Patent ID: 6892585

Claim:
A variably amplified load indicating fastener comprising: a fastener, having a first coefficient of thermal expansion, comprising an abutment which is moved by a chance in length under an applied load; a load indicator, having a second coefficient of thermal expansion, comprising: a plate; a needle pivotally supported by the plate; a first reference mark; a member detachably securing the load indicator to the fastener; a sleeve fitting over the outer circumference of both the load indicator and the member; the sleeve carrying a second reference mark; and an elongated U-shaped element disposed in a direction in which the load is applied thereto when the fastener is in use, wherein a first side of the U is rigidly attached to the fastener, and a closed end of the U is proximate to and moveable by the abutment; wherein the first coefficient of thermal expansion is the same as the second coefficient of thermal expansion.