A New Rubber joint A NEW form of elastic articulation,
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which appears to be practical, has just been put on the market in France, by the Apex Shock-Absorber Co., 4-6, Rue Duheame, Paris, 18e. Produced under the name of Oscillit, this device has been designed particularly for articulations in which a wide angle of rotary movement and small lateral play are desirable.
The Oscillit bearing comprises a bush of special rubber, in which is embedded a fiat coil spring, forming a stiff, but compressible element. No metallic sleeves are employed, and it follows that an accurate fit on the spindle or shaft
is . not called for. Variations of diameter up to and even exceeding 1 min. are claimed to make no difference to the proper functioning of the device.
One advantage of the Oseillit from the works cost point of view, in assembly, is that both shaft and bearing can be left in the rough. Taking the case of an ordinary shackle-pin bearing, when the Osci4lit has been slid over the pin and the shackle placed in position, tightening of the nut results in pressure on the pin and on the inner stirface of the bearing. The rubber extruding from the end of the bearing, makes an excellent lock for the nut and may obviate the need for a split pie.
The device would appear to have many useful applications. The makers admit frankly that it is not intended for certain special purposes to which the metallic sleeve type of elastic joint is admirably suited, but they claim that it can be employed with success in many casts where the metallic-sleeve joint cannot.
One point in its favour is the ease with which worn Oseillit bushes can. be removed and replaced, When the nut is removed, the Oscillit expands under the influence of its spring, said can be withdrawn by hand.