Abstract: The construction of bearing walls is facilitated by use of superposed courses of planks that are characterized by a novel combination of composition, geometry and arrangement. These planks are composed of a homogenized dispersion of fiber and binder. This material has been found to have a suitably high compression coefficient, to be chemically inert as a practical matter from the standpoint of resistance to atmospheric conditions, and to be inexpensively produced, for example, from used newsprint and the like. The planks generally have identical dimensions, thereby enabling standardized production and ease of assembly. The planks generally are substantially greater in width than in thickness. Pairs of the planks are provided at matched end locations with aligned notches for the reception of inserts that establish spacing and weather-tight joints. The planks are nailed or otherwise interlocked in staggered courses, by which the integrity of the construction is securely maintained.

Abstract: A hydraulic mount assembly is disclosed having expandable primary and secondary fluid chambers, an orifice track for damping action and a damping decoupler. During low level dynamic loading of the mount, hydraulic pressure activates the decoupler. At higher level loading, fluid passes through the orifice track between the two chambers providing the damping action. An expandable pneumatic bladder is mounted within the primary chamber. A control system including two one-way valves governs ingress and egress of outside air to the pneumatic bladder, thereby selectively reducing the overall damping and dynamic rate characteristics in response to sensed vehicle operating conditions. This reduction is accomplished by allowing the bladder to inflate with air providing a relatively soft, engine isolating mount. Alternatively, the control system allows controlled bladder deflation, selectively returning the mount to relatively hard characteristics.