Washer assembly with seal for lightning-protection fasteners and method of use
US11001393B2 · kind B2 · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Sep 27, 2018 |
| Grant date | May 11, 2021 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Aug 5, 2039 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC B)Performing Operations; Transporting
- CPC primaryB32B2605/18
- WIPO fieldMechanical elements
- WIPO sectorMechanical engineering
Abstract
A method of protecting an air vehicle against lightning strikes includes inserting a fastener through a hole in conjoined structures, the fastener defining an axis along its length and having a threaded end and a sleeve, and installing a washer assembly over the threaded end and the sleeve, the washer assembly having a metallic washer and a polymer seal radially inward of the metallic washer. The seal includes a lower seal portion defining a counter-bore, and an upper seal portion extending axially from the lower seal portion. The method includes installing a counter-bored nut on the threaded end, and applying torque to the nut to compress the lower seal portion against a surface of the conjoined structures and around the sleeve at the counter-bore of the seal, and to compress the upper seal portion of the seal into a counter-bore of the nut and around the threaded end.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.