BMW Designs Roundel-Formed Screw Heads That Might Require Particular Instruments

BMW just isn’t afraid of pushing the envelope in relation to design, tech and engineering, so it comes as no shock {that a} new patent has taken everybody unexpectedly. Stuffed with WIPO,  this new patent reveals a fastener idea that’s intelligent, unmistakably branded, and seemingly engineered to make primary entry extra unique than generally it must be.

The schematics present BMW experimenting with proprietary screw heads modeled after the corporate’s roundel. As an alternative of reaching for acquainted Torx or hex {hardware}, the design makes use of a round head break up into 4 quadrants, mirroring the symbol’s format and quadrant detailing. The patent illustrates 4 completely different head sorts, together with socket, flat, and rounded variations, all sharing the identical logo-inspired geometry.

Functionally, the idea depends on an uncommon engagement sample. Two quadrants are recessed, whereas the remaining sections are both flat or raised. That mixture would seemingly require an identical, made-to-fit driver—that means peculiar instruments wouldn’t correctly grip. BMW even embosses its emblem across the outer ring, leaving little doubt concerning the fastener’s origin or the intent behind it. From an aesthetic standpoint, it matches BMW’s long-standing behavior of sweating particulars, even on elements that usually dwell out of sight.

The place Might The Screws Be Used?

The larger situation is the place BMW suggests these screws might be used. In line with the patent, the fasteners are meant for structural and semi-structural purposes, together with seat mountings and areas the place the inside connects to the automobile physique. These are high-torque areas that already demand correct tools and proper procedures. Including a proprietary head design doesn’t make these jobs safer or clearer for homeowners—it merely narrows who can realistically carry out them with out investing in BMW-specific tooling.

And that restriction isn’t unintentional. BMW’s acknowledged objective is to forestall tightening or loosening with widespread instruments by unauthorized people. In real-world phrases, which means homeowners, unbiased restore outlets, and smaller garages might discover themselves locked out until they purchase specialised tools. Even routine work might pattern towards dealership visits, not as a result of the job is inherently complicated, however as a result of the fastener itself turns into a gatekeeper.

Will It Come Into Manufacturing Collection?

It’s additionally price remembering what that is—and what it isn’t. These screws are patented drawings, not manufacturing elements. Automakers file loads of patents that by no means graduate past the sketchbook. On this case, the designs had been submitted on June 7, 2024, and made public on December 11, 2025. For now, they continue to be an idea on paper.

(Through Autoblog)