Abstract: A multipoint lock including a pivoting lock bolt including a fixed pivot point and a sliding pivot point, a translating lock bolt, a linkage coupled to and configured to pivot the pivoting lock bolt and to translate the translating lock bolt, an actuation mechanism configured to actuate the linkage and to effect pivoting of the pivoting lock bolt and translation of the translating lock bolt, and an input mechanism configured to receive user input and transmit the user input to the actuation mechanism, the user unput including shifting the input mechanism between an unlocked position and a locked position.

Abstract: A method of friction stir welding and a non-consumable retractable shoulderless variable penetration friction stir welding tool. The tool includes a substantially cylindrical body portion, a head portion, and a tip section, each integral to the tool. The body portion has a longitudinal axis about which it is rotable, a diameter, a sidewall substantially parallel to the longitudinal axis, a proximal end, and a distal end. The head portion is located at the distal end of the body portion. The head portion has a base with a diameter substantially equal to the diameter of the body portion thereby forming a smooth transition between the body portion and the head portion, thus, the tool has no shoulder. The head portion includes a face that converges to the tip section. The tool is retractable, reduces overheating, improves weld quality by reducing internal voids and lack of fusion, and facilitates variable penetration welds.