摘要 |
A geometric shaped side bearing pad includes a top and a surface extending an angle theta towards the top, wherein the bearing pad has a geometric shape and a non-linear spring rate which levels out a reaction force without buckling. The surface of the bearing pad can have two sides or four sides, can have spacing within the surface, or can be solid. The angle theta can be within the range of about 20 degrees and 85 degrees, and may preferably be within the range of about 30 degrees and 45 degrees to achieve non-linear load/deflection. The top of the bearing pad can have a slot defined therethrough to accommodate a protrusion in a fixture to engage the bearing pad. The bearing pad can provide a friction contact with an object and enables lateral force transfer to the bearing pad, thereby providing lateral stiffness.
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