Quick connect fastener

U.S. Patent Number: 5340252

Abstract: A quick connect fastener for attachment to an axially elongated externally threaded member by axially thrusting the fastener onto the member, the fastener having an outer casing including a passageway having a frusto-conical surface. A segmented core having four internally threaded shells is positioned within the casing, the shells having a frusto-conical outer surface and a cylindrical annulus including a standard thread profile. The shells include a groove at each end for receiving a C-shaped clip which urge the shells radially outwardly and toward the larger end of the passageway. A coil spring positioned within the nut casing at the larger end acts to urge the shells toward a surface acting as a stop at the smaller end which limits movement of the shells and counteracts a substantial amount of the tension of the externally threaded member. Raised keys on the surfaces of the shells are received within grooves in the casing so that the shells rotate upon rotation of the shell.

Inventors: Weddendorf; Bruce (Decatur, AL)

Assignee: The United States of America as represented by the United States (Washington, DC)

Application Number: 08/069,481

Issued: 1994-08-23

Expired: 2006-08-23

Classes: 411/267 ; 411/433

Field of search: 411/82,267,433,437,253,254,255,266,281,935,108 292/251

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