Abstract: The tiltwise stiffness of an axially-lobed, nearly-spherical elastomeric joint is made uniform at all azimuths by contouring the axial height of the elastomer or by reducing the thickness or durometer of the elastomer at azimuths where the joint otherwise would be tiltwise stiffer, such as at the lobes. The improvement is useful in the application of the joint to a gimbal-like rotor system.

Abstract: A bushing assembly incorporated in an eye of a suspension arm for an automobile includes a cylindrical member, a cylindrical rubber bushing adhered to the outer peripheral surface of the member and press fitted in the eye, and a cylindrical insert embedded in the bushing. The bushing is provided on each end with a flange extending radially outward and contacting each end surface of the eye when the bushing has been fitted in the eye.

Abstract: Laminated elastomer bearings of the type comprising alternating bonded layers of resilient material and non-extensible material are improved by forming at least some of the resilient layers of at least two different stocks having different elasticity characteristics.

Abstract: A bearing assembly of concentric, cylindrical or conic rigid layers alternated with and bonded to elastomeric layers is bonded to a rigid, inner ring. A protective outer ring surrounds the bearing assembly and is equipped with devices for compressing the elastomeric layers to prevent bond failure between the layers when the assembly is subjected to radial loads. Bond failure is especially likely in bearings of this type because of tensile stresses built into the elastomer as a result of its tendency to shrink during its cure process. The bearing assemblies are conic in form, so that the elastomeric layers can be compressed by axial displacement of the rigid layers when the inner and outer rings are drawn together axially.