Quick Connect Fastener (MFS-28833)

Abstract:
NASA is offering a quick-connect, slow-disconnect nut and bolt for technology transfer. The designs of the nut and the bolt are available together or separately. The design permits the nut to be installed simply by pushing it onto a standard bolt or threaded stud. Once installed, it can be removed only by unscrewing it in the manner of a conventional nut. The bolt operates in a similar manner. It is installed by pushing it directly into the hole on a nut. It is unscrewed in the same manner as a conventional bolt. The nut has a hexagonal outer case which resembles an ordinary nut but which holds several shells in its hole. Each shell has a key to protrude radially outward and engage a lengthwise groove in the case. Except for the gaps between the shells, the inner surfaces of the shells constitute a standard threaded surface. Two "C-shaped" spring clips snap into a pair of grooves at the ends of the shells. These clips push the shells outward against the conical inner surface of the hole, thereby pushing axially toward the wide end of the cone. A coil spring provides sufficient force to overcome the axial force from the C-clips, pushing the shells axially toward the narrow end of the cone where a flange stops them. When inserted onto a bolt or stud, the shells slip past the external threads, and then the coil spring causes the shells to move radially inward/more securely. The nut can be removed or tightened in the usual manner. The bolt has circumferential shells designed to constitute a standard external thread. Clips and springs hold the shells against the conical surface of the shank. When the bolt is pushed into a threaded hole, the design allows an engagement of the bolt's threads with the nut, and the bolt is positively retained in the hole. Pulling the bolt only drives the shells more firmly into the thread. The bolt can be tightened or loosened in the conventional manner. The new nut and/or bolt may be used in the same situations as conventional nuts and bol

Type of Offer: Licensing



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