Abstract: An aircraft comprising a mechanical connection device including a body that extends along a longitudinal axis. The body comprises two opposite end portions disposed along the longitudinal axis and adapted to receive external axial loads in compression and in tension, a spring member that is adapted to be compressed axially, and a mechanism which, in the event of external axial loads in compression or in tension on the end portions, is able to transmit to the spring member compression forces oriented in opposite directions according to whether the external axial loads are in compression or in tension. This device forms a flexible connection that accommodates equally well external loads in compression and in tension.

Abstract: A railroad car moving vehicle has a main frame on which are mounted front and rear axles with steel wheels for engaging the railroad track. Front and rear coupler assemblies have a set of coupler arms with a cross rail member extending between one end of the arms. A coupler is reciprocally mounted on the cross rail member and adapted for coupling with the railroad car. The other ends of the coupler arms are rotatably mounted on a pivot shaft supported by the main frame. The pivot shaft extends between opposed sides of the main frame at its center line. Each set of front and rear coupler arms are mounted on a common pivot shaft such that the horizontal portion of any shock load imparted to one coupler will pass directly through the pivot shaft to the other coupler and not to the main frame. Each end of the pivot member is supported by an isolator assembly. Each isolator assembly is mounted on the main frame and includes a resilient mount.