US Patent 9850927 Fastener installation in composite panels with fastener insert

Systems and methods provide for the installation of fasteners in a composite panel with a fastener insert. A fastener insert for a composite panel includes a body and a at least three arms extending from the body. The body has a top face and a central hub extending rearward from the top face. The top face has an outer dimension between opposing edges. The arms extend from the central hub on a rear side of the body. In a retracted configuration, the arms are folded inward toward the central hub so that the arms do not extend beyond the outer dimension of the top face. In an extended configuration, the arms extend outward from the central hub beyond the outer dimension of the top face.