Patent Description:
A blind fastener is typically used to secure multiple panels together and to be installed from one side (i.e., a front side) of the panels. The blind fastener may include a core bolt and a sleeve surrounding the core bolt, which are inserted into a hole of the panels. A portion of the sleeve adjacent to a rear side of the panel may be deformed during installation of the fastener. The deformed portion of the sleeve provides a bearing surface to induce preload in the fastener such that the panels can be clamped together.

After the deformed portion of the sleeve is formed, the core bolt may be rotated to provide a preload to the fastener. When the fastener is completely installed, a front portion of the core bolt may break off. The break-off point of the typical core bolt cannot be controlled and rotation of the nut relative to the bolt typically needs to be controlled. In some circumstances it is advantageous to have the fully installed fastener be flush with panels for aesthetics and aerodynamic purposes. Typical fasteners need to be prepared for painting by post-installation grinding to be made flush with the panels when the break-off point is located outside the countersunk head of the sleeve.

It can be difficult to control rotation of both the bolt and the nut, while also ensuring a flush finished product, maximizing the speed of installation, and reducing cost per fastener. Furthermore, variations in grip length (i.e., the combined thickness of the panels at the fastener) can occur based on tolerances or design criteria. Accordingly, it is advantageous for the blind fastener to be able to adapt to variations in grip length without sacrificing strength of the joint. Moreover, the typical fastener does not include a torque control feature. When excessive torque is applied to the fastener, the sleeve of the fastener may flare out to form a tulip configuration, resulting in a defective installation. A similar tool, failing to disclose a socket including a plurality of rollers and a mode clutch as seen in claim <NUM>, can be seen in document <CIT>.

These issues related to the installation of blind fasteners are addressed by the present disclosure.

A tool according to the present invention is defined in the appended claims. According to the following disclosure, it is further disclosed a tool for installing a blind fastener including a bolt and a nut includes a base, a collet, a socket assembly, a drive body, and a mode clutch. The collet is coupled to the base and disposed about an axis. The collet is configured to selectively engage a tool engagement portion of the nut. The socket assembly includes a socket housing and a plurality of rollers. The socket housing is rotatable relative to the collet and defines a bore disposed about the axis. The rollers are spaced circumferentially about the axis. A surface of each roller is configured to engage a cylindrical tool engagement portion of the bolt within the bore to rotate the bolt about the axis. The drive body is coupled to the socket housing and configured to rotate the socket housing about the axis relative to the base. The mode clutch is configured to selectively couple the socket housing with the collet for common rotation about the axis. In a variety of alternate forms: the rollers are cylindrical bodies oriented parallel to the axis; the tool further includes an outer sleeve disposed about the collet, wherein the collet includes a plurality of prongs extending radially inward and configured to engage the tool engagement portion of the nut, the outer sleeve being movable between a first sleeve position and a second sleeve position, wherein when the outer sleeve is in the first sleeve position, the prongs are further radially inward than when in the second sleeve position; the outer sleeve is biased toward the first radial position; the collet includes a collet sleeve, the prongs extending axially from the collet sleeve and the outer sleeve being disposed about the collet sleeve, wherein one of the collet sleeve and the outer sleeve defines a cam surface and the other one of the collet sleeve and the outer sleeve defines a follower, the cam surface extending at an angle relative to the axis; the mode clutch includes an input member coupled to the drive member for common rotation about the axis and an output member coupled to the collet for common rotation about the axis, the output member being disposed about the input member and axially movable relative to the input member between a first mode clutch position and a second mode clutch position, wherein in the first mode clutch position, the input member is engaged with the output member for common rotation about the axis, and when in the second mode clutch position, the input member is rotatable relative to the output member; the output member includes a stop member and the base includes a mating stop member, wherein when in the second mode clutch position, the stop member engages the mating stop member to inhibit rotation of the output member relative to the base, and when in the first mode clutch position, the stop member and mating stop member are disengaged to permit rotation of the output member relative to the base; the output member is biased toward the first mode clutch position; the tool further includes an ejector configured to selectively eject the bolt from the socket housing.

According to another example, not covered by the claims, a blind fastener for connecting a plurality of workpieces includes a bolt and a nut. The bolt includes a shaft, a bolt head, and a lug. The bolt head is disposed between the shaft and the lug and extends radially outward from the shaft. An end of the shaft opposite the bolt head defines external threads. The lug includes a first tool engagement portion and a first frangible portion that frangibly couples the lug to the bolt head. The first tool engagement portion defines a cylindrical outer surface configured to be engaged by a tool. A nut includes a sleeve, a nut head, and a handling member. The sleeve defines a central bore configured to receive the shaft and defines internal threads configured to mate with the external threads. The nut head is disposed between the handling member and the sleeve. The nut head extends radially outward from the sleeve and defines a recess configured to receive the bolt head. The handling member is configured to surround at least a portion of the lug. The handling member includes a second frangible portion and a second tool engagement portion. The second frangible portion frangibly couples the second tool engagement portion to the nut head. According to a variety of alternate forms: an end surface of the bolt head is flush with or recessed from an end surface of the nut head when the bolt is fully threaded into the nut; the first frangible portion is configured to break off from the bolt head such that an end surface of the bolt head is flush with or recessed from a front surface of the plurality of workpieces, and the second frangible portion is configured to break off from the nut head such that an end surface of the nut head is flush with or recessed from the front surface; the lug tapers radially inward from the cylindrical outer surface to a terminal end portion of the bolt; the handling member tapers radially inward from the second tool engagement portion to a terminal end portion of the nut; the second frangible portion is entirely radially inward of an outermost perimeter of the nut head; the handling member defines a bore having a diameter equal to an outermost diameter of the recess; a radially outermost surface of the lug is disposed radially outward of a bore defined by the handling member, the first frangible portion extending through the bore; the handling member is entirely radially outward of the first tool engagement portion; the lug tapers radially inward from the cylindrical outer surface to the first frangible portion; the blind fastener consists of two pieces when in a pre-installed condition, the bolt being a first one of the two pieces and the nut being a second one of the two pieces; the second frangible portion defines a break-neck that extends around a full circumference of the nut; the first frangible portion includes a break-neck that extends around a full circumference of the bolt; the bolt is an aluminum material and the sleeve is a titanium material; the bolt is a <NUM>-<NUM> titanium alloy material and the sleeve is an unalloyed commercially pure titanium material.

Referring to <FIG>, a blind fastener <NUM> includes a bolt <NUM> and nut <NUM> that are configured to be matingly fitted together when positioned coaxially along a central axis <NUM>. In the example provided, the bolt <NUM> is a single, integral piece of material and the nut <NUM> is a separate, single, integral piece of material. The bolt <NUM> and nut <NUM> can be formed from any suitable type of material such as a metal or alloy material for example. The bolt <NUM> can be formed of the same material as the nut <NUM> or can be a different suitable material. The blind fastener <NUM> can be similar to the blind fastener of <CIT> (<CIT>) and/or International Application No. <CIT>) except as otherwise shown or described herein.

With additional reference to <FIG>, the blind fastener <NUM> secures a first workpiece <NUM> to a second workpiece <NUM>. In an alternative form, not specifically shown, more than two workpieces can be secured together by the blind fastener <NUM>. In the example provided, the workpieces <NUM>, <NUM> are plates or panels formed of any suitable material, such as metal (e.g., aluminum), carbon fiber composite or other suitable material for a given application.

The first workpiece <NUM> and the second workpiece <NUM> each define apertures that cooperate when aligned to form an aperture <NUM> through a front surface <NUM> of the first workpiece <NUM> and through a back surface <NUM> of the second workpiece <NUM>. The aperture <NUM> can be countersunk or counter bored from the first front surface <NUM>. In the example provided, the aperture <NUM> is counter sunk such that it includes a cylindrical inner bore <NUM> and a contact surface <NUM> that extends axially at an angle between the inner bore <NUM> and the first front surface <NUM>.

Returning to <FIG>, the bolt <NUM> includes a shaft <NUM>, a bolt head <NUM>, and a lug <NUM> that are disposed about the axis <NUM>. The shaft <NUM> is generally cylindrical and includes a stem <NUM> and a threaded portion that defines external threads <NUM>. The external threads <NUM> begin at one terminal end <NUM> of the bolt <NUM>. The stem <NUM> is disposed axially between the threads <NUM> and the bolt head <NUM>.

In one form, the stem <NUM> is a generally smooth cylinder with a diameter that is greater than or equal to the major diameter of the external threads <NUM>. The external threads <NUM> extend axially along the shaft <NUM> until terminating adjacent to the stem <NUM>, though other configurations can be used. In one alternative example, not shown, a sealant or a seal can be disposed between the termination of the external threads <NUM> and the stem <NUM> or can be disposed along the stem <NUM>, to seal with the inner surface of the nut <NUM>. The seal (not shown) is configured to inhibit passage of fluids, such as water, oil, fuel, etc. The seal (not shown) can be an elastomeric body, such as an O-ring for example.

The bolt head <NUM> is located at an end of the stem <NUM> that is opposite the external threads <NUM>. The bolt head <NUM> extends radially outward of the stem <NUM>.

Referring to <FIG>, the bolt head <NUM> includes a clamp surface <NUM>, a radially outermost perimeter <NUM>, and a first end surface <NUM>. The clamp surface <NUM> extends radially outward from the stem <NUM> at an angle such that the clamp surface <NUM> is generally conical in shape, though other configurations can be used. The perimeter <NUM> extends axially between the clamp surface <NUM> and the first end surface <NUM>. In the example provided, the perimeter <NUM> is generally parallel with the axis <NUM>, though other configurations can be used. The first end surface <NUM> faces axially away from the stem <NUM>. In the example provided, the first end surface <NUM> is generally perpendicular to the axis <NUM>, though other configurations can be used.

The lug <NUM> includes a first tool engagement portion <NUM> and a first frangible portion <NUM>. In the example provided, the lug <NUM> can also include a rim <NUM> extending axially between the first tool engagement portion <NUM> and the first frangible portion <NUM>. The first tool engagement portion <NUM> defines the other terminal end <NUM> of the bolt <NUM>, opposite the external threads <NUM>.

The first tool engagement portion <NUM> is configured to be engaged by a tool <NUM> (<FIG>) to impart torque about the axis <NUM>. In the example provided, the first tool engagement portion <NUM> has a cylindrical surface <NUM>. In the example provided, the cylindrical surface <NUM> extends the entire length of the first tool engagement portion <NUM>. In the example provided, the cylindrical surface <NUM> is a generally smooth surface, though other configurations can be used, such as a rough surface or a knurled surface for example. In the example provided, the first tool engagement portion is <NUM> devoid of flat tool engagement surfaces and has a constant diameter along its length from the rim <NUM> to the terminal end <NUM> with the exception of an optional annular chamfer <NUM> at the terminal end <NUM> that can guide the tool <NUM> (<FIG>) onto the first tool engagement portion <NUM>. As described in greater detail below, the tool <NUM> (<FIG>) is configured to engage the cylindrical surface <NUM> of the first tool engagement portion <NUM>.

The rim <NUM> is axially between the first tool engagement portion <NUM> to the first frangible portion <NUM> and extends radially outward from the first frangible portion <NUM> to the first tool engagement portion <NUM>. In the example provided, the rim <NUM> has a generally frustoconical shape that widens with increased distance from the first frangible portion <NUM>.

The first frangible portion <NUM> frangibly couples the rim <NUM> to the bolt head <NUM>. In the example provided, the outer surface <NUM> of the first frangible portion <NUM> is generally cylindrical in shape and has a diameter that is equal to or less than the outermost diameter of the perimeter <NUM> of the bolt head <NUM>. The first frangible portion <NUM> narrows from the outer surface <NUM> to a break-neck <NUM> that joins the first end surface <NUM> of the bolt head <NUM> with the lug <NUM>. In the example provided, the diameter of the break-neck <NUM> is also less than the diameter of the stem <NUM> and extends around a full circumference of the bolt <NUM>.

Referring to <FIG>, the nut <NUM> in the example provided is formed from a single, integral piece of material and includes a sleeve <NUM>, a nut head <NUM>, and a handling member <NUM> disposed about the axis <NUM>. The sleeve <NUM> is a generally cylindrical body. One end of the sleeve <NUM> defines a terminal end <NUM> of the nut opposite the nut head <NUM>. The sleeve <NUM> is received in the inner bore <NUM> (<FIG>) of the first and second workpieces <NUM>, <NUM> (<FIG>).

Referring to <FIG>, the sleeve <NUM> defines a central bore <NUM> coaxial with the axis <NUM> and includes internal threads <NUM>. The internal threads <NUM> are configured to threadably engage the external threads <NUM> of the bolt <NUM>. The first bore <NUM> has a diameter that is slightly greater than the diameter of the stem <NUM> so that the shaft <NUM> can be rotatably received in the first bore <NUM>.

Referring to <FIG>, the sleeve <NUM> can include a ductile region <NUM> between internal threads <NUM> and the nut head <NUM>. The ductile region has a hardness that is less than a hardness of the rest of the nut <NUM>. In one form, the nut head <NUM>, the region of the sleeve <NUM> that is surrounded by the first and second workpieces <NUM>, <NUM>, and the region of the sleeve <NUM> that includes the internal threads <NUM> has a first hardness value, while the ductile region <NUM> can have a significantly lower hardness value. This significantly lower hardness value can be achieved by band annealing the sleeve <NUM> for example.

The nut head <NUM> is located at an end of the sleeve <NUM> that is opposite the internal threads <NUM> and extends radially outward of the sleeve <NUM>. The nut head <NUM> includes a recess <NUM>, a clamp surface <NUM>, and a second end surface <NUM>. The clamp surface <NUM> extends radially outward from the sleeve <NUM> at an angle that forms a generally conical shape, though other configurations can be used. A perimeter <NUM> of the nut head <NUM> is defined by the junction of the clamp surface <NUM> and the second end surface <NUM>. The second end surface <NUM> faces axially away from the sleeve <NUM> and can be generally perpendicular to the axis <NUM>, though other configurations can be used.

The recess <NUM> is disposed concentrically about the axis <NUM> and configured to receive the bolt head <NUM>. The recess <NUM> has an inner wall surface <NUM> and a contact surface <NUM>. The contact surface <NUM> extends radially outward from the first bore <NUM> at an angle relative to the inner wall surface <NUM> to form a generally conical shaped recess. In the example provided, the inner wall surface <NUM> is generally cylindrical and extends axially between the contact surface <NUM> and the handling member <NUM>. The inner wall surface <NUM> has a diameter that is greater than the diameter of the perimeter <NUM> of the bolt head <NUM> so that the bolt head <NUM> can be rotatably received in the recess <NUM>.

The contact surface <NUM> of the nut head <NUM> is at an angle similar to the angle of the clamp surface <NUM> of the bolt head <NUM>. The inner wall surface <NUM> of the nut head <NUM> meets the contact surface <NUM> at a depth from the second end surface <NUM> such that when the bolt head <NUM> is received in the recess <NUM> the first end surface <NUM> of the bolt head <NUM> is flush with or recessed from the second end surface <NUM> of the nut head <NUM>.

The handling member <NUM> includes a second tool engagement portion <NUM> and a second frangible portion <NUM> disposed about the axis <NUM>. The handling member <NUM> defines a second bore <NUM> coaxial with the axis <NUM> The second bore <NUM> surrounds at least a portion of the first frangible portion <NUM>. In the example provided, the second bore <NUM> has a diameter less than the maximum diameter of the rim <NUM> of the lug <NUM>, though other configurations can be used. In the example provided, the second bore <NUM> has the same diameter as the inner wall surface <NUM> of the nut head <NUM> such that the second bore <NUM> and inner wall surface <NUM> can be formed as a single bore.

The second tool engagement portion <NUM> is configured to be engaged by the tool <NUM> (<FIG>) to impart torque on the handling member <NUM> about the axis <NUM>. Referring to <FIG>, the second tool engagement portion <NUM> has a plurality of externally facing splines <NUM> and the tool <NUM> (<FIG>) is configured to engage the splines <NUM> of the second tool engagement portion <NUM>, though other shapes or configurations can be used, such as star, hex, or lobe shapes or other driving configurations. In the example provided, the second tool engagement portion <NUM> is entirely radially inward of the perimeter <NUM> of the nut head <NUM>, though other configurations can be used.

Referring to <FIG>, the second frangible portion <NUM> frangibly couples the second tool engagement portion <NUM> to the nut head <NUM>. In the example provided, the inner surface of the second frangible portion <NUM> is defined by the second bore <NUM> and an outer surface of the second frangible portion <NUM> narrows from the second tool engagement portion <NUM> to define a break-neck <NUM>. Thus, the handling member <NUM> has a minimum wall thickness about the axis <NUM> at a location where the second frangible portion <NUM> meets the nut head <NUM>. In the example provided, the break-neck <NUM> extends around a full circumference of the nut <NUM>.

In an alternative form, the handling member <NUM> can be a part that is formed separately from the rest of the nut <NUM> (i.e., the sleeve <NUM> and the nut head <NUM>). In this alternative form, the handling member <NUM> can be attached to the nut head <NUM> such as by glue, adhesive, welding, or brazing for example. In this alternative form, the frangible portion <NUM> is formed by the glue, adhesive, weld, or braze. This alternative form may still narrow to a neck (similar to break-neck <NUM>) at the frangible portion <NUM> or may not narrow depending on the strength of the glue, adhesive, weld, or braze.

Referring generally to <FIG>, the bolt <NUM> and nut <NUM> are shown in a preinstalled position relative to each other. With the blind fastener <NUM> in the preinstalled position, the blind fastener <NUM> is inserted through the first and second workpieces <NUM>, <NUM> until the second end surface <NUM> of the nut head <NUM> is flush with or recessed from the front surface <NUM>. The sleeve <NUM> extends from the back surface <NUM>.

In this position, the tool <NUM> (<FIG>) can engage the first tool engagement portion <NUM> and the second tool engagement portion <NUM>. The tool <NUM> (<FIG>) is then operated in a first mode such that the tool <NUM> (<FIG>) transmits torque to the bolt <NUM> in the tightening direction of the threads <NUM>, <NUM>, while the tool <NUM> (<FIG>) also holds the nut <NUM> rotationally stationary relative to the work pieces <NUM>, <NUM>. The tool <NUM> inhibits the bolt <NUM> and nut <NUM> from moving axially away from the workpieces <NUM>, <NUM>.

The threads <NUM>, <NUM> impart an axial force on the sleeve <NUM> to move the terminal end <NUM> of the sleeve <NUM> toward the work pieces <NUM>, <NUM>, causing the ductile region <NUM> of the sleeve <NUM> to deform radially outwards to form a bulb <NUM>. The bulb <NUM> contacts the back surface <NUM> and can impart a force thereon that biases the second workpiece <NUM> toward the first workpiece <NUM>. Thus, the first and second workpieces <NUM>, <NUM> are clamped between the nut head <NUM> and the bulb <NUM>.

Once the bulb <NUM> is formed, the bulb <NUM> and sleeve <NUM> can resist further deformation. Additional torque applied to the bolt <NUM> above a predetermined torque threshold value can then cause the first frangible portion <NUM> to break. More specifically, the lug <NUM> is rotated in the tightening direction while the nut <NUM> is held rotationally and axially stationary. The threads <NUM>, <NUM> impart an axial force on the sleeve <NUM> until the shear strength of the break-neck <NUM> is exceeded. The break-neck <NUM> then shears, separating the lug <NUM> from the bolt head <NUM>. The shearing of the break-neck <NUM> leaves the first end surface <NUM> of the bolt head <NUM> flush with or slightly recessed from the second end surface <NUM> of the nut head <NUM>, as shown in <FIG>.

The clamping force of the bulb <NUM> and the nut head <NUM> on the workpieces <NUM>, <NUM> can resist rotation of the nut <NUM> relative to the workpieces <NUM>, <NUM>. The tool <NUM> then applies torque to the handling member <NUM> in an amount that exceeds a predetermined torque threshold value to cause the second frangible portion <NUM> to break. More specifically, the second frangible portion <NUM> shears at the break-neck <NUM>, separating the handling member <NUM> from the nut head <NUM>. The shearing of the second frangible portion <NUM> leaves the second end surface <NUM> of the nut head <NUM> flush with or recessed from the front surface <NUM> of the first workpiece <NUM>, as shown in <FIG>. In the example provided, since the rim <NUM> has a greater diameter than the second bore <NUM>, the lug <NUM> cannot fall axially through the second bore <NUM>. Thus, the lug <NUM> can be removed with the second handling member <NUM> by the tool <NUM> (<FIG>).

Thus, as shown in <FIG>, the blind fastener <NUM> can be easily installed and while being flush with the first workpiece <NUM> when in the fully installed position without the need for further machining or processing.

Referring to <FIG> the tool <NUM> for installing a blind fastener such as the blind fastener <NUM> (<FIG>) is illustrated. The tool <NUM> and its operation can be similar to the tools of co-pending and commonly owned <CIT> (<CIT>) and/or International Application No. <CIT>), except as otherwise shown or described herein. The tool <NUM> includes a nose <NUM> and a driver <NUM> drivingly coupled to the nose <NUM>. In the example provided, the driver <NUM> is an electric hand-held nut-runner. In an alternative configuration, not shown, the driver <NUM> can be any suitable type of drive mechanism configured to drive the nose <NUM>, such as a pneumatic drive mechanism or an end-effector of a robotic arm for example.

The driver <NUM> includes a housing <NUM> and a drive shaft <NUM>. The drive shaft <NUM> is rotatable relative to the housing <NUM> about an axis <NUM> and receives input torque from a motor (not specifically shown) of the driver <NUM>. The nose <NUM> includes a forward nose assembly <NUM> and a rear nose portion <NUM> (also referred to herein as a base). The rear nose portion <NUM> is non-rotatably coupled to the housing <NUM>. The rear nose portion <NUM> can include a generally cylindrical body <NUM> that defines a bore <NUM> disposed about the axis <NUM> and configured to receive the drive shaft <NUM> therein.

With additional reference to <FIG>, the bore <NUM> of the rear nose portion <NUM> can also receive a cylindrical portion <NUM> of the housing <NUM> and the rear nose portion <NUM> can be non-rotatably coupled to the housing <NUM> by one or more set screws <NUM> that extend through the rear nose portion <NUM> and engage the cylindrical portion <NUM> of the housing <NUM>, though other configurations can be used to fix the rear nose portion <NUM> to the housing <NUM>. The rear nose portion <NUM> also includes one or more stop members <NUM>. In the example provided, the stop members <NUM> are fixed to the cylindrical body <NUM> and extend radially inward within the bore <NUM>, though other configurations can be used such as extending axially from the housing <NUM> for example.

Referring to <FIG> and <FIG>, the forward nose assembly <NUM> includes a collet <NUM>, a roller clutch or socket assembly <NUM>, a drive member <NUM> (also referred to herein as a drive body), an ejector pin <NUM>, a first spring <NUM>, an annular body <NUM> (also referred to herein as an output member), a second spring <NUM>, an input member <NUM>, an outer sleeve <NUM>, and a third spring <NUM>. The input member <NUM> is coaxial with the axis <NUM> and coupled to the drive shaft <NUM> for common rotation. In the example provided, the end <NUM> (<FIG>) of the drive shaft <NUM> has a predetermined shape (e.g., square or hex for example) that mates with a mating predetermined shaped cavity (not specifically shown) defined by the input member <NUM>, though other configurations can be used.

The drive member <NUM> is disposed about the axis <NUM> and a rearward end <NUM> of the drive member <NUM> is coupled to the input member <NUM> for common rotation about the axis <NUM>. In the example provided, the input member <NUM> is threadably engaged with the drive member <NUM>, though other configurations can be used. A forward end <NUM> of the drive member <NUM> defines a bore <NUM>. Referring to <FIG>, the drive member <NUM> also includes a mode clutch input <NUM> disposed between opposite axial ends <NUM>, <NUM>. The mode clutch input <NUM> includes a plurality of flat surfaces <NUM> disposed about the axis <NUM>. In the example provided, the flat surfaces <NUM> form a generally hexagonal shape about the axis <NUM>, though other configurations can be used. In the example provided, the mode clutch input <NUM> also defines angular or helical lead-in ramps <NUM> that angle proximate the forward side of each point of the hex shape (i.e., the junction of the flat surfaces <NUM>), downward toward a cylindrical surface <NUM>. These lead-in ramps <NUM> can aid in rapid engagement of the mode clutch input <NUM> with a mating socket or mode clutch output <NUM> defined by a forward end of the annular body <NUM> when not perfectly rotationally aligned. In the example provided, the mode clutch output <NUM> is a twelve-point star shape configured to mate with the hexagonal shape of the flat surfaces <NUM>, though other configurations can be used. Referring to <FIG>, the second spring <NUM> can be disposed about the drive member <NUM> and can bias the annular body <NUM> forward relative to the drive member <NUM> into engagement with the mode clutch input <NUM> to act as a mode clutch.

Referring to <FIG>, a plurality of stop members <NUM> also extend axially from a rear end of the annular body <NUM>. The stop members <NUM> define a shoulder <NUM> configured to engage the stop members <NUM> and act as a clutch. In the example provided, the stop members <NUM> also include a ramp surface <NUM> such that rotation of the annular body <NUM> in one direction can be inhibited by the shoulder <NUM> engaging the stop member <NUM> while rotation of the annular body <NUM> in the opposite direction can be permitted by the ramp surface <NUM> sliding along the stop member <NUM> and axially translating the annular body <NUM>.

Referring to <FIG> and <FIG>, the socket assembly <NUM> includes a socket housing <NUM> and a plurality of rollers <NUM>. The socket housing <NUM> is coupled to the drive member <NUM> for common rotation about the axis <NUM>. In the example provided, the socket housing <NUM> is press fit into the bore <NUM> of the drive member <NUM>, though other configurations can be used.

The socket housing <NUM> defines a bore <NUM> concentric with the axis <NUM>. The rollers <NUM> are spaced circumferentially about the axis and coupled to the socket housing <NUM> for common rotation about the axis <NUM>. A portion of each roller <NUM> extends into the bore <NUM> such that a rounded outer surface of each roller is configured to engage the cylindrical surface <NUM> (<FIG>) of the bolt <NUM> (<FIG>). Each roller is rotatable relative to the socket housing <NUM> about a corresponding axis of that roller <NUM> that is parallel to the axis <NUM>. In the example provided, each roller <NUM> is a cylindrical body disposed longitudinally parallel to the axis <NUM>. The rollers <NUM> permit the first tool engagement portion <NUM> (<FIG>) to be received in the bore <NUM> but rotation of the socket housing <NUM> causes the rollers <NUM> to become locked between the socket housing <NUM> and the first tool engagement portion <NUM> (<FIG>) to impart torque to the bolt <NUM> (<FIG>).

Referring to <FIG>, the ejector pin <NUM> can be disposed concentrically within a bore <NUM> of the drive member <NUM> that is concentric with and open to the bore <NUM>. The first spring <NUM> can be disposed within the bore <NUM> axially between the input member <NUM> and the ejector pin <NUM> and configured to bias the ejector pin <NUM> forward in the bore <NUM>. A forward end <NUM> of the ejector pin <NUM> can extend into the bore <NUM> of the socket housing <NUM>. In the example provided, a spacer <NUM> is disposed within the drive member <NUM> and blocks a rear end <NUM> of the ejector pin <NUM> from exiting the bore <NUM>.

Referring to <FIG>, the collet <NUM> includes a collet sleeve <NUM> and a plurality of fingers or prongs <NUM>. The collet sleeve <NUM> is disposed about the axis <NUM>. In the example provided, the collet sleeve <NUM> includes a pair of cam slots <NUM> (one of which is shown in <FIG>) through an outer cylindrical surface <NUM> of the collet sleeve <NUM>. The cam slot <NUM> extends longitudinally at an angle relative to the axis <NUM>. Each prong <NUM> extends from a forward end of the collet sleeve <NUM>. A forward end of each prong <NUM> includes a jaw <NUM> that extends radially inward. The jaws <NUM> cooperate to define an aperture <NUM> that can include a plurality of grip features <NUM> (e.g., splines) configured to mate with the second tool engagement portion <NUM> (<FIG>) of the nut <NUM>.

Referring to <FIG>, the collet sleeve <NUM> is coupled to the forward end of the annular body <NUM> for common rotation about the axis <NUM>. In the example provided, the collet sleeve <NUM> is threadably coupled to the annular body <NUM> though other configurations can be used. Each prong <NUM> includes a ramp surface <NUM> that narrows radially inward in the rearward direction. In the example provided, the ramp surfaces <NUM> are proximate the jaws <NUM> and at the junction of the jaws <NUM> and the prongs <NUM>.

The outer sleeve <NUM> is disposed about the collet <NUM>. The outer sleeve <NUM> includes a mating ramp surface <NUM> that is configured to slide along the ramp surfaces <NUM> of the prongs <NUM>. The outer sleeve <NUM> is axially slidable relative to the collet <NUM> such that when the outer sleeve <NUM> is in a forward position, the mating ramp surface <NUM> presses radially inward on the ramp surfaces <NUM> to press the jaws <NUM> radially inward relative to when the outer sleeve <NUM> is in a retracted or rearward position. In the example provided, the third spring <NUM> biases the outer sleeve <NUM> toward the forward position.

In the example provided, follower lugs <NUM> or (e.g., set screws) can extend radially inward from the outer sleeve <NUM> into the cam slots <NUM>. The follower lugs <NUM> are configured to ride along the cam slots <NUM> such that when the collet <NUM> rotates about the axis <NUM>, the outer sleeve <NUM> rotates therewith but applying a rotational drag force on the outer sleeve <NUM> can cause the follower lugs <NUM> to ride rearward in the cam slots <NUM> to move the outer sleeve <NUM> axially rearward. In one form, the rotational drag may be caused by an operator. In another form, the tool <NUM> may optionally include a rotational brake <NUM> (<FIG>) to cause the rotational drag. In the example provided, the rotational brake <NUM> is located in the rear nose portion <NUM> (<FIG>), though other configurations can be used.

Referring to <FIG>, the blind fastener <NUM> is loaded into the nose <NUM> of the tool such that the first tool engagement portion <NUM> is received in the socket assembly <NUM> and the second tool engagement portion <NUM> is gripped by the jaws <NUM>. The blind fastener <NUM> is inserted into the workpieces <NUM>, <NUM> either before loading into the tool <NUM> or after. The tool <NUM> is then pressed forward until in the position shown in <FIG>. Pressing the tool <NUM> causes the collet <NUM> to move rearward relative to the rear nose portion <NUM> so that the stop members <NUM> engage the stop members <NUM> to inhibit rotation of the collet <NUM>. The outer sleeve <NUM> remains forward relative to the collet <NUM> so the jaws <NUM> continue to grip the second tool engagement portion <NUM>. The drive member <NUM> is forward relative to the collet <NUM> such that the mode clutch input <NUM> is not engaged with the mode clutch output <NUM>. The driver <NUM> is then operated to rotate the drive member <NUM> to rotate the bolt <NUM>. The bolt <NUM> is rotated until the bulb <NUM> (<FIG>) is formed and then the lug <NUM> breaks off.

Next, the tool <NUM> can be slightly retracted so that the tool is generally in the position shown in <FIG>. In this position, the outer sleeve <NUM> is in the forward position so that the jaws <NUM> continue to grip the second tool engagement portion <NUM>. The collet <NUM> is in the forward position such that the annular body <NUM> is not engaged with the stop members <NUM>. The drive member <NUM> is in the rearward position such that it is engaged for rotation with the annular body <NUM>. The driver <NUM> is operated so that the drive member <NUM> and the collet <NUM> rotate until the handling member <NUM> breaks off. The second tool engagement portion <NUM> is still gripped by the jaws <NUM> and the lug <NUM> is retained in the tool <NUM> by the handling member <NUM>.

The tool <NUM> can then be moved to a location away from the workpieces <NUM>, <NUM> and the outer sleeve <NUM> can be moved rearward (either directly or via the rotational brake <NUM> schematically shown in <FIG>). This permits the jaws <NUM> to expand radially outward, releasing the handling member <NUM>. The ejector pin <NUM> is pressed forward by the first spring <NUM> and ejects the lug <NUM> from the tool <NUM>, which can also eject the handling member <NUM> from the tool <NUM>. In the example provided, the third spring <NUM> is stiffer than the second spring <NUM> such that when the outer sleeve <NUM> is pulled back, the stop members <NUM> engage the stop members <NUM> before the collet <NUM> opens.

Referring to <FIG> and <FIG>, a tool <NUM>' of a second configuration is illustrated. The tool <NUM>' is similar to the tool <NUM> (<FIG>) except as otherwise shown or described herein. Accordingly, similar features are denoted by similar reference numerals and only differences are described in detail herein. In the example provided, the driver <NUM> also includes a shroud <NUM> and a reaction bar <NUM>, also referred to herein as a handle. The shroud <NUM> is a generally cylindrical body disposed about the axis <NUM> and fixed to the housing <NUM>. In the example provided, the shroud <NUM> defines a pair of threaded apertures <NUM> (one of which is visible in <FIG>) and a corresponding set screw <NUM> is threadably received into each aperture <NUM> to engage a nose portion <NUM> of the driver <NUM> to inhibit movement of the shroud <NUM> relative to the housing <NUM>, though other configurations can be used such as welding, clips, or other types of fasteners for example. In the example provided, the shroud <NUM> defines a central bore <NUM> concentric about the axis <NUM> and extending axially through the shroud <NUM> and a slot <NUM> extending through a sidewall of the shroud <NUM> and open to the central bore <NUM>.

In the example provided, the rear nose portion <NUM> is slidably received in the central bore <NUM> and defines a threaded bore <NUM> through a side wall of the cylindrical body <NUM> that aligns with the slot <NUM>. An end <NUM> of the reaction bar <NUM> extends through the slot <NUM> and threadably engages the bore <NUM>. The slot <NUM> inhibits rotation of the reaction bar <NUM> but permits axial translation within the slot <NUM>. In the example provided, the shroud <NUM> can optionally define a second slot <NUM> on the opposite side and the cylindrical body <NUM> can define a second threaded bore (not visible in <FIG>) on the opposite side to permit the reaction bar <NUM> to be switched to the other side.

In the example provided, the cylindrical body <NUM> defines a shoulder <NUM> and the outer sleeve <NUM> defines a lip <NUM> configured to engage the shoulder <NUM> to inhibit the outer sleeve <NUM> from translating axially outward from the cylindrical body <NUM> beyond the position shown in <FIG>. In the example provided, the shoulder <NUM> and lip <NUM> extend circumferentially about the axis <NUM>, though other configurations can be used. In the position shown in <FIG>, a rear end <NUM> of the cylindrical body <NUM> is spaced apart from a shoulder <NUM> of the shroud <NUM> such that the reaction bar <NUM> can be pulled axially backwards (i.e., toward the housing <NUM>) in the slot <NUM> to translate the cylindrical body <NUM> and thus the outer sleeve <NUM> backwards. Thus, an operator can release the collet <NUM> by pulling the reaction bar <NUM>. Furthermore, in the example provided, the stop members <NUM> (one of which is shown in <FIG>) extend radially inward from the shroud <NUM>, though other configurations can be used.

Referring to <FIG>, a tool <NUM>" of a third configuration is illustrated. The tool <NUM>" is similar to the tool <NUM> (<FIG>) and <NUM>' (<FIG> and <FIG>) except as otherwise shown or described herein. Accordingly, similar features are denoted by similar reference numerals and only differences are described in detail herein.

In the example provided, the shroud <NUM> does not define the slot <NUM>. In the example provided, the stop members <NUM> (one of which is shown in <FIG>) extends radially inward from the shroud <NUM>. In the example provided, the rear end <NUM> of the cylindrical body <NUM> is disposed about the shroud <NUM> and is slidable along an outer surface <NUM> of the shroud <NUM> axially and rotationally with reference to the axis <NUM>.

In the example provided, the rear nose portion <NUM> also includes an outer shroud <NUM> disposed concentrically about the cylindrical body <NUM>. The outer shroud <NUM> defines a rear facing shoulder <NUM> (labeled in <FIG>) configured to abut a forward facing lip <NUM> (labeled in <FIG>) of the cylindrical body <NUM>. The cylindrical body <NUM> is rotatable about the axis <NUM> relative to the outer shroud <NUM>.

Referring to <FIG>, the outer shroud <NUM> defines a first slot <NUM> extending radially through one side of the outer shroud <NUM>. The first slot <NUM> extends longitudinally in the circumferential direction about the axis <NUM>. The outer shroud <NUM> also defines a second slot <NUM> extending radially through one side of the outer shroud <NUM>. In the example provided, the first and second slots <NUM> and <NUM> are on the same side of the outer shroud <NUM>, though other configurations can be used. The second slot <NUM> is axially rearward of the first slot <NUM> and extends longitudinally in the axial direction.

As best shown in <FIG>, the outer shroud <NUM> can also define a bore <NUM> extending through a side of the outer shroud <NUM> and aligned with a bore <NUM> defined tangentially in a side of the cylindrical body <NUM>. A spring <NUM> is disposed within the bore <NUM> and a plug <NUM> is disposed within the bore <NUM> to maintain the spring in the bore <NUM>. In the example provided, the plug <NUM> is threadably engaged with the bore <NUM>, though other configurations can be used. The spring <NUM> is configured to bias the cylindrical body <NUM> rotationally relative to the outer shroud <NUM> in the rotational direction <NUM>.

Referring to <FIG>, the end <NUM> of the reaction bar <NUM> extends through the first slot <NUM> and is coupled to the cylindrical body <NUM>. In the example provided the end <NUM> is threaded and received in a threaded bore <NUM> defined by the cylindrical body <NUM>, though other configurations can be used. The cylindrical body <NUM> defines an aperture <NUM> that extends radially through a side of the cylindrical body <NUM>. The aperture <NUM> is delimited in the rearward direction by a rear surface <NUM>. A first region of the aperture <NUM> is delimited in the forward direction by a first forward surface <NUM> and a second region of the aperture <NUM> is delimited in the forward direction by a second forward surface <NUM>. The first forward surface <NUM> is further in the axial direction from the rear surface <NUM> than the second forward surface <NUM>. The first forward surface <NUM> is further in the rotational direction <NUM> than the second forward surface <NUM>. The aperture <NUM> generally aligns with the slot <NUM>. One of the set screws <NUM> extends through the slot <NUM> and through the aperture <NUM> and is threadably engaged with the threaded aperture <NUM> to act as a limit pin that limits movement of the cylindrical body <NUM> and outer shroud <NUM> relative to the shroud <NUM>.

Referring to <FIG> and <FIG>, the cylindrical body <NUM> may also define a circumferential groove <NUM> that is open radially inward. A retainer <NUM> (e.g., a resilient snap ring or C-clip) is received in the groove <NUM> and extends radially inward therefrom to block the lip <NUM> of the outer sleeve <NUM> to inhibit relative axial motion between the outer sleeve <NUM> and the cylindrical body <NUM>.

Referring the <FIG>, when the tool <NUM>" is at rest, the second spring <NUM> can the annular body <NUM> forward relative to the drive member <NUM> and into the position in which the mode clutch input <NUM> is engaged. In this position, the third spring <NUM> biases the outer sleeve <NUM> into the forward position. Since the cylindrical body <NUM> is coupled to the outer sleeve <NUM> for axial movement therewith via the retainer <NUM>, the cylindrical body <NUM> and the reaction bar <NUM> are also in a forward position relative to the shroud <NUM>. In this forward position, the set screw <NUM> engages the rear surface <NUM> (labeled in <FIG>) of the aperture <NUM> and a rear surface <NUM> (labeled in <FIG>) of the slot <NUM>. In this position, spring <NUM> biases the cylindrical body in the rotational direction <NUM> (labeled in <FIG>) so that the reaction bar <NUM> is toward the bottom of the first slot <NUM>. In this position, the set screw <NUM> can engage a top surface <NUM> (labeled in <FIG>).

Referring to <FIG>, when installation of the blind fastener <NUM> is to be done, the reaction bar <NUM> is rotated in the rotational direction opposite direction <NUM> (labeled in <FIG>) until the set screw <NUM> engages a bottom surface <NUM> (<FIG>) of the aperture <NUM> and is then translated rearward until the set screw <NUM> engages the first forward surface <NUM>. In this position, the reaction bar <NUM> can be located toward a top of the first slot <NUM>. In this position, the set screw <NUM> may engage a front surface <NUM> (labeled in <FIG>) of the slot <NUM>. In this position, the outer sleeve <NUM> is rearward and the jaws <NUM> are expanded. The tool <NUM>" is then moved forward until the first tool engagement portion <NUM> (labeled in <FIG>) and the second tool engagement portion <NUM> (labeled in <FIG>) are received in the tool <NUM>".

While the blind fastener <NUM> is illustrated in <FIG> as already positioned in the workpieces <NUM>, <NUM>, the blind fastener <NUM> may alternatively be first inserted into the tool <NUM>" with the tool <NUM>" in the position shown in <FIG> and then retained in the tool <NUM>" by moving the reaction bar <NUM> to the position shown in <FIG> and described below.

Referring to <FIG>, the reaction bar <NUM> then translates axially to the position shown in <FIG> and then rotates in the direction <NUM> (labeled in <FIG>) back toward the bottom of the slot <NUM> so that the set screw <NUM> engages the forward surface <NUM> (<FIG>) of the aperture <NUM> (<FIG>). In this position, the first tool engagement portion <NUM> (labeled in <FIG>) and the second tool engagement portion <NUM> (labeled in <FIG>) are engaged by the socket assembly <NUM> and the jaws <NUM>, respectively. In this position, the mode clutch <NUM> is disengaged so that the socket <NUM> can rotate relative to the jaws <NUM>. In this position, the stop members <NUM> engage the stop members <NUM> to inhibit rotation of the jaws <NUM>. In this position, the socket <NUM> can be rotated by the driver <NUM> (<FIG>) until the first tool engagement portion <NUM> (labeled in <FIG>) breaks off.

Next and with reference to <FIG> and <FIG>, the driver <NUM> can be translated rearward slightly until the set screw <NUM> is again in the position shown in <FIG>. In this position, the stop members <NUM> are disengaged from the stop members <NUM>, the mode clutch <NUM> is engaged so that the socket <NUM> rotates with the jaws <NUM>, and the outer sleeve <NUM> remains forward to maintain the jaws <NUM> in gripping position with the second tool engagement portion <NUM> (<FIG>). In this position, the driver <NUM> can be operated to rotate the second tool engagement portion <NUM> (<FIG>) until it breaks off.

The tool <NUM>" can then be moved away from the installed blind fastener <NUM> and panels <NUM>, <NUM> to release the broken off first and second tool engagement portions <NUM>, <NUM>. To release the broken off first and second tool engagement portions <NUM>, <NUM>, the reaction bar <NUM> is moved again to the position shown in <FIG> and the spring <NUM> pushes the ejector pin <NUM> to eject the broken off first and second tool engagement portions <NUM>, <NUM>. Thus, the tool <NUM>" can attach the blind fastener <NUM> to the workpieces <NUM>, <NUM>, retain the broken off components, and release them at to safe location to avoid the broken off components from impacting or damaging the workpieces <NUM>, <NUM> or other components (not shown) nearby.

Claim 1:
A tool (<NUM>, <NUM>', <NUM>") for installing a blind fastener (<NUM>) including a bolt (<NUM>) and a nut (<NUM>), the tool (<NUM>) comprising:
a socket assembly (<NUM>) including a socket housing (<NUM>); and
a drive body (<NUM>) coupled to the socket housing (<NUM>) and configured to rotate the socket housing (<NUM>) about an axis (<NUM>);
wherein:
a collet (<NUM>) is disposed about the axis (<NUM>), the collet (<NUM>) being configured to selectively engage a tool engagement portion (<NUM>) of the nut (<NUM>);
the socket assembly (<NUM>) includes a plurality of rollers (<NUM>), the socket housing (<NUM>) being rotatable relative to the collet (<NUM>) and defining a bore disposed about the axis (<NUM>), the rollers (<NUM>) being spaced circumferentially about the axis (<NUM>), a surface of each roller (<NUM>) being configured to engage a cylindrical tool engagement portion (<NUM>) of the bolt (<NUM>) within the bore to rotate the bolt (<NUM>) about the axis (<NUM>); and
a mode clutch is operable in an engaged mode in which the socket housing (<NUM>) is coupled to the collet (<NUM>) for common rotation about the axis (<NUM>) and a disengaged mode in which the socket housing (<NUM>) is rotatable relative to the collet (<NUM>).