DESC:CHECK NUT TOOL
This application claims priority from provisional patent application number 202321016728 titled “Hexagonal Pressure Hull Penetration Check Nut opening tool” filed on 13/03/2023.

FIELD OF THE INVENTION
[0001] The present disclosure generally relates to tools and equipment used in maintenance and repair of marine vessels and more specifically, it relates to tools used for securing and unsecuring of the hexagonal pressure hull penetration check nut inside submarines.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
[0002] In the early days of submarines, the hulls were relatively simple and lacked many of the sophisticated systems found in modern submarines. As a result, there were fewer penetrations needed for equipment, but with the development of more advanced submarines, there was an increased need for penetrators to accommodate communication cables, periscopes, and other equipment due to which the demand for reliable and effective pressure hull penetrators grew.
[0003] Multiple sealing elements and designs that allowed for easy inspection and maintenance were implemented to enhance safety and reliability. Hull penetration check nuts are essential components used in submarines to ensure the integrity of the pressure hull while allowing the passage of cables, pipes or other equipment through the hull. The pressure hull is a critical barrier that protects the crew and essential equipment from the external water pressure when the submarine is submerged. Any opening in the pressure hull, such as those needed for cables or pipes, poses a potential risk to its watertight integrity. Pressure hull penetration check nuts are designed to create a secure and watertight seal around these openings, preventing water from entering the submarine. Therefore the need to ensure proper sealing of these nuts is a priority.
[0004] The current technologies include the use of ring spanners, screwdrivers and ratchet boxes used for various applications including tightening and loosening nuts. They may have some drawbacks when used for hull penetration check nuts in submarines. Using hand tools for multiple hull penetration check nuts across a submarine can be time-consuming, especially if the nuts are in hard-to-reach locations. In critical situations, such as during emergency repairs, quick and efficient tightening or loosening of check nuts is crucial. Submarine hull penetrations are often located in tight and confined spaces, so using traditional hand tools like ring spanners and screwdrivers might be challenging due to limited access, making it difficult to apply sufficient force or leverage to tighten or loosen the check nuts effectively. Achieving precise torque control is crucial when dealing with sensitive equipment or components in submarines and traditional hand tools might not offer accurate torque measurement, potentially leading to over-tightening or under-tightening of the check nuts, which could affect the watertight integrity of the penetration. There is a risk of slippage with certain types of hand tools, especially when attempting to loosen a tight check nut. Slippage can cause damage to the nut or surrounding components and may lead to difficulty in properly securing or removing the check nut.
[0005] Thus, in light of the above-stated discussion, there exists a need for a more efficient and accurate solution for loosening and tightening of the hexagonal pressure hull check nut.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
[0006] The following is a summary description of illustrative embodiments of the invention. It is provided as a preface to assist those skilled in the art to more rapidly assimilate the detailed design discussion which ensues and is not intended in any way to limit the scope of the claims which are appended hereto in order to particularly point out the invention.
[0007] According to illustrative embodiments, the present disclosure focuses on a tool which overcomes the above-mentioned disadvantages or provides the users with a useful or commercial choice.
[0008] The present disclosure solves all the above major limitations of working in confined submarine spaces. Further, the present disclosure ensures that the disclosed tool may provide a novel device for tightening and loosening of the hexagonal pressure hull penetration check nut.
[0009] An objective of the present disclosure is to provide a Unique design as provided for working in confined spaces.
[0010] Another objective of the present disclosure is to provide enhanced torque application which is possible due to the shorter length of the T-shaped handle of the tool.
[0011] Another objective of the present disclosure is to provide precise alignment and watertight integrity which is possible due to the hexagonal aperture present on the flat ring base plate which helps in securing and unsecuring of the submarine check nut M120 (120 mm), also called as hexagonal pressure hull penetration check nut.
[0012] Another objective of the present disclosure is to provide durability and corrosion resistance as the tool is made of S355 material which is also used to make submarines.
[0013] Another objective of the present disclosure is to provide an easy to use and time efficient solution for the problem of securing and unsecuring of the pressure hull penetration check nuts in the highly confined spaces due to the T-shaped handle of the tool.
[0014] Yet another objective of the present disclosure is to provide a cost-effective solution as the tool is constructed using readily available and cost-effective S355 material which ensures that it can be produced and maintained at a reasonable cost, making it economically viable for submarine operations.
[0015] In light of the above, in one aspect of the present disclosure, a tool is disclosed herein. The tool comprises a handle, which further comprises a holder and pipe connector; and a base, which further comprises a flat connector and a flat base metal plate, the flat base metal plate having a hexagonal aperture.
[0016] In one embodiment, the tool is made up of S355material which is generally used to make submarines, which makes it sturdy and corrosion resistant in the high-salt water environment.
[0017] In one embodiment, the tool has a T-shaped handle which facilitates ease of use and also provides a time efficient solution.
[0018] In one embodiment, the T- shaped handle is of shorter length to facilitate higher torque in confined spaces.
[0019] In one embodiment, the handle is attached to a flat connector metal plate which facilitates as the connecting link between the handle and the flat ring metal plate comprising the aperture ensuring rigidity and durability to the tool.
[0020] In one embodiment, the flat metal plate comprises of a hexagonal aperture which helps in, but is not only limited to, loosening and tightening of the submarine check nut M120 (120 mm), also called as hexagonal pressure hull penetration check nut.
[0021] In one embodiment, the tool can be rotated in a clockwise or an anti-clockwise manner to aid in the securing and unsecuring of various types of fasteners.
[0022] These and other advantages will be apparent from the present application of the embodiments described herein.
[0023] The preceding is a simplified summary to provide an understanding of some embodiments of the present invention. This summary is neither an extensive nor exhaustive overview of the present invention and its various embodiments. The summary presents selected concepts of the embodiments of the present invention in a simplified form as an introduction to the more detailed description presented below. As will be appreciated, other embodiments of the present invention are possible utilizing, alone or in combination, one or more of the features set forth above or described in detail below.
[0024] These elements, together with the other aspects of the present disclosure and various features are pointed out with particularity in the claims annexed hereto and form a part of the present disclosure. For a better understanding of the present disclosure, its operating advantages, and the specified object attained by its uses, reference should be made to the accompanying drawings and descriptive matter in which there are illustrated exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS
[0025] To describe the technical solutions in the embodiments of the present disclosure or in the prior art more clearly, the following briefly describes the accompanying drawings required for describing the embodiments or the prior art. Apparently, the accompanying drawings in the following description merely show some embodiments of the present disclosure, and a person of ordinary skill in the art can derive other implementations from these accompanying drawings without creative efforts. All of the embodiments or the implementations shall fall within the protection scope of the present disclosure.
[0026] The advantages and features of the present disclosure will become better understood with reference to the following detailed description taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawing, in which:
[0027] FIG. 1A illustrates a perspective front view of the hexagonal pressure hull penetration check nut tool, in accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure;
[0028] FIG. 1B illustrates a perspective side view of the hexagonal pressure hull penetration check nut tool in accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure;
[0029] FIG. 1C illustrates a perspective diagonal view of the hexagonal pressure hull penetration check nut tool, in accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure;
[0030] FIG. 1D illustrates an illustrative front view of the hexagonal pressure hull penetration check nut tool. The dimensions of the various parts are mentioned in the drawing along with the labeled parts. The dimensions of the parts given are to be measured in millimeter, in accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure;
[0031] FIG. 1E illustrates an illustrative top view of the hexagonal pressure hull penetration check nut tool. The dimensions of the various parts are mentioned in the drawing along with the labeled parts. The dimensions of the parts given are to be measured in millimeter in accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure;
[0032] Like reference, numerals refer to like parts throughout the description of several views of the drawing.
[0033] The hexagonal pressure hull penetration check nut is illustrated in the accompanying drawings, which like reference letters indicate corresponding parts in the various figures. It should be noted that the accompanying figure is intended to present illustrations of exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure. This figure is not intended to limit the scope of the present disclosure. It should also be noted that the accompanying figure is not necessarily drawn to scale.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0034] The following description with reference to the accompanying drawings is provided to assist in a comprehensive understanding of exemplary embodiments of the invention as defined by the claims and their equivalents. It includes various specific details to assist in that understanding but these are to be regarded as merely exemplary. Accordingly, those of ordinary skill in the art will recognize that various changes and modifications of the embodiments described herein can be made without departing from the scope and spirit of the invention. In addition, descriptions of well-known functions and constructions are omitted for clarity and conciseness.
[0035] The terms and words used in the following description and claims are not limited to the bibliographical meanings, but, are merely used by the inventor to enable a clear and consistent understanding of the invention. Accordingly, it should be apparent to those skilled in the art that the following description of exemplary embodiments of the present invention are provided for illustration purpose only and not for the purpose of limiting the invention as defined by the appended claims and their equivalents.
[0036] In the following description, numerous specific details are set forth in order to provide a thorough understanding of the embodiments of the present disclosure. It may be apparent to one skilled in the art that embodiments of the present disclosure may be practiced without some of these specific details.
[0037] Various terms as used herein are shown below. To the extent a term is used, it should be given the broadest definition that persons in the pertinent art have given that term as reflected in printed publications and issued patents at the time of filing.
[0038] The terms “a” and “an” herein do not denote a limitation of quantity, but rather denote the presence of at least one of the referenced items.
[0039] The terms “having”, “comprising”, “including”, and variations thereof signify the presence of a component.
[0040] Referring now FIG. 1A to FIG. 1C to describe various exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure. FIG. 1A to FIG. 1C illustrate a perspective view of the tool 100 for securing and unsecuring of the hexagonal pressure hull penetration check nut, in accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure.
[0041] The tool 100 may comprise a handle and a base. The handle, further comprising a holder 102 and a pipe connector 104. The base, further comprising a flat connector and a flat ring having a hexagonal aperture, and so forth.
[0042] The handle of the tool 100 may be T-shaped, facilitating the easy fastening and loosening of the hexagonal pressure hull penetration check nut as seen in FIG. 1. The T-shaped design provides a broader grip surface as compared to conventional handles, offering a more secure and comfortable grip for the user. This enhanced grip helps in maintaining better control and reduces the risk of slippage during use. The T-shape is often considered an ergonomic design, as it aligns with the natural shape and motion of the hand. This ergonomic advantage reduces strain and fatigue during prolonged use. The T-shaped handle is easy to hold and manipulate, making it user-friendly for a wide range of individuals, including those with different hand sizes or physical abilities.
[0043] The tool 100 may include pipe connector 104 extending from the holder 102 as seen in FIG. 1, which is of a shorter length and further facilitates in producing higher torque in confined spaces. The attachment arm acts as a lever, and the shorter length provides increased mechanical advantage. When force is applied at the end of the attachment arm, it generates higher torque at the tool's working end, allowing for more effective tightening or loosening of fasteners. The shorter length of the attachment arm enables easier handling and manipulation of the tool. It allows the user to exert force more comfortably and precisely, which is particularly beneficial in confined spaces or when working on components that require significant force. By providing increased torque with less effort, the attachment arm reduces the physical strain on the user's body, especially during prolonged or repetitive tasks. This results in less user fatigue and a more efficient working experience. The attachment arm's inclusion with a shorter length is a deliberate design feature that enhances torque production, offers greater versatility, and makes the tool more efficient, ergonomic, and user-friendly. These advantages make it a valuable tool for various applications, particularly when dealing with challenging fastening or unfastening tasks in tight spaces or demanding environments such as submarines.
[0044] The tool 100 may comprise a flat connector 106, which acts as a connecting link between the tool 100 handle and the flat ring metal plate comprising the polygonal aperture 108. The flat connector 106 enhances the structural integrity of the tool by securely joining the tool handle and the flat ring metal plate 108. This connection ensures that the tool can withstand the forces applied during tightening and loosening operations without bending or breaking. The flat connector metal plate 106 helps in distributing the force applied at the tool arm more evenly across the flat ring with the aperture 108. This even force distribution ensures that the pressure is spread uniformly around the hexagonal check nut, reducing the risk of damage to the nut or surrounding components. The flat connector plate 106 plays a vital role in providing stability, uniform force distribution, and precise alignment in the tool. These advantages enhance the tool's performance and reliability, making it a valuable tool for effectively tightening and loosening hexagonal pressure hull penetration check nuts in submarines and other applications.
[0045] The tool 100 may comprise a flat ring 108 connected to the tool 100 by the flat connector 106. This flat ring 108 may comprise an aperture which is hexagonal in shape which helps in loosening and tightening of the submarine check nut M120 (120 mm), also called as hexagonal pressure hull penetration check nut. The hexagonal aperture on the flat metal plate provides precise alignment with the hexagonal pressure hull penetration check nut. This accurate alignment allows for direct and efficient engagement with the nut, reducing the risk of slippage and ensuring proper torque application. The tool's ability to securely tighten the hexagonal pressure hull penetration check nut is crucial for maintaining the watertight integrity of the submarine's pressure hull. A properly tightened nut ensures that water cannot penetrate through the hull penetration, safeguarding the crew and equipment. The use of the hexagonal aperture allows for more contact points with the nut's sides, enabling increased torque application. While the tool is specifically designed for the submarine check nut M120, its versatility is not limited to this nut alone. The tool's design can be adapted for other hexagonal check nuts or similar components in various applications.
[0046] Referring now FIG. 1D to describe various exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure. FIG. 1D illustrates an illustrative view of the tool 100 for securing and unsecuring of the hexagonal pressure hull penetration check nut, in accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure. According to the figure, the holder 102, has a length of 107 mm and the breadth diameter is 20 mm. The breadth diameter of the pipe connector 104 is 25 mm. The length of the longer side of the left square bracket shaped flat connector 106, is 175 mm, the length of the two edges at the ends of the said connector are 30 mm each and the width of the said connector plate is 5 mm. The width of the flat base ring comprising the hexagonal aperture 108, is 5 mm. The dimensions mentioned here provide the tool with the required benefits to be used in confined spaces within the submarine.
[0047] Referring now FIG. 1E to describe various exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure. FIG. 1E illustrates an illustrative view of the tool 100 for securing and unsecuring of the hexagonal pressure hull penetration check nut, in accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure. According to the figure, the diameter of the pipe connector 104, is 25 mm; the diameter of the flat base ring comprising the hexagonal aperture 108, is 200 mm and length of each side of the hexagonal aperture is 75 mm. The dimensions mentioned here provide the tool with the required benefits to be used in confined spaces within the submarine.
[0048] The tool 100 is made of S355 material which is also used in the making of submarines. The advantages of using S355 material for the tool include its high strength, corrosion resistance, compatibility with submarine components, lightweight nature, cost-effectiveness, familiarity with material properties, consistency in performance, and long-term durability. These qualities make the tool a reliable and valuable asset for submarine maintenance, contributing to the overall efficiency and effectiveness of submarine operations.
[0049] While the invention has been described in connection with what is presently considered to be the most practical and various embodiments, it will be understood that the invention is not to be limited to the disclosed embodiments, but on the contrary, is intended to cover various modifications and equivalent arrangements included within the scope of the appended claims.
[0050] A person of ordinary skill in the art may be aware that, in combination with the examples described in the embodiments disclosed in this specification, units and algorithm steps may be implemented by electronic hardware, computer software, or a combination thereof.
[0051] The foregoing descriptions of specific embodiments of the present disclosure have been presented for purposes of illustration and description. They are not intended to be exhaustive or to limit the present disclosure to the precise forms disclosed, and many modifications and variations are possible in light of the above teaching. The embodiments were chosen and described to best explain the principles of the present disclosure and its practical application, and to thereby enable others skilled in the art to best utilize the present disclosure and various embodiments with various modifications as are suited to the particular use contemplated. It is understood that various omissions and substitutions of equivalents are contemplated as circumstances may suggest or render expedient, but such omissions and substitutions are intended to cover the application or implementation without departing from the scope of the present disclosure.
[0052] Disjunctive language such as the phrase “at least one of X, Y, Z,” unless specifically stated otherwise, is otherwise understood with the context as used in general to present that an item, term, etc., may be either X, Y, or Z, or any combination thereof (e.g., X, Y, and/or Z). Thus, such disjunctive language is not generally intended to, and should not, imply that certain embodiments require at least one of X, at least one of Y, or at least one of Z to each be present.
[0053] In a case that no conflict occurs, the embodiments in the present disclosure and the features in the embodiments may be mutually combined. The foregoing descriptions are merely specific implementations of the present disclosure, but are not intended to limit the protection scope of the present disclosure. Any variation or replacement readily figured out by a person skilled in the art within the technical scope disclosed in the present disclosure shall fall within the protection scope of the present disclosure. Therefore, the protection scope of the present disclosure shall be subject to the protection scope of the claims.
,CLAIMS:I/We Claim:
1. A tool (100) for loosening and tightening of fasteners, the tool (100) comprising:
a handle including:
a holder (102); and
a pipe connector (104)
wherein the holder is present at one end of the pipe connector (104).
a base having:
a flat connector (106) connected to the pipe connector at the other end; and
a flat ring comprising a polygonal aperture (108) connected to the flat connector.
2. The tool 100 as claimed in claim 1, wherein the said pipe connector 104 is connected to the said holder 102 at one end and the said flat connector 106 at the other end.
3. The tool 100 as claimed in claim 1, wherein the said pipe connector 104 and the said holder 102 form a T – shaped handle for the said tool.
4. The tool 100 as claimed in claim 1, wherein the flat connector 106 is in the shape of a left side square bracket, having a flat surface and two extensions at the two ends of the said flat surface.
5. The flat connector as claimed in claim 4, wherein the flat connector 106 is attached to the pipe connector 104 at the flat surface and to the flat ring comprising the polygonal aperture at the said extensions of the flat connector 106.
6. The tool 100 as claimed in claim 1, wherein the flat ring comprising the polygonal aperture 108, is in the form of an outer circular ring structure further comprising a polygonal aperture on the inner side.
7. The flat ring comprising the polygonal aperture 108 as claimed in claim 6, serves as the portal for receiving fasteners.
8. The tool 100 as claimed in claim 1, wherein the tool is made up of S355 material.
9. The tool 100 as claimed in claim 1, wherein the flat ring comprising the polygonal aperture 108, comprises of a hexagonal aperture which helps in, but not limited to, securing and unsecuring of the submarine check nut M120 (120 mm), also called as hexagonal pressure hull penetration check nut.
10. The T – shaped handle as claimed in claim 3, is of a shorter length to facilitate working in confined spaces.
11. The tool 100 as claimed in claim 1, wherein the tool can be rotated in either clockwise or anti-clockwise manner for securing and unsecuring of the various received fasteners.