Patent ID: 6020055
Filing Date: 2000-02-01
Classification: A43B,A47C,B68G,C08J,C10M,F16N,Y10S,Y10T

Abstract:
A composite mixture comprising:a) a plurality of spherical objects andb) a quantity of lubricant on the exterior surface of substantially all of said spherical objects, said lubricant being present in a quantity less than would cause dispersion of said spherical objects in said lubricant sufficient such that said spherical objects would be significantly separated from each other by said lubricant;wherein said spherical objects and said lubricant are mixed together to form the composite mixture;wherein said lubricant is lubricous and serves to reduce the coefficient of friction between contacting spherical objects;wherein said spherical objects within said mixture are movable in sliding and rolling contact with each other in all three dimensions to permit flow and shear of the mixture;wherein the composite mixture flows and shears in response to a deforming pressure exerted on it, said flow and shear being accomplished by said spherical objects moving in rolling and sliding contact with each other; andwherein the composite mixture ceases to flow and shear when the deforming pressure is terminated.