and configured to inhibit turning of the threaded body in a loosening direction relative to the washer; and the actuator configured to be turned relative to the threaded body in the loosening direction to disengage the lock and permit turning of the threaded body in the loosening direction relative to the washer.

According to a second aspect of the present invention, there is provided a method of operating a lock nut comprising a washer non-rotatably connected to a vehicle spindle, a threaded body having threads engaged with threads of the spindle, and an actuator configured to be turned in a loosening direction relative to the threaded body to disengage a lock of the lock nut that inhibits turning of the threaded body in the loosening direction relative to the washer, the method comprising: connecting a tool to a rotary drive structure of the actuator; and turning the actuator in a tightening direction to cause turning of the threaded body in the tightening direction relative to the washer.

To enable a better understanding of the present invention, and to show how the same may be carried into effect, reference will now be made, by way of example only, to the accompanying drawings, in which:.

Regarding <FIG>, a wheel hub assembly <NUM> is shown mounted to a spindle <NUM> of a vehicle. The wheel hub assembly <NUM> includes a wheel hub <NUM> having one or more bearing assemblies <NUM>, <NUM> that receive the spindle <NUM>, a spacer <NUM> maintaining an axial separation between the bearing assemblies <NUM>, <NUM>, and a hub body <NUM>. The wheel hub assembly <NUM> further includes a fastening apparatus, such as a lock nut <NUM> that engages threads <NUM> of a distal end portion <NUM> of the spindle <NUM>, to retain the wheel hub <NUM> on the spindle <NUM>.

Regarding <FIG> and <FIG>, the lock nut <NUM> includes a unitized assembly of distinct components that permit the lock nut <NUM> to be readily threaded onto the spindle <NUM> and inhibits unintentional loosening of the lock nut <NUM> such as due to vibration of the spindle <NUM>. The lock nut <NUM> may be a single assembly without any loose parts. The lock nut <NUM> may thereby have a one-step assembly onto the spindle <NUM>; specifically, the user threads the lock nut <NUM> onto the spindle <NUM> and tightens the lock nut <NUM> to a specified torque. The one-step assembly makes the lock nut <NUM> more intuitive for a user because, from the user's perspective, the lock nut <NUM> is threaded onto the spindle in a manner similar to a conventional nut.

Regarding <FIG>, in one embodiment the lock nut <NUM> includes a rotary engagement member, such as a threaded body <NUM>, having a through opening <NUM> that receives the spindle <NUM>, an actuator such as a nut head <NUM>, and a nut base such as a washer <NUM>. The washer <NUM> has a key, such as a tang <NUM>, that is received in a keyway <NUM> of the distal end portion <NUM> of the spindle <NUM> to inhibit turning of the washer <NUM> relative to the spindle <NUM>. Other key configurations may be utilized to inhibit turning of the washer <NUM> relative to the spindle <NUM>.

The washer <NUM> is rotatably coupled to the threaded body <NUM> and may be positioned on the spindle <NUM> with the tang <NUM> aligned with the keyway <NUM>. A user connects a driving tool to the nut head <NUM> and turns the nut head <NUM> in a clockwise tightening direction <NUM> (see <FIG>) which causes the nut head <NUM> to turn in the tightening direction <NUM> and advances the nut head <NUM>, threaded body <NUM>, and washer <NUM> together in an inboard direction. The threaded body <NUM> turning in the tightening direction <NUM> shifts the washer <NUM> axially inboard along the spindle <NUM> without rotation due to the engagement between the tang <NUM> and keyway <NUM>. The user applies torque to the nut head <NUM> until a particular torque is reached.

The lock nut <NUM> has a lock <NUM> such as a one-way lock that permits tightening of the threaded body <NUM> on the spindle <NUM> while inhibiting loosening of the threaded body <NUM> on the spindle <NUM>. In one embodiment, the lock <NUM> includes a roller clutch <NUM> having a locked configuration wherein roller locks <NUM> of the roller clutch <NUM> permit the threaded body <NUM> to turn in the tightening direction <NUM> relative to the washer <NUM> and inhibit the threaded body <NUM> from turning in a counterclockwise loosening direction <NUM> (see <FIG>) relative to the washer <NUM>. Once the user has stopped applying torque to the nut head <NUM> in tightening direction <NUM> using the driving tool, the roller clutch <NUM> automatically locks the threaded body <NUM> relative to the washer <NUM> to inhibit loosening of the threaded body <NUM>.

To remove the lock nut <NUM> from the spindle <NUM>, the user connects the driving tool to the nut head <NUM> and turns the nut head <NUM> in the loosening direction <NUM> which causes the nut head <NUM> to turn or rotate relative to the threaded body <NUM> in loosening direction <NUM> a predetermined angular distance as shown by comparing <FIG> and <FIG>. The turning of the nut head <NUM> relative to the threaded body <NUM> in the loosening direction <NUM> first causes the roller locks <NUM> to shift to an unlocked configuration, which permits loosening of the threaded body <NUM>, and second causes the nut head <NUM> to turn the threaded body <NUM> in the loosening direction <NUM>. In this manner, the roller clutch <NUM> causes the unlocking of the roller locks <NUM> prior to the nut head <NUM> turning the threaded body <NUM> in the loosening direction <NUM>.

Vibrations or impacts to the lock nut <NUM> are insufficient to reconfigure the roller locks <NUM> from the locked configuration to the unlocked configuration. Rather, the nut head <NUM> is turned to reconfigure the roller locks <NUM> from the locked to the unlocked configuration. In this manner, the lock nut <NUM> inhibits unintentional loosening of the lock nut <NUM> from the spindle <NUM> and thereby retains the wheel hub <NUM> on the spindle <NUM>.

The lock <NUM> of the lock nut <NUM> may take a variety of forms. For example, the lock <NUM> may include a clutch such as a freewheel clutch. The lock <NUM> may include a ratchet clutch like the ratchet clutch shown in <FIG> and <FIG>. As another example, the lock <NUM> of the nut <NUM> may include a sprag clutch.

Regarding <FIG>, the hub body <NUM> is rotatable on the spindle <NUM> around an axis <NUM> and includes a flange <NUM> with studs <NUM> for mounting a wheel thereto. The hub body <NUM> further includes studs <NUM> that receive a hub cap to close an opening <NUM> of the wheel hub <NUM>. In another embodiment, a drive axle may extend through an interior <NUM> of the spindle <NUM> with a drive flange of the drive axle being secured to the studs <NUM>. The drive axle may thereby turn the wheel hub <NUM> and cause rotation of the associated wheel. The bearing assembly <NUM> includes a bearing ring, such as a cone <NUM>, that is pressed against a shoulder <NUM> of the spindle <NUM> with tightening of the lock nut <NUM> on the spindle threads <NUM>. The spacer <NUM> maintains an axial separation between the cone <NUM> of the bearing assembly <NUM> and a cone <NUM> of the bearing assembly <NUM>. The bearing assembly <NUM> includes a plurality of bearings, such as roller bearings <NUM>, and a bearing ring, such as a cup <NUM>. The bearings <NUM>, <NUM> may be mirror images of one another. The washer <NUM> has an inboard surface <NUM> that presses against an outboard surface <NUM> of the cone <NUM> with tightening of the lock nut <NUM> onto the spindle threads <NUM>. In this manner, tightening lock nut <NUM> onto the spindle <NUM> in inboard direction <NUM> clamps the cone <NUM>, spacer <NUM>, and cone <NUM> between the washer <NUM> and the shoulder <NUM>.

Regarding <FIG> and <FIG>, the lock nut <NUM> includes a retainer, such as a retaining ring <NUM>, that maintains the nut head <NUM>, threaded body <NUM>, one or more locking members such as clamping elements like rollers <NUM>, and a spring support such as a spring ring <NUM>, assembled with the washer <NUM>. The spring ring <NUM> provides various operability for the lock nut <NUM>, including returning the roller locks <NUM> to locked configurations once a user stops applying torque to the nut head <NUM> with the driver tool. The retaining ring <NUM> may be a resilient, split ring that may be compressed radially inward to permit the retaining ring <NUM> to be positioned within a groove <NUM> (see <FIG>) of the washer <NUM> and captures portions of the nut head <NUM>, threaded body <NUM>, the rollers <NUM>, and the spring ring <NUM> at least partially in a compartment <NUM> of the washer <NUM>.

Regarding <FIG> and <FIG>, the nut head <NUM> includes a tool-receiving portion, such as a rotary drive structure <NUM> having one or more walls <NUM>. The rotary drive structure <NUM> is configured to receiving a driving tool, such as a torque wrench. In one embodiment, the rotary drive portion <NUM> has a hex nut configuration. The nut head <NUM> further includes a flange <NUM> with an upper surface <NUM> and a lower surface <NUM>. The nut head <NUM> has one or more drive portions, such as driving tabs <NUM>, that extend into drive openings <NUM> (see <FIG>) of the threaded body <NUM> and the threaded body <NUM> has drive portions, such as flange portions <NUM>, <NUM>, adjacent each driving tab <NUM>. The driving tabs <NUM> are configured to contact the flange portions <NUM> with turning of the nut head <NUM> in tightening direction <NUM> and urge the threaded body <NUM> in tightening direction <NUM>. Likewise, the driving tabs <NUM> are configured to contact the flange portions <NUM> with turning of the nut head <NUM> in loosening direction <NUM> and urge the threaded body <NUM> in loosening direction <NUM>.

Regarding <FIG> and <FIG>, the nut head <NUM> further includes one or more actuating portions, such as actuating tabs <NUM>, configured to contact the rollers <NUM> with turning of the nut head <NUM> in the loosening direction <NUM> and shift the rollers <NUM> from a locked position to an unlocked position. With the rollers <NUM> in the unlocked positions thereof, the rollers <NUM> are disengaged from the washer <NUM> and the driving tabs <NUM> of the nut head <NUM> may turn the threaded body <NUM> in the loosening direction <NUM> with the nut head <NUM>.

Regarding <FIG> and <FIG>, the actuating tabs <NUM> of the nut head <NUM> extend into ramp openings <NUM> of the threaded body <NUM> between the flange portion <NUM> and a flange portion <NUM> of the threaded body <NUM>. Each driving tab <NUM> is separated from nearby actuating tabs <NUM> by circumferential gaps <NUM>, <NUM>. The nut head <NUM> includes a central opening <NUM> sized to receive a riser portion 119A (see <FIG>) of the threaded body <NUM>.

Regarding <FIG> and <FIG>, each ramp opening <NUM> of the threaded body <NUM> includes a ramp surface <NUM> and the spring ring <NUM> includes an associated biasing member that urges the roller <NUM> in the ramp opening <NUM> against the ramp surface <NUM>. In one embodiment, the biasing member includes a spring such as a spring tab <NUM>. Regarding <FIG>, the spring tabs <NUM> urge the rollers <NUM> along the ramp surface <NUM> in tightening direction <NUM> to wedge the rollers <NUM> between the ramp surfaces <NUM> of the threaded body <NUM> and an annular wall <NUM> of the washer <NUM> as discussed in greater detail below. The rollers <NUM> are made of a rigid material, such as a metallic material such as steel, and resist compressive loading from the threaded body <NUM> and washer <NUM> that results when the threaded body <NUM> is urged in loosening direction <NUM> such as due to vibration.

Regarding <FIG>, the angle of the ramp surface <NUM> forms a radially shorter surface <NUM> at one circumferential end of the ramp opening <NUM> and a longer surface <NUM> at an opposite circumferential end of the ramp opening <NUM>. Further, the flange portions <NUM>, <NUM> have stop surfaces <NUM>, <NUM> that are contacted by an associated driving tab <NUM> to cause turning of the threaded body <NUM> with turning of the nut head <NUM>.

Regarding <FIG>, the spring ring <NUM> has a body portion <NUM> extending around a central opening <NUM>. The spring tabs <NUM> each include a base portion <NUM> upstanding from the body portion <NUM> and a pivotal, resilient arm portion <NUM>. The spring tabs <NUM> may be formed by forming a J-shaped opening in the body portion <NUM> and bending a portion of the material of the spring ring <NUM> out of the plane of the body portion <NUM> to form the base portion <NUM>. When the lock nut <NUM> is assembled, the base portion <NUM> extends upward into the ramp opening <NUM> of the threaded body <NUM> from below the flange portion <NUM> while the actuating tab <NUM> of the nut head <NUM> extends downward into the ramp opening <NUM> from above the flange portion <NUM>.

In one embodiment, the spring tabs <NUM> have a unitary, one-piece construction with the rest of the spring ring <NUM>. The threaded body <NUM>, nut head <NUM>, and washer <NUM> may each have a unitary, one-piece construction. In other embodiments, the threaded body <NUM>, nut head <NUM>, washer <NUM>, and/or spring ring <NUM> may each be an assembly of parts joined together such as by welding.

Regarding <FIG>, the roller <NUM> has a flat upper surface <NUM>, a flat lower surface <NUM>, and a side wall <NUM> extending therebetween. The side wall <NUM> has a curved surface <NUM> that is configured to roll or slide along the annular wall <NUM> of the washer <NUM>. In another embodiment, the rollers <NUM> may include ball rollers.

Regarding <FIG>, the washer <NUM> includes a collar portion <NUM> extending about a central opening <NUM> and the annular wall <NUM> is upstanding from the collar portion <NUM>. The tang <NUM> extends radially inward from the collar portion <NUM> to extend into the keyway <NUM> of the spindle <NUM>. The lateral sides of the tang <NUM> contact lateral walls of the keyway <NUM> and resist turning of the washer <NUM> around the spindle <NUM>. The collar portion <NUM> of the washer <NUM> has an upper surface <NUM> for supporting the spring ring <NUM> and the threaded body <NUM> thereon as shown in <FIG>.

Regarding <FIG>, the roller locks <NUM> are shown in a locked configuration whereby the rollers <NUM> rigidly inhibit turning of the threaded body in counterclockwise loosening direction <NUM>. The roller locks <NUM> form a freewheel roller clutch <NUM> that includes the washer <NUM> as an outer race, the threaded body <NUM> as an inner race, and the rollers <NUM> as clamping elements. The driving tabs <NUM> of the nut head <NUM> and the flange portions <NUM> cooperate to permit turning of the threaded body <NUM> in tightening direction <NUM> to cause corresponding freewheeling or rotation of the threaded body <NUM> in the tightening direction <NUM>.

Regarding <FIG>, the roller <NUM>, the actuating tab <NUM>, and the spring tab <NUM> are received in the ramp opening <NUM> of the threaded body <NUM>. The surface <NUM> of the roller <NUM> is positioned in contact with a radially inner surface <NUM> of the annular wall <NUM> of the washer <NUM>. When the nut head <NUM> is turned in the tightening direction <NUM>, the driving tabs <NUM> of the nut head <NUM> have surfaces <NUM> (see <FIG>) that contact surfaces <NUM> of the flange portions <NUM> of the threaded body <NUM> and urge the threaded body <NUM> in direction <NUM>. The spring tab <NUM> keeps the roller <NUM> in contact with or closely adjacent the annular wall <NUM> so that the surface <NUM> of the roller <NUM> slides or rolls in direction <NUM> along the radially inner surface <NUM> of the annular wall <NUM> as shown in <FIG>. The rollers <NUM> float in the ramp opening <NUM> vertically between the flange <NUM> and the collar portion <NUM> and horizontally between the threaded body <NUM> and the annular wall <NUM> as the threaded body freewheels in tightening direction <NUM>.

Regarding <FIG>, the roller <NUM> is shown in a locked position such as after a user disconnects a wrench from the nut head <NUM>. Urging of the threaded body <NUM> in the loosening direction <NUM>, such as due to vibration, forces or wedges the roller <NUM> between the radially inner surface <NUM> of the annular wall <NUM> of the washer <NUM> and the ramp surface <NUM> of the threaded body <NUM>. The threaded body <NUM> and washer <NUM> thereby clamp side portions of the roller <NUM> in directions <NUM>, <NUM>. The rollers <NUM> are made of a rigid material that resists the clamping force such that the roller <NUM> inhibit turning of the threaded body <NUM> in loosening direction <NUM>.

The rotatable connection between the nut head <NUM> permits a predetermined range of rotational movement between the nut head <NUM> and the threaded body <NUM>, such as one to eight degrees, such as two to five degrees, when the nut head <NUM> is turned in the loosening direction <NUM>. For example, the spring ring <NUM> may return the nut head <NUM> and threaded body <NUM> to an initial configuration after torque has been applied to the nut head <NUM> by a tool. When the tool is subsequently turned in the tightening direction <NUM>, the nut head <NUM> may turn relative to the threaded body <NUM> a predetermined amount, such as one degree, before the driving flanges <NUM> abut the flange portions <NUM> and start to turn the threaded body <NUM>.

Turning the nut head <NUM> in loosening direction <NUM> turns the nut head <NUM> relative to the threaded body <NUM> and brings the actuating tabs <NUM> into contact with the rollers <NUM> to shift the rollers <NUM> to unlocked positions. The shifting of the rollers <NUM> may begin immediately upon the nut head <NUM> turning in loosening direction <NUM> relative to the threaded body <NUM>, or there may be an angular delay before the actuating tabs <NUM> start shifting the rollers <NUM> to unlocked positions.

More specifically and with reference to <FIG> and <FIG>, as the nut head <NUM> is turned in the loosening direction <NUM>, surfaces <NUM> of the driving tabs <NUM> shift into abutting contact with the surface <NUM> of the flange portions <NUM> of the threaded body <NUM> as shown in <FIG>. Therefore, a take-up distance <NUM> between surfaces <NUM>, <NUM> permits a predetermined range of angular rotation of the nut head <NUM> relative to the threaded body <NUM> in the loosening direction <NUM>. Prior to the surfaces <NUM>, <NUM> abutting, the actuating tabs <NUM> contact the rollers <NUM> and shift the rollers <NUM> to unlocked positions which unlocks the freewheel roller clutch <NUM>. The rollers <NUM> are therefore shifting toward or at the unlocked positions thereof before the surfaces <NUM>, <NUM> abut and transfer turning of the nut head <NUM> in loosening direction <NUM> into turning of the threaded body <NUM> in loosening direction <NUM>.

Regarding <FIG>, when the nut head <NUM> is turned in the loosening direction <NUM>, each actuating tab <NUM> of the nut head <NUM> shifts in direction <NUM> and closes a gap <NUM> having a distance <NUM> between the actuating tab <NUM> and the roller <NUM>. The continued turning of the nut head <NUM> in loosening direction <NUM> brings a surface <NUM> of the actuating tab <NUM> into contact with the surface <NUM> of the roller <NUM>. The actuating tab <NUM> urges the roller <NUM> in direction <NUM> and deflects the arm portion <NUM> of the spring tab <NUM> which permits the roller <NUM> to shift from an radially narrower, intermediate portion <NUM> of the ramp opening <NUM> (see <FIG>) to a radially wider, end portion <NUM> (see <FIG>) of the ramp opening <NUM>. The end portion <NUM> has a larger radial width so that the roller <NUM> is no longer wedged between the ramp surface <NUM> and the annular wall <NUM> of the washer <NUM>. The roller <NUM> in the end portion <NUM> of the ramp opening <NUM> may roll or slide along the surface <NUM> of the annular wall <NUM> of the washer <NUM>. The surface <NUM> of the actuating tab <NUM> may have a curved, flat, or other wised surface that contacts the roller surface <NUM> and permits the roller <NUM> to rotate. With the actuating tabs <NUM> overcoming the bias of the spring tabs <NUM> and keeping the rollers <NUM> in the unlocked positions thereof, the driving tabs <NUM> may turn the threaded body <NUM> in the loosening direction <NUM> while the rollers <NUM> roll or slide along the washer annular wall <NUM>.

In one embodiment, one or more of the threaded body <NUM>, washer <NUM>, nut head <NUM>, spring ring <NUM>, and rollers <NUM> are made of metallic, plastic, and/or elastomers such as rubber. As an example, the threaded body <NUM>, washer <NUM>, nut head <NUM>, spring ring <NUM>, and rollers <NUM> are all made of steel.

Regarding <FIG>, a lock nut <NUM> is provided that is similar in many respects to the lock nut <NUM> discussed above such that differences will be highlighted. The lock nut <NUM> is shown mounted to a spindle <NUM> with a tang <NUM> received in a keyway <NUM> of the spindle <NUM>. Like the lock nut <NUM>, the lock nut <NUM> may be used in a variety of applications such as nuts for aerospace applications and the components of the lock nuts <NUM>, <NUM> may be implemented in a variety of environments such as in a vehicle transmission. Other applications may include heavy industries such as earthmoving and power generation equipment. In the embodiment of <FIG>, the spindle <NUM> has a tubular side wall <NUM>, a through opening <NUM>, and a threaded portion <NUM>. Regarding <FIG>, the lock nut <NUM> includes a threaded body <NUM> having threads <NUM> configured to engage the threaded portion <NUM> of the spindle <NUM>. The lock nut <NUM> includes a nut head <NUM>, a washer <NUM>, and a retaining ring <NUM>.

Regarding <FIG> and <FIG>, the lock nut <NUM> has one or more roller locks <NUM> that include rollers <NUM> and spring tabs <NUM> of a spring ring <NUM>. The threaded body <NUM> includes ramp openings <NUM> that receive the rollers <NUM> and the spring tabs <NUM> as well as actuating tabs <NUM> of the nut head <NUM>. The threaded body <NUM> further includes drive openings <NUM> that receive driving tabs <NUM> of the nut head <NUM>. Each drive opening <NUM> also receives a pair of stop tabs <NUM>, <NUM> of the spring ring <NUM> that abut surfaces <NUM> of flange portions <NUM> of the threaded body <NUM>. The contact between the driving tabs <NUM>, stop tabs <NUM>, <NUM>, and the surfaces <NUM> of the flange portions <NUM> permits turning of the threaded body <NUM> to be transferred to turning of the spring ring <NUM>.

Regarding <FIG> and <FIG>, the washer <NUM> has an annular wall <NUM> having a retaining groove <NUM> that receives the retaining ring <NUM>. The annular wall <NUM> and the collar portion <NUM> define a compartment <NUM> of the washer <NUM> that receives at least a portion of the spring ring <NUM>, threaded body <NUM>, and nut head <NUM>. The retaining ring <NUM> may be resiliently compressed to be inserted into the groove <NUM> and then released to capture the nut head <NUM>, threaded body <NUM>, and spring ring <NUM> in the washer compartment <NUM>.

Regarding <FIG>, a lock nut <NUM> is provided that is similar in many respects to the lock nut <NUM> discussed above such that differences will be highlighted. One such difference is that the lock nut <NUM> includes a lock including a ratchet freewheel clutch <NUM> having one or more spring locks <NUM> (see <FIG>) that selectively limit turning of a threaded body <NUM> of the lock nut <NUM> relative to a washer <NUM> of the lock nut <NUM>. The lock nut <NUM> also includes a nut head <NUM> having a rotary drive structure <NUM> such as a hex nut configuration. The threaded body <NUM> includes a through opening <NUM> for receiving a spindle, a tang <NUM> for engaging a keyway of the spindle, and threads <NUM> for engaging threads of the spindle. The washer <NUM> includes one or more openings <NUM> and teeth <NUM> therebetween formed in an annular wall <NUM> of the washer <NUM>.

Regarding <FIG>, the lock nut <NUM> includes a resilient retaining ring <NUM> that snaps into a groove <NUM> of the washer <NUM> and retains the various components of the lock nut <NUM> in a compartment <NUM> of the washer <NUM>. The nut head <NUM> includes a flange <NUM> having one or more driving tabs <NUM> and one or more actuating tabs <NUM> depending therefrom. The threaded body <NUM> includes flange portions <NUM>, one or more drive openings <NUM> that receive the driving tabs <NUM>, and one or more spring openings <NUM> that receive the actuating tabs <NUM> and spring pawls <NUM> of a spring ring <NUM>. The drive openings <NUM> also receive stop tabs <NUM>, <NUM> of the spring ring <NUM>. The contact between the stop tabs <NUM>, <NUM> and surfaces <NUM>, <NUM> of the flange portions <NUM> of the threaded body <NUM> transfer turning of the threaded body <NUM> into turning of the spring ring <NUM> within the washer <NUM>.

Regarding <FIG>, the driving tabs <NUM> of the nut head <NUM> may have different shapes than the actuating tabs <NUM>. Each driving tab <NUM> includes surfaces <NUM>, <NUM> for contacting surfaces <NUM>, <NUM> (see <FIG>) of the threaded body <NUM> and causing turning of the threaded body <NUM> with turning of the nut head <NUM>. Regarding <FIG>, the actuating tabs <NUM> of the nut head <NUM> each include a cam portion, such as a ramp surface <NUM>, that is configured to shift the associated spring pawl <NUM> from a locked configuration to an unlocked configuration with turning of the nut head <NUM> in a loosening direction relative to the threaded body <NUM> as discussed in greater detail below.

Regarding <FIG>, the threaded body <NUM> includes flange portions <NUM> separating the drive openings <NUM> and the spring openings <NUM>. The threaded body <NUM> further includes a riser <NUM> upstanding from the flange portions <NUM> and including the threads <NUM> for engaging threads on the associated spindle.

Regarding <FIG>, the spring ring <NUM> has a central opening <NUM> and includes flange portions <NUM> connected by connecting portions <NUM>. The stop tabs <NUM>, <NUM> are separated by a recess <NUM> and may each be formed by being bent out of plane from one of the associated flange portions <NUM>. The spring pawls <NUM> may each include a pawl portion <NUM> and a spring such as an arm portion <NUM> and a base portion <NUM> that bias the pawl portion <NUM> into engagement with the teeth <NUM>.

In one embodiment, the spring ring <NUM> including the stop tabs <NUM>, <NUM> and spring pawls <NUM> has a unitary, one-piece construction. To form the spring pawls <NUM>, the base portion <NUM> may be bent out of plane from the associated connecting portion <NUM>. The arm portion <NUM> and/or base portion <NUM> resiliently deform to permit the pawl portion <NUM> to ratchet back and forth in a radially outward direction <NUM> and a radially inward direction <NUM>. The pawl portion <NUM> may have a generally L-shape including a corner <NUM> for fitting into one of the openings <NUM> and a catch portion <NUM> for contacting a stop surface of one of the teeth <NUM> adjacent the one opening <NUM>. The contact between the catch portion <NUM> and the tooth <NUM> inhibits turning of the spring ring <NUM>, and the threaded body <NUM> connected thereto, in a counterclockwise, loosening direction <NUM> until the nut head <NUM> is turned in the loosening direction to cause the associated actuating tab <NUM> to shift the pawl portion <NUM> radially inward to an unlocked position as discussed in greater detail below. In some embodiments, the spring ring <NUM> may be an assembly of components.

Regarding <FIG>, the washer <NUM> includes a collar <NUM> extending around a central opening <NUM> and an annular wall <NUM>. The spring ring <NUM> rotationally slides along the collar <NUM> as the spring ring <NUM> turns in the compartment <NUM> with turning of the threaded body <NUM>.

Regarding <FIG>, the retaining ring <NUM> is shown received in channel <NUM> and capturing the flange portion <NUM> of the nut head <NUM>, the flange portions <NUM> of the threaded body <NUM>, and the spring ring <NUM> between the retaining ring <NUM> and the collar <NUM> of the washer <NUM>. The retaining ring <NUM> limits the nut head <NUM>, threaded body <NUM>, and spring ring <NUM> to rotational movement relative to the washer <NUM>.

Regarding <FIG>, the spring locks <NUM> are configured so that one of the spring locks <NUM> is in a locked configuration and inhibits turning in the counterclockwise loosening direction <NUM> at any rotational position of the threaded body <NUM> relative to the washer <NUM>. The openings <NUM>, teeth <NUM>, and spring pawls <NUM> are configured so that a first spring pawl <NUM> is locked with the teeth <NUM> to inhibit turning of the threaded body <NUM> in loosening direction <NUM> while the second and third spring pawls <NUM> are unlocked. When a user turns the nut head <NUM> in tightening direction <NUM> approximately <NUM> degrees, the first spring pawl <NUM> unlocks, the second spring pawl <NUM> locks, and the third spring pawl <NUM> remains unlocked. If the user continues to turn the nut head <NUM> in tightening direction <NUM> another approximately <NUM> degrees, the first spring pawl <NUM> remains unlocked, the second spring pawl <NUM> unlocks, and the third spring pawl <NUM> locks. The unlocked spring pawls <NUM> are pushed inward by the teeth <NUM> and are effectively waiting until the pawl portion <NUM> of the spring pawls <NUM> are radially aligned with one of the openings <NUM> and may snap radially outward fully into the opening <NUM>. In this manner, there is one spring lock <NUM> in a locked configuration at every <NUM> degrees of rotational increment of the threaded body <NUM> relative to the washer <NUM>.

Regarding <FIG>, the lock nut <NUM> is shown with the spring lock <NUM> in the dashed box in a locked configuration while the other two spring locks <NUM> are unlocked. The driving tabs <NUM> of the nut head <NUM> and the stop tabs <NUM>, <NUM> are received in the drive openings <NUM> of the threaded body <NUM>. Each driving tab <NUM> has the surface <NUM> thereof contacting a surface <NUM> of the stop tab <NUM>. The stop tab <NUM> is thereby sandwiched between the surface <NUM> of the driving tab <NUM> and the surface <NUM> of the flange portion <NUM> of the threaded body <NUM>. In this configuration, the nut head <NUM> may be turned in a clockwise, locking direction <NUM> so that the driving tab <NUM> of the nut head <NUM> urges the stop tab <NUM> of the spring ring <NUM> and flange portion <NUM> of the threaded body <NUM> in the tightening direction <NUM>. The spring pawls <NUM> may ratchet and permit the turning of the threaded body <NUM> in the tightening direction <NUM> as discussed in greater detail below. While the spring pawls <NUM> are ratcheting, there may always be one spring lock <NUM> in a locked configuration to inhibit turning of the threaded body <NUM> in the loosening direction <NUM>. The ratcheting permits the pawl portions <NUM> of the spring pawls <NUM> to shift radially inward from one opening <NUM>, over an adjacent tooth <NUM>, and into the next opening <NUM>. Conversely, the spring pawls <NUM> sequentially each inhibit turning of the threaded body <NUM> in the counterclockwise, loosening direction <NUM>.

Regarding <FIG>, one of the spring pawls <NUM> is shown ratcheting over tooth 472A as the threaded body <NUM> is turned in the tightening direction <NUM> by the driving tabs <NUM> of the nut head <NUM>. More specifically, the turning of the driving tabs <NUM> in tightening direction <NUM> causes turning of both the threaded body <NUM> and the spring ring <NUM> in direction <NUM>. As the base portion <NUM> of the spring ring <NUM> is turned in tightening direction <NUM>, the pawl portion <NUM> contacts a corner <NUM> of the tooth 472A. The continued turning of the base portion <NUM> in tightening direction <NUM> causes the arm portion <NUM> and/or base portion <NUM> to deflect and permit the pawl portion <NUM> to shift radially inward in direction <NUM> to ratchet over the tooth 472A as shown in <FIG>. Once the pawl portion <NUM> clears the tooth 472A, the resilient arm portion <NUM> and/or base portion <NUM> urges the pawl <NUM> back radially outward in direction <NUM> into the next opening 470B.

Regarding <FIG>, the spring pawl <NUM> is shown in a locked position wherein the catch portion <NUM> of the pawl <NUM> is contacting a corner <NUM> of a tooth 472C, such as after a user has stopped applying torque to the nut head <NUM>. Urging of the threaded body <NUM> in loosening direction <NUM> clamps the resilient arm portion <NUM> and base portion <NUM> between the threaded body <NUM> and the washer <NUM>. The arm portion <NUM> and base portion <NUM> are configured to resist the turning in the loosening direction <NUM>.

Regarding <FIG>, <FIG>, when a user desires to loosen the lock nut <NUM> once the lock nut <NUM> has been secured to a spindle, the user turns the nut head <NUM> in loosening direction <NUM> which circumferentially shifts the actuating tabs <NUM> relative to the spring pawls <NUM>. The ramp surface <NUM> of each actuating tab <NUM> urges the resilient arm portion <NUM> of the associated spring pawl <NUM> radially inward to disengage the pawl portion <NUM> from the teeth <NUM>. This positions the pawl <NUM> in clearance with the teeth <NUM> such that the spring pawls <NUM> permit the drive tabs <NUM> of the nut head <NUM> to turn the threaded body <NUM> in the loosening direction <NUM>. More specifically, the turning of the nut head <NUM> in loosening direction <NUM> relative to the threaded body <NUM> brings surface <NUM> of each driving tab <NUM> into contact with surface <NUM> of the associated stop tab <NUM>. Continued turning of the nut head <NUM> in loosening direction <NUM> causes the driving tabs <NUM> to urge the stop tabs <NUM> of the spring ring <NUM> and the flange portions <NUM> of the threaded body <NUM> in the loosening direction <NUM>.

Regarding <FIG>, the nut head <NUM> has turned in the loosening direction <NUM> which causes the actuating tab <NUM> to shift in direction <NUM>. The actuating tab <NUM> engages the cam surface <NUM> thereof with an outer surface <NUM> of the arm portion <NUM> and cams the arm portion <NUM> and pawl portion <NUM> connected thereto radially inward in direction <NUM>. As shown in <FIG>, the user's turning of the nut head <NUM> in loosening direction <NUM> separates surfaces <NUM>, <NUM> of the actuating tab <NUM> and the threaded body flange portion <NUM> from a distance <NUM> to a distance <NUM>, thus enlarging a gap <NUM> therebetween. The user continues turns the nut head <NUM> in the loosening direction <NUM> to overcome the bias force of the spring pawl <NUM> and keep the pawl <NUM> in the radially inward clearance or unlocked position which permits the pawl <NUM> to turn in direction <NUM> without engaging the teeth <NUM>. With the pawl <NUM> in clearance with the teeth <NUM>, the nut head <NUM>, threaded body <NUM>, and spring ring <NUM> may all turn together in direction <NUM> relative to the washer <NUM> in response to the user's turning of the nut head <NUM> in direction <NUM>. The turning of the threaded body <NUM> in the loosening direction <NUM> advances the threaded body <NUM> in an outboard direction along the spindle to remove the lock nut <NUM> from the spindle.

Regarding <FIG> and <FIG>, a lock nut <NUM> is provided that is similar in many respects to the lock nut <NUM> discussed above such that differences will be highlighted. The lock nut <NUM> includes a threaded body <NUM>, a nut head <NUM>, and a washer <NUM>. The lock nut <NUM> includes a ratchet clutch <NUM> having one or more spring locks <NUM> that include one or more spring pawls <NUM> and a toothed gear <NUM> of the washer <NUM>. The threaded body <NUM> includes spring openings <NUM> having pockets <NUM>, <NUM> that each receive an end portion, such as an elbow <NUM>, <NUM>, of one of the spring pawls <NUM>. The spring pawls <NUM> each include a pawl portion <NUM> that engage teeth <NUM> of the toothed gear <NUM> and a spring such as resilient arm portion 594A and/or elbow <NUM> that bias the pawl portion <NUM> into engagement with the teeth <NUM>. The washer <NUM> includes a compartment <NUM> that receives flange portions <NUM> of the threaded body <NUM>, the spring pawls <NUM> received in the spring openings <NUM>, and a flange <NUM> of the nut head <NUM>. The washer <NUM> includes a lip <NUM> that may be deformed, such as peened, over onto the flange <NUM> of the nut head <NUM> to rotatably connect the nut head <NUM> and threaded body <NUM> to the washer <NUM>. The threaded body <NUM> also includes drive openings <NUM> that receive driving tabs <NUM> of the nut head <NUM>.

Regarding <FIG>, the spring locks <NUM> are actuated in a sequential manner with turning of the threaded body <NUM> relative to the washer <NUM> in manner similar to the spring locks <NUM> discussed above with respect to <FIG>. More specifically, a first spring pawl 560A in the dashed box of <FIG> is in a locked position while the second and third spring pawls 560B, 560C are unlocked. Turning of the threaded body <NUM> in direction <NUM> from the position shown in <FIG> would shift the spring pawl 560A to an unlocked position, shift the spring pawl 560B to a locked position, and leave the spring pawl 560C in the unlocked position. Further turning of the threaded body <NUM> in direction <NUM> would leave the spring pawl 560A in unlocked position, shift the spring pawl 560B to an unlocked position, and shift spring pawl 560C to a locked position. In this manner, there is one spring pawl <NUM> in a locked position to inhibit turning of the threaded body <NUM> in loosening direction <NUM> at every rotary position of the threaded body <NUM> relative to the washer <NUM>. In one embodiment, there may be a maximum of approximately <NUM> degrees that the threaded body <NUM> may turn in loosening direction <NUM> before one of the spring pawls <NUM> locks with the teeth <NUM> of the washer <NUM> and inhibits further turning of the threaded body <NUM>.

Regarding <FIG>, the spring openings <NUM> of the threaded body <NUM> receive actuating tabs <NUM> adjacent to resilient arm portions <NUM> of the spring pawls <NUM>. Turning of the nut head <NUM> in tightening direction <NUM> urges the driving tabs <NUM> of the nut head <NUM> in direction <NUM> and abuts surfaces <NUM>, <NUM> of the driving tab <NUM> and threaded body flange portion <NUM> to transfer turning of the nut head <NUM> into turning of the threaded body <NUM> relative to the washer <NUM>. Regarding <FIG>, turning of the threaded body <NUM> and spring pawls <NUM> carried therein causes each pawl <NUM> to travel along the ramp surface <NUM> of tooth 576A and shift radially inward in direction <NUM>. Continued turning of the threaded body <NUM> and spring pawl <NUM> in tightening direction <NUM> causes the pawl <NUM> to travel over a peak <NUM> of the tooth 576A, and into a recess <NUM> between the tooth 576A and an adjacent tooth 576B.

Regarding <FIG> and <FIG>, the spring pawl <NUM> is locked and pawl <NUM> is abutting a stop surface <NUM> of the tooth 576C such that the resilient arm <NUM> of the spring pawl <NUM> is wedged between the stop surface <NUM> of the tooth <NUM> the ramp surface <NUM> of a nearby tooth 576D, and the pocket <NUM> of the threaded body <NUM>. The resilient arm <NUM> thereby resists turning of the threaded body <NUM> relative to the washer <NUM> in the loosening direction <NUM>.

Regarding <FIG>, <FIG>, the user has turned the nut head <NUM> in loosening direction <NUM> to remove the lock nut <NUM> from a spindle. The turning of the nut head <NUM> in direction <NUM> causes the nut head actuating tab <NUM> to cammingly engage an outer surface <NUM> of the arm portion <NUM> of the spring pawl <NUM>. The actuating tab <NUM> shifts the arm portion <NUM> and pawl <NUM> supported thereon radially inward in direction <NUM> so that the pawl <NUM> is radially inward and in clearance with the teeth <NUM> of the washer <NUM>. By shifting the pawl <NUM> radially inward from the teeth <NUM>, the spring pawl <NUM> no longer inhibits turning the threaded body <NUM> in direction <NUM> relative to the washer <NUM>. The user may then continue to turn the nut head <NUM> in loosening direction <NUM> to cause the nut head <NUM> to turn the threaded body <NUM> and advance the lock nut <NUM> in an outboard direction off of the spindle.

Regarding <FIG>, a fastening apparatus such as a nut <NUM> is provided that is similar in many respects to the locking nuts discussed above such that differences will be highlighted. The nut <NUM> includes a rotary engagement member, such as a threaded body <NUM>, and an actuator having a rotary drive structure such as a nut head <NUM>. In another embodiment, the rotary engagement member may have a non-threaded configuration, such as including a portion of a bayonet connection, one or more detents, and/or one or more recesses. The threaded body <NUM> has an opening <NUM> to receive a spindle or other shaft and threads <NUM> to engage threads thereon. The threaded body <NUM> and nut head <NUM> are rotatably coupled such that there is a limited amount of rotational movement or play between the nut head <NUM> and the threaded body <NUM>. The nut <NUM> utilizes this relative rotational movement to operate a fastener device, such as generating a signal indicating turning of the nut head <NUM>.

More specifically, the nut <NUM> includes circuitry <NUM> supported by the threaded body <NUM> and including at least one sensor such as switches <NUM>, <NUM>. The threaded body <NUM> includes a first opening <NUM> and a second opening <NUM> that receive drive tabs <NUM>, <NUM> of the nut head <NUM>. Thus, turning of the nut head <NUM> in a tightening direction <NUM> brings a surface <NUM> of the driving tab <NUM> into contact with a surface <NUM> of the threaded body <NUM> and permits the driving tab <NUM> to turn the threaded body <NUM> in direction <NUM>. Conversely, turning the nut head <NUM> in a loosening direction <NUM> abuts a surface <NUM> of the driving tab <NUM> against a surface <NUM> of the threaded body <NUM>. This causes turning of the threaded body <NUM> in loosening direction <NUM>. The nut <NUM> includes one or more biasing members such as springs <NUM> that apply a bias force against a portion <NUM> of the nut head <NUM> to return the nut head <NUM> to an initial position once the turning force is released from the nut head <NUM>.

Regarding <FIG>, the drive tab <NUM> has a surface 682A that contacts and closes the switch <NUM> with turning of the nut head <NUM> in loosening direction <NUM>. Conversely, the actuating tab <NUM> includes surface 676A that contacts and closes the switch <NUM> when the nut head <NUM> is turned in tightening direction <NUM>. The circuitry <NUM> may include a processor <NUM>, a power source <NUM>, and communication circuitry <NUM>. The processor <NUM> may include, for example, a microprocessor that utilizes instructions stored in a non-transitory memory such as RAM or ROM. An example of a processor <NUM> includes an ASIC. The power source <NUM> may include a battery and/or an inductive generator as some examples. The communication circuitry <NUM> is configured to communicate a signal indicative of turning of the nut head <NUM> relative to the threaded body <NUM> based on closure of the switches <NUM>, <NUM>. The signal may be communicated via wired or wireless approaches, such as Bluetooth and cellular protocols. The signal may be received by a remote device, such as a user device, an end vehicle device, and/or a server computer to detect that the nut <NUM> was tightened down onto a threaded shaft and placed into service, as one example.

Further, the processor <NUM> may be configured to cause the communication circuitry <NUM> to communicate a signal indicating a rotational direction of the nut head <NUM> relative to the threaded body <NUM>. For example, if the nut head <NUM> is turned in tightening direction <NUM>, the actuating tab <NUM> closes the switch <NUM> which is detected by the processor <NUM>. The processor <NUM> may then cause the communication circuitry <NUM> to communicate a signal indicative of the nut head <NUM> being turned in the tightening direction <NUM>. As another example, the processor <NUM> may cause the communication circuitry <NUM> to communicate a signal indicative of the nut head <NUM> being turned in the loosening direction <NUM> if the switch <NUM> is closed by the actuating tab <NUM>. The information regarding the nut head <NUM> being turned in loosening direction <NUM> may be used to create a notification to a driver and/or a fleet manager that the nut <NUM> has been removed from the shaft or has been loosened so that the driver and/or fleet manager may schedule a check of the nut <NUM> or a maintenance system may autonomously schedule a check of the nut <NUM> as some examples.

The nut <NUM> may be modified for different applications. For example, the relative movement between the nut head <NUM> and the threaded body <NUM> may include, for example, at least one of the threaded body <NUM> remaining stationary and the nut head <NUM> turning relative to the threaded body <NUM>; the threaded body <NUM> turning and the nut head <NUM> remaining stationary; and both of the threaded body <NUM> and the nut head <NUM> turning.

Regarding <FIG>, a lock nut <NUM> is provided that is similar in many respects to the lock nuts discussed above such that differences will be highlighted. The lock nut <NUM> includes a threaded body <NUM>, a nut head <NUM>, a washer <NUM>, and one or more spring locks <NUM>. The washer <NUM> has a key that engages a keyway of a spindle to inhibit rotation of the washer <NUM> around the spindle.

Regarding <FIG>, the one or more spring locks <NUM> include locking members such as pawls <NUM>, biasing members such as leaf springs <NUM>, and a gear wheel portion <NUM> of the washer <NUM>. Each pawl <NUM> is received in a recess <NUM> of the threaded body <NUM> and the leaf springs <NUM> have ends thereof that are received in channels <NUM> of the threaded body <NUM>. The nut head <NUM> includes driving tabs <NUM> and actuating tabs <NUM>. Regarding <FIG>, each actuating tab <NUM> includes a cam portion, such as a ramp surface <NUM>, that engages an inclined surface <NUM> of an associated pawl <NUM> to shift the pawl <NUM> radially outward. The driving tabs <NUM> of the nut head <NUM> are received in recesses <NUM> of the threaded body <NUM>. Each driving tab <NUM> has side surfaces <NUM> that contact walls <NUM>, <NUM> of the associated recess <NUM> to transfer turning of the nut head <NUM> into turning of the threaded body <NUM>.

Regarding <FIG> and <FIG>, the pawl <NUM> has one or more alignment members, such as slide rails <NUM>, that are radially extending and received in guide slots <NUM> in the recess <NUM>. The sliding engagement between the slide rails <NUM> and the guide slots <NUM> guides the pawl <NUM> in a radially outward direction <NUM> when the nut head <NUM> is turned in loosening direction <NUM> and guide the pawl <NUM> in a radially inward direction <NUM> when the nut head <NUM> is released. Further, the leaf springs <NUM> urge the pawls <NUM> away from an annular wall <NUM> of the threaded body <NUM> to return the pawls <NUM>, the actuating tab <NUM> of the nut head <NUM>, and the nut head <NUM> itself to an initial position associated with locking of the spring locks <NUM> when the nut head <NUM> is released by the user. This ensures the spring locks <NUM> automatically lock once the user stops applying torque to the nut head <NUM> with a tool.

In the initial position of the nut head <NUM>, the pawl <NUM> has teeth <NUM> (see <FIG>) that intermesh with teeth <NUM> (see <FIG>) of the gear wheel portion <NUM> of the washer <NUM>. When the nut head <NUM> is turned in a tightening direction <NUM>, the driving tabs <NUM> of the nut head <NUM> turn the threaded body <NUM> and pawls <NUM> and leaf springs <NUM> carried therein in tightening direction <NUM> with the teeth <NUM> of the pawls <NUM> ratcheting over the teeth <NUM> of the washer <NUM>. Conversely, when the nut head <NUM> is turned in the loosening direction <NUM>, the camming action between the actuating tabs <NUM> and the pawls <NUM> disengage the teeth <NUM> of the pawls <NUM> from the teeth <NUM> of the washer <NUM> so that the teeth <NUM> are radially outward and in clearance with the teeth <NUM>. With the pawl <NUM> disengaged from the gear wheel portion <NUM> as shown in <FIG>, the user's turning of the nut head <NUM> in loosening direction <NUM> causes the driving tabs <NUM> of the nut head <NUM> to turn the threaded body <NUM> and pawls <NUM> and leaf springs <NUM> therein in loosening direction <NUM>.

Regarding <FIG>, a lock nut <NUM> is provided that is similar in many respects to the lock nuts discussed above such that differences will be highlighted. The lock nut includes a threaded body <NUM>, a nut head <NUM>, one or more spring locks <NUM>, and a washer <NUM>. The spring locks <NUM> may sequentially lock and unlock with turning of the threaded body <NUM> relative to the washer <NUM> so that one spring lock <NUM> may always be locked to inhibit loosening of the threaded body <NUM>. The washer <NUM> has a key including a flat <NUM> that engages a flat of a spindle to inhibit turning of the washer <NUM> around the spindle.

The one or more spring locks <NUM> include a pawl <NUM> connected to a biasing member such as a leaf spring <NUM> secured at opposite ends thereof via mounts <NUM> to an annular wall <NUM> of the threaded body <NUM>. The pawls <NUM> are connected to pins <NUM> via a connecting member such as a cotter pin <NUM>. The pawls <NUM> ride in rails <NUM> of the threaded body <NUM> and each pin <NUM> has a head <NUM> (see <FIG>) that rides in a slot <NUM> including an angled slot portion <NUM> of the nut head <NUM>.

Regarding <FIG>, the washer <NUM> has a gear wheel <NUM> with teeth <NUM> and recesses <NUM>. The pawl <NUM> includes a tip <NUM> that is received in one of the recesses <NUM> and engages the teeth <NUM>. Regarding <FIG>, turning the nut head <NUM> in tightening direction <NUM> causes ends <NUM> of the slots <NUM> to contact the heads <NUM> of the pins <NUM> and makes the pins <NUM> turn the threaded body <NUM> in tightening direction <NUM> relative to the washer <NUM>. As the threaded body <NUM> turns in tightening direction <NUM> relative to the washer <NUM>, each pawl <NUM> ratchets over the teeth <NUM> with the associated pin <NUM> shifting radially outward into a radial slot portion <NUM> of the slot <NUM> as the pawl <NUM> is cammed outwardly by the ramp surface of a tooth <NUM> and shifting radially inward out of the radial slot portion <NUM> once the pawl <NUM> advances past the peak of the tooth <NUM>.

Regarding <FIG>, <FIG>, the angled slot <NUM> of the nut head <NUM> includes ramp walls <NUM>, <NUM> for contacting the head <NUM> of the pin <NUM>. Upon turning of the nut head <NUM> in a loosening direction <NUM>, the ramp walls <NUM>, <NUM> cooperate to cam the pin <NUM> radially outward and shift the associated pawl <NUM> radially outward from an engaged position (see <FIG>) to a disengaged position (see <FIG>). With the pawls <NUM> disengaged from the washer <NUM>, turning of the nut head <NUM> in loosening direction <NUM> causes ends <NUM> of the slots <NUM> to contact the pins <NUM> and make the pins <NUM> turn the threaded body <NUM>.

Regarding <FIG>, the pin <NUM> extends through an opening <NUM> in the threaded body <NUM> that is elongated in the radial direction to provide clearance for the pin <NUM> to be cammed radially outward by the angled slot <NUM>. The lock nut <NUM> may further include a washer <NUM> to cover the underside of the threaded body <NUM>. In one embodiment, the pin <NUM> is connected to the pawl <NUM> by the cotter pin <NUM> extending through an opening <NUM> in a shank <NUM> of the pin <NUM>.

Regarding <FIG>, a lock nut <NUM> is shown that is similar in many respects to the lock nuts discussed above such that differences will be highlighted. The lock nut <NUM> includes a nut head <NUM>, a body <NUM>, and a washer <NUM>. The body <NUM> may have threads 904A configured to engage threads of a shaft. The washer <NUM> may have a key that engages a keyway of a shaft as one example. In another embodiment, the washer <NUM> may be omitted and pins <NUM> of the lock nut <NUM> engage another component such as recesses of a housing to fix the body <NUM> against rotation.

The lock nut <NUM> includes one or more locks <NUM> that each include a pocket <NUM> of the nut head <NUM>, a lock member such as a pin <NUM>, a through hole <NUM> of the body <NUM>, a spring seat such as a plate <NUM>, and a spring <NUM>. Regarding <FIG>, each pocket <NUM> includes a cam portion, such as a ramp surface <NUM>, configured to engage a lower surface <NUM> of a head <NUM> of the pin <NUM>. The spring <NUM> biases the pin <NUM> in direction <NUM> so that a locking portion, such as a plunger <NUM>, of the pin <NUM> extends into an opening <NUM> of the washer <NUM>. To permit turning of the threaded body <NUM> relative to the washer <NUM>, the nut head <NUM> is turned in loosening direction <NUM> (see <FIG>) which causes the ramp surface <NUM> to cammingly engage the pin head <NUM> and shift the pin <NUM> upward in direction <NUM> which withdraws the plunger <NUM> from the opening <NUM> of the washer <NUM>. With the pin <NUM> withdrawn from the washer opening <NUM>, the nut head <NUM> has a pocket surface <NUM> configured to contact a neck <NUM> of the pin <NUM>. The contact between the surface <NUM> and neck <NUM> causes the pin <NUM> to urge the body <NUM> in the loosening direction <NUM> and permit the threaded body <NUM> to be advanced in an outboard direction along the elongated threaded shaft. Conversely, turning the nut head <NUM> in a tightening direction <NUM> cams the head <NUM> upward and brings a surface <NUM> into contact with the pin neck <NUM> such that the pin <NUM> causes corresponding turning of the threaded body <NUM> in the tightening direction <NUM>. In this manner, the turning of the nut head <NUM> in direction <NUM> or <NUM> both shifts the pins <NUM> to an unlocked position and causes corresponding turning of the threaded body <NUM> to advance or withdraw the lock nut <NUM> along the threaded shaft.

The pins <NUM> of the lock nut <NUM> lock the threaded body <NUM> in both the loosening and tightening directions relative to the washer <NUM>. The nut head <NUM> is turned to unlock the pins <NUM> before the threaded body <NUM> will turn relative to the washer <NUM>.

Uses of singular terms such as "a," "an," are intended to cover both the singular and the plural, unless otherwise indicated herein or clearly contradicted by context. The terms "comprising," "having," "including," and "containing" are to be construed as openended terms. It is intended that the phrase "at least one of" as used herein be interpreted in the disjunctive sense. For example, the phrase "at least one of A and B" is intended to encompass only A, only B, or both A and B.

Claim 1:
A lock nut (<NUM>) for a vehicle spindle (<NUM>), the lock nut (<NUM>) comprising:
a washer (<NUM>), a threaded body (<NUM>), and an actuator (<NUM>) that are distinct from one another;
the washer (<NUM>) having an opening sized to receive the vehicle spindle (<NUM>), the washer (<NUM>) configured to form a non-rotatable connection with the vehicle spindle (<NUM>);
the threaded body (<NUM>) having threads to engage threads (<NUM>) of the vehicle spindle (<NUM>);
the actuator (<NUM>) having a rotary drive structure (<NUM>), the actuator (<NUM>) configured to be turned in a tightening direction to cause turning of the threaded body (<NUM>) in the tightening direction relative to the washer (<NUM>);
a lock (<NUM>) operably coupled to the actuator (<NUM>) and configured to inhibit turning of the threaded body (<NUM>) in a loosening direction relative to the washer (<NUM>); and
the actuator (<NUM>) configured to be turned relative to the threaded body (<NUM>) in the loosening direction to disengage the lock and permit turning of the threaded body (<NUM>) in the loosening direction relative to the washer (<NUM>).