Conformal sliding bearing

摘要

A conformal bearing assembly includes an bearing housing, an elastomeric member and a bearing element. The bearing assembly is mounted between and inner and outer telescopic member. The elastomeric member allows the bearing element to substantially conform to the adjacent telescopic member irrespective of minor manufacturing inconsistencies along the adjacent telescopic member. Contact pressure between the bearing element and the adjacent telescopic member is thereby more evenly distributed which minimizes regions of interference and or clearance which may otherwise result in undesirable wear characteristics of the telescopic system.