AUSTRALIA PATENTS ACT 1990 REGULATION 3.2 Name of Applicant: SAINT-GOBAIN PERFORMANCE PLASTICS PAMPUS GMB Actual Inventor/s: Janaki Weiden; and Jdrg Heldmann. Address for Service: E. F. WELLINGTON & CO, Patent and Trade Mark Attorneys, 312 St. Kilda Road, Melbourne, Southbank, Victoria 3006. Invention Title: "RENEWABLE ENERGY SOURCE INCLUDING AN ENERGY CONVERSION STRUCTURE AND A BEARING COMPONENT" The following statement is a ftal description of this invention including the best method of performing it known to us. 1- CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICAT ON(S) This application is a 'divisional'application derived from Australian Patent Application Nb 2010338177 (Iternational Application No PC/EP2010070975 WO 2011/0803.35), claiming priority of US Application No. 61/9799, the entire text of which are hereby incorporated herein by reference. TECHNiCAL Fl ELD The following disclosure relatesorenewable energy sources, and particularly a power generation structure for generating power from a renewable energy source comprisingan artiulatingjoint having a bearing BACKGROUND ART Renewable energy sources are becoming more prominent as means to reduce, and potentially replace, non-renewable energy sources Of the renewable energy sources availableincludmg fior example, wind, solar, and geothermal sources, varis mecharusms are currently being employed for capturing the naturally-available energy and conveying i to electrical energy for use in our daily lives. Notably, the renewable energy sources are bei-ng converted to electrical energy via power generation structures that are tailored to the renewable energy source. For example, currently, wind power is being harnessedby power generation structuresin the form of wind turbines having massive propellers, which generate electricity as wind turns the propellers Solar power is being captured by farms of solar panels that convert beans of radiant energy from the sun into electrical power Certain regions of the globe may be more suitable than other regions for harnessing renewable energy sources, and thus, certain environments of the earth are more suitable for the deployment of particular power generation structures than other environments. For example, a desert at the equator of the earth receives a greater amount of direct sunlight than a region at the north pole, thus making the desert region more suitable for harnessing solar power. Moreover, toome extent the success of certain energy conversion structures requires moving parts, and some of the various environmentswhere renewable energy sources are being deployed can be extreme and/or corrosive (ig desserts ocean shorelines, etc.).
Composite bearing components that have a metallic support material and an ) overlying friction-reducing material are known and have been used in ranging applications, including most notably, the automotive industry. See, for example, EP 0 394 51$ Al, Moreover, sealing devices having similar constructions, including for example, seal ings, lip seals, energized seals, and the like, have been used in the automotive industry, Yet, as the industries surrounding renewable energy sources continue to mature, improvements in the components responsible for ensurng power generation will be demanded. DISCLOSURE OF INVENTION The present invention provides a power generation structure for generating power from a renewable energy source comprising: an energy conversion structure conprising an articeaing joint configured to moveat least a portion of the energy conversion structure; and a bearing member connected to the arulating joint, e bearing member having a body including a composite material having a igid matedal a friction-reducing material ovedying the rigid material, and a corrosion resistant coating overlaying a major surface of the rigid material opposite a surface of the rigid material covered by the friction-reducing material wherein the friction-reducing layer comprises a 1hioropolymer and the bearng member composes an average coefficient of friction of not greater than about 0 1 for at least 15,000 cycles in an oscillating test. In preferred embodinents of the present invention, the power generation structure is characterized in that: (a) the average coeficient of friction of the bearing member is not greater than about 0.09 for at least 5,000 cycles in an osillating test preferably the average coetcient of rietion of the bearing member is not greaer than about 0.08 for at least 1500() Cycles in an oscillating test. or not greater than about 0.07 for at least 15,000 cycles in an oscillating tests or not greater than about 0.06 fr at least 15 000 cycles in an oscillating test; (b) the average coefficient of fricion of the bearig member is at least about 0.01 for at least 15,000 cycles in an oscillating test, preferably the average coefficient of friction of the bearing member is at feast about 0,02 for at least 15000cycles in an oscillating test, more preferably the average coeficient of friction of the bearing member is at least about 0.03 for at least 15000 cycles in an osclating test: (c) the average coefficient of friction ofthe bearing member is not greater than about 0.1 for at least 20000 eveles in an oscillating test, preferably the average coefficient of friction of the bearing member is not greater than about 0.09 for at least 20,00 cycles in an tOslating or not greater than about 0.08 for at least 20,00 cycles in an oscillating test: (d} the bearing member comprises an average fricon force not greater than about 300 N for at least 415000 cycles in an oscillating testpreferaby the average friction toree of the bearing member is not greaer than about 270 N for at least 15000 eve es in an. oscillating test, or not greater than about 00 Nfor at least 20.000ycks in an oseilating test; (e) the friction reducing material is essentially free of observable defects after weathering test comprisig salt spray testing foratI east 10 hours according to standard corrosion test ISO 92272006, preferably the frictionreducing material is essentially free of observable defects afew gathering test comprising salt spray testing for at least 180 hours according to standard corrosion test 1SO 9227:2006; (f the beating ineniber comprises a weathered wear rate of not greater than about 0.99 microns/hr for at least about 15,000 cycles of articulating movement atler exposure to weather testing, preferablyshe weathered wear rate is not greater thaniabout 0 99 microns/hr for at least about 20.000 cycles of articulating movement; the rigid material compares a material selected frm the group of consistling of alumin urm and stainless steel (1h) the rigid material comprises a surface-upgraded surface; (i) the rigid maliterial imperial selected from the grou consistmg of cold-rolled skinless stel and matt zinplated stainless steel: 9) the friction-reducing mater mrssa rilkand wherein a proportion of filler is within a range between about 1% to about 40% by volume of the entire volume the triction3reducing material; 3A (k) the structure further comprises an intemediate material disposed between the rigid material and friction-reducing material; or (1) the energy conversion structure conprises a solar panel According to one aspect, a power generation structure for generating power from a renewable energy source includes a base, an energy conversion structure connected to the base, and an articulating joint between the base and the energy conversion structure The articulatingjoint includes a bearing member having a body including a composite material having a rigid material and a friction-reducing material overlying the rigid material, wherein the rigid material comprises a material selected from the group of consisting of aluminum and stainless steel. According to another aspect, a power generation structure for generating power from a renewable energy source includes a base, a solar panel connected to the base at an articulating joint conhgured to allow movement of the solar panel active to the base wherein the articulating joint includes a bushing having a body made of a composite mnaterial hig a rigid maerial and a fito-euigmtra vryn h ii material. The rigid material includes a material selectedfom the group of materials consisting of aluminum and stainless steel and wherein the friction-reducing material comprises a material selected from the group of materials consistingof graphite, glass, and a combination thereof Next page is page 4 3B PA.- [U275C BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS The present disclosure may be better understood, and its numerous features and advantages made apparent to those skilled in the art by referencing the accompanying drawings. FIG 1 includes an illustration of a power generation structure in accordance with an embodiment. FIG 2A includes a cross-sectional illustration of a portion of an articulating joint according to an embodiment FIG, 2B includes a cross-sectional illustration of a portion of an articulating joint according to an embodiment. FIG, 2C includes a perspective view illustration of a bearing member according to an embodiment FIG, 3A includes a cross-sectional illustration of a portion of an articulating joint according to an embodiment. FIG. 3B includes a cross-sectional illustration of a portion of an articulating joint according to an embodiment. FIG. 3C includes a perspective view illustration of a bearing member according to an embodiment. FIG. 4A includes a cross-sectional illustration of a portion of an articulating joint according to an embodiment FIG. 4B includes a cross-sectioma illustration of a portion of an articulating joint aecordin to an embodiment FIG, 4C includes a perspective view illustration of a bearing member according to an embodiment. FIG. 5 includes 4 cross-sectional illustration of a general struture of a bearing member according to an embodiment -4- FIG, 6 includes a cross-sectional image of a portion of a bearing member according to an embodiment. FIG 7 includes an image of bearing members formed according to embodiments having no observable defects after being exposed to a salt spray test. FIG. 8 includes an image of bearing members formed according to embodiments having no observable defects after being exposed to a salt spray test. FIG. 9 includes an image of bearing members formed according to embodiments having no observable defects after being exposed to a salt spray test FIG, 10 includes an image of a conventional bearing member having observable defects after being exposed to a salt spray test. FIG 11 includes an image of a conventional bearing member having observable defects after being exposed to a salt spray test. FG. 12 includes a diagram of a testing set up. FIG. 13 includes a plot of friction torque versus number of cycles for a bearing member formed according to an embodient FIG 14 includes a plot of wear versus number of cy cles for a bearing member forrned according to an embodiment. The use of the same reference symbols in different drawings indicates similar or identical items. DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERREDEMBODINENT(S) The following describes power generation structures tailored to utilizing renewable energy sources, and particular articulating joints within the power generation structures having bearing members for use with energy conversion structures designed to harness renewable energy sources in various environments, The bearing members can facilitate movement of key components in harsh environments including environmentsihat may cause excessive conosion and/or mechanical failure in other bearing members. -5- FIG. 1 includes an illustration of a power generation stIcture in accordance with an embodiment. in particular, the struiture 100 may be particularly suitable for utilizing solar pwer, and converting solar energy to electrical enerAy. As illustrated, the structure 100 can include a base 103, including a foundation 107, which may be directly attached to the ground for securing he structure 100 in its location. As further illustratedthe base 103 can include a pedestal 108 directly connected to the foundation 107 and extending upward from the foundation 107 for support and connection of other components of the structure 100. As further illustrated, the base 1(3 can include a power terrninal 109 attached to the foundation 107, which may supply energy to motors used to move portons of the structure 100. The structure 100 can further include an articulating joint 115 attached to the base 103, and in particular, directly attached to the pedesal 108, and configured to move an elongated member 118 connected to the articulating joint 115. The articulating joint 115 is reference to a joint between two components, wherein one of the components is designed to move relative to the other component. Types of movement can include simple translation (along one axis), compound translation (along two or more axes), simple rotation (around one axis) compound rotation (around two or more axes), and a combination thereof The articulating joint 115 can include a drive mechanism 116 that may include a motor, which aids movement of the elongated member 118. In particular the drive mechanism 116 can be programmed such that it changes the position of the elongated member 118, and thus, the position of the panels 101 attached to the elongated member 118, such that the panels 101 can follow the position of the sun in the sky for efficient collection and/or direction of radiant beams of energy from the sun. In particular instances, the drive mechanism 116 is programmed with particular azimuth and declination coordinates that it traces through a duration of time according to a particular day. The articulating joint 115 can include a housing 117 connected to the drive mechanism .116 and configured to support the elongated member 118, As will be appreciated, the housing 117 can include components that facilitate the movement of the elongaed member, including for example bearing members, suitable for facilitating the sliding of the elongated member 11 8 around portions of the housing 117. -6- As will be appreciated, movement of the elongated member 118 can facilitate movement of portions of the structure 100, and in particular, panels 101 that are attached to the elongated member 118 via support structures 102 As illutrated, the structure 100 can include an array of panels 1.01 attached to a single base 103. According to one enmbodhnent, the panels 101 can be energy conversion sircturessuch as solar panels configured to convert radiant energy of the sun into electrical power. In another embodiment, the panels 101 of the article can bereflectors, such as mirrors, designed to re-direct the radiant energy of the sun to nearby energy conversion, structures, such as solar panels. While not illustrated, the structure 100 can include other articulating jointssuch as between the foundation 107 and the pedestal I08 for rotation of the pedestal relative to the foundation 107, Any articulating joint may utilize a bearing member according to embodiments herein. Moreover, it will be appreciated that other energy conversion structures can utilize an articulating joint115, and particularly a bearing member within the articulating joint 15, For exampleanother suitableenergy conversion structure can include a wind turbine, which may include a plurality of propellers(or vanes) extending from a central structure, wherein the turbines must be allowed torotate for the generation of electrical power, and thus, may utilize a bearing member at an articulating joint within the structure. FIGs. 2A--2C include illustraions of a portion of an articulating joint and/or a bearing member for use with an power generation structure designed to utilize a renewable energy source. FIG 2A includescross-sectional illustration of a portion of an articulating joint in accordance with an embodiment n particular, FIG, 2A includes an illustration of a portion of a lower housing 201, a portion of an upper housing 203, and a portion of an elongated member 205 disposed betweeT the lower housing 201 and upper housing 203. The articulating joint can include a bearing member 210 coup led to the upper housing 203 and configured to contact the elongated member 205. Moreoer, FI 2A includes a bearing member 216 coupled- to the lover housing 201 and configured to engage a portion of the elongated member 205. The bearing members 3.10 and 316 can provide a surface suitable for the movement (e.g. rotation) of the elongatedrnember relative to the upper housing 203 and the lower housing316. -7/- According to one embodiment, the bearing member 210 canhave a body 211 mnade of a composite material including a rigid material212 and a fietion-reducing material 213 owerlving a major surface of the rigid material 21,2 In particular embodiments, the friction-reducing material 213 can be bonded directly to a surface of the rigid material 212 to form the composite of the body 211 In certain designs the bearing member 210 can be contained within a recess 225 formed in an inner surface 226 within the upper housing 203 to suitably secure the bearing member 210 relative to the upper housing 203. in particar instancethe body 211 ofthe bearing member, and particularly the rigid aerial 21 2, can be in direct contact with the inner surface 226. It will be appreciated, that the bearing member 216 can be contained within a similar recess within the lower housing 201. During operation of the articulating joint, the elongated member 205 may be rotated about the longitudinal axis 207 such tht portions of the stnuture 100, such as the panels 101, may be articulated with the elongated member 205. However, the upper housing 203 and lower housing 201 my not necessarily need to he articulated and accordingly, the bearing members 210 and 216, provide alow-friction, sliding interface between the upper housing 203 and the elongated member 205 and the lower housing 201 and the elongated member 205, respectively. FIG. 2B includes a cross-sectional illustration of a portion of an articulating joIntin accordance with an embodiment In particular, FIG. 22B includes a cross-sectional illustration of the portion of the articulating joint of FIG 2A withinhe plane Ak As illustrated, the upper housing 203 and lower housing 201 can include arcuate surfaces complementary to the arcuate surface of the elongated member 205, such that the exterior surfaces of the elongated member 205 are complementary to a circular-shaped opening 251 formed by the joining of the upper housing 203 and lower housing 201 As illustrated in FIG 21B. within the circle-shaped. opening 251, the upper housing 203 and the lower housing 201 can surround a majority of the periphery of the elongated member 205. The bearing member 210 can be disposed between the upper housing 203 and the elonated member 205, while the bearing member 216 can be disposed between the lower housing 201. and the elongated member 205. -8- Notably, the bearing member 210 may not extend along the entire inner surface 226 of the upper housing 203, such that gap regions 2.61 and 263 are formed wherein the bearing member 210 is not ovedying the inner surface 226 of the tipper housing 203 and the inner surface 226 is spaced apart from the elongated member 205 without the intervening hearing member 210 A similar region is formed between the lower housing 201 and the elongated member 205, in instances where the bearing member 216 does not overlie the entire inner surface of the lower housing 201. While not illustrated, the upper housing 203 may be coupled too, such as directly connected to the lower housing 201. According to one embodiment, the upper housing 203 can be fastened to the lower housing 201 As such, the upper housing 203 and lower housing 201 may sandwich the elongated member 205, and thus the bearing member 210 and 216 facilitate rotation of the elongated member 205 about the longitudinal axis 207 while being disposed between the upper housing 203 and lower housing 201. FIG, 2C includes a perspective illustration of a bearing member in accordance with an embodiment. In particular, the bearing member 210 can have a body 211 which is a composite including the rigid material 212 and friction-reducing material 213. Particular aspects of the construction of the body 211 including materials of the rigid material 212, friction-reducing material 213, and other material components will be provided in more detail herein. In particular, the body 211 can have a curved shape that extends circumferentially around a central axis (e.g. the longitudinal axis 207j tofaciitate coupling of the body 211 with the elongated member 205. As will be appreciated, the friction-reducing material 213 can be disposed on the ixntor surface of the body 211, such that it is configured to engage the elongated member 205 and provide a suitable sliding surface for rotation of the elongated member 205 relative to the friction-reducing material 213, The bearing member2.10 can have an arcuate shape as viewed in cross-section to the longitdinal axis 207. In accordance with one embodimentthe bearing member 210 can he a simple bushing, having a cylindrical or partially cyindrical shape. For example, as illustrated, the bearing member 210 can have a semi-circular shape as viewed in cross section to the longitudinal axis 207. Accordingly in certain instancesthe bearing member 210 can have a body 211 that extends through a portion of a circumference of a -9 circle, For example the body 211 can extend through a central angle based upon a point on the longitudinal axis 207of 8IS or less. As further illustrated in FTIG. 2C, the body 211 can have an outer diameter 271 as measured in a direction perpendicular to the longitudinal axis 207 between the outer surfaces of the body 211. In accordance with an embodiment, the bearing member 210 has a body 211 having an omter diameter 271 of at least about 500 mm, In other embodinents, the outer diameter 271 can be at least about. 100 mm. such as at least about 200 nn, at least about 300 mm. at least about 400 mn or even at least about 500 mn In particular instances, the body 211 can have an outer diameter 2 71 that is within a range between about 50 mm and 1000 mm. Such as between about 50 mm and 750 tum, between about 50 mm and 500 mm between about 100 nun and 500 mm, or even between about 200 mm and 500 m.n Use of a hearing member 210 having a body 211 with an outer diameter 271 as noted herein may provide a bearing member 210 having suitable mechanical characteristics (e g. stiffness) suitable for use in demanding applications, such as those artiles utilizing renewable energy sources. Moreover, the body 211 can have an average thickness 221 as measured in a direction perpendicular to the longitudinal axis 207 through the rigid material 212 and the friction -reducing material 213. In accordance with an embodiment. the bearing member 210 can have an average thickness 221 of at least about 30 rm -In other embodiments, the average thickness can be at least about 40 nm, at least about 50 nim, at least about 75 nmm or even at least about 80 mm. In other embodimentAs, the average thickness 221 can be within a range between about 35 mm and 500 mm such as between about 35 mm and 300 mmin or even between about 35 nm and 20(1 mm. UJse of a bearing member 211) having a body 211 vith an average thickness 221 as noted herein may provide a bearing member 210 having suitable mechanical characteristics (eg .stiffness suitable for use in demanding applications, such as those articles utilizing renewable energy sources As further illustrated in FIG, 2C the rigid material 212 can have an average thickness 222 as measured perpendiuar to the longitudinal axis 207 through the thickness of the rigid material 212. In certain instances it will be appreciated that the rigid material 212 can be formed of a metal or metal aloy, and particularly, almWinium or stainless steel. As will be understood, stainless steel is a steel material having at least -10- I10.5% chromium., in embodiments utilizing a rigid material 212 consisting essentially of stainless steel, the average thickness 222 can be at legt 35 mm. Still, in designs udilizing a rigid material 212 consisting essenatilly of stainless steel the average thickness 222 can be at least about 40 mn such as at least 45 mn a Least tout 50 mn or even at least about 60 mm. In particular instances the rigid materiil 212 can consist essentially of stainless steel and the average thickness 222 can be within a range between about 35 mm and 200 rmm, such as between about 35 mm and 150 mn. or even between about 35 n1m and 100 mm. In other instances, the rigid material 212 can be formed such that it consists essentially of aluminium. in such embodiments, the rigid material 212 can have an average thickness 222 of at least about 70 nm Sti l, embodiments utilizing a rgid material 212 that consists essentially of aluminium, the average thickness 222 can be at least about 7 mm; such as at least about 80 mm. at least about 90 mn or even at least about 100 mm Inaccordance with one embodiment, the bearing member can be formed such that the rigid material 212 consists essentially of aluminium, and the average thickness 222 of the rigid material 212 can be within a range between about 70 mm and about 200 mm. such as between about 70 mm and 175 mm or even between about 75 mm and about 150 mm. As further illustrated in FIG, 2C the bearing member 210 may be formed such that the friction-reducing material 213 has a particular thickness For example the friction reducing material 213 can have an average thickness 223 as measured in a direction perpendicular to the longitudinal axis 207 that can be at least about 0. 1 mm, such as at least about 02 mn, at least about 0.3 mm or even at least about 1 mm. In accordance with one embodiment, the bearing member can be formed such that the friction-reducing material 213 has an average thickness 223 within a range between about 0,1 mm and about 25 run, such as between about 0. 1 mm and aboNt 15 mm. between about 0 1 mm and about 10 mm, or even between about 0.1 mm and about 5 mm. FIGs. 3 A-3C include illustations of an articulating joint and/or bearing member in accordance with an embodiment. In particular, FIG. includes a cross-sectional illustration of an articulating joint incorporating a bearinng member in accordance with an embodiment As illustrated, the articulatig int can include a portion of a lower housing 2Y1, a portion of an upper housing 203 and an elongated member 205 extending between the lower housing 21 and upper housing 203 Futhermorethe articnlating joint can include a hearing member 310 disposed between a portion of the upper housing 203 and the elongated member 205. The bearing member 3 10 can have a body 311 forined of a composite material including a rigid material 312 and a friction-reducing material 313 configured to engage the elongated member 205 and facilitate the articulation and particularly the rotation, of the elongated member 205 around the longitudial axis 207 relative to the upper housing 203. As father illustrated, the artiduating joint caiincilude a bearing member 316 disposed between the lower housing 201 and elongated member 20$. The bearing member 316 can ncude the same features as the bearing member 210, With respect to the bearing member 310, the body 311 of the b rmmber 310 can be formed such that iti nudes a first flange 315 extending from an end of the body 311 and configured to engage an outer side surface 307 of the upper hoping 203, Additionally, the body 311 of the bearing member 31(0 can include a second flange 314 extending from an end of the body 311 opposite of the flange 315 and configured to engage and directly connect to an outer side surface 306 of the upper housing 203. In particular, the bearing member 310, and its flanges 314 and 315 are configured to engage the outer side surfaces 306 and 307 of the upper housing 203, thereby locking the position of the bearing member 310 relative to the upper housing 203 As Wil be appreciated the bearing member 310 further includes an inner surface of the rigid material 312 that is configured to engage and directy contact an inner surface 305 of the housing 203. As further illustrated, the bearing member 310 can be formed such that the friction reducing material 313 overlies exterior surtaces of the flnges 314 and 313, such that the friction-reducing material 31 3 extends radially along the outer peripheral surfaces of the flanges 314 and 31I FIG. 3B includes a cross-sectionaillustration of a portion of the articulan joint within the plane AA as illustrated in FG. 3A As illustrated, the upper housing 203 and lower housing 201 can have arcuate shapes configured to extend around a majority of the external surfaces of the elongated member 205. As further illustrated, the bearing -12member 310 is configured to engage the upper housing 203 and further configured to engage a portion of the arcuate surface of the eongated member 205. such that the elongated meniber 20$ can freely rotate relative to the upper housing 203. Likewise, the bearing member 316 is disposed between the lower housing 201 and elongated member 205 such that the elongated member 205 can rotate relative to the lower housing 201. As father illustrated, the flange 315 of the bearing member 310 can extend radially at an end of the body 3 11 such that it overies a portion of the outer side surface 307 of the upper housing 203 and locks the position of the bearing member 310 relative to the upper housing 203. As further illustrated in Ff. 3, the friction-reding material 313 extends along the entire external surface of the body 311 including the flange 315, The bearing member 316 can have the same features as discussed above, with regard to the bearing member 3 10. FIG.3C includes a perspective view illustration ofthe bearing member 310. As illustrated, the bearing member 310 can have a body 311 which is a composite material including a rigid material 312 and a friction-reducing material 313 overlying a surface of the rigid material 312. The bearing member 31( can have a generally arcuate shape as viewed in cross-section to the longitudinal axis 207, such that it is in the shape of a flanged bushing, in particular instances, the bearing member 310 can have a semi circular shape as viewed in cross-section to the longitudinal axis 207 Moreover, as further illustrated in FIG. 3C the, friction-reducing material 31 can extend along an interior surface 351 of the rigid material 3 as wel as inner bide surfaces 352 and 353 of the flanges 314 and 315. respectively. When the bearing member 310 is disposed within the articulating joint as depicted in FIGs 3A and 3B> the elongated member 205 can be disposed within the cavity 355 of the hearing member 310 and articulate (eog, rotate) within the cavity 355, FIGs. 4A.-44 include illustraeions of an articulating joint and/or a bearing member in accordance with an embodiment. In particular, FIG. 4A includes a cross sectional illustration of a portion of an articulating joint in accordance with an embodiment. Notably, the articulating joint can include those components previously described in other embodiments, notaby including a housing 403 an elongated member -13 - 205 extending through an opening inthe housing 403, and a bearing member 410 disposed between the housing 403 and the elongatd member 205, In particular the design of the articulating joint illustrated under FIG. 4A utilizes a single bearing member (as opposed to two bearing members) to be disposed between the housing ad the elongated member 205, wherein the bearing member is configured to engage the elongated member 205 and facilitate articulation(eg., rotation about the longitudinal axis 207) of the elongated member 205 relative to the housing 403. More particularly, the rigid material 412 is configured to be abutting a surface of the housing 403, while the frictionreducing material 413 is configured to abut a surface of the elongated member 205 such that it is capable of rotation around the longitudinal axis 207 relative to the housing 403. The being member 410 can have a body 41 1 formed of a composite material including a rigid material 412 and a friction-reducing material 413 ovedyng a surface of the rigid material 412- As further illustrated, the bearing member 410 can have a body 41 including a flange 415 extending radially from an end of the body 411 The flange 415 can be formed such that at least a portion of the flange 41.5 is configured to engage an outer side surface 406 of the housing 403, FIGB. 4B includes a cross-sectional iusrration of a portion of the articulating joint of FIG. 4A within the plane AA. As illustrated the articulating joint includes a housing 403 which includes an opening 420 configured to engage the elongated member 205 therein. Additionaly, the opening 420 is confgured to engage the bearing member 410 therein. As illustrated, the bearing member 410 can be formed such that the flange 415 extends radially from the longitudinal axis and extends along a portion of the outer side surface 406 of the housing 403, Such a configuration facilitates locking the position of the bearing member 410 relative to dhe housing 4013 FiG. 4C includes a perspective illustration of the bearing member 410 in accordance with an embodiment. in particularthe hearing member 410 can be in the form ofthe cup-shaped hushing. Notably, the cup-shaped hushing has a generally cylindrical shape extending almost completely around the longitudinal axis 207. The cup shaped bushing can include a slit 417 that extends axially along the longitudinalaxis 207 of the body 411, such that the body 411 does not form a complete circle (less than 360") -14as viewed in cross-section to the longitudinal axis 207 As further illustrated in FIG, 4C, the bearing 410 can have a flange 415 that can extend radially from an end of the body 411. As illustrated, the internal surfaces 422 of the bearng member 410 can include the friction-reducing material 413 to facilitate rotation of the elongated member 205 therein. Moreover. the bearing member 410 can be formed such that the friction-reducing material 413 overlies an exteriorsurface of the flange 415, such that the frictionreducing material 313 extends radially along the outer peripheral surfaces of the flange 4,1 5 The foregoig hearng members can be formed such that the body is made of a composite material including a rigid material and friction-reducing matenal as described herein, In accordance with an embodiment, the bearing members herein can have particular characteristics, including bu not. i mi ted to. corrmsion resistance, wear resistance, and stick-slip properties making them particularly well-suited for use in power-generation structures. While the foregoing has described certain key features of bearing members, the following provides further details of particular aspects that may be incorporated into the bearing members of the embodiments herein. in an embodiment, a bearing member can include a rigid material an intermediate material applied directly thereto, and a friction reducing material applied to the intermediate material in which excellent adhesion of the friction-reducing material to the rigid material is ensured over the long tern and whose production makes do without use of ecologically problematical processes for surfilce pretreatment. In an embodiment a bearing member can include an intermediate material comprising at least one functionalized thermoplastic polymer with incorporation of functional groups of the fomula -COOH and/or -COOR where the radicals R are cyclic or linear organic radicals having from I to 20 carbon atoms. If the organic radical contains for example only one carbon atom, the functional group preferably has the following formula: The i ional groups can be incorporated into the thermoplastic Polymer (A) by addition of at least one modifying agent (B), Suitable modifying agents can include - 15maleic acid itaconic acid, citraconic acid, derivatives thereof, and a combination thereof In particular, the moditFing' agents can include an anhydride of maleic acid, anhydride of itaconic acid, anhydride of citraconic acid, derivatives thereof,:and a conbriation thereof Here, the ratio of the polymer (A) to the modifying agent (B) can be from 99.9 mol% of (A): 01 mol% of (B) to 80 mol% of (A): 20 mol% of(B). Then clt volume flow rate (MVR at 50 0 C as melting point and under a load of 7 kg) can be on the order of from 0 1 to 1000 mnlsec The M'VR is an index of the melt flow of the polymer and can thus be used as a rough estimate of the molecular weight. Idealy, the MVR. is in the order of 5 to 500 mmnlsec, particularly preferably in the range from 10 to 200 mm /sec In an embodiment, the bearing member can be characterized by adhesion of the friction-reducing material to the support material brought about by the intermediate nmterial includnig a functionalized thermoplastic polymer havnT g functonal groups of the abovemernioned type. Owing to te excellent adhesion to even an umpretreated surface of the rigid material, in particular to cold-rolled staiess steel coldrolled and subsequently electrolytically zinc -plated stainless steel, aluminum, ecologically problematical and disposalintensive wet chemical pretreatment processes, in particular chromating, can be dispensed with. Physical presses for surface pretreatment (eg plasma pretreatment by corona discharge) as are described, for example, in P 0 848 0 31 Bin whica functionalzed thernoplastic fluoropoIymwer is likewise described as constituent of a laminate are no longer necessary, as studies carried out by the applicant have shown, The process for producing the bearing member can therefore be carried out at significantly lower costs compared to the prior art. In an embodiment, the at least one functionalized thermoplastic polymerof the intermediate material can be a functionalized thermoplastic fhoropolymer including for example an ethylene-tetratuoroethylene copolymer{ETFE) perfiuoroalkox yethylene (PFA) or tetrafluoroethyeneperfluoro(methyl vinyl ether) copolymer (MFA), and a conmbination thereof. It particular instances the at least one functionalized thermoplastic polymer of the intermediate material can Consist essentially of ethylene tetrafluoroethylene copolymner (ETFE !being particularly preferred The intermediate material can include not only the at least one functionalized thermoplastic polynmr but also a eopolvmer of perfluoro(alkyl vinyl ether) of the -16formula: Czf4CF~O-R., where R. is a perfluoroethyl, perfluoro-n-propyl, a perfluoro-n butvl radical, tetrafluoroethylene, or a combination thereof The thickness of the intermediate material can correspond essentialy to the roughness of the rigid material, defined as the distance R between the maxinuun profit Ie peak height and the maximum profile valley depth of the roughness profile of the surface ofthe rigid material. In this way, it can be ensured that a sufficiently thick adhesive layer is applied to the rigid material so that a fulklarea adhesive bond between friction-reducing material and the rigid material is ensured. The adhesive layer should also not be made too thick. In this case, there would be a risk that, onjoining the layers, parts of the adhesdvlyer coul be pressed out from the adhesive bond or cohesive rupture could occur within parts of the adhesive layer projecting above the roughness profile of the rigid material saface when the bearing member is subjected to shear stress. In another embodiment, the intermediate material can comprise two layers of the finctionalized thermoplastic polymer having functional groups ofthe formula -a -C-0-R, -CUR, SCOOH and/or -COOR. A metallic intermediate matenal can be embedded between the two layers. Improved calibratability of the material can be achieved in this way. The metallic intermediate material can here be configured as expanded metal The metallic intermedi ate material can comprise stainless steel, aluminur, or bronze In particular instance the metallic intermediate material, can be a woven matter. comprising lengths of a metallic material. For example in certain designs the metallic intermediate material includes a metal mesh material. To improve the mechanical and general physical properties of the bearing member, the intermediate material can contain fllers for increasing and/or improving the thermal conductivity and/or the wear properties of the bearing member. Particularly suitable fillers can include fibers, inorganic materials, thermoplastic mateialsor mineral materials, or mixtures thereof Examples of suiable fbers can include glass fibers, carbon fibers. aramids and a combination thereof Examples of inorganic materials can include ceramic materials carbon, glass, graphite, aluminumn oxide, molybdenmn sulfide bronze, silicon carbide, and a combination thereof. The inorganic materials can be in the form of woven fabrics, powders, spheres or fibers. Examples of thermoplastic materials -17can include polvimide (P polyamidimde (PAI), polyphenylene sulfide (PPS), polyphenylenc sulfone (PPS02), liquid crystal polymers (LCP}, polyether ether ketones (PEEK), aromatic polyesters (Ekonol) and a combiation thereof, Examples of suitable mineral materials can include wollastonitebarium sulphate, and a combination thereof. The proportion of filler in the intermediate material can be 1 40% by vohme, and more particularly, 5I0% by volume of the total volume of the intermediate materiaL The thickness of the intermediate material can be in the rang' -from 0.01 to 0.1 nn, in particular from 0.01 to 0.5 mm. In an embodiment the rigid material used in the bearing member can have a surface of a varying nature. The rigid material can have a smooth surface, a roughened surface, and/or a structured surface (for example as achieved by brushing, sandblasting. embossing of a structure), The surface of the rigid material utilized for bonding of the friction-reducing material thereto can also have a surface-upgraded surface, such as an electrolytically zinc-plated surface. The rigid material can consist of stainless steel, in particular cold-rolled stainless steel or matt zinc-plated stainless steel, aluminum or a combination thereof in a particular embodiment, the cold-rolled steel can be material number 1 .0338 or 1.0347, In another particular embodiment. the stainless steel can be material No, 1,4512 or 1.4720. In particular instances, the rigid material can consist essentially of stainless steel.. Another designs, the bearing number can be formed such thatthe rigid material consists essentially of aluminium. The friction-educing materiaapplied to the intermediate material can comprise a fluoropolymer. For example, in certain instances the frictionreducing material can include a Polymer material such as poytetrafluoroethylenefluorinated ethylene propylene, poly vinlidenfluoride polyehiorotrifluoroethylene ethylene chlorotrifluoroethyl ceperfluoroalkoxypolymierpolyacetal, polgbuty 1enterep htalate, polyimide, polvetherinid, polyetheretherketone, polethylene, polvsulfone, polyamid plyphenylenoxide, polyphenylensulfde, polyurathane, polyester polyciher ether ketone (PEEK), and a combination thereof in a particular embodiment, the friction-reducing material can include a PTFE compound layer. Here, the friction-reducing material can be -18s configured as a perforated plastic finW fey increasing the conductivity, In certain instances, the friction-reducing material consists essentially of PTFE. In an embodiment, the bearing member has excellent sliding properties and a long life when the thickness of the fritionreducing material is 0.011 .5 mm. in particular 0.1 0,35 mm. The fiction-reducing material applied to the intermediate material can in turn also contain a filter material that may improve the thermal conductivityand/or the wear properties The filler material can include glass fibers, carbon fibers, silicon, graphite, PEEK, molybdenum disi fide, aromatic polyester, carbon particles, bronze, fiuoropolymer, thermoplastic fillers, sicon carbide, ahnninum oxide, polyamidniide (PAI) PPTS polyphenylene sulfone fPPSO2t liquid crystal polymers (LCPL aroinic polyesters (EconoA q and mineral partcles such as wollastonite and bariumsulfate or any combination thereof Fillers can be in the form of beads, fibers powdermesh. or any combination thereof The proporton of filler material in the Friction-reducing material can be 1-40% by volume in particular 5-30% by volume in an embodiment a process for producing a bearing member can include joining the intermediate material and the friction-reducing material over their area to the support under pressure and with introduction of heat. In such instancethe bearing member can have a body that is a laminated construction, wherein the rigid material is a layer and the friction-reducing material is a layer bonded directly to the surface of the rigid material, or an intervene g intermediate material. In forming a laminated constructionthe ri gid material, the intennediate material, and the friction-reducing material can be rolled off a roll as continuous material and joined to one another under pressure and at elevated temperature in a aminating roller apparatus To achieve furthermproved adhesion of the intermediate material to the rigid material together with improved corrosion properties of the rigid material, an embodiment of the process provides for the surface ofthe rigid material to be roughed and/or surface-upgraded (e.g by electrolytic zinc-plating) before appellation of the intermediatemateral Furthermore, the surface of the rigid material can be increased by mechanical structuring, for example by brushing sandblasting, embossing of a stmeture. - 19- The structure of an exemplary hearing member is shown in FIG 5. Here, the rid material is denoted by 501, while502 denotes the intermediate material, and 503 dcnotes the friction-redtcing material applied thereto. In an embodiment. the Intermediate material 502 comprises at least one functionalized thermoplastic polymer having functional groups of the formula - ICOH and/or -COOR. where the radicals R are eyelic or linear orlganiic rad-icals hav ing from I to 20 carbon atoms. The functional groups can be incorporated into the thermopliastic polymer (A) by addition of at lea,'st one", nodit~ing agent (B). Suitable modifying agents are, for example, maleic acid and derivatives thereof, in particular the anhydride thereof, itaconic acid and derivatives thereof, in particular the anhydride thereof and/or citraconic acid and derivatives thereof, in particular the anhydride thereof Hiere, the ratio of the polymer (A)o the modifying agent (B) can be from 99,9 niol% of (A), 0.1 moil%' of(Bt) to S0 mol%, of (A): 20 mrol% of (B). The frictio-teducing material 503 applied to the intermediate material 502 can be a PTFE compound tape, in particular as a surfacc-pretreated preferably etched, PTFE compound tape. The tilE compound layer 503 used can contain various fillers to improve the mechanical properties e g fibers inorganic materials, thermoplastic materials, or mineral materials, or mixtures thereof FIG, 6 includes a cross-sectional image of a portion of a bearing member in accordance with an embodiment As ilustaed. the bearing member 600 s a layered structure including those layers notedin accordance with FIG, 5 Furthermore the bearing embrr 600 incorporates a -wven metal mesh intermediate material 602 made of ness see which can be disposed in direct contaCtwith the friction-reducing material 503. Moreover to improve the mechanical and general physical properties of the bearing member, the friction-reducing material $03 includes a combination of graphite (carbon) fibers and glass fibers: As further illustrated, the bearing member can be formed such that the friction reducing layer 503 and the rigid material 501 can have an average thickness that is -20approximately the same. That is, the friction-reducing material can have a thickness that is not greater than about 25% different than the average thickness of the rgid material 501 based on the formula [(Tf-Tr)/Tix 00%, wherein Tr is the average thickness of the rigid material and Tfis the average thickness of the friction-reducing material. In other instances the deference in average thicknesses between the frictioneducing material 503 and the rigid material 501 can be less. such as on the order of not create than about 15%n not greater than about 10% not greater 8%, or even not greater than about 5% Moreover, unlike other conventional designs,the friction.reducing layer of embodiments herein may be essentially free of porous particles including a metal material. In some embodiments, the friction-reducing layer may be essentially free of large porous particles, such as ZnS In certain optional bearing members of the embodiments herein; the body can be formed to include a corrosion resistant coating The corrosion resistant coating can overland in particular inst.aces be directly bonded to, an external surface of the rigid material 501. For example, he major surface 507 opposite the major surface of the rigid material 501 having the overlying intermediate layer 502 and frictionreduing layer 503 can include a corrosion resistant coating; Additionally, edge surfaces 50 can be partially or totally covered with a corrosion resistant coating, n particuLia embodiments, the corrosion. resistant coating can overlie an entire edge surface of the bearing body, and accordingly, Can overie all component ayers (eg rigid material 501, intermediate layer 502, and friction-reducing layer 503) forming the bearing body The corrosion resistant coating can have a thickness of between about 1 micron and about 50 microns, such as between about 5 nicrons and about 20 microns, such as between about 7 microns and 15 microns. The corrosion resistant coating can be made of a series of films or individual layers that combine to form the corrosion resistant coating. For example, the corrosion resistant coating can include an adhesion promoter layer and an epoxy layer. The adhesion promoter layer can include a phosphate of zinc, iron, manganese, tin, or any combination thereof Additionally, the adhesion promoter layer can include a nano-ceramic layer, The adhesion promoter layer can include functional silanes, nano-scaled silane based layers. -21 hydrolyzed silanes, organosilane adheson promoters olventwater based slane primers, chlorinated polyolefins, passivated surfaces. comnercially available zinc (mechanical/ galvamic) or zinc-nickel coatings; or any combination thereof The epoxy layer of the corrosion resistant coating can be a thermal cured epoxy a UV cured epoxy, an IR cured epoxy, an electron beam eured epoxy, a radiation cured epoxy, or an air cured epoxy. Further, the epoxy resin can include polyglycidvlehe diglycidylether, bisphenol A, bisphenol F. oxirane, oxacycopropane, ethylenoxide 1,2 epoxypropane, 2-methyloxirane 910-epoxy-9 10-dihydroanthracene or any Combiation thereof The epoxy resin can include synthetic resin modIfied epoxies based on phenolic resins, urea resins melamine resins, benzoguanaminewh formaldehyde, or any combination thereof By way of exarnple epoxies can include C, HlX 2 Aj 0 CxNyz O ~CxHyXzAu mono epoxoideCxHyXeAC CxXxA 0 0 A CxHX C - C -CyHyzA- C - C his epoxide Cx~Ao CxHyXrAu lineatris epoxide Ca~m - tnA OO O Cx<HX 2 Ax 0 C - C CxHyXzAU- C - C - CHyXAu- C - C CxHyXzAj CxHyXzAi CxHyXzAu CxHyXAu CxHyXA CxH XzA. ramified tis epoxide CxHyXzA 1 0 CHXA -C-C CXx'X 7 A 'C Hy1 XzAu. C Cx~yzAu 00 C N C xC A XAu CxHXz CxXA CxHY-z OJ CHyXzAUjy4A x CNHyXzAu or any combination -22thereof" vherein (XFlyXZAu is a linear or ramified saturated or unsaturated carbon chain with optionally halogen atoms X. substiuuing hydrogen atoms, and optionally where atoms like nitrogen, phosphorous, boron, etc, are present and B is one of carbon, nitrogen. oxygen, phosphorous, boron, sulfur etc. The epoxy resin can further include a hardening agent. The hardening agent can inclilde ammes., acid anhydrides, phenol novolac hardeners such as phenol novolac pol[N (4 hydroxyphenylmaleimide} (PHPMIV resole phenol fonnaldehydes, fatty aminC compounds, polycarbonic anhyddrides, polyacrylate, isocyanates, encapsulated polyisoeyanates, boron trifluoride amine complexes, chrouni c-based hardeners, polyamides, or any combination thereof Generally, acid anhydrides can confirm to the formula R-CE=O-0 C=O-R' where R can be Cx1-JyXyAp as described above. Amines can include aliphatic amines such as monoethylamine, diethylenetriamine, triethylenetetraamine, and the like alicyclic amines, aromatic amines such as cyclic aliphatic amincs cyclo aliphatic amines, amidoamines, polyamides, dicyandiamides, irmidazole dervatives.and the like, or any combination thereof. Generally; amines can be pruiary amities, secondary mines, or tertiary amines conforming to the formula RiR,\N where R can be Cxl- yXAtas described above. In an embodiment, the epoxy layer can include fillers to improve the conductivity, such as carbon fillers, carbon fibers, carbon particles, graphite, metallic fillers such as bronzealuminum, and other metals and their alloysmetal oxide filers metal coated carbon filers, metal coated polymer fillers, or any combniation thereof The conductive fillers can allow current to pass through the epoxy coating and can increase the conductivity of the coated hearing as compared to a coated bearing without conductive fillers in another embodiment,an epoxy layer can increase the corrosion. resistance of the bearing, For example, the epoxy layer can substantially prevent corrosive elements, such as water, salts and the likefrom contacting the load bearing substrate, thereby inhibiting chemical corrosion of the load bearing substrate, Additionally, the epoxy layer can inhibit galvanic corrosion of either the housing or the load bearing stubstrate by preventing contact between dissimilar metals. For example, placing an aluninm bearing without the epoxy layer within a steel housing can cause the steel to oxidize. However, an epoxy layer, such as epoxy layer, can. pvent the aluminum substrate from contacting. the steel housing and inhibit corrosion due to a galvanic reaction. The bearing members of the embodiments herein can demonstrate improved operations and characteristic over conventional bearing members. For example. in one embdimntthe bearfinge members of emoiet eendenmuostrate improved resistance to corrosion and weathering Ill act after exposure to a salt spray for at least about 150 hours, which was conducted according to standard corrosion test ISO 9227:2006, the bearing meMherrs of the enibodiments herein were essentially free of readily observable defects. In fat the frictioned ucing layer of the bearing members, and particularly, the inner surface at contact with the sliding surface, demonstrated essenaly no readily observed corrosion, rusting, tearing, or cracking, In a more particular embodiment, the friction reducing materal of the bearing members of embodiments were essentially free of observable defects afler salt spray testing for at least 160 hours, at least 170 hours, at least 180 hours, or greater. According to another embodiment, the bearing mnbers can have a particular weathered wear rate, which is a measure of the wear characteristics of the bearing members after extended exposum to a corrosive environment i.e salt spray bath according to ISO 9227:2006) and operation for a particular minimum amount of cycles. The weathered wear rate is a measure of the loss ofnnaterial from the contact surface for an extended duration in order to test the sliding capabilities of the bearing after exposure to a corrosive environment, Testing procedures for the weathered wear rate are detailed in the Examples. Notably, the weathered wear rate of the bearing members can be not greater than about 0.99 microns/hr for at least about 15000 cycles of articulating movement; In other instances, the weathered wear rate can be less, such as not greater than about 0.5 micronsihr. not greater than about 0.9 micros/r, not greater than about 0.85.microns/h. not greater than about 0.8 microns/hr, not greater than about 0.75 microns/hr.or even not greater than about 0.7 microns/hr for at least about 15,000 cyces of articulating movement. According to another embodiment the bearing members of embodiments herein can have a weathered wear rate of not greater than greater than about 0.99 microns/hr for at least about 15,000 cycles of articulating movement. In other instances, the weathered wear rate can be less, such as not greaterthan about 0.95 microns/hr, not greater than about 0.9 microns/hr, not greater than about 0.85 microns/hr not greater than about 0.8 microns/hr, not greater than about R175 microns/hror even notgreater than about 0.7 microns/hr for at least about 1,000 cycles of articulating movement. Still, in certain embodiments, the weathered wear rate can be at least about 0.05nuceronslhr at least about 0.08 micronsihr at least about 0.1 microns/hr; or even at least about 0.15 microns/hr for at least about 15 000 cycles of articulating movement. It will be appreciated that the bearing members of embodiments herein can have a weathered wear rate within a range between any of the minimum and maximum values noted above; According to another embodiment, the weathered wear ate of the bearing members can be not greater than about 0.99 microns/hr for at least about 20,000 cycles of articulating. movement. In other instances, the weathered wear rate can be less, such as not greater than about 0.95 microns/br not greater than about 09 micronsh not greater than about 0.5 microns/hr, not greater than about 0.8 microns/hr, not greaterthan about 075 micronshr or even not greater than about 07 microns/hr for at least about 20,000 cycles of ariculating movement. Still, in certain embodiments, the weathered wear rate can be at least about 0.05 microns/hr at least about 0.08 microns/br at least about 0. 1 nicrons/hr. or en rat least about O. 5 microns/br for at least about 2),000 cycles of artiulaNng movement It will be appreciated that the bearing members of embodiments herein can hae a weathered wear rate wihin arage between any of the minanua and maximum values noted above. According to one embodiment, the bearing members of the embodiments herein can have partkular wear characteristics, such that after an extended duration of use, the friction-reducing layer demonstrates very little wear. For example the friction.reducing layer can have a change in average thickness of not greater than 5% after conducting an oscillation test as noted below in the Examples. The change in average thickness can be calculated by At [(tb-ta)/tbjx100%, wherein th is the average thickness of the frition reducing layer before testing and ta is the average thickness ofthe friction-reducirg layer after testing. According to one embodiment the change in average thickness is not greater than about 4% such as not greater than about 3%, not gmater than about 2%. not greater than about 1. or even not greater than about 0.8%. 25- Moreover, in particular instances, the total amount of wear to the friction-reducing layer of the bearing bodies during the weathered wear test can be limited as compared to other conventional bearings for example, the total amount of wear can be less than about 6000 microns for at least 15,000 cycles or even at least 20,00 cycls. In other instances, the total amount of wear can be less. such as not greater than about 5900 Miurons, not greater than about 5800 microns not greater than about 5500 microns, not greater than about 5000 microns, not greater than about 4500 microns, not greater than about 4000 microns, not greater than about 3500 rmicrons, not greater than about 3000 microns, not greater than about 2500 microns. or even not greater than about 2000 microns for at least 15,000 cycles, such as at least 20,000 cycles. The bearing members of embodiments herein can have an improved sliding qua ity over extended durations For example, the baring membercan have an average friction force of not greater than about 300 N for at least 15,000 cycles in an oscillating test The oscillating test continuously rotates the bearing member relative to a shaft under controlled conditions, while monioring the torque of the system to simulate approximately 30 years ofuse in approximately 11 days of testing. Details of the testing pa meters are provided in the Examples. In particular distances the bearing members demonstrated an average friction force of not greater than about 290 N, such as not greater than about 280 N, not greater than about 270 N. not greater tian about 260 N or even not greater than about 250 N for at least 15000 cycles in the oscilating test Still, the bearing members of embodiments herein can have an average friction force of at least about 100 N, such as at last about 150 N or even at least about 200 N for at least 15,000 cycles in the oscillaing test. It will be appreciated that the bearing members of embodiments herein can have an average friction force within a range between any of the minimum and maximum values noted above. For certain bearing members, the average fridion force during the oscillating test can be not greater thanabout 300 N for at least 20,000 cycles n other instances; the average friction force can be less, such as not greater about 200 N. not greater than about 280 N, not greater than about 270 N, not greater than about 260 N. or even not greater than about 250 N for at east 20,00 cycles in the oscillating test. Still, he bearing members of embodiments herein can have an average friction force of at least about 100 -26- N; such as at least about 150 N, or even at least about 200 Nfor at least 20.000 cycles in the oscillating test. It will be appreciated that the bearing members of embodiments herein can have an average friction frce within a rangc between any of the minimum and maximum values noted above. Furthermore, the bearing articles of embodiments herein can have improved sliding characteristics as measured by the average coeffcient of friction under oscilHating test conditions for a particularinimum number of cyles and duration For example, certain bearing articles of embodiments herein demonstrated an average coefficient of friction of not greater about 01 such as not greater than about 09 not greater than about 108, not greater than about 0107, or even not greater than about 0.06 for at least I 5,000 cycles in an oscillating test. Still the bearing members of embodiments herein can have an average coefficient of friction of at least about O0. such as at least about 0.02, or even at least about 0.03 for at least 15000 cyles in the oscillating test. Itrwill be appreciated that the bearing members of enibodiments herein can have an average coefficientof friction withki a range between any of the minimum and maximum values noted above. The bearing articles of embodiments herein can have improved sliding characteristics as.asured by the average coeficient of friction under oscillating test conditionsfor a particular minimum number of cycles and duration. For example certain bearingents herein demonstrated an average coefficient of friction of not greater about 0,. such as not greater than about 0 09, not greater than about O.8, not greater than about 0.07 or even not greater than about (106 for at least 2(0 000 cycles in the oscillating test. Still the bearing members of embodiments herein can have an average coefficient of friction of at least about 0.01: such as at least about 0.02, or even at least about 0,03 for at least 20,000 cydes in the oscillating test. It will be appreciated that the bearing members of embodiments herein can have an average coefficient of friction within a range between any of the minimum and maximum values noted above In particular instances, the bearing members can have an average coefficient of friction within a range between about 0-04 and about 0.059 such as within a range between about 0.040 and about 0.058. or even within a range between about 0.04 and about 0.057 for at least 15000 cycles, or even at least 20,000 cycles. -2'7- EXAM PLE Three sets of bearing members in the formr ofsinple annular bushings are formed according to embodiments herein. Sample 1s formed having a steel substrate, intermediate layer of fluropohymer based material, and. a friction-reducing layer of PTFE Sample 2 is fomned of a steel substrate -br the rigid material. intermediate layer of fluropolymer-based material and a friction reducing layer of PTFE, Sample 3 has a steel substrate for the rigid material intermediate layer of fluropolymerbased material, and a friction reducing layer of PTFE. Notably, sample 3 includes a corrosion resistance layer overlying the rigid material. Conventional bushing samples (CS) are obtained from DuPont Corporation and are available as Derlin® bushings, Additional, conventional bushing samples (CS2) are Perraglide@ bearings available from Kolbenschmidt Corportion and are formed of a steel backing having surface protecive layer of tin of approximately 0.002 mm thick The bearings have a sliding layr of PTFE and ZnS of about 25 microns thick and a top layer of PIFE based compound of about 0.03 mm thick. All samples are subject to a salt spray test according to standard corrosion test ISO 9227:2006, to test the corrosion resistance and resistance to corrosive environments. Each of the samples noted above (sample 1-3 CSi, and C2 are placed in a salt spray booth fOr 192 hours and exposed to a salt solution of 50 /- 5 gil concentration of salt at 35*C +/-2C degres, FIGs79 provide images of bearing members of samples 1, samples 2, and samples 3, respectively after completon ofhe salt spray test. FIGs. 10-11 include images of thebearing members of samples CSI and CS2 after exposure to the salt spray test As clearly illustrated, the samples 1-3 of the embodiments herein demonstrate iction-reducing layers 503 having no visible signs of corrosionrust, cracking, or other physically observable defects By contrast samples CS1 and CS2 clearly demonstrate signs of significant corrosion. CS I of FIG. 10 has a frictionreducing layer 503 that is cracked and corroded at region 100 .iJ kewise, to a greater extent, sample CS2 of FIG. 11, demonstrates rusting and cracking through the fui width of the friction-reducing layer at region 101 - 28- After completing the salt spray test, sample 1, sample 2 sample 01, nd sample CS2 are subject to a weathered wear rate test, The weather wear rate test is set up as illustrated in FI. 12. The testing conditions are set forth in Table I below. The test involved rotation of the shall (0.ram long 11.6 mm in diameter), having an average surface roughness (Ra) of 2.29 microns and a surface roughness (Rmax) of 20.76 as ineasured by a Homniel tester along an axial direction, within the bearing member to simulate approximately 30 years of wear Table I Parameter Set value Frequency 0.02 Hz Period time 50 s Tilting Angle ± 30* Radial Load 4374 N Axial Load 50 N Total Cycles 20,075 Duration 11 d + 15 hrs. The results of the test are provided below in Table 2. Notably, the measured wear rate, total wear, and coefficient of friction (COF) are reported, As illustrated, the wear rate and total amount of wear for samples 1 and 2 are better than the wear rate and total wear for samples CS I and CS2, which demonstrate limited sliding ability due to corrosion for samples I and 2. The coefiient of action for samples I and 2 was also lower than the coefficiIent of friction fr samples 0S1 and CS2 in all cases demonstrating that the corrosive environment had a greater effect on the samples CS I and CS2 than samples I and 2. Thus samples I and 2 demonstrate improved lifetime, efficiency of operation, and improved wear resistance after exposure to a corrosive environment as compared to the Conventional samples Table 2 Wear Wear rate Sample Ipm [pm/h] COF Sample 2 1,500 0.250 0.0577 Sample 1 5,700 0 950 0,0401 Samp e 1 1.800 0 300 0.0515 Sample CS2 6 000 1000 0.0652 Sample CS2 8,00 1(450 0,0585 Sample CS1 28,000 4667 0.0686 Sample CS1 40,700 6,783 0.0863 Example 2 Sample 1. also undergoes an oscillating test to determine the efficiency of operation and wear characteristics over a simulated time of 30 years. The test set up and test parameters are the same as for the weathered wear resistance test as noted in Example 1, however sample i is not subjectio a corrosive environment FIG. 13 includes a plot of fiction torque ersus mberof cycles for the entire oscillating te st -for sample 1. As illustrated, sanmple 1Ieostae substalI no change in average torque throughout the testing Sample I is calculated to have an average friction force of 249 N and an average coefficient of friction of 0,05 7 FIG 14 includes a plot of wear signal (microns) versus number of cycles for sample I during the oscillation test. The wear depth was caliculated by a micrometer, wherein the average wall thickness of the friction-reducing layer before testing was 1 .568 mm and after testing of 20,000 cycles the average wall thickness of the frictiona-reducing layer was fo.558mm. fhr a chatige of 001 mm The wear rate of sample I during testing was 06% of the original wall thickness ofthe friction-reducing layer. Clearly, sample 1 demonstrates efficient sliding capabilities and very low wear. The embodimenths erein are directed to power generation structures having articulat ingjoints that can utilize a bearing member within the articulating joint The bearing members can have a body made of a composte including a rigid material. friction-reducing material and an intermediate material disposed between. the rigid material and the friction-reducing material. The hearing members of embodiments herein can utilize one or more combinations of features, including particular rigid materials, -30 can utilize one or more combinations of features, including particular rigid materials, thicknesses of the rigid material, particular intermediate materials, thicknesses of the intermediate material, particular fiineuIgmaterials, thicknesses of the rid material, dimensions of the bearing member and certain mechanical properties(e g stiffness).ad chemical inertness that are desired in the industry. In particular, the bearing members of embodiments herein can have a particular combination of mechanical characteristics such as corrosion resistance, wear resistance, and stick-slip performance properties, which are an improvement over conventional bearing members Generally. state-of-the-art power generation structures may have incorporated certain composite bearing members in the form of simple bushings and the like. However, the bearing members of embodiments herein have replaced many of the state of-the-arbearing members in power generation structures, particularly in the solar pover generation industry. In fact, the bearing members of embodiments herein have supplanted many old bearings in such a manner that the bearing members herein now represent a significant portion of the market in certain renewable energy resource industries. The foregoing describes a combination of features, which can be combined in various manners to describe and define the bonded abrasivearticles of the embodiments The description is not intended to setforth a hierarchy of features, but different features that can be combined in one or more manners to define the invenition. In the foregnin reference to specific embodiments aid the connections of certain components is illustrative. it will be appreciated that reference to components as being coupled or connected is intended to disclose either direct connection between said components orndirect cont-ion thogone or mnore components as will be appreciated to carry out the methods as discussed herein. As such, the above disclosed subject matter is to be considered illustrative and notrestrictive, and the appended claims are intended to cover all such modifications enhancements, and other embodmnents which fall within the true scope of the present invention. Thus, to the maximum extent allowed by law, the scope of the present invention is to be determined by the broadest permissible interpretation of the following claims and their equivalents, and shall not be restricted or limited by the foregoing detailed description. - 31 - The Abstract of the Disclosure is submitted with theunderstanding that it will not be used to interpret or limit the scope or meaning of the claims. In addition, in the foregoing Detailed Description, various features may be grouped together or described in a single embodiment tbr the purpose of streamlining. the disclosure. This disclosume is not to be interpreted as reflectng an intention that the claimed embodiments require more features than are expressly recited in each claim. Rather, as the following claims reflect, inventive subject matter may be directed to less than all features of any of the disclosed embodiments, Thus, the following claims are incorporated into the Detailed Description, with each claim standing on its own as defining separately claimed subject matter. A reference herein to a patent document or other matter which is given as prior art is not taken as an admission that that document or prior art was part of common general knowIedge at the priority date of any of the claims. With reference to the use of the word(s)"comprise" of "comprises" or "comprising" in the foregoing description and/or in the following claims, unless the context requires otherwise those words are used on the basis and clear understanding that they are to be interpreted inclusively, rather than exclusively, and that each of those words is to be so interpreted in construing the foregoing description and/or the following claims. - 32-