摘要 |
A radial bearing structure for radially supporting a turret (14) rotatably carried by a vessel (10) including a plurality of arcuately spaced radial bearing assemblies (74) for radially supporting a rail (38) about the circumference of the turret (14). Each radial bearing assembly (74) has a roller (104) and a follower (94). A pair of concentric spring assemblies (92, 98) continuously urge follower (94) and roller (104) toward rail (38) so that roller (104) remains in contact with the rail (38) at all times. As shown in FIG. 7, inner springs (92) have reached maximum radial travel toward rail (38) and do not exert a radial force against follower (94) and roller (104). During maximum lateral movements of the turret (14), outer coil spring (98) forces follower (94) and roller (104) a distance (D) relative to and beyond inner springs (92) to maintain a spring loading against roller (104) for maintaining contact of roller (104) against rail (38). As shown in FIG. 8, the inner spring assembly may comprise an elastomer spring (92A) having a plurality of elastomeric pads (93A) separated by metal discs (95A). |