Abstract: An improved method for forming an assembly of laminated materials is provided. The method eliminates an necessity to evacuate a package or position the assembly in an autoclave for forming. In the method, the assembly (14, 70) is positioned against the die face of a rigid die (12, 72). A cavity of essentially constant volume is formed about the die and assembly and encloses the side of the assembly opposite that in contact with the rigid die. The cavity is filled with expandable spheroids (56). The spheroids are expanded to provide the necessary force on the assembly to urge the assembly against the rigid die to form the completed assembly. Preferably, the expandable spheroids (56) are thermally expandable and can comprise, for example, silicone rubber having a coefficient of thermal expansion of about 50.times.10.sup.-5 inches per inch per degree Fahrenheit.

Abstract: A circular seal configuration is shown for sealing the annular clearance between an inner cylindrical member and an outer cylindrical member. A center portion of the seal is made of a compliant elastomer material and is adapted to seal both against the internal diameter of the outer cylindrical member and against the external diameter of the inner cylindrical member. A pair of external backup rings circumscribe the exterior surface of the elastomeric center portion and a pair of internal backup rings circumscribe the interior surface of the elastomeric center portion. The backup rings are of a relatively stiff material but expand independently upon the application of pressure of the elastomeric portion of the seal to provide a zero clearance fit with respect to the surrounding sealing surfaces and prevent extrusion of the elastomer which would cause a seal failure.

Abstract: A shock absorbing boat landing (10) is provided for attachment to a marine structure (14) such as an offshore platform or the like. The system (10) has a landing frame (16) which is supported by two pairs of upper and lower shock cells (22a and 22b). The landing frame (16) is pivotally coupled at (40 and 42) to the operative arms (26) of the shock element so that relative rotation between the operative arm (26) of the shock cells and the frame (16) can occur about a vertically extending axis whereby improved shock absorbing characteristics can be obtained.

Abstract: A shock absorbing column assembly (10) is provided for attachment to a structural member (12) of an offshore platform. The assembly (10) utilizes a series of shock absorbing elements which cooperate together to absorb shock exerted on the assembly by adjacent vessels. Two shock cells (34) and (36) support the vertical column member (30) in a position spaced away from member (12). Column member (30) is connected to the extending arm of the shock cell by shock absorbing connectors (52) and (54). An outer protector (90) is resiliently connected around the outside of the column (50).