Abstract: A propeller shaft with a variable stiffness bushing is disclosed. The propeller shaft includes a first shaft and a second shaft, each of the first shaft and the second shaft having a first end and a second end, the second end of the first shaft coupled to the first end of the second shaft with a joint and a variable stiffness bushing assembly coupled to one of the first and the second shafts near the joint, the variable stiffness bushing assembly having a bearing, a bearing support encircling the bearing, a chamber formed in the bearing support, and at least one electric field generator, wherein the chamber contains a magnetorheological fluid.

Abstract: A prop-shaft assembly comprises a hollow shaft having an axially extending inner chamber. A first liner comprises an axially extending, hollow tubular member having a resilient damping member fixed to, and extending outwardly from, the outer surface. A second liner comprises an axially extending, hollow tubular member having a resilient damping member, fixed to and extending outwardly from, the outer surface and having an outer diameter, including the resilient damping member, that is slightly less than an inner diameter of the hollow tubular member of the first liner to facilitate its insertion into the hollow tubular member of the first liner. The hollow shaft is configured to receive the first liner and the second liner, disposed in the first liner, in the axially extending inner chamber wherein the first and second liners operate to attenuate a first frequency and a second frequency during rotation of the prop-shaft.

Abstract: There is provided a cable construction which resists attack by mammals, fowl or fish. The cable construction consists of a core containing at least one optical fiber about which there is an organic cushion layer, preferably polymeric in nature. About the cushion layer there are a pair of counter-helically wound resin-impregnated inorganic fibers to provide tensile and hoop strength. About the pair of counter-helically wound inorganic fibers there is provided one or more layer(s) of resin-impregnated inorganic fibers helically-wound to an angle greater than 60.degree., and preferably approaching 90.degree.. These fibers when bitten provide needle-like projections which irritate the mammal, e.g., rodent, fowl or fish and discourage any attempt to continue to attack the cable. The cable is normally provided with an outer casing of a thermoplastic polymer for handling purposes. It may also include a layer containing abrasive materials which also deters attack by mammal, fowl or fish.

Abstract: A fluid flow mixer for viscous materials in a transfer pipe where axial channels and peripheral channels extend from the entrance end of the mixer to the exit end of the mixer such that, at the exit end, the axial channels alternate with the peripheral channels around the mixer's longitudinal axis.