Reliable Captive Structural Panel Fasteners

This new, reliable fastener will utilize the hole preparation designed for the existing fastener used in panels on the V-22 aircraft. It will utilize a retaining ring that allows positive captivation and holdout feature in the new stud assembly, whichwill solve the existing problem of stud retention and retraction. The nature of this new design will produce a rugged fastener that performs under the toughest conditions. The simplicity of the tooling and installation will drastically reduce cost. Thesolid stud design and use of stronger components will eliminate FOD and entrapment of debris. Despite the increased strength, reliablitiy, reusability, and cycle life, this fastener will save significant weight. It will truly be the "reliable" structuralpanel fastener for which the aviation industry has long been searching.BENEFITS: The primary benefit of this research is the creation of a fastener that works as intended. Secondary benefits of this reearch include: cost reduction, weight reduction,increased strength, reduced maintenance, simplified installation, and elimination of foreign object debris.