US20230060398A1

US20230060398A1 - Methods and Apparatuses for Extracting Fasteners

Info

Publication number: US20230060398A1
Application number: US18/049,489
Authority: US
Inventors: Paul Kukucka; Thomas Stefan Kukucka
Original assignee: Grip Holdings LLC
Current assignee: Grip Holdings LLC
Priority date: 2016-04-27
Filing date: 2022-10-25
Publication date: 2023-03-02
Also published as: US20220040834A1; US12403574B2

Abstract

A method for removing a fastener with an extractor tool. The method comprising providing the fastener and the extractor tool, wherein the fastener includes a head portion and the extractor tool includes a drive head, a torque-tool body, an external thread, and a tubular sleeve. The method further comprising driving the torque-tool body of the extractor tool into an engagement recess of the fastener head portion and applying rotational force to the extractor tool to rotate the fastener. The method further comprising rotating the tubular sleeve along the external thread and into contact with the fastener, pressing the external sleeve axially against the fastener to remove the fastener from the extractor tool.

Description

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

The present invention relates generally to tools and methods for extracting and removing fasteners, particularly bolts and nuts. More specifically, the present invention discloses methods for using anti-slip threaded extractors, designed to remove damaged fasteners.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

Hex bolts, nuts, screws, and other similar threaded devices are used to secure and hold multiple components together by being engaged to a complimentary thread, known as a female thread. The general structure of these types of fasteners is a cylindrical shaft with an external thread and a head at one end of the shaft. The external thread engages a complimentary female thread tapped into a hole or a nut and secures the fastener in place, thus fastening the associated components together. To engage the fastener, the head receives an external torque force from an external tool such as a wrench or screwdriver which rotates the rest of the fastener, thus driving the fastener into the female threading. Further, the head is shaped specifically to allow the external tool to apply the torque to the fastener in order to rotate the fastener and engage the complimentary female threading to a certain degree. This type of fastener is simple, extremely effective, cheap, and highly popular in modern construction.
One of the most common problems in using these types of fasteners, whether male or female, is the tool slipping in the head portion, or slipping on the head portion. This is generally caused by either a worn fastener or tool, corrosion, overtightening, or damage to the head portion of the fastener. Now, various methods may be used to remove a fastener, some more aggressive than others, as once a fastener head is damaged, a more aggressive method must be implemented to remove the seized fastener. Drilling out the fastener is a common method utilized by some users to dislodge the fastener. While this method can prove to be effective in some scenarios, there is a high risk of damaging the internal threads of the hole. So, an objective of the present invention is to provide an extractor removal system that virtually eliminates the chance of slippage. The method of the present invention uses a tool with a series of integrated splines that bite into the head of the fastener and allow for efficient torque transfer between the extractor bit and the head portion of the fastener. Another common issue when using traditional bolt extractors is that material from the fastener or the actual fastener remains attached to the extractor tool. The present invention allows users to dislodge any remaining material and or the fastener from the extracting tool.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

FIG. 1 is a top front perspective view of extractor tool of the present invention.

FIG. 2 is a magnified view of the torque-tool body of the extractor tool shown in FIG. 1 .

FIG. 3 is a side view of an embodiment of the extractor tool.

FIG. 4 is an enlarged vertical cross-sectional view taken along line 4-4 in FIG. 3 .

FIG. 5 is a top view of an embodiment of the extractor tool.

FIG. 6 is a magnified view of the torque-tool body of the extractor tool shown in FIG. 5 .

FIG. 7 is a top front perspective view showing an embodiment of the extractor tool, wherein the extractor tool is shown with two shank bodies and two torque-tool bodies.

FIG. 8 is a top front perspective view showing the tubular sleeve of the extractor tool.

FIG. 9 is a front view showing the tubular sleeve of the extractor tool.

FIG. 10 is a vertical cross-sectional view of the tubular sleeve of the extractor tool taken along line 10-10 in FIG. 9 .

FIG. 11 is a top front perspective view showing the tubular sleeve engaged with the external thread of the extractor tool of the present invention.

FIG. 12 is a top front perspective view of an embodiment of the extractor tool.

FIG. 13 is a magnified view of the torque-tool body of the embodiment of the extractor tool shown in FIG. 12 .

FIG. 14 is a side view of an embodiment of the extractor tool.

FIG. 15 is an enlarged vertical cross-sectional view taken along line 15-15 in FIG. 14 .

FIG. 16 is a magnified view of the torque-tool body of the embodiment of the extractor tool shown in FIG. 14 .

FIG. 17 is a top perspective view of an embodiment of the extractor tool.

FIG. 18 is a top view of an embodiment of the extractor tool.

FIG. 19 is a top perspective view of an embodiment of the extractor tool.

FIG. 20 is a top front perspective view showing an embodiment of the extractor tool, wherein the extractor tool is shown with two shank bodies and two torque-tool bodies.

FIG. 21 is a perspective view showing the extractor tool engaged with the fastener, the first external torque tool, and the second external torque tool.

FIG. 22 is a perspective view showing the extractor tool engaged with the fastener.

FIG. 23 is a perspective view showing the extractor tool and the fastener.

FIG. 24 is a flowchart of a method of using the extractor tool of the present invention in accordance with at least one embodiment of the present invention.

DETAIL DESCRIPTIONS OF THE INVENTION

All illustrations of the drawings are for the purpose of describing selected versions of the present invention and are not intended to limit the scope of the present invention.
The present invention is generally related to extraction tools, extraction tool accessories, and methods for using such tools and accessories. More specifically, the present invention discloses various designs for extractor apparatuses, including both male and female embodiments. In addition The method of the present invention aims to solve the issue of removing damaged fasteners from an extractor tool by using a releasable sleeve coupled to an extractor tool, specifically designed to assist users with removing any pieces of broken fastener which may become immovable from the extractor tool.
Referring to FIG. 1 through 6 and 12 through 16 , the extractor tool 100 of the present invention comprises at least one shank body 1 and at least one torque-tool body 3. The at least one shank body 1 allows the present invention to be attached to an external torque tool 70 and, thus, allows torque to be applied to the fastener 60 through the at least one torque-tool body 3 for extraction, similar to traditional designs. External torque tools 70 include, but are not limited to, electric drills, torque wrenches, pneumatic drills, socket screw drivers, and any other tools able to transmit torque. Further, the at least one shank body 1 preferably has a circular cross-sectional profile, but other polygonal profiles may be used if preferred and are considered part of the present invention.
The torque-tool body 3 is preferably a shank-like structure which engages the seized fastener 60. The fastener 60 may be any fastener having a thread, such as a threaded stud, or a fastener with an engagement recess 62 in the head portion 61 of the fastener, such as a socket screw, a socket bolt, or a specific sized drilled hole within a broken stud, any threaded shank, pipe or threadably removable object in order to apply torque force to dislodge said seized fastener 60. In the preferred embodiment, the outer diameter of the torque tool body 3 is greater than the diameter of the engagement recess 62. Referring to FIG. 1 through 6 and 12 through 16 , the at least one torque-tool body 3 comprises a plurality of laterally-bracing sidewalls 4 and at least one engagement feature 8. In general, the at least one torque-tool body 3 is preferably a prism composed of a strong metal that is terminally and concentrically connected to the shank body 1. The at least one torque-tool body 3 is terminally and concentrically connected to the at least one shank body 1. This arrangement forms an overall elongated and cylindrical structure. The plurality of laterally-bracing sidewalls 4 is radially positioned about a rotation axis 12 of the at least one torque-tool body 3 and may yield a geometric profile complimentary to that of a socket fastener or aperture within any rationally removable object. The number of sidewalls in the plurality of laterally-bracing sidewalls 4 is subject to change to compliment the shape and profile of a variety of socket fasteners. Moreover, each of the plurality of laterally-bracing sidewalls 4 engage within and grip the fastener 60 in order to efficiently transfer torque from the external torque tool 70 to the fastener 60. In one embodiment, the number of the plurality of laterally-bracing sidewalls 4 is six and the resulting geometric profile of the at least one torque-tool body 3 is a hexagon. In an alternative embodiment, the number of the plurality of laterally-bracing sidewalls 4 is four and the resulting geometric profile of the at least one torque-tool body 3 is a square. In alternative embodiments, the shank body 1 and torque tool body 3 may be the same shape or comprise the same components. In other words, the engagement cavity 8, the bracing surface 7, and the engagement tooth 33 may continue along the length of the elongated tool.
In one embodiment, the at least one engagement feature 8 is preferably an engagement cavity to create at least one recession on the at least one torque-tool body 3. So, the at least one engagement cavity 8 is integrated into specific sidewall from the plurality of sidewalls 4 to receive the drive features of the fastener's head. Referring to FIGS. 1-6 and 12-16 , each of the plurality of laterally-bracing sidewalls 4 comprises a first lateral edge 5, a second lateral edge 6, and a bracing surface 7. The bracing surface 7 physically presses against a socket fastener 60, specifically against a lateral sidewall of the engagement recess of the head portion 61 of the fastener 60. The first lateral edge 5 and the second lateral edge 6 are positioned opposite to each other across the bracing surface 7. The bracing surface 7 is preferably a flat surface but may be a convex or concave surface, or a combination thereof. When viewed from either the top perspective or the bottom perspective, the first lateral edge 5 and the second lateral edge 6 from each of the plurality of laterally-bracing sidewalls 4 make up the corners of the at least one torque-tool body 3. Moreover, the engagement cavity 8 partially traverses normal and into the bracing surface 7 of the specific sidewall 20 such that at least one engagement tooth 33 is formed on the bracing surface 7 of the specific sidewall. The engagement tooth 33 is created by the engagement cavity 8 and the bracing surface 7 so that the engagement tooth 33 serves as a gripping point for the present invention. In addition, due to the way the at least one engagement tooth 33 is formed on the bracing surface 7, a length of the at least one engagement tooth 33 is less than or equal to a length of the at least one engagement cavity 8. Referring to FIGS. 4 and 15 , a width of the at least one engagement tooth 33 extending from the first base 13 and towards the second base 14 along the rotation axis 12 is also less than or equal to a width of the at least one engagement cavity 8 extending along the rotation axis 12 due to the various profiles that the engagement cavity 8 may have. In alternative embodiments, the engagement tooth 33 may be created by adding material to the bracing surface in the form of a protrusion rather than removing said material.
In some embodiments, the bracing surface 7 of a specific sidewall 20 may be offset to the bracing surface 7 of the adjacent sidewall. In another embodiment, the first lateral edge 5 and the second lateral edge 6 may be positioned coplanar to each other. However, the first lateral edge 5 and the second lateral edge 6 may be positioned offset to each other as well. Referring to FIG. 12 through 16 , the bracing surface 7 width may also taper from the first base 13 towards the second base 14. In other words, a width distance of the bracing surface 7 from first lateral edge 5 to the second lateral edge 6 adjacent to first base 13 may be less than a bracing surface 7 width distance from first lateral edge 5 to second lateral edge 6 adjacent to second base 14.
Referring to FIGS. 4 and 15 , in one embodiment, the entire cross-section 9 of the engagement cavity 8 comprises a curved portion 10 and a straight portion 11. The resulting gripping point is uniquely shaped in order to form the sharp engagement tooth 33 that digs into at least one portion of the fastener 60, allowing material from the internal sidewalls 63 of the engagement recess 62 into the engagement cavity 8, and thus yielding a superior grip over traditional tools which are simply designed to push material away. This is especially true for worn or damaged fasteners. The engagement tooth 33 may be constructed of three surfaces, one being a face surface and two being side surfaces. The face surface may be a flat surface, while the side surfaces may include a concave surface, a convex surface, or a combination of both. Similarly, the bracing surface 7 may be a flat surface, a concave surface, or a convex surface, or a combination of the said surfaces.
Moreover, the curved portion 10 may be a partially circular curve that is positioned adjacent to the first lateral edge 5 of the specific sidewall 20. Referring to FIG. 1 through 6 and 12 through 16 , the straight portion 11 is positioned adjacent to the curved portion 10, opposite to the first lateral edge 5 of the specific sidewall 20. The straight portion 11 guides a portion of the fastener 60 to press against the formed engagement tooth 33. As such, the straight portion 11 extends from the curved portion 10 to the second lateral edge 6 of the specific sidewall 20. Specifically, the straight portion 11 starts at the curved portion 10 and ends at the second lateral edge 6 of the specific sidewall 20. This embodiment may be implemented in a clockwise configuration or a counterclockwise configuration by flipping the positioning of the engagement tooth 33, specifically, the curved portion 10 and the straight portion 11. In other embodiments, the curved portion 10 and/or the straight portion 11 may be replaced with other shape profiles as in straight, concave, or convex shapes, or combination of said shapes or profiles that may result in different shape profiles of the engagement tooth 33. Furthermore, the engagement cavity 8 may traverse normal and into a portion of the bracing surface 7 of the specific sidewall without traversing into a remaining portion of the bracing surface 7 of the specific sidewall. This increases the sharpness of the engagement tooth 33 without affecting the strength of the torque-tool body 3. The remaining portion of the bracing surface 7 of the specific sidewall is also preferably flat which, depending on the design, may result in an arc length of the curved portion 10 being larger than a length of the remaining portion of the bracing surface 7 of the specific sidewall and less than a length of the straight portion 11.
In one embodiment of the present invention, the entire cross-section 9 of the engagement cavity 8 is a partially-circular profile, as shown in FIGS. 4 and 15 . Additionally, the partially-circular profile is concave along a direction from the first lateral edge 5 of the specific sidewall 20 to the second lateral edge 6 of the specific sidewall 20. The partially-circular profile ensures that there are little to no high stress points in the at least one torque-tool body 3, thus increasing the overall longevity of the tool. In a separate embodiment of the present invention, the entire cross-section 9 of the engagement cavity is a triangular profile, as shown in FIG. 17 through 20 . Additionally, the triangular profile is concave along a direction from the first lateral edge 5 of the specific sidewall 20 to the second lateral edge 6 of the specific sidewall 20. Alternative profiles may be used for the engagement cavity 8 including, but not limited to, a semi-square profile, a semi-rectangular profile, and a semi-oval profile. It is preferred that the internal corners of triangular, square, and semi-square type profiles have a radius for additional structural strength. In another embodiment of the present invention, the engagement cavity 8 is centrally positioned on the bracing surface 7 of the specific sidewall 20. In particular, the engagement cavity 8 is positioned offset from the first lateral edge 5 of the specific sidewall 20 by a first distance and offset from the second lateral edge 6 of the specific sidewall 20 by a second distance; wherein the first distance equals the second distance. In an alternative embodiment, the first distance may not be equal to the second distance. This positions the engagement cavity 8 to engage the internal lateral sidewall of the socket fastener for the most efficient transfer of torque with the least possibility of slippage. Additionally, this embodiment may be used to rotate the fastener 60 in either the clockwise or the counterclockwise direction.
In some embodiments, the present invention may further comprise a drive head 2 and at least one external thread 15. Referring to FIG. 1 through 6 and 12 through 16 , like the at least one shank body 1, the drive head 2 allows the present invention to be attached to an external torque tool 70 and, thus, allow torque to be applied to the fastener 60 through the at least one torque-tool body 3 for extraction. The drive head 2 acts as the engagement element for the external torque tool 70. Specifically, the drive head 2 is a nut-shaped element that is terminally and concentrically connected to the at least one shank body 1. The preferred profile of the drive head 2 is a hexagonal profile although alternative geometries may also be utilized. For example, in one embodiment, the drive head 2 has a square profile. In another embodiment, the bottom portion of the drive head 2 is dome shaped. Specifically, the bottom portion is the portion of the drive head 2 that is located opposite the shank body 1, across the drive head 2. The dome-shaped design yields a striking surface where impact force is applied to forcibly insert the torque-tool body 3 into the object to be extracted. However, the striking surface is not limited to being dome shaped. Further, the at least one shank body 1 preferably has a circular cross-sectional profile, but other polygonal profiles may be used if preferred and are considered part of the present invention. In addition, the torque-tool body 3 is positioned opposite the drive head 2, along the at least one shank body 1. Moreover, the at least one external thread 15 extends along the shank body 1 in between the at least one torque-tool body 3 and the drive head 2. Additionally, the at least one external thread 15 is laterally connected to the at least one shank body 1. In other embodiments, the drive head can be replaced with other engagement means.
In some embodiments, the extractor tool 100 of the present invention may further comprise a tubular sleeve 16, an internal thread 17, and a nut 18. Referring to FIG. 8 through 11 , the tubular sleeve 16 is an elongated tubular structure with an internal diameter complimentary to the external diameter of the at least one shank body 1. The tubular sleeve 16, the internal thread 17, the at least one external thread 15, and the nut 18 act as a dislodging mechanism for removing any excess material and/or the fastener 60 from the at least one torque-tool body 3. The preferred tubular sleeve 16 design includes a diameter step-up along the tubular sleeve 16 at a first end of the tubular sleeve 16, wherein the first end of the tubular sleeve 16 is positioned adjacent to the at least one torque-tool body 3. This provides additional engagement surface in between the tubular sleeve 16 and the foreign object affixed to the at least one torque-tool body 3. In general, the tubular sleeve 16 translates along the at least one shank body 1 in order to press against the fastener 60 on the at least one torque-tool body 3 until said fastener 60, fastener portion, or other foreign object, is dislodged. The internal thread 17 is designed complimentary to the external thread 15 for an interlocking fit. The internal thread 17 is positioned within the tubular sleeve 16 and extends along the tubular sleeve 16.
Additionally, the internal thread 17 laterally traverses into the tubular sleeve 16. Referring to FIG. 8 through 11 , for operation, the at least one shank body 1 is concentrically positioned within the tubular sleeve 16 with the internal thread 17 being mechanically engaged to the at least one external thread 15. This allows the tubular sleeve 16 to slide along the at least one shank body 1 when the at least one shank body 1 and the tubular sleeve 16 are spun relative to each other. After the at least one torque-tool body 3 is used to remove the seized fastener 60, the user may need to remove the fastener 60 from the at least one torque-tool body 3. For this, the user simply spins the tubular sleeve 16 about the at least one shank body 1 to slide the tubular sleeve 16 towards the at least one torque-tool body 3 until the tubular sleeve 16 presses against the fastener 60 to dislodge the fastener 60 from the at least one torque-tool body 3. Rotating the tubular sleeve 16 may be done with the user's hands, but in cases where additional leverage is necessary the user may use external torque tools 70, such as wrenches. In one embodiment, a first external torque tool 71 is mechanically engaged to the shank body 1 through the drive head 2 and a second external torque tool 72 is mechanically engaged to the tubular sleeve 16 through the nut 18. For this, the nut 18 is terminally and concentrically connected to the tubular sleeve 16. Similar to the tubular sleeve 16, the at least one shank body 1 is also positioned within the nut 18. The preferred shaped of the nut 18 is a hex, although alternative geometries may also be used. The size, length, and material composition of the tubular sleeve 16 and the nut 18 are subject to change to meet the needs and preferences of the user. The tubular sleeve 16 may further comprise any polygonal shape complementary to the nut 18 or otherwise. In some embodiments, the tubular sleeve 16 and the nut 18 may be constructed of a single polygonal shape and or a single piece.
Furthermore, in some embodiments, referring to FIG. 1 through 6 and 12 through 16 , the at least one engagement feature 8 preferably comprises a plurality of engagement features 19. For this, the plurality of engagement features 19 is radially positioned about the rotation axis 12 with each of the plurality of engagement features 19 being integrated into the corresponding laterally-bracing sidewall from the plurality of laterally-bracing sidewalls 4. This configuration yields an additional gripping feature on each of the plurality of laterally-bracing sidewalls 4 that ensure that a significant grip is created in between the extractor tool 100 and the fastener 60.
In some embodiments, the at least one torque-tool body 3 may further comprise a first base 13 and a second base 14 corresponding to the bases of polygonal-shaped body, as shown in FIG. 1 through 6 and 12 through 20 . In one embodiment, the engagement feature 8 extends into the torque-tool body 3 from the first base 13 towards the second base 14. This ensures that the engagement tooth 33 extends along the length of the at least one torque-tool body 3 for maximum grip engagement. Referring to FIG. 1 through 6 , the first base 13 and the second base 14 are positioned opposite and preferably parallel to each other along the plurality of laterally-bracing sidewalls 4; wherein the at least one shank body 1 is adjacently connected to the second base 14, opposite the first base 13. In some embodiments, the first base 13 and second base 14 are oriented perpendicular to each of the plurality of laterally-bracing sidewalls 4 and thus enclose/complete the prism shape of the at least one torque-tool body 3. More specifically, it is preferred that the first base 13 comprises a first base surface, wherein the first base surface is flat and is oriented perpendicular to the each of the plurality of laterally-bracing sidewalls 4. Further, the first base 13 may be convex shaped to yield a point, similar to a tool punch. When impact force is applied to the drive head 2, the engagement tooth 33 cuts grooves into the sidewall of the engagement recess 62 or aperture drilled or manufactured within the threaded object to be removed. Further, the at least one torque-tool body 3 may taper from the second base 14 towards the first base 13 to allow the present invention to be used on fasteners 60 of different sizes or shapes. The degree of taper is subject to change to meet the needs and preferences of the user. In one embodiment of the present invention, the torque-tool body 3 may be connected to various implements including, but not limited to, impact tools, hydraulic screws, wrench sockets, and screwdrivers. To further ensure maximum grip engagement, it is preferred that an entire cross-section 9 of the engagement cavity 8 is oriented parallel to the first base 13 and the second base 14. The bracing surface 7 width may also taper from the first base 13 towards the second base 14. In other words, a width distance of the bracing surface 7 from first lateral edge 5 to the second lateral edge 6 adjacent to first base 13 may be less than a bracing surface 7 width distance from first lateral edge 5 to second lateral edge 6 adjacent to second base 14. The aforesaid may be further described as the diameter of the torque tool body 3 being smaller adjacent to the first base 13 than the diameter of the torque tool body 3 adjacent to the second base 14.
In one embodiment, referring to FIGS. 7 and 20 , the present invention is implemented in a double-ended configuration. In this embodiment, the at least one shank body 1 comprises a first shank body 22 and a second shank body 23; the at least one torque-tool body 3 comprises a first torque-tool body 24 and a second torque-tool body 25; and the at least one external thread 15 comprises a first external thread 26 and a second external thread 27. This embodiment provides a dual sided version for the present invention, wherein the two sides may be differently designed and or oriented for increased versatility; specifically, this allows the present invention to be utilized for clockwise rotation and counterclockwise rotation. The first shank body 22 and the second shank body 23 are positioned opposite to each other across the drive head 2. The first torque-tool body 24 is terminally and concentrically connected to the first shank body 22, opposite the drive head 2. The first external thread 26 extends along the first shank body 22, in between the first torque-tool body 24 and the drive head 2; additionally, the first external thread 26 is laterally connected to the first shank body 22. This outlines a single engagement side of the present invention. Mirroring this, the second torque-tool body 25 is terminally and concentrically connected to the second shank body 23, opposite the drive head 2. The second external thread 27 extends along the second shank body 23, in between the second torque-tool body 25 and the drive head 2; additionally, the second external thread 27 is laterally connected to the second shank body 23. In this embodiment, the type of engagement cavities of the first torque-tool body 24 may vary from the type of engagement cavities of the second torque-tool body 25 to yield a two-in-one tool.
In some embodiments, the present invention may further comprise at least one cavity-transition feature 28 and a plurality of wall-transition features 29. Both the at least one cavity-transition feature 28 and the plurality of wall-transition features 29 provide a smoother shift from the at least one engagement cavity 8 and the plurality of laterally-bracing sidewalls 4 to the torque-tool body 3 and consequently to the shank body 1. As previously discussed, the at least one engagement cavity 8 is integrated into specific sidewall from the plurality of sidewalls 4. Referring to FIG. 1 through 6 and 12 through 16 , the at least one cavity-transition feature 28 is terminally integrated into the engagement cavity 8, adjacent to the shank body 1. This also facilitates the insertion of the at least one torque-tool body 3 into the engagement recess 62 in the fasteners head portion 61. Moreover, each of the plurality of wall-transition features 29 is terminally integrated into a corresponding laterally-bracing sidewall from the plurality of laterally-bracing sidewalls 4, adjacent to the shank body 1. In addition, each of the plurality of wall-transition features 29 may be terminally integrated into the corresponding engagement tooth 33 to increase the overall width of the engagement tooth 33. So, the number of wall-transition features 29 matches the number of laterally-bracing sidewalls 4 to form a symmetrical structure. Alternatively, the number of wall-transition features 29 may not match the number of laterally-bracing sidewalls 4 in an asymmetrical fashion.
In one embodiment, the at least one cavity-transition feature 28 comprises a first feature end 30 and a second feature end 31 corresponding to the ends of the cavity-transition feature. Referring to FIG. 1 through 6 and 12 through 16 , the first feature end 30 is positioned offset from the shank body 1, while the second feature end 31 is positioned adjacent to the shank body 1. This results in the at least one cavity-transition feature 28 to extend a desired distance into the at least one shank body 1. Moreover, the at least one cavity-transition feature 28 tapers from the first feature end 30 to the second feature end 31, or from the second feature end 31 to the first feature end 30, resulting in a curved, smooth transition from the at least one engagement cavity 8 to the at least one shank body 1. In other embodiments, the at least one cavity-transition feature 28 can include other non-curved designs. Furthermore, the at least one cavity-transition feature 28 may also comprise a plurality of cavity-transition features 32, similar to how the at least one engagement cavity 8 may be a plurality of engagement cavities 19. Like the plurality of engagement cavities 19, each of the plurality of cavity-transition features 32 is terminally integrated into a corresponding engagement cavity form the plurality of engagement cavities 19, adjacent to the shank body 1.
In other embodiments, the engagement cavity 8 may be replaced with an engagement protrusion. Referring to FIG. 17 through 20 , the engagement protrusion is material extruding from the torque-tool body 3 that creates an additional gripping element to the specific sidewall. Specifically, the engagement protrusion is laterally connected to the bracing surface 7 of the specific sidewall. Additionally, the engagement protrusion extends from the first base 13 to the second base 14 to ensure the additional gripping element extends along the length of the torque-tool body 3. This allows the present invention to engage the socket fastener at an increased depth, thus maximizing the torque applied to the fastener 60. Furthermore, it is preferred that the engagement protrusion is centrally positioned in between the first lateral edge 5 of the specific sidewall and the second lateral edge 6 of the specific sidewall to allow for this embodiment to be used as a clockwise and counterclockwise tool. To ensure consistent grip along the torque-tool body 3, an entire cross-section 19 of the engagement protrusion is parallel to the first base 13 and the second base 14.
Referring to FIG. 21-23 , the fastener 60 used in the method of the present invention may have a machined engagement recess 62 as found in a socket screw. Alternatively, in cases where the fastener 60 does not have an engagement recess 62 or the engagement recess 62 is damaged, a first step of the present invention may be drilling a hole in the head portion 61 of the fastener 60. In the preferred embodiment, the outer diameter of the torque tool body 3 is greater than the diameter of the engagement recess 62 to create a tight fit between the torque-tool body 3 and the fastener 60 and allow the at least one engagement tooth 33 to cut a groove in the internal sidewalls 63 of the engagement recess 62. Once a proper engagement recess 62 is present in the fastener 60, the extractor tool 100 is driven into the engagement recess 62. Specifically, the torque-tool body 3 of the extractor tool 100 is axially engaged with the engagement recess 62. In some embodiments of the present invention, the torque-tool body 3 is engaged with the engagement recess 62 by applying percussion blows to the drive head 2 of the extractor tool 100. As the torque-tool body 3 is engaged with the engagement recess 62, the at least one engagement tooth 33 cuts into the internal sidewalls 63 of the engagement recess 62, so as to create grooves in the engagement recess 62. The cut grooves allow the torque-tool body 3 to securely seat and engage with the fastener 60. While these grooves are preferably cut parallel to the rotational axis of the fastener 60, the grooves may instead be cut offset with the rotational axis either by at least one engagement tooth 33 being offset from the rotational axis of the torque-tool body 3, or by arranging the rotational axis of the torque-tool body 3 offset from the rotational axis of the fastener 60 when engaging the torque-tool body 3 with the engagement recess 62.
Once the extractor tool 100 is engaged with the fastener 60, the tubular sleeve 16 may be rotated about the at least one shank body 1 by the external thread 15 until the tubular sleeve 16 is in contact with the fastener 60. This connection between the tubular sleeve 16 and the fastener 60 provides addition stability in the connection between the extractor tool 100 and the fastener 60. A first external torque tool 71 may then be engaged with the extractor tool 100 at the drive head 2. The extractor tool 100 and the fastener 60 may be rotated by applying torque to the first external torque tool 71 in either a clockwise or anticlockwise direction depending on the threading orientation of the fastener 60. By applying torque to the first external torque tool 71, engagement between the extractor tool 100 and the fastener 60 is reinforced through the plurality of engagement features 19 transferring the torque force to the internal sidewalls 63 of the engagement recess 62. Once the fastener 60 has been unthreaded, the fastener 60 can be removed from the extractor tool 100 by applying rotational force to the tubular sleeve 16, moving the tubular sleeve 16, axially along the external thread 15 toward and against the fastener 60. In many cases, the fastener 60 will be tightly engaged with the extractor tool 100, requiring greater rotational force on the tubular sleeve 16 than can be readily applied by a user's hands. Thus, a second external torque tool 72 may be engaged with nut 18 to apply greater rotational force to the tubular sleeve 16. In such a case, the first external torque tool 71 is engaged with the drive head 2 and the second external torque tool 72 is engaged with the nut 18, then torque is simultaneously applied in opposite directions to the first external torque tool 71 and the second external torque tool 72. The tubular sleeve 16 preferably has a smooth bottom surface that presses against the fastener 60, keeping the tubular sleeve 16 from catching or binding with the fastener 60 during rotation. Rotation of the tubular sleeve 16 along the external thread 15 moves the tubular sleeve axially along the rotational axis of the extractor tool 100, pressing the fastener 60 away from the extractor tool 100 and dislodging the fastener 60 from the extractor tool 100.
Thus, FIG. 24 is a flowchart of a method 200 for using an extractor tool. At 202, the method 200 includes providing a fastener 60, the fastener having a head portion 61. Further, the method 200 may include a step 204 of drilling an engagement recess 62 in the head portion 61 of the fastener 60. Further, the method 200 may include a step 206 of providing an extractor tool 100, the extractor tool having a drive head 2, a torque-tool body 3, a plurality of engagement features 19, an external thread 15, and a tubular sleeve 16. In the preferred embodiment of the present method, the outer diameter of the torque-tool body 3 is greater than the diameter of the engagement recess 62. Further, the method 200 may include a step 208 of driving the torque tool body 3 of the extractor tool 100 into the engagement recess 62 of the fastener 60. The method 200 may also include the optional step 209 of cutting at least one groove in the internal sidewalls 63 of the engagement recess 62. Further, the method 200 may include a step 210 of providing a first external torque arm 71 and a step 212 of engaging the first external torque tool 71 with the drive head 2 of the extractor tool 100. Further the method 200 may include a step 214 of applying torque force to the first external torque arm 71 to rotate the fastener 60. Further, the method 200 may include a step 216 of rotating the tubular sleeve 16 along the external thread 15 and into contact with the fastener 60. Further, the method 200 may include a step 218 of providing a second external torque tool 72 and a step 220 of engaging the second external torque tool 72 with a nut 18 of the tubular sleeve 16. Finally, the method 200 may include a step 222 of applying torque force to the first external torque tool 71 and the second external torque tool 72 in opposite directions to press the tubular sleeve 16 axially against the fastener 60, removing the fastener 60 from the extractor tool 100.
It is understood that while some embodiments described within the application of the present invention are for use in a socket fastener 60 having an engagement recess 62 in the head portion 61, the removed subject is not limited to a socket fastener. It is further understood that a socket fastener 60 is merely used as an example and that the afore described torque tool body 3 embodiments are designed for use in any rotationally removable object. It is further understood that the afore described embodiments are designed to engage within the aperture of any rotationally removable objects wherein the torque tool body 3 may be forcibly driven into the aperture of the rotationally removable object by percussion blows to the drive head 2 and rotationally removed by applying rotational torque to the drive head 2 by an external torque tool.
Although the invention has been explained in relation to its preferred embodiment, it is to be understood that many other possible modifications and variations can be made without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention as hereinafter claimed.

Claims

What is claimed is:

1. A method for engaging a fastener, the method comprising the following steps:

providing a fastener;

providing an extractor tool, the extractor tool having a drive head, a torque-tool body, an external thread, and a tubular sleeve;

driving the torque-tool body of the extractor tool into an engagement recess of the fastener;

applying rotational force to the extractor tool to rotate the fastener; and

rotating the tubular sleeve along the external thread and into contact with the fastener, pressing the external sleeve axially against the fastener to remove the fastener from the extractor tool.

2. The method for engaging a fastener of claim 1, further comprising:

drilling the engagement recess in the head portion of the fastener prior to driving the torque-tool body of the extractor tool into the engagement recess.

3. The method for engaging a fastener of claim 1, further comprising:

providing a first external torque tool; and

engaging the first external torque tool with the drive head of the extractor tool to apply rotational force to the extractor tool.

4. The method for engaging a fastener of claim 1, further comprising:

providing a second external torque tool; and

engaging the second external torque tool with the tubular sleeve to rotate the tubular sleeve along the external thread.

5. The method for engaging a fastener of claim 1, further comprising:

applying percussion blows to the drive head of the extractor tool to drive the torque-tool body into the engagement recess.

6. The method for engaging a fastener of claim 1, wherein the torque-tool body further comprises at least one engagement tooth configured to cut at least one groove into internal sidewalls of the engagement recess.

7. The method for engaging a fastener of claim 1, wherein the tubular sleeve is threadedly engaged with the external thread and configured to move axially along a rotational axis of the extractor tool when rotated relative to the external thread.

8. The method for engaging a fastener of claim 1, wherein the torque-tool body further comprises a plurality of laterally-bracing sidewalls and at least one engagement feature.

9. The method for engaging a fastener of claim 1, wherein the fastener further comprises a head portion, wherein the engagement recess is arranged in the head portion.

10. The method for engaging a fastener of claim 1, wherein the step of driving the torque-tool body into the engagement recess further comprises cutting at least one groove into an internal sidewall of the fastener recess.

11. The method for engaging a fastener of claim 1, wherein an outer diameter of the torque-tool body is greater than a diameter of the engagement recess.

12. A method for engaging a fastener, the method comprising the following steps:

providing a fastener;

wherein the torque-tool body further comprises a plurality of laterally-bracing sidewalls and at least one engagement feature;

providing a first external torque arm;

engaging the first external torque tool with the drive head of the extractor tool to apply rotational force to the extractor tool

providing a second external torque arm; and

engaging the second external torque tool with the tubular sleeve to rotate the tubular sleeve along the external thread and into contact with the fastener, pressing the external sleeve axially against the fastener to remove the fastener from the extractor tool.

13. The method for engaging a fastener of claim 12, further comprising:

14. The method for engaging a fastener of claim 12, further comprising:

15. The method for engaging a fastener of claim 12, wherein the torque-tool body further comprises at least one engagement tooth configured to cut at least one groove into internal sidewalls of the engagement recess.

16. The method for engaging a fastener of claim 12, wherein the tubular sleeve is threadedly engaged with the external thread and configured to move axially along a rotational axis of the extractor tool when rotated relative to the external thread.

17. The method for engaging a fastener of claim 12, wherein the fastener further comprises a head portion, wherein the engagement recess is arranged in the head portion.

18. The method for engaging a fastener of claim 12, wherein the step of driving the torque-tool body into the engagement recess further comprises cutting at least one groove into an internal sidewall of the fastener recess.

19. The method for engaging a fastener of claim 12, wherein an outer diameter of the torque-tool body is greater than a diameter of the engagement recess.