Stabilizer pad configurations

Abstract

Pad assemblies configured to be used in conjunction with stabilizer pads mounted onto stabilizer arms used to stabilize earth moving and other construction equipment. The pad assemblies are formed from a resilient laminate mounted onto a bracket which in turn is mounted onto the stabilizer pad. In one embodiment, the bracket includes side flaps for capturing the laminate therebetween. Preferably, the bracket is formed of a single piece of metal. A bolt, pin, rivet or the like is used to secure the laminate to the side flaps. Methods of forming the pad assemblies are also disclosed. In particular, a reverse camber is provided to the top surface of the bracket so that when the side flaps are bent downwardly, the top surface does not bow upwardly. Reinforcing ribs are also provided for the same purpose. Bowing is also minimized by facilitating the bending operation by cutting out material along the fold lines, to decrease the resistance to bending of the material. Other embodiments include a bracket with a lip extending into a correspondingly formed notch to hold the laminate within the bracket.

Dependencies are inferred from the claim text.