Patent ID: 7077573
Filing Date: 2006-07-18
Classification: B33Y,E05D,F16C,F16J

Abstract:
1. A contact bearing for rotatably supporting a shaft, the contact bearing comprising: a first elastomeric base adapted to be positioned axially around an outer circumference of the shaft, the first elastomeric base having an outer circumference; a plurality of cantilevered support members nested within the first base in a matrix pattern and extending radially inward from the first base, each support member having a radially inner distal end adapted to be in direct, supporting contact with the shaft; a second elastomeric base radially positioned around the outer circumference of the first base, each support member having a radially outer proximal end flush with the outer circumference of the first base and in contact with the second base; and a case supporting the second base; each of said support members is adapted to independently translate radially and pivot with respect to the first and second elastomeric bases so as to be locally compliant with the shaft thereby accommodating any irregularities between the respective distal ends of the support members and the shaft.