Abstract: A bearing apparatus having one or more integrated load sensors for determining the load imposed on a rotatable shaft. The bearing apparatus includes a bearing housing having a bearing set, such as a bearing insert, located therein. The load sensors are preferably configured as strain gauges having resistance characteristics that vary as the bearing housing is deformed. For example, the strain gauges may be angularly spaced in an arcuate recess defined below the bearing set in the bearing housing. Preferably, circuitry is also provided to condition the deformation signal to provide an indication of loading on the shaft. The conditioning circuitry may be advantageously attached to the exterior of the bearing housing.

Abstract: An elastomeric coupling system for securing axially aligned driving and driven shafts includes a pair of hubs coupled to one another by an annular flexible coupling element. The hubs are fixed to respective driving and driven shafts, and the coupling element is then secured between the hubs by anchoring assemblies. Each anchoring assembly includes anchoring members which are fixed to respective hubs by fasteners received in the hubs. The fasteners are oriented generally transverse to the aligned axes of the shafts, providing ready access for installation and servicing. As the anchoring members are secured about the hubs, axial and radial loads are exerted on peripheral beads of the coupling element to produce retaining forces sufficient to withstand considerable torsional loading during use.