WO2023205840A1

WO2023205840A1 - A retention device and method of use thereof

Info

Publication number: WO2023205840A1
Application number: PCT/AU2023/050328
Authority: WO
Inventors: Joseph Guinea
Original assignee: JJ & D Innovations Pty Ltd
Priority date: 2022-04-29
Filing date: 2023-04-21
Publication date: 2023-11-02

Abstract

A load support device and method of use thereof is provided for securing a load relative to a threaded projection. In one form, the device includes: a body having a mounting end, an opposed outer end and at least one sidewall extending therebetween, said body defining a receiving passageway extending through the mounting end at least partially towards the outer end, said receiving passageway configured to at least partially receive the threaded projection therein; and a plurality of wedge elements aligned and arranged within the body to engage with the threaded projection, said wedge elements configured to be axially moveable relative to the body and the receiving passageway for expanding and fitting about the threaded projection.

Description

A RETENTION DEVICE AND METHOD OF USE THEREOF

TECHNICAL FIELD

[0001 ] The present invention relates to a retention device for quickly securing a load relative to a threaded projection.

BACKGROUND

[0002] In the construction, mining, and civil engineering and general mechanical industries, threaded fasteners, such as, e.g., bolts and nuts, are commonly used to join together structural elements.

[0003] For example, under conventional building practice such structural elements, such as, e.g., a steel beam, are usually individually lifted and positioned relative to a building construction by a crane. Workers are positioned to receive and fasten each structural element in place with nuts and bolts, while the structural element is supported and retained by the crane. Once a structural element is securely fastened, the crane is disengaged from the element so that it can lift and position further structural elements.

[0004] A major problem with this conventional building practice is the delay while each structural element is securely fastened in place. Such delays quickly add up and consume costly crane time, as the crane is required to support the structural element in place while it is being fastened and is unable to be disengaged until the structural element is securely fastened in place.

[0005] Moreover, the delay while each structural element is securely fastened in place, translates to a period in which the unsecured structural element is able to shift, swing or, in the worst case scenario, drop. During this period, the unsecured element poses a significant injury risk to all nearby workers, as it can quite readily injure, crush or even kill a worker while unsecured.

[0006] To combat such delays, current best practice is to hire multiple cranes, so that multiple structural elements may be positioned and supported in parallel. However, this is not a cost-effective solution, since the hiring of cranes is expensive, particularly when constructing in remote locations. Further, the multiple cranes are limited to operating in distinct areas on a construction site, as it is unsafe for them to be operating in close vicinity.

[0007] It will be clearly understood that, if a prior art publication is referred to herein, this reference does not constitute an admission that the publication forms part of the common general knowledge in the art in Australia or in any other country.

SUMMARY OF INVENTION

[0008] Embodiments of the present invention provide a retention device and method of use, which may at least partially address one or more of the problems or deficiencies mentioned above or which may provide the public with a useful or commercial choice.

[0009] According to a first aspect of the present invention, there is provided a retention device for securing a load relative to threaded projection, said device including: a body having a mounting end, an opposed outer end and at least one sidewall extending therebetween, said body defining a receiving passageway extending through the mounting end at least partially towards the outer end, said receiving passageway tapering in diameter from an opposite end to the mounting end and configured to at least partially receive the threaded projection therein; and a plurality of wedge elements aligned and arranged within the body to engage with the threaded projection, said wedge elements configured to be axially moveable relative to the body and the receiving passageway for expanding and fitting about the threaded projection, at least one of said plurality of wedge elements having an opening defined therein for receiving a fastener through the sidewall and therein for fixing the at least one of the plurality of wedge elements relative to the body when threadingly disengaging the retention device from the threaded projection.

[0010] Advantageously, the retaining device of the present invention provides a quick and reliable means for temporarily (or even permanently) retaining a load relative to a threaded projection, thus enabling a crane to be freed from the load to lift and position further loads, for example. Moreover, the speed with which the load can be reliably secured significantly improves the safety of all workers within the vicinity of the load. Further, once freed the retaining device can be readily substituted for a nut fastener without consuming crane time.

[0011 ] As indicated above, the retention device of the present invention is configured to engage with a threaded projection, such as, e.g., a protruding threaded bolt, cable or rod, to secure a load relative to the threaded projection, especially to temporarily secure the load. It will therefore be convenient to hereinafter describe the retention device to this example application. However, a person skilled in the art will appreciate that the retention device is capable of broader applications, such as, e.g., as a load support.

[0012] As used herein, the term “threaded projection” may include any elongate threaded object ordinarily used as part of a threaded fastener system. For example, the threaded projection may include a threaded bolt, cable or rod, preferably a threaded bolt commonly used in conjunction with a nut fastener.

[0013] The retention device may be of any suitable size, shape and construction and may be formed from any suitable material or materials for engaging with a threaded projection and retaining a load relative thereto, preferably temporarily.

[0014] As indicated, the device includes a body having a receiving passageway for at least partially receiving the threaded projection therein.

[0015] The body may be of unitary construction or may be formed/constructed from two or more body pieces, preferably the latter.

[0016] The body includes the mounting end, an opposed said outer end and at least one sidewall extending therebetween, preferably longitudinally.

[0017] The at least one sidewall may be flat, rounded or curved.

[0018] The mounting end may include a receiving opening defined therein, preferably centrally defined. The receiving passageway may extend from the receiving opening at least partially towards the outer end.

[0019] The body may include any suitable cross-sectional shape. For example, the body may have a circular, oval-shaped, triangular, rectangular, pentagonal, hexagonal, or octagonal cross-sectional shape, preferably substantially circular.

[0020] The receiving opening and the receiving passageway may be of any suitable size and shape for receiving the threaded projection at least partially therein.

[0021 ] As indicated, the receiving passageway may extend from the mounting end at least partially towards the outer end.

[0022] The receiving passageway tapers in diameter from or near the opposed outer end at least partially towards the mounting end, preferably gradually. In such embodiments, the receiving passageway may have a smaller diameter at or near the mounting end than a diameter at or near the opposed outer end.

[0023] In preferred embodiments, the body may be in the form of a barrel having the receiving opening defined at the mounting end, and an access port defined at the outer end. The receiving opening and the access port may be in fluid communication with each other by way of the receiving passageway extending longitudinally therebetween. The access port may be centrally defined in the outer end. The access port may have a greater diameter than the receiving opening and the receiving passageway may taper in diameter from the access port to the receiving opening, preferably gradually.

[0024] As indicated, the device further includes a plurality of wedge elements configured to be aligned and arranged within the body for engaging with the threaded projection received therein.

[0025] Each wedge element may be of any suitable size, shape and construction to be located in the body, preferably about a periphery of the receiving passageway defined therein.

[0026] Generally, each wedge element may include a tip, an opposed base and a wedge body extending longitudinally therebetween.

[0027] The tip may be configured to be arranged at or near the mounting end of the body. Likewise, the opposed base may be configured to be arranged at or near the opposed outer end of the body.

[0028] The wedge body may include an inner wall, an opposed outer wall and a pair of opposed sidewalls extending longitudinally between the tip and the base. The wedge body may include an arcuate shape configured to complement a curved inner surface of the receiving passageway, when viewed in cross section along a longitudinal axis.

[0029] The inner wall may preferably include a concave surface defined thereon.

[0030] Each wedge element may taper in width from the base to the tip so as to enable the wedge elements to be arranged about a periphery of the tapering receiving passageway in a side-by-side arrangement.

[0031 ] The plurality of wedge elements may include any suitable number of wedge elements configured to be arranged about the periphery of the receiving passageway. For example, the plurality of wedge elements may include three, four, five, six, seven, eight, nine or even 10 wedge elements, preferably three wedge elements.

[0032] In some embodiments, the inner wall of each wedge element may further include a plurality of grooves defined thereon. The plurality of grooves may preferably extend across the concave surface of the wedge elements in a lateral direction extending at least partially between the opposed sidewalls.

[0033] Typically, the plurality of groove may be adapted to match, or complement, an external thread on the threaded projection.

[0034] In preferred embodiments, the plurality of grooves on the wedge elements arranged about a periphery of the receiving passageway may be configured to combine to form an internal thread adapted to threadingly engage with the external thread of the threaded projection.

[0035] In some embodiments, each wedge element may include a chamfer at or near the tip to guide an external thread of the threaded projection during engagement. The chamfer may preferably be configured to guide and align a threaded projection as it is receiving in the receiving passageway via the receiving opening relative to the wedge elements.

[0036] The wedge elements may preferably be axially moveable relative to the body and the receiving passageway to expand and fit about a threaded projection, when the retaining device is pressed onto the threaded projection.

[0037] In such embodiments, the wedge elements may preferably be axially moveable relative to the body and the receiving passageway to constrict about a threaded projection receiving therein when the device is moved away from the threaded projection to advantageously prevent disengagement from the threaded projection.

[0038] In some embodiments, the device may further include one or more biasing members or mechanisms for biasing the plurality of wedge elements towards the mounting end of the device.

[0039] Any suitable biasing member or mechanism may be used. For example, the one or more biasing members or mechanisms may include one or more springs, such as, e.g., coil springs. Conversely, the one or more biasing members or mechanisms may include magnetized elements arranged in a state of repulsion, for example.

[0040] In some such embodiments, the one or more biasing members or mechanisms may include a spring located between the wedge elements and the outer end of the body, so that axial movement of the wedge elements towards the outer end acts against a biasing force of the one or more biasing members or mechanisms, and movement of the wedge elements towards the mounting end acts under the force of the one or more biasing members or mechanisms.

[0041 ] In some embodiments, the device may further include an alignment member or mechanism for aligning the wedge elements relative to each other in the body, preferable in the side-by-side arrangement.

[0042] Any suitable alignment member or mechanism may be used that is known in the art. For example, in some embodiments, the alignment member or mechanism may include an Ciring or clip configured to substantially align the wedge elements relative to each other yet allow expansion when fitting about a threaded projection.

[0043] In some such embodiments, each wedge element may include a retaining groove for at least partially receiving the O-ring or clip and aligning the wedge elements relative to each other. The retaining groove may be defined in the outer wall at or near the base. The grooves may substantially align in each of the wedge elements.

[0044] In such embodiments, the O-ring or clip may additionally function as a biasing member for biasing the wedge elements towards the mounting end of the body or away from the outer end. In such embodiments, the biasing force of the O-ring or clip may cause the plurality of wedge elements to be retained in a tight side-by-side arrangement and thereby axially slide along the tapered inner side wall of the receiving passageway towards the mounting end.

[0045] As indicated, the retention device may be disengaged from a threaded projection by fixing at least one the plurality of wedge elements relative to the body and threadingly disengaging the device from the threaded projection.

[0046] In preferred embodiments, at least one of the plurality of wedge elements may include an opening defined in at least the outer wall for receiving a fastener through the sidewall of the body and therein for fixing the wedge element relative to the body.

[0047] The opening may be an elongate opening extending longitudinally at least partially between the tip and the base of the wedge element, preferably a shaped elongate opening.

[0048] In some embodiments, the opening may extend between and through the outer wall and the inner wall of the wedge element thereby defining a passageway therebetween.

[0049] In some embodiments, the opening may be defined by outwardly angled sidewalls configured to align and guide a fastener received through the sidewall of the body into the opening defined in the at least one of the plurality of wedge elements.

[0050] The sidewall of the body may likewise define a corresponding opening for receiving the fastener therethrough and into the opening defined in the at least one of the plurality of wedge elements.

[0051 ] The opening in the sidewall of the body may be of any suitable size and shape. Suitably, the opening may be positioned to substantially align with the opening defined in the at least one of the plurality of wedge elements. In some instances, the body may need to, in use, be rotated relative to the wedge elements to substantially align the respective openings.

[0052] In preferred embodiments, the opening in the sidewall of the body may be threaded for threadingly engaging with the fastener received therethrough. The fastener may preferably be a grub screw or the like.

[0053] In some embodiments, the outer end of the body may define an external socket formation for engaging with a torque applying tool.

[0054] In embodiments in which the body is in the form of a barrel, the device may further include a socket end member connectable to the outer end of the body for covering or sealing the access port defined therein.

[0055] In such embodiments, the socket end member may include a tapered plug configured to be at least partially received in the receiving passageway via the access port, when connected to the outer end of the body. The socket end member by sealing the access port may advantageously retain the plurality of wedge elements in the body.

[0056] Conveniently, the biasing member or mechanism in the form of a coil spring may sit about or around the tapered plug when at least partially received in the receiving passageway via the access port for biasing the plurality of wedge elements towards the mounting end.

[0057] The socket end member and the outer end of the body may be connectable in any suitable way.

[0058] For example, in some such embodiments the socket end member and the outer end of the body may be connectable by a threaded arrangement.

[0059] In other such embodiments, the socket end member may be at least partially received in the outer end of the body and secured in place by one or more threaded fasteners, such as, e.g., grub screws.

[0060] In yet other embodiments, the socket end member and the outer end of the body may be connectable by way of a connecting mechanism or part thereof.

[0061 ] The connecting mechanism may include a first part associated with the outer end of the body and a second part connectable to the first part and associated with the socket end member.

[0062] The parts of the connecting mechanism may respectively include mateable male and female portions that couple together, including threaded connections, bayonet-type connections or interference (snap-fit) connections, for example.

[0063] A first part of the connecting mechanism associated with the outer end of the body may include a male formation configured to be at least partially inserted into or coupled with a female formation of a second part of the connecting mechanism associated with the socket end member. Conversely, the first part of the connecting mechanism may include a female formation configured to at least partially receive or be coupled with the male formation of the second part of the connecting mechanism.

[0064] The socket end member may preferably define an external socket formation for engaging with a torque applying tool.

[0065] In such embodiments, the external socket formation may be sized and shaped to engage with standard tooling, such as, e.g., electric wrenches and impact wrenches.

[0066] In some embodiments, the outer end of the body or the socket end member, if present, may further include at least one opening defined therein for receiving a disengagement member therethrough for fixing the wedge elements against rotational movement relative to the body.

[0067] In such embodiments, the disengagement member is configured to be at least partially received between adjacent wedge elements to thereby fix the wedge elements against rotational movement relative to the body.

[0068] In some embodiments, the outer end of the body or the socket end member, if present, may include three openings defined therein for each receiving a disengagement member therethrough for being received between the adjacent wedge elements.

[0069] The openings may be arranged in a circular arrangement around the outer end of the body or the socket end member, if present. The openings may be positioned to substantially align with the spaces between the wedge elements.

[0070] In embodiments in which the device includes the socket end member, the openings may preferably be defined on the external socket formation.

[0071 ] The openings may preferably be threaded, and the disengagement member may be a fastener, preferably a grub screw.

[0072] In use, it is envisaged that the openings defined in the outer end of the body or the socket end member, if present, may be used as a safeguard in the event the fastener received through the side of the body and into the opening defined in the at least one of the plurality of wedge elements fails to fix the wedge elements against rotational movement relative to the body, e.g., the fastener shears.

[0073] In preferred embodiments, the socket end member and the outer end of the body may be connectable by a threaded engagement. For example, the outer end of the body may include a threaded bore and the socket end member may include a threaded portion configured to be at least partially received in and engage with the threaded bore.

[0074] In such embodiments, the socket end member may include a pair of opposed surfaces interconnected by at least one side edge. The opposed surfaces may include an inner surface and an opposed outer surface.

[0075] The member may include the tapered plug protruding from the inner surface and the external socket formation extending outwardly from the outer surface.

[0076] The threaded portion may include an external thread extending at least partially along the side edge of the socket end member, preferably entirely. The external thread may have any suitable profile, direction and ratio. For example, the external thread may have a square, triangular, trapezoidal or other profile shape. Typically, the threaded portion may have a screw thread profile with trapezoidal outlines, preferably an Acme thread form or trapezoidal metric thread form.

[0077] The threaded bore of the outer end of the body may include an internal thread configured to threadingly engage with the threaded portion. Generally, the internal thread may have any suitable profile, direction and ratio to complement and threadingly engage with the external thread of the threaded portion.

[0078] Preferably, the threaded bore and the threaded portion may each have a left-handed threaded. Advantageously, by having a left-handed thread direction, the socket end member may not be inadvertently screwed loose of the body when the retention device is being threadingly disengaged from a threaded projection. Further, the socket end member may be readily removed by engaging a torque applying tool with the external socket formation and applying torque in the relevant direction.

[0079] According to a second aspect of the present invention, there is provided a method of securing a load relative to a threaded projection, said method including: mounting the load relative to the threaded projection; and pressing a retention device according to the first aspect onto the threaded projection such that the retention device engages with the threaded projection and secures the load relative to the threaded projection.

[0080] The method may include one or more features or characteristics of the retention device as hereinbefore described.

[0081 ] The mounting may include aligning the load, or openings defined in the load, relative to the threaded projection.

[0082] The mounting may further include moving the load relative to the threaded projection such that the threaded projection is received through one or more openings defined in the load.

[0083] The pressing may include pressing the retention device onto a distal or outer end of the threaded projection such that the retention device threadingly engages with the threaded projection.

[0084] According to a third aspect of the present invention, there is provided a method of removing a retention device according to the first aspect from a threaded projection, said method including: fixing the plurality of wedge elements relative to the body of the device by tightening a fastener relative to the body of the device such that the fastener protrudes through the sidewall of the body and engages with the opening defined in at least one of the plurality of wedge elements; and removing the device by threadingly disengaging it from the threaded projection.

[0085] The method may include one or more features or characteristics of the retention device as hereinbefore described.

[0086] The fixing may further include testing that the plurality wedge elements are fixed relative to the body of the device by ensuring that the body cannot be freely rotated relative to the wedge elements and the threaded projection. The testing may be carried out by hand.

[0087] In scenarios in which the wedge elements fail to be fixed relative to the body of the device, the fixing may further include inserting one or more disengagement members into the at least one opening defined in the outer end or socket end member of the device. In such scenarios, the disengagement members are configured to be received between adjacent wedge elements to fix the wedge elements against rotational movement relative to the body.

[0088] In such scenarios, the disengagement member is preferably a grub screw and preferably three grub screws are inserted into, or tightened relative to, three respective openings defined in the outer end or socket end member of the device.

[0089] The removing may include applying torque to the device to threadingly disengage the device from the threaded projection. Preferably, the removing may include using a torque applying tool, such as, e.g., an impact wrench, to apply the torque. The tool may engage with the external socket formation defined at the outer end or socket end member of the device.

[0090] The method may further include individually replacing each retention device with a nut fastener.

[0091] Any of the features described herein can be combined in any combination with any one or more of the other features described herein within the scope of the invention.

[0092] The reference to any prior art in this specification is not and should not be taken as an acknowledgement or any form of suggestion that the prior art forms part of the common general knowledge.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS

[0093] Preferred features, embodiments and variations of the invention may be discerned from the following Detailed Description which provides sufficient information for those skilled in the art to perform the invention. The Detailed Description is not to be regarded as limiting the scope of the preceding Summary of Invention in any way. The Detailed Description will make reference to a number of drawings as follows:

[0094] Figure 1 is a side view of a retention device according to an embodiment of the present invention;

[0095] Figure 2 is a sectional side view of the retention device as shown in Figure 1 ;

[0096] Figure 3 is a perspective view of the retention device as shown in Figures 1 and 2 in a disassembled state;

[0097] Figure 4 is another perspective view of the retention device as shown in Figures 1 to 3 in a disassembled state; and

[0098] Figure 5 is a perspective view of part of a retention device according to another embodiment of the present invention.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0099] Figures 1 to 5 show a retention device (100) according to embodiments of the present invention for retaining a load relative to a threaded projection.

[00100] Figures 1 to 4 show the retention device (100) according to a first embodiment.

[00101] Referring to Figures 1 and 2, the retention device (100) includes a body (110) in the form of a barrel having a mounting end (1 12), an opposed outer end (1 14) and a curved sidewall (1 16) extending longitudinally therebetween. The body (1 10) defines a receiving passageway (1 15) extending through and between the mounting end (112) and the outer end (114). The receiving passageway (115) tapers in diameter from the outer end (1 14) to the mounting end (1 12) and is configured to at least partially receive a threaded projection therein.

[00102] The retention device (100) further includes a plurality of wedge elements (120) aligned and arranged within the body (110) for engaging with a threaded projection received therein. The wedge elements (120) are configured to be axially moveable relative to the body (1 10) and the receiving passageway (115) for expanding and constricting about the threaded projection. At least one of the wedge elements (120) has an elongate, shaped opening (122; shown only in Figure 4) defined therein for receiving a fastener (130; shown only in Figure 3) through the sidewall (1 16) and therein for fixing the wedge element (120) relative to the body (1 10) when threadingly disengaging the device (100) from the threaded projection.

[00103] The device (100) further includes a socket end member (140) connectable to the outer end (114) for covering the outer end (1 14) of the body (110), retaining the wedge elements (120) within the receiving passageway (1 15) and engaging with a torque applying tool, such as e.g., an impact wrench, for the removal of the retention device (100) from a threaded projection.

[00104] As used herein, the term “threaded projection” may include any elongate threaded member ordinarily used as part of a threaded fastener system. For example, the threaded projection may include a threaded bolt, cable or rod, preferably a threaded bolt commonly used in conjunction with a nut fastener.

[00105] Referring to Figure 2, the mounting end (1 12) includes a receiving opening (212) centrally defined therein and the outer end (114) includes an access port (214) centrally defined therein.

[00106] The receiving opening (212) and the access port (214) are in fluid communication with each other by way of the receiving passageway (1 15) extending longitudinally therebetween.

[00107] The access port (214) has a greater diameter than the receiving opening (212) and the receiving passageway (1 15) gradually tapers in diameter from the access port (214) to the receiving opening (212).

[00108] Referring briefly to Figure 1 , the body (110) has a circular cross-sectional shape.

[00109] Referring back to Figure 2 again, the plurality of wedge elements (120) are configured to be aligned and arranged within the body (110) for engaging with a threaded projection received therein.

[00110] Referring to Figure 3, each wedge element (120) is sized and shaped to be located in the body (110) about a periphery of the receiving passageway (1 15).

[0011 1] Each wedge element (120) includes a tip (124), an opposed base (126) and a wedge body (128) extending longitudinally therebetween.

[00112] The tip (124) is configured to be arranged at or near the mounting end (1 12) of the body (110).

[00113] Likewise, the opposed base (126) is configured to be arranged at or near the opposed outer end (114) of the body (110).

[00114] Each wedge body (128) includes an inner wall (312), an opposed outer wall (314) and a pair of opposed sidewalls (316) extending longitudinally between the tip (124) and the base (126).

[00115] Each wedge body (128) includes an arcuate shape configured to complement a curved inner surface of the receiving passageway (1 15), when viewed in cross section along a longitudinal axis.

[00116] The inner wall (312) includes a concave surface defined thereon.

[00117] As shown, each wedge element (120) tapers in width from the base (126) to the tip (124) so as to enable the wedge elements (120) to be arranged about a periphery of the tapering receiving passageway (115) in a side-by-side arrangement.

[00118] The plurality of wedge elements (120) includes three wedge elements (120).

[00119] As shown, the inner wall (312) of each wedge element (120) further includes a plurality of grooves (320) defined thereon. The plurality of grooves (320) extend across the concave surface of the wedge elements (120) in a lateral direction extending at least partially between the opposed sidewalls (316).

[00120] The plurality of grooves (320) are adapted to match, or complement, an external thread on a threaded projection.

[00121] Referring briefly to Figure 2 again, the plurality of grooves (320) on the wedge elements (120) arranged about a periphery of the receiving passageway (115) are configured to combine to form an internal thread adapted to threadingly engage with an external thread of a threaded projection received therein.

[00122] Referring again to Figure 3, each wedge element (120) includes a chamfer (123) at or near the tip (124) to guide an external thread of a threaded projection during engagement. The chamfer (123) is configured to guide and align a threaded projection as it is received in the receiving passageway (1 15) via the receiving opening (212) relative to the wedge elements (120).

[00123] As indicated, the wedge elements (120) are axially moveable relative to the body (1 10) and the receiving passageway (115) to expand and fit about a threaded projection, when the retaining device (100) is pressed onto the threaded projection.

[00124] Further, the wedge elements (120) are axially moveable relative to the body (110) and the receiving passageway (115) to constrict about a threaded projection received therein when the device (100) is moved away from the threaded projection to advantageously prevent disengagement from the threaded projection.

[00125] Referring to Figure 4, the device (100) further includes a biasing member in the form of coil spring (410) for biasing the plurality of wedge elements (120) towards the mounting end (1 12) of the device (100).

[00126] The spring (410) is located between the wedge elements (120) and the outer end (1 14) of the body (1 10), so that axial movement of the wedge elements (120) towards the outer end (1 14) acts against a biasing force of the spring (410), and movement of the wedge elements (120) towards the mounting end (1 12) acts under the force of the spring (410).

[00127] Referring briefly to Figure 2, the device (100) further includes an alignment member in the form of O-ring (220) for aligning the wedge elements (120) relative to each other in the body (1 10) in a side-by-side arrangement and yet allow expansion when fitting about a threaded projection.

[00128] Best shown in Figure 4, each wedge element (120) includes a retaining groove (412) for at least partially receiving the O-ring (220) and aligning the wedge elements (120) relative to each other. The retaining groove (412) is defined in the outer wall (314) at or near the base (126). The grooves (410) substantially align in each of the wedge elements (120). [00129] The O-ring (220) additionally functions as a biasing member for biasing the wedge elements (120) towards the mounting end (112) of the body (110) or away from the outer end (1 14). In use, the biasing force of the O-ring (220) causes the wedge elements (120) to be retained in a tight side-by-side arrangement and thereby axially slide along the tapered inner side wall of the receiving passageway (1 15) towards the mounting end (112).

[00130] As indicated, the retention device (100) is disengaged from a threaded projection by fixing at least one the plurality of wedge elements (120) relative to the body (110) and threadingly disengaging the device (100) from the threaded projection.

[00131] In this regard, one of the plurality of wedge elements (120A) includes the elongated, shaped opening (122) extending between and through the outer wall (314) and the inner wall (312) of the wedge element (120A) for receiving a fastener (130; shown only in Figure 3) through the sidewall (116) of the body (1 10) and therein for fixing the wedge element (120A) relative to the body (1 10).

[00132] The elongate, shaped opening (122) extends longitudinally at least partially between the tip (124) and the base (126) of the wedge element (120A).

[00133] The sidewall (116) of the body (1 10) likewise defines a corresponding opening (119) for receiving the fastener (130; shown only in Figure 3) therethrough and into the opening (122) defined in the wedge element (120A).

[00134] The opening (119) is positioned to substantially align with the opening (122) defined in the wedge element (120A). In some instances, the body (110) may, in use, need to be rotated relative to the wedge elements (120) to substantially align the respective openings (1 19, 122).

[00135] The opening (119) in the sidewall (1 16) of the body (110) is threaded for threadingly engaging with the fastener (130; shown only in Figure 3) received therethrough. The fastener (130; shown only in Figure 3) is grub screw or the like.

[00136] Referring to Figure 3, socket end member (140) defines an external socket formation (142) for engaging with a torque applying tool, such as, e.g., electric wrenches and impact wrenches.

[00137] Referring briefly to Figure 4, the socket end member (140) further includes a tapered plug (144) configured to be at least partially received in the receiving passageway (1 15) via the access port (214), when connected to the outer end (1 14) of the body (110). The socket end member (140) by sealing the access port (214) advantageously retains the plurality of wedge elements (120) in the body (1 10). [00138] Conveniently, and as shown, the spring (410) sits about or around the tapered plug (144) when at least partially received in the receiving passageway (115) via the access port (214) for biasing the plurality of wedge elements (120) towards the mounting end (1 12).

[00139] Best shown in Figure 3, the socket end member (140) is at least partially received in the outer end (1 14) of the body (1 10) and secured in place by two opposed threaded fasteners, such as, e.g., grub screws, received through corresponding openings defined in the side wall (1 16) of the body (110) at or near the outer end (114).

[00140] The socket end member (140) further includes three openings (146) defined therein for receiving fasteners therethrough for fixing the wedge elements (120) against rotational movement relative to the body (1 10).

[00141] The fasteners are configured to be at least partially received between adjacent wedge elements (120) to thereby fix the wedge elements (120) against rotational movement relative to the body (110).

[00142] The openings (146) are arranged in a circular arrangement around the socket end member (140) and are positioned to substantially align with spaces between the wedge elements (120).

[00143] The openings (146) are defined on the external socket formation (142).

[00144] Further, the openings (146) are threaded so as to threadingly engage with the fasteners received therethrough, e.g., grub screws.

[00145] In use, it is envisaged that the openings (146) defined in the socket end member (140) can be used as a safeguard in the event the fastener (130; shown only in Figure 3) received through the sidewall (1 16) of the body (1 10) and into the elongate, shaped opening (122) defined in the wedge element (120A) fails to fix the wedge elements (120) against rotational movement relative to the body (110), i.e., in scenarios in which the fastener shears, for example.

[00146] Figure 5 shows the retention device (100) according to a second embodiment. For convenience, features that are similar or correspond to features of the first embodiment will be referenced with the same reference numerals.

[00147] Referring to Figure 5, the retention device (100) includes a body (110) in the form of a barrel having a mounting end (1 12), an opposed outer end (1 14) and a curved sidewall (116) extending longitudinally therebetween. The body (1 10) defines a receiving passageway (115) extending through and between the mounting end (112) and the outer end (1 14). The receiving passageway (115) tapers in diameter from the outer end (114) to the mounting end (1 12) and is configured to at least partially receive a threaded projection therein.

[00148] The retention device (100) further includes a plurality of wedge elements (120; not shown) as previously described. The wedge elements (120; not shown) are arranged in the same arrangement as in the first embodiment.

[00149] Like with the first embodiment, the device (100) also includes a socket end member (140) connectable to the outer end (1 14) for covering the outer end (1 14) of the body (1 10), retaining the wedge elements (120; not shown) within the receiving passageway (115) and for engaging with a torque applying tool, such as, e.g., an impact wrench, for removal of the retention device (100) from a threaded projection.

[00150] However, unlike the first embodiment, in this embodiment the socket end member (140) is connectable to the outer end (1 14) of the body (110) by a threaded engagement.

[00151] Specifically, the outer end (1 14) includes a threaded bore (510) and the socket end member (140) includes a corresponding threaded portion (520) configured to be received in and engage with the threaded bore (510).

[00152] The threaded portion (520) include an external thread extending at least partially along a side edge of the socket end member (140).

[00153] The threaded bore (510) includes an internal thread configured to threadingly engage with the threaded portion (520).

[00154] The threaded bore (510) and the threaded portion (520) each have a left-handed threaded. Advantageously, by having a left-handed thread direction, the socket end member (140) will not be inadvertently screwed loose of the body (1 10) when the retention device (100) is being threadingly disengaged from a threaded projection. Further, the socket end member (140) can be readily removed by engaging a torque applying tool with the external socket formation (142) and applying torque in the relevant direction.

[00155] A method of securing a load relative to a threaded projection with the retention device (100) is now described in detail with reference to Figure 2.

[00156] The load is aligned and mounted to the threaded projection, typically openings in the load are mounted onto the threaded projection.

[00157] Once aligned and mounted, individual retention devices (100) are pressed onto a distal, or outer, end of the threaded projection such that the distal, or outer, end of the threaded projection is received in the receiving passageway (115) of the body (110) of the device (100) via the receiving opening (212).

[00158] The retention device (100) is pressed onto the distal, or outer, end of the threaded projection until the threaded projection is fully seated in the receiving passageway (115).

[00159] A method of removing the retention device (100) from a threaded projection is now described in detail with reference to Figure 4.

[00160] The plurality of wedge elements (120) are fixed relative to the body (110) of the device (100) by tightening the fastener (130; shown only in Figure 3) relative to the body (110) such that the fastener (130; shown only in Figure 3) protrudes through the sidewall (116) and into the elongated, shaped opening (122) defined in wedge element (120A).

[00161] Once fixed, the device (100) can be threaded free from the threaded projection by applying torque to the device, typically using an impact wrench or the like. The impact wrench engages with the external socked formation (142) defined on the socket end member (140).

[00162] Usually, each removed retention device (100) is then substituted for a permanent nut fastener.

[00163] In the present specification and claims (if any), the word ‘comprising’ and its derivatives including ‘comprises’ and ‘comprise’ include each of the stated integers but does not exclude the inclusion of one or more further integers.

[00164] Reference throughout this specification to ‘one embodiment’ or ‘an embodiment’ means that a particular feature, structure, or characteristic described in connection with the embodiment is included in at least one embodiment of the present invention. Thus, the appearance of the phrases ‘in one embodiment’ or ‘in an embodiment’ in various places throughout this specification are not necessarily all referring to the same embodiment. Furthermore, the particular features, structures, or characteristics may be combined in any suitable manner in one or more combinations.

[00165] In compliance with the statute, the invention has been described in language more or less specific to structural or methodical features. It is to be understood that the invention is not limited to specific features shown or described since the means herein described comprises preferred forms of putting the invention into effect. The invention is, therefore, claimed in any of its forms or modifications within the proper scope of the appended claims (if any) appropriately interpreted by those skilled in the art.

Claims

1. A retention device for securing a load relative to a threaded projection, said device including: a body having a mounting end, an opposed outer end and at least one sidewall extending therebetween, said body defining a receiving passageway extending through the mounting end at least partially towards the outer end, said receiving passageway tapering in diameter from an opposite end to the mounting end and configured to at least partially receive the threaded projection therein; and a plurality of wedge elements aligned and arranged within the body to engage with the threaded projection, said wedge elements configured to be axially moveable relative to the body and the receiving passageway for expanding and fitting about the threaded projection, at least one of said plurality of wedge elements having an opening defined therein for receiving a fastener through the sidewall and therein for fixing the at least one of the plurality of wedge elements relative to the body when threadingly disengaging the retention device from the threaded projection.

2. The device of claim 1 , wherein the body has a substantially circular cross-sectional shape.

3. The device of claim 1 or claim 2, wherein the body includes a barrel having a receiving opening defined at the mounting end and an access port defined at the outer end and wherein the receiving opening and the access port are in fluid communication with each other by way of the receiving passageway extending longitudinally therebetween.

4. The device of claim 3, wherein the access port is centrally defined in the outer end.

5. The device of claim 3 or claim 4, wherein the access port has a greater diameter than the receiving opening.

6. The device of any one of claims 1 to 5, wherein an inner wall of each wedge element has a plurality of grooves defined thereon.

7. The device of claim 6, wherein the plurality of grooves on each wedge element are configured to align about a periphery of the receiving passageway to form an internal thread adapted to threadingly engage with an external thread of the threaded projection.

8. The device of any one of claims 1 to 7, further including one or more coil springs for biasing the plurality of wedge elements towards the mounting end of the body.

9. The device of claim 8, wherein the one or more coil springs are located between the wedge elements and the outer end of the body so that axial movement of the wedge elements towards the outer end acts against a biasing force of the one or more coil springs and movement of the wedge elements towards the mounting end acts under the biasing force.

10. The device of any one of claims 1 to 9, further including an alignment member for aligning the wedge elements relative to each other.

11. The device of claim 10, wherein the alignment member is an O-ring and each wedge element includes a retaining groove defined in an outer wall at or near the base for at least partially receiving the O-ring and aligning the wedge elements relative to each other.

12. The device of any one of claims 1 to 1 1 , wherein the opening defined in the at least one of said plurality of wedge elements is defined an outer wall of the at least one of said plurality of wedge elements for receiving through the sidewall of the body and therein for fixing the at least one of the plurality of wedge elements relative to the body when threadingly disengaging the retention device from the threaded projection.

13. The device of any one of claims 1 to 12, wherein the sidewall of the body defines a corresponding opening for receiving the fastener therethrough and into the opening defined in the at least one of the plurality of wedge elements.

14. The device of any one of claims 1 to 13, further including a socket end member for releasably connecting to the outer end of the body for covering or sealing the access port defined therein.

15. The device of claim 14, wherein the socket end member includes a tapered plug protruding from an inner surface of the member for being at least partially received in the receiving passageway via the outer end and a socket formation extending from an outer surface of the member for engagement with a torque-applying tool.

16. The device of claim 14 or claim 15, wherein the socket end member threadingly connects to the outer end of the body.

17. The device of claim 16, wherein the socket end member has an opposite thread direction to the internal thread defines on the inner walls of the wedge elements so that the socket end member is not advertently screwed loose when the device is being threadingly disengaged from the threaded projection.

18. The device of claim 15 when dependent on 9, wherein the one or more coil springs sit about or around the tapered plug for biasing the plurality of wedge elements towards the mounting end.

19. A method of securing a load relative to a threaded projection, said method including: mounting the load relative to the threaded projection; and pressing a retention device according to any one of claims 1 to 18 onto the threaded projection such that the retention device engages with the threaded projection and secures the load relative to the threaded projection.

20. A method of removing a retention device according to any one of claims 1 to 18 from a threaded projection, said method including: fixing the plurality of wedge elements relative to the body of the device by tightening a fastener relative to the body of the device such that the fastener protrudes through the sidewall of the body and engages with the opening defined in at least one of the plurality of wedge elements; and removing the device by threadingly disengaging it from the threaded projection.