Load support unit

Abstract

The invention relates to a load support unit for maintaining and adjusting the orientation of a load. The load supporting unit comprises a lower arm, an upper arm, an installation rotating piece, a rotating connector, a joint connector and a rotating connector. The mounting rotation member allows the load support unit to rotate relative to its surrounding objects, the rotation joint allows the upper arm to rotate relative to the lower arm, the joint joint allows the upper arm to pivot relative to the lower arm in a rotation direction, and the rotation joint allows the load to rotate around the upper arm.

Description

[0001] Related applications

[0002] This application claims priority to U.S. Provisional Application No. 63 / 517,758, filed August 4, 2023, pursuant to 35 USC §119(e), the entire contents of which are incorporated herein by reference. Technical Field

[0003] This invention generally relates to a load support unit. Background Technology

[0004] Systems configured to support and / or extend loads above surfaces (e.g., tables, trolleys, or other surfaces) (e.g., support arms) can be difficult to use, aesthetically unappealing, and functionally inefficient. Due to the leverage and torque involved, such support arms typically offer limited load positioning, are cumbersome, uneven, or otherwise lack smooth movement, and can be bulky.

[0005] Therefore, there is a need for a load support unit configured to support and extend the load to a wide variety of locations, while also being highly functional, easy to use, and aesthetically pleasing. The systems and apparatuses described herein offer these advantages. Summary of the Invention

[0006] According to an embodiment of the present invention, a joint is configured for connecting a lower arm and an upper arm. The joint includes: a housing; a body sized and shaped to fit within an opening in the upper arm; and an actuator element. The actuator element includes: a trigger button disposed outside the body and including an engagement arm extending therefrom and into the body; at least one actuator pawl disposed within an internal surface of the body; a biasing spring configured to bias the engagement arm so as not to interact with the at least one actuator pawl; and a spring element configured to bias the at least one actuator pawl toward the internal surface of the body. When the trigger button is engaged, the engagement arm interacts with the at least one actuator pawl, such that the joint is in an unlocked configuration.

[0007] According to an embodiment of the present invention, a rotary joint is configured to connect a lower arm and an upper arm. The rotary joint includes: a housing; a first tapered sleeve having a first circumferential opening through its center; a second tapered sleeve having a second circumferential opening through its center; and a shouldered screw. The first tapered sleeve is rotatably keyed to the shouldered screw to prevent relative rotation with the shouldered screw and to provide friction during relative rotation with the housing.

[0008] According to an embodiment of the present invention, a mounting rotating member is configured to support an arm. The mounting rotating member includes: a base plate configured for coupling to the arm; a retainer post extending from the base plate, wherein the retainer post includes at least one keyway; and a base adapter configured to receive the retainer post. The base adapter includes: a base block, wherein the base block further includes at least one keyway; and a base recess extending from the base block. The mounting rotating member further includes a friction stack including a plurality of clutch plates; a plurality of friction plates disposed between corresponding ones of the plurality of clutch plates; and a spring element. The base recess of the base adapter is configured to receive the retainer post of the lower arm. Rotation of the retainer post causes uniform rotation of the plurality of friction plates relative to the plurality of clutch plates. The rotation of the plurality of friction plates relative to the plurality of clutch plates causes resistance to the rotation of the retainer post.

[0009] According to an embodiment of the present invention, a rotary joint is configured to support a load at the end of an arm. The rotary joint includes: a ball attachment comprising a rotator ball and a rod; and a socket configured to receive the rotator ball. The socket includes a first socket portion and a second socket portion. The rotary joint further includes: a collar configured to secure the rotator ball within the socket; and a load support coupled to the first socket portion of the socket. Rotation of the rotator ball does not cause the collar to loosen. The socket, collar, and load attachment connected thereto are rotatable about the rotator ball attached to the arm.

[0010] According to an embodiment of the present invention, a load support unit includes: a lower arm; an upper arm; a mounting rotating member configured to support the lower arm; a rotating joint disposed between the lower arm and a joint joint; the joint joint disposed between the rotating joint and the upper arm; a housing configured to receive the rotating joint and the joint joint; and a rotary joint configured to support a load at the upper arm.

[0011] Details of one or more aspects of this disclosure are set forth in the accompanying drawings and the following description. Other features, objectives, and advantages of the technology described in this disclosure will be apparent from the description, drawings, and claims. Attached Figure Description

[0012] The foregoing and other features and advantages of this disclosure will become apparent from the following description of embodiments of the invention as illustrated in the accompanying drawings. The drawings, which are incorporated herein and form a part of this specification, further serve to explain the principles of this disclosure and to enable those skilled in the art to make and use embodiments of this disclosure. The drawings may not be drawn to scale.

[0013] Figure 1A A perspective side view of a load support unit according to an embodiment herein is shown.

[0014] Figure 1B A side view of a load support unit according to an embodiment herein is shown.

[0015] Figure 1C An unfolded view of the load support unit according to an embodiment herein is shown.

[0016] Figure 2 The retainer column of the load support unit according to the embodiments herein is shown.

[0017] Figure 3A A side view of the base adapter of the load support unit according to an embodiment herein is shown.

[0018] Figure 3B A top view of the base adapter of the retainer column of the load support unit according to an embodiment herein is shown.

[0019] Figure 4A A retainer column is shown within the base adapter of a load support unit according to an embodiment herein.

[0020] Figure 4B A cross-section of the retainer post and base adapter according to embodiments herein is shown.

[0021] Figure 5A A perspective side view of the rotary joint and articulated joint of the load support unit according to embodiments herein is shown.

[0022] Figure 5B An unfolded view of a rotary joint and a joint according to embodiments herein is shown.

[0023] Figure 5C Cross-sections of rotary joints and articulated joints according to embodiments herein are shown.

[0024] Figures 6A to 6B An unfolded view of the joint of the load support unit according to an embodiment herein is shown.

[0025] Figures 6C to 6D A cross-section of a joint joint according to an embodiment herein is shown.

[0026] Figure 6E A cross-section of the joint joint in an unlocked configuration according to an embodiment herein is shown.

[0027] Figure 6F A perspective side view of the actuator pawl and spring element of the articulated joint according to embodiments herein is shown.

[0028] Figure 6G A cross-section of a joint joint in a locked configuration according to an embodiment herein is shown.

[0029] Figure 6H A side view showing an actuator pawl and spring element disposed within the body of a joint joint according to an embodiment herein.

[0030] Figures 7A to 7B An unfolded view of the rotary joint of the load support unit according to an embodiment herein is shown.

[0031] Figure 7C The upper arm of the load support unit and the second end of the rotator ball are shown according to embodiments herein.

[0032] Figure 7D A socket for a rotary joint according to an embodiment described herein is shown.

[0033] Figure 7E A socket is shown around the rotator ball of a rotary joint according to an embodiment herein.

[0034] Figure 7F A cross-section of a rotary joint according to an embodiment herein is shown.

[0035] Figure 8A The front side of the rear portion of the load attachment device of the load support unit according to the embodiments herein is shown.

[0036] Figure 8B The rear side of the front portion of the load attachment device according to an embodiment herein is shown.

[0037] Figure 8C An unfolded view of a load attachment device according to embodiments herein is shown.

[0038] Figure 8D A side view of a load attachment device according to an embodiment herein is shown.

[0039] Figure 8E A perspective view showing a load coupled to a load attachment device according to embodiments herein.

[0040] Figures 9A to 9C The illustration depicts load support units of different sizes consistent with embodiments of the present invention.

[0041] Figure 10 A perspective view showing a load support unit coupled to a trolley according to an embodiment herein. Detailed Implementation

[0042] It should be understood that the various embodiments disclosed herein can be combined with combinations different from those specifically presented in the implementation methods and drawings. It should also be understood that, depending on the instance, certain actions or events of any of the processes or methods described herein may be performed in a different order, added, combined, or omitted entirely (e.g., all described actions or events may not be necessary to perform the described technique). Furthermore, although some aspects of this disclosure are described as being performed by a single device or component for clarity, it should be understood that the techniques of this disclosure can be performed by a combination of devices or components associated with, for example, a delivery device. The following embodiments are merely exemplary in nature and are not intended to limit the invention of this application or its uses. Moreover, they are not intended to be limited by the foregoing field of invention, background, summary of the invention, or any expressions or implied theories presented in the following embodiments.

[0043] As used herein, unless the context clearly indicates otherwise, the singular forms “a,” “an,” and “the” specifically also cover the plural forms of the terms they refer to. The term “about” is used herein to mean approximately, roughly, probably, or about. When the term “about” is used in conjunction with a numerical range, it adjusts this range by extending upward or downward the boundaries of the stated value. Typically, the term “about” is used herein to modify values ​​that deviate from the stated value by 20%. It should be understood that the use of the term “about” also includes the number of specifically listed values.

[0044] As used herein, the terms "generally" and "substantially" mean approximately. When used to describe angles such as "substantially parallel" or "substantially perpendicular," the term "substantially" means within 10 degrees of said angle. When used to describe shapes such as "substantially" or "generally" cylindrical, "substantially" or "substantially" tubular, or "substantially" or "substantially" conical, the terms mean that, to a person skilled in the art, the shape would appear cylindrical, tubular, or conical to be observed with the naked eye.

[0045] While this disclosure provides specific sizes for various parts, such examples are merely illustrative. The specific sizes disclosed indicate sizes or dimensions suitable for a particular instance and are not intended to limit this disclosure in any way. It should be understood that larger or smaller components may be used without departing from the functionality of such components.

[0046] For illustrative purposes only, this disclosure and drawings describe embodiments and uses of the invention with respect to specific orientations. It should be understood that this is merely by way of example. Therefore, as used herein, the terms “up,” “down,” “vertical,” “vertically,” “vertically upward,” “vertically downward,” “horizontal,” “left,” “right,” “proximal,” “distal,” “above,” “below,” “top,” “bottom,” and all other directional or orientation terms are relative only. Various embodiments and operations described herein may be used and oriented differently from those described herein without departing from the scope of this disclosure.

[0047] Embodiments of the present invention relate to a load support unit having a lower arm, an upper arm, a mounting swivel, a rotary joint, a joint joint, and a rotary joint. The load support unit can be configured for use with a trolley, table, or other platform and / or surface, and can be configured to hold or support various loads, such as tablet computers or other computing devices. Other examples of loads are described throughout. More specifically, the load support unit can be configured to hold a tablet computer (or other load) and allow a user to adjust the orientation of the tablet computer as needed. In the trolley example described above, the mounting swivel allows the load support unit to rotate relative to the trolley, the rotary joint allows the upper arm to rotate relative to the lower arm, the joint joint allows the upper arm to pivot rotatably (e.g., upward and downward in the illustrated orientation) relative to the lower arm, and the rotary joint allows the load to rotate about the end of the upper arm, thereby allowing the user to adjust the tablet computer to a desired height, angle, orientation, and orientation. Each of these joints is configured such that the load support unit maintains the configuration in which the user places it. That is, the load support unit is configured to allow the user to position and orient the load, such as a tablet computer, laptop computer, book, or other device and / or object, and maintain said position and orientation.

[0048] Figure 1A and Figure 1BA load support unit 100 according to an embodiment herein is illustrated. The load support unit 100 includes a bottom end 102 and a top end 104. When the load support unit 100 is in use, the top end 104 of the load support unit 100 is vertically positioned above the bottom end 102 of the load support unit 100. In this embodiment and other embodiments, depending on the orientation of the load support unit 100, the top end 104 may be horizontally and / or vertically and horizontally displaced from the bottom end 102. The load support unit 100 further includes a lower arm 110 (also referred to as a first arm) and an upper arm 120 (also referred to as a second arm). The lower arm 110 includes a base end 112 (also referred to as a first end) and a top end 114 (also referred to as a second end), and the upper arm 120 includes a bottom end 122 (also referred to as a first end) and a load end 124 (also referred to as a second end). The top end 114 of the lower arm 110 is coupled to and extends from the bottom end 122 of the upper arm 120. Typically, the base end 112 of the lower arm 110 is located at the bottom end 102 of the load support unit 100, and the load end 124 of the upper arm 120 is located at the top end 104 of the load support unit 100, such as... Figures 1A to 1B As shown in the image.

[0049] Figure 1B A side view of a load support unit 100 according to an embodiment herein is shown. The lower arm 110 of the load support unit 100 may be substantially curved to describe an arcuate shape. In another embodiment, the lower arm 110 may be substantially straight and / or may describe different curved shapes. The cross-section of the lower arm 110 may be rectangular, rectangular prism, rectangular cube, cuboid, circular, elliptical, hexagonal, octagonal, or any other suitable shape. The upper arm 120 of the load support unit 100 may be a substantially straight arm segment and / or may be curved. The load support unit 100 further includes mounting pivot 200, swivel joint 300, articulated joint 400, and rotary joint 500, as... Figure 1C The load support unit 100 is shown in the unfolded view. A mounting rotatable element 200 is positioned at the bottom end 102 of the load support unit 100, coupled to the base end 112 of the lower arm 110, and configured to adapt the load support unit 100 to a trolley, table, or other surface, such as... Figure 10 As shown in the diagram. Mounting swivel 200 allows the load support unit 100 to rotate 360 ​​degrees relative to a trolley, table, or other surface, as described in further detail below. Rotary joint 300 is disposed between the lower arm 110 and upper arm 120 of the load support unit 100 and configured to allow the upper arm 120 of the load support unit 100 to rotate 360 ​​degrees relative to the lower arm 110, as described in further detail below. Articulated joint 400 is disposed between the lower arm 110 and upper arm 120 of the load support unit 100, and in some embodiments, is vertically positioned above the rotary joint 300, such as... Figure 1BAs shown in the diagram. The articulated joint 400 is configured to allow the upper arm 120 of the load support unit 100 to pivot relative to the lower arm 110 in a rotational motion. The articulated joint 400 also allows the user to lock the upper arm 120 in a selected orientation, as described in further detail below. A rotary joint 500 is disposed at the load end 124 of the upper arm 120 and couples the load 700 to the load support unit 100 via a load attachment device 600. The rotary joint 500 is also configured to allow the user to rotate the load 700 about the load end 124 of the upper arm 120 via a rotator ball 510 and a collar 530, as described in further detail below.

[0050] In the embodiments shown and described herein, the load support unit 100 is mounted to a surface in an orthogonal orientation, meaning the load support unit 100 extends substantially vertically and substantially perpendicularly from a flat surface. Therefore, the directional terms used herein describe this relationship. However, as discussed above, the load support unit 100 may be mounted in other orientations and locations. For example, the load support unit 100 may be mounted to a vertically extending surface and may extend orthogonally to this surface, meaning the load support unit 100 may extend perpendicularly from a vertically extending wall. In other embodiments, the load support unit 100 may extend diagonally from a vertical or horizontal surface, or from a diagonally oriented surface, etc. Therefore, the directional terms used herein are for illustrative purposes based on the orientation of the load support unit 100 relative to the surface to which it is mounted. In other embodiments where different orientations are required, the relative orientation and orientation between the components of the load support unit 100 will vary.

[0051] Figures 2 to 4B A mounting rotating member 200 consistent with an embodiment of the present invention is illustrated. Generally, the mounting rotating member 200 includes: a retainer post 130 coupled to a base plate 116 disposed at a base end 112 of the lower arm 110; a base block 202 and a base socket 204; and an array of components described in more detail below. Figure 2 This describes some components of the retainer post 130 and the mounting rotating part 200. Figure 3A , Figure 3B and Figure 4A The base block 202 and the base bearing socket 204 are shown. Figure 4B The diagram shows the installation of the rotating component 200 assembly.

[0052] Figure 2A close-up view of the bottom end 102 of the load support unit 100 according to an embodiment herein is shown. The base end 112 of the lower arm 110 includes a base plate 116 disposed at the bottom of the base end 112. The bottom end 102 of the load support unit 100 further includes a retainer post 130 forming part of a mounting rotating member 200. The retainer post 130 is a generally cylindrical section coupled to the center of the base plate 116 of the lower arm 110 and extending vertically downward therefrom, but in this embodiment and other embodiments, an angled orientation may also be appropriate. The mounting rotating member 200 further includes a recess 132 ( Figure 4B As shown), one or more keyways 134 Figure 4B As shown), spring element 136, latch 140 ( Figure 4B (as shown in the diagram), clutch plate 142 and friction plate 144.

[0053] Figures 3A to 3B Side and top views of a base adapter 201 according to embodiments herein are shown. The base adapter 201 includes a base block 202 (which may be of any suitable shape) and a generally cylindrical base socket 204 coupled to the bottom side of the base block 202 and extending longitudinally therefrom. The base block 202 may have a height of about 18 mm (i.e., in the range of 15 mm to 21 mm), a length of about 58 mm (i.e., in the range of 47 mm to 69 mm), and a width of about 75 mm (i.e., in the range of 60 mm to 90 mm). The base socket 204 may have a length of about 48 mm (i.e., in the range of 38 mm to 58 mm) and a width or diameter of about 25 mm (i.e., in the range of 20 mm to 30 mm). The base block 202 further includes a cylindrical opening 203 extending from the top side of the base block 202 through the entire base block 202 to the bottom side. The first diameter of the cylindrical opening 203 of the base block 202 is approximately 18 mm (i.e., in the range of 15 mm to 21 mm). The cylindrical opening 203 of the base block 202 is defined by a circumferential wall 203A, such as, for example... Figure 3B As shown in the diagram, the base bearing socket 204 also includes a cylindrical opening 205 extending from a first end of the base bearing socket 204 along its entire longitudinal length to a second end. The diameter of the cylindrical opening 205 is smaller than the diameter of the cylindrical opening 203. The cylindrical opening 205 of the base bearing socket 204 is defined by a circumferential wall 204A, as shown in the diagram. Figure 4B As shown in the diagram, the cylindrical opening 203 of the base block 202 and the cylindrical opening 205 of the base socket 204 are connected such that the openings extend through the entire longitudinal length of the base adapter 201, as exemplified by... Figure 4B As shown in the diagram. The base adapter 201 may include aluminum, plastic, and / or any other material known to those skilled in the art.

[0054] For reference Figure 4B The cylindrical openings 203 and 205 of the mounting element 200 are sized and shaped to accommodate the retainer post 130, spring element 136, clutch plate 142, and friction plate 144. The clutch plate 142 and friction plate 144 form a friction stack 143. The friction plate 144 is positioned between the clutch plates 142. The entire friction stack 143 is biased together by the spring element 136, which applies a biasing force to the friction stack 143 (as shown, the biasing force is applied downwards, but it can be applied in other directions when the mounting element 200 is installed in a different orientation). The friction stack 143 is held in place by a retaining ring 150, which (e.g., via a pressure fitting, screw attachment, or other suitable securing feature) is positioned within the opening 203 of the base block 202. The retaining ring 150 also provides a pressing surface for the spring element 136. The clutch plate 142 is generally annular, allowing the retainer post 130 to pass through its center, and includes extended keys extending from its outer circumference to engage one or more keyways 135 disposed within the base block 202. Thus, the clutch plate 142 is rotatably locked to the base block 202. The friction plate 144 is generally annular, allowing the retainer post 130 to pass through its center, and includes extended keys extending from its inner circumference to engage one or more keyways 134 disposed along the length of the retainer post 130. Thus, the friction plate 144 is rotatably locked to the retainer post 130. Therefore, when the retainer post 130 is rotated, the friction between the friction plate 144 and the clutch plate 142 provides a responsive force. The friction between the friction plate 144 and the clutch plate 142 serves to prevent or reduce accidental or unintentional rotation in response to incidental forces provided during operation of other engagements of the load support unit 100, and further serves to provide the user of the operating arm with an appropriate feel for weight or resistance. The intensity of friction can be controlled by selecting a stiffer spring element 136 or by changing the number of friction plates 144 and clutch plates 142. For example, the number of friction plates 144 and / or clutch plates 142 can be exactly one, two, three, four, five or more.

[0055] Mounting the rotating member 200 may also include a locking feature. The retainer post 130, extending from the base plate 116 of the lower arm 110, may include a latch 140 disposed within its recess 132. The latch 140 is spring-loaded with a latch configured to engage one or more of the clutch plates 142. The spring load on the latch 140 can be achieved by any suitable spring element and can bias the latch 140 toward engagement with the clutch plates 142. The latch 140 may be accessed via a tunnelway 151 extending from the outside through the base block 202 into the interior. A tool (e.g., a rod) may be inserted into the tunnelway 151 to contact the latch 140 and press it away from the clutch plates 142, thereby releasing the lock and allowing the retainer post 130 to be removed from the base adapter 201.

[0056] Figure 5A A close-up view of the rotary joint 300 and articulated joint 400 of the load support unit 100 according to embodiments herein is provided. The tip 114 of the lower arm 110 is positioned adjacent to the bottom end 122 of the upper arm 120 of the load support unit 100. In this and other embodiments, the tip 114 of the lower arm 110 may be vertically positioned below the bottom end 122 of the upper arm 120 or may be positioned in other orientations. More specifically, the tip 114 of the lower arm 110 is positioned directly below the bottom end 122 of the upper arm 120 of the load support unit 100. A housing 420 for receiving the articulated joint 400 and the rotary joint 300 is positioned between the tip 114 of the lower arm 110 and the bottom end 122 of the upper arm 120, as shown below. Figure 5A As shown in the image.

[0057] Figure 5B The unfolded view of the rotary joint 300 and articulated joint 400 of the load support unit 100 is shown. Figure 5B The relative orientation of the portions of the rotary joint 300 and the articulated joint 400 shown is consistent with the embodiments of the present invention. Figure 5B The relative positioning of the portions of the rotary joint 300 and the articulated joint 400 shown is provided to illustrate the portions individually and does not necessarily indicate assembly positioning. Figure 5CCross-sectional views of a rotary joint 300 and a joint 400 are provided. The rotary joint 300 includes a first tapered sleeve 310, a second tapered sleeve 320, a shouldered screw 330, and a wave spring 302. The first tapered sleeve 310 is a tapered cylinder (or truncated cone) comprising an outer surface 310A, a wide end 312, a narrow end 314, and a central cavity 316 defined by an inner circumferential wall 318 and extending from the wide end 312 to the narrow end 314. The central cavity 316 of the first tapered sleeve 310 has a substantially circular cross-section sized and shaped to receive the shouldered screw 330 therein, as described in further detail below. The outer surface 310A of the first tapered sleeve 310 gradually narrows such that the diameter of the wide end 312 of the first tapered sleeve 310 is larger than the diameter of the narrow end 314 of the first tapered sleeve 310, such that... Figure 5C As shown in the diagram. The length of the first tapered sleeve 310 may be about 9 mm (i.e., in the range of 7 mm to 11 mm). The outer diameter of the wide end 312 of the first tapered sleeve 310 may be about 16 mm (i.e., in the range of 13 mm to 19 mm), while the outer diameter of the narrow end 314 of the first tapered sleeve 310 may be about 13 mm (i.e., in the range of 10 mm to 16 mm). The central lumen 316 extends the entire length of the first tapered sleeve 310, from the wide end 312 to the narrow end 314, and may have a diameter of about 10 mm (i.e., in the range of 8 mm to 12 mm). The first tapered sleeve 310 may be formed of plastic, bronze, and / or any other material known to those skilled in the art.

[0058] Similarly, the second tapered sleeve 320 is a tapered cylinder (or a truncated cone), or includes an outer surface 320A, a wide end 322, a narrow end 324, and a central cavity 326 defined by an inner circumferential wall 328 and extending from the wide end 322 to the narrow end 324. The central cavity 326 of the second tapered sleeve 320 has a substantially circular cross-section sized and shaped to receive a shouldered screw 330 therein, as described in further detail below. The outer surface 320A of the second tapered sleeve 320 gradually narrows such that the diameter of the wide end 322 of the second tapered sleeve 320 is larger than the diameter of the narrow end 324 of the second tapered sleeve 320, such as... Figure 5C As shown in the diagram. The wide end 322 of the second tapered sleeve 320 further includes a lip or shoulder 322A protruding about 1 mm (i.e., in the range of 0.8 mm to 1.2 mm) from the wide end 322 of the second tapered sleeve 320. The shoulder 322A extends circumferentially around the central lumen 326 of the second tapered sleeve 320, as shown in the diagram. Figure 5C As shown in the figure. The shoulder 322A protruding outward from the wide end 322 of the second tapered sleeve 320 is configured to fit within the cavity of the housing 420 of the load support unit 100, as described below. Figure 5CFurther details are provided. The length of the second tapered sleeve 320 may be approximately 10 mm (i.e., in the range of 8 mm to 12 mm). The outer diameter of the wide end 322 of the second tapered sleeve 320 may be approximately 23 mm (i.e., in the range of 19 mm to 27 mm), while the outer diameter of the narrow end 324 of the second tapered sleeve 320 may be approximately 19 mm (i.e., in the range of 15 mm to 23 mm). The central lumen 326 extends the entire length of the second tapered sleeve 320, from the wide end 322 to the narrow end 324, and may have a diameter of approximately 10 mm (i.e., in the range of 8 mm to 12 mm). The second tapered sleeve 320 may contain plastic, bronze, and / or any other material known to those skilled in the art.

[0059] The shouldered screw 330 of the rotary joint 300 includes a head 332 and a body 334 extending longitudinally outward from the head 332. The head 332 of the shouldered screw 330 is substantially cylindrical, with a length of about 7 mm (i.e., in the range of 5 mm to 9 mm) and a diameter of about 16 mm (i.e., in the range of 13 mm to 19 mm). The body 334 of the shouldered screw 330 is a substantially cylindrical member further including a proximal portion 336 and a distal portion 338. The proximal portion 336 of the body 334 is coupled to the bottom end of the head 332 of the shouldered screw 330 and extends longitudinally therefrom. The proximal portion 336 of the body 334, which may have a smooth outer surface, may be approximately 25 mm long (i.e., in the range of 20 mm to 30 mm) and approximately 10 mm in diameter (i.e., in the range of 8 mm to 12 mm). The threaded distal portion 338 of the body 334 extends longitudinally from the bottom end of the proximal portion 336 of the body 334, and may be approximately 12 mm long (i.e., in the range of 10 mm to 14 mm) and approximately 8 mm in diameter (i.e., in the range of 6 mm to 10 mm). Therefore, the diameter of the proximal portion 336 may be larger than the diameter of the distal portion 338. The proximal portion 336 of the body 334 of the shoulder screw 330 is sized and shaped to fit within the central cavity 316 of the first tapered sleeve 310 and the central cavity 326 of the second tapered sleeve 320, such as, for example... Figure 5C As shown in the image.

[0060] The top 114 of the lower arm 110 of the load support unit 100 can be generally vertically upward, such as... Figure 5B As shown, but angular orientation can also be used. The tip 114 of the lower arm 110 further includes a cavity 118 disposed therein, such as, for example... Figures 5B to 5CAs shown in the diagram. The cavity 118 at the top end 114 of the lower arm 110 includes a top portion 118A and a bottom portion 118B, and is defined by a circumferential inner wall disposed within the top end 114 of the lower arm 110. The bottom portion 118B of the cavity 118 of the lower arm 110 is a hollow cylindrical opening, which is sized and shaped to receive the distal portion 338 of the shoulder screw 330, as shown in the diagram. Figure 5C As shown in the diagram. The bottom portion 118B of the cavity 118 is threaded to receive the threaded distal portion 338 of the shoulder screw 330. The top portion 118A of the cavity 118 of the lower arm 110 is a hollow conical opening that gradually narrows in a longitudinal direction substantially parallel to the axis of the cavity 118 and is positioned directly above the bottom portion 118B of the cavity 118, as shown in the diagram. Figure 5C As shown in the diagram, the top portion 118A of the cavity 118 is sized and shaped to receive or accommodate the second tapered sleeve 320 of the rotary joint 300, as... Figure 5C As shown in the image.

[0061] During assembly, the body 334 of the shoulder screw 330 is placed from its wide end 312 into the central cavity 316 of the first tapered sleeve 310 and extends through the central cavity until the wide end 312 of the first tapered sleeve 310 is positioned directly below the bottom end of the head 332 of the shoulder screw 330. Figure 5C As shown in the diagram, the inner circumferential wall 318 of the first tapered sleeve 310 abuts against the outer surface of the proximal portion 336 of the body 334 of the shouldered screw 330 (e.g., through relatively tight coupling), and the outer surface 310A of the first tapered sleeve 310 abuts against the tapered inner cavity 422 of the housing 420 (e.g., through relatively tight coupling), as... Figure 5C As shown in the image.

[0062] A wave spring 302 is disposed between the head 332 of the shouldered screw 330 and the wide end 312 of the first tapered sleeve 310, and is configured to act as a biasing element that pushes the first tapered sleeve 310 downward within the tapered inner cavity 422 of the housing 420, as described in more detail below.

[0063] The body 334 of the shouldered screw 330 is further positioned from the wide end 322 within the central cavity 326 of the second tapered sleeve 320 and extends through the central cavity until the narrow end 324 of the second tapered sleeve 320 is aligned with the bottom end of the proximal portion 336 of the body 334 of the shouldered screw 330, as shown. Figure 5C As shown in the diagram. The inner circumferential wall 328 of the second tapered sleeve 320 abuts against the proximal portion 336 of the body 334 of the shouldered screw 330, and the outer surface 320A of the second tapered sleeve 320 abuts against the tapered inner wall of the top portion 118A of the cavity 118 within the lower arm 110, as shown in the diagram. Figure 5CAs shown in the figure. The first tapered sleeve 310 is positioned directly above the second tapered sleeve 320, wherein shoulder screws 330 extend through the central cavities 316 and 326 of the two tapered sleeves 310 and 320 respectively.

[0064] An assembly comprising a shoulder screw 330, a first tapered sleeve 310, and a second tapered sleeve 320 is disposed within the cavity 118 of the lower arm 110 of the load support unit 100, such that the distal portion 338 of the body 334 of the shoulder screw 330 is threadedly fixed within the bottom portion 118B of the cavity 118, and the second tapered sleeve 320 is disposed within the top portion 118A of the cavity 118 of the lower arm 110. Figure 5C As shown in the diagram, the shoulder of the shouldered screw 330 (i.e., at the interface between the proximal portion 336 and the distal portion 338) abuts against the bottom of the top portion 118A of the cavity 118, which is an arrangement that actively positions the shouldered screw 330 relative to the lower arm 110. This positive positioning provides a consistent relative positioning between the shouldered screw 330 and the lower arm 110 during assembly, which creates a consistent distance between the bottom of the head 332 and the bottom surface of the top portion 118A of the cavity 118. This consistent distance during assembly ensures that the wave spring 302 is properly compressed to provide an appropriate amount of force on the first tapered sleeve 310.

[0065] The housing 420 of the load support unit 100 includes a tapered inner cavity 422 sized and shaped to receive or close the head 332 of the first tapered sleeve 310 and the shouldered screw 330. Therefore, the tapered inner cavity 422 of the housing 420 has a top portion sized and shaped to receive the head 332 of the shouldered screw 330, and a bottom portion that gradually narrows in a longitudinal direction substantially parallel to the axis of the inner cavity 422 to effectively receive the first tapered sleeve 310, as shown below. Figure 5C As shown in the diagram, the shoulder 322A of the second tapered sleeve 320 is sized and shaped to fit into the circumferential cavity located at the bottom end of the housing 420, as... Figure 5C As shown in the image.

[0066] The shouldered screw 330 of the rotary joint 300 effectively couples the lower arm 110 and the second tapered sleeve 320 to the housing 420 and the first tapered sleeve 310. The housing 420 is further coupled to the articulated joint 400 and the upper arm 120 of the load support unit 100, such that the lower arm 110 and the upper arm 120 of the load support unit 100 are effectively coupled via the shouldered screw 330 and the housing 420, which houses the rotary joint 300 and the articulated joint 400 of the load support unit 100. The first tapered sleeve 310 is rotatably keyed to the shouldered screw 330 to prevent relative rotation with the shouldered screw 330 and to provide friction during relative rotation with the housing 420. The second tapered sleeve 320 is rotatably keyed to the housing 420 to prevent relative rotation with the housing 420 and to provide friction during relative rotation with the top portion 118A of the cavity 118. More specifically, the first tapered sleeve 310 does not rotate relative to the shouldered screw 330, and the second tapered sleeve 320 does not rotate relative to the housing 420. The first tapered sleeve 310 and the shouldered screw 330 of the rotary joint 300 remain stationary, while the housing 420 and the second tapered sleeve 320 can rotate in a coordinated manner. Therefore, as the upper arm 120 moves in any circumferential direction, the housing 420 and the second tapered sleeve 320 rotate together about the shouldered screw 330 and the first tapered sleeve 310, which remains stationary during the rotational movement of the upper arm 120. This allows the upper arm 120 to rotate 360 ​​degrees about the lower arm 110 of the load support unit 100, which remains stationary relative to the housing 420 of the load support unit 100 and the upper arm 120. The friction provided by the first tapered sleeve 310 and the second tapered sleeve 320 provides smooth resistance to the rotation of the upper arm 120.

[0067] During the rotational movement of the outer casing 420 and the second tapered sleeve 320, the tapered inner cavity 422 of the outer wall maintains constant contact with the outer surface 310A of the first tapered sleeve 310. Over time, friction between the tapered inner cavity 422 of the outer casing 420 and the outer surface 310A of the first tapered sleeve 310 can cause wear on the first tapered sleeve 310. As used herein, "wear" can refer to friction-induced wear, a process in which the material of the body is lost, worn away, abraded, or removed due to friction. The friction-induced wear of the first tapered sleeve 310 results in a loss of material in the first tapered sleeve 310, resulting in a reduction in diameter. A wave spring 302 of the rotary joint 300, positioned directly above the first tapered sleeve 310, biases the first tapered sleeve 310 into the tapered inner cavity 422 of the outer casing 420, such that as the size of the first tapered sleeve 310 decreases, the wave spring is further pushed into the tapered inner cavity 422. The first tapered sleeve 310 is thus able to maintain surface contact between substantially all of its outer surfaces 310A (e.g., greater than 90%, greater than 95%, greater than 98%), and the tapered inner lumen 422 is maintained, even when a reduction in the size of the tapered sleeve 310 occurs due to wear. Maintaining a high level of surface contact helps maintain appropriate friction as the upper arm 120 rotates via the rotary joint 300. Because the first tapered sleeve 310 continues to be pushed downward into the tapered inner lumen 422 by the wave spring 302, surface contact is maintained as the first tapered sleeve 310 wears down over time due to use, thus reducing the loss of joint friction.

[0068] Similarly, the second tapered sleeve 320 provides friction during rotation because the outer surface 320A of the second tapered sleeve 320 is in continuous contact with the inner surface of the top portion 118A of the cavity 118 disposed within the tip 114 of the lower arm 110 as the second tapered sleeve 320 rotates with the housing 420 of the load support unit 100 and the upper arm 120. Figure 5C As shown in the diagram, the weight of the upper arm 120 and the articular joint 400, along with the force provided by the shoulder screw 330 and the wave spring 302 and transmitted through the first tapered sleeve 310, act as a biasing element. This biasing element transmits the biasing force to the second tapered sleeve 320, further pushing the second tapered sleeve 320 into the top portion 118A of the cavity 118 as the outer surface 320A of the second tapered sleeve 320 wears due to rotational friction against the inner wall of the top portion 118A of the cavity 118. The second tapered sleeve 320 is thus able to maintain surface contact between substantially all of its outer surface 320A (e.g., greater than 90%, greater than 95%, greater than 98%) and the inner wall of the top portion 118A of the cavity, even when a reduction in the size of the tapered sleeve 320 occurs due to wear.

[0069] Figure 5B , Figure 5C and Figures 6A to 6H A joint joint 400 consistent with an embodiment of the present invention is illustrated. Figure 6A and Figure 6B This is an exploded view of the articulated joint 400, showing the various components of the articulated joint 400. Figure 6C , Figure 6D and Figure 6E The operation of joint 400 is illustrated. Figure 6F and Figure 6G The planar cross-sectional view of the articulated joint 400 shows various components. Figure 6H This is a side cross-sectional view of the articulated joint 400, showing the various components. The following discussion relates to various aspects of the articulated joint 400.

[0070] As discussed above, the articulated joint 400 of the load support unit 100 is positioned adjacent to the rotary joint 300 (in this embodiment and other embodiments, the load support unit 100 may be vertically positioned above the rotary joint 300). The articulated joint 400 includes a body 410 and an actuator element 430. The bottom end 122 of the upper arm 120 of the load support unit 100 includes a circumferential opening 122A sized and shaped to receive the body 410 of the articulated joint 400. The body 410 of the articulated joint 400 is a substantially hollow cylindrical structure further including a front end 410A, a rear end 410B, and circumferential teeth 412 on the inner surface of the body 410, such as, for example... Figure 6E and Figure 6G As shown in the image.

[0071] The actuator element 430 of the articulated joint 400 further includes a trigger button 432, an engagement arm 434, a bias spring 436, a pawl retainer hub 440, at least one actuator pawl 442, at least one pawl pin 446, exactly two contact ball bearings 448, and a spring element 450, as shown. Figure 6A As shown in the diagram. Most (if not all) of the components of the articulated joint 400 can be housed within an opening in the body 410, which is located within an opening 122A at the bottom end 122 of the upper arm 120. The housing 420 of the load support unit 100 includes two sidewalls 424A, 424B extending from a lower portion of the housing 420, the lower portion including a tapered inner cavity 422, as shown in the diagram. Figure 6AAs shown in the diagram. The front sidewall 424A of the housing 420 includes a generally elliptical cutout or opening 426 sized and shaped to receive the trigger button 432 of the articulated joint 400. The front sidewall 424A of the housing 420 allows the trigger button 432 to be exposed, so that the user can engage the trigger button 432, as discussed in more detail below. For ease of description, the side of the articulated joint 400 with the exposed trigger button 432 is referred to as the front end 402 of the articulated joint 400. The rear sidewall 424B extends substantially parallel to the front sidewall 424A and includes a small opening sized and shaped to receive the mounting screw 416, as discussed in further detail below. The rear sidewall 424B of the housing 420 is configured to cover the rear end 404 of the articulated joint 400, such as, for example Figure 6F As shown in the image.

[0072] During assembly, the main body 410 of the articulated joint 400 is placed within the opening 122A of the upper arm 120, such that the front end 410A of the main body 410 is positioned at the front end 402 of the articulated joint 400, and the rear end 410B of the main body 410 is positioned at the rear end 404 of the articulated joint 400. Figure 6F As shown in the diagram, the pawl retainer hub 440 is disposed within the opening of the body 410. Two thrust washers 414 on either side of the body 410 and mounting screws 416 disposed on the rear end 404 of the articulated joint 400 are used to secure the body 410 of the articulated joint 400 within the opening 122A of the upper arm 120, and to secure the pawl retainer hub 440 within the opening of the body 410, as shown in the diagram. Figure 6F As shown in the diagram, the pawl retainer hub 440 includes a first end 440A and a second end 440B. When the pawl retainer hub 440 is positioned within the body 410 of the articulated joint 400, the first end 440A of the pawl retainer hub 440 is aligned with the front end 410A of the body 410, and the second end 440B of the pawl retainer hub 440 is aligned with the rear end 410B of the body 410. The pawl retainer hub 440 further includes openings or holes sized and shaped to receive two pawl pins 446, which are described in further detail below.

[0073] The articulated joint 400 includes at least one pawl 442 configured to engage with circumferential teeth 412 of the body 410. The pawl 442 includes a tooth tip 442A, a apex 442B, and a hole or opening 443 disposed near the center of the pawl 442, the hole or opening being sized and shaped to receive a pawl pin 446. The tooth tip 442A of the pawl 442 includes teeth 444 configured to engage with the circumferential teeth 412 of the body 410. When assembled, in embodiments including two pawls 442, two pawl pins 446 are disposed within the openings 443 of the two pawls 442, such that each pawl 442 is supported by a corresponding pawl pin 446. The pawl retainer hub 440 includes an opening receiving the two pawl pins 446, such that the two pawl pins 446 extend generally parallel to each other and from a front end 402 of the articulated joint 400 to a rear end 404 of the articulated joint 400. The assembly of two pawls 442 and pawl pins 446 is housed within the pawl retainer hub 440, as... Figure 6F As shown, this allows the pawl 442 to be positioned within the body 410.

[0074] Figure 6F A cross-section of the articulated joint 400 in a locked configuration is shown. The tips 442B of the two pawls 442 are positioned in a location displaced from the toothed tips 442A of the pawls 442. Depending on the orientation of the articulated joint 400, the positions may be vertically positioned above or may have a different orientation. The tips 442B of the pawls 442 are positioned directly adjacent to each other in the center of the body 410. The toothed tips 442A of the pawls 442 include teeth 444 that engage with the circumferential teeth 412 of the body 410. More specifically, if the inner surface of the body 410 is marked as a clock face, then the toothed tips 442A of the two pawls 442 contact the circumferential teeth 412 of the body 410 at approximately 5 o'clock and 7 o'clock, respectively, as shown in the example. Figure 6G As shown, but other configurations are also considered. A spring element 450 and two pawl-contact ball bearings 448 are positioned between the two pawls 442 and configured to bias the teeth 444 of the pawls 442 toward the circumferential teeth 412 of the body 410, such as, for example... Figure 6F As shown in the diagram. More specifically, two ball bearings 448 contact the inner surfaces of pawls 442, and a spring element 450 is positioned between the two ball bearings 448 such that the two pawls 442 are subjected to a constant bias load or force from the spring element 450 acting on the two ball bearings 448 contacting each pawl 442, as shown in the diagram. Figure 6D As shown, this causes tooth 444 to engage with circumferential tooth 412.

[0075] The trigger button 432 is illustrated as a generally oval button including a front and a rear side (but it can be any suitable shape). The front side of the trigger button 432 faces the front end 402 of the joint joint 400 and extends through an opening in the front sidewall 424A of the housing 420, as shown. Figure 5A As shown in the diagram, the engagement arm 434 is coupled to the rear side of the trigger button 432 and extends outward from the rear side, such that the engagement arm 434 extends perpendicular to the trigger button 432, as shown in the diagram. Figure 6A As shown in the diagram. During assembly, the trigger button 432 and the engagement arm 434 are positioned at the front end 402 of the joint joint 400, such that the engagement arm 434 extends from the front end 402 into the opening between the pawl retainer hub 440 and the body 410. The engagement arm 434 terminates directly below the two tips 442B of the pawl 442, such that the end of the engagement arm 434 contacts the two tips 442B of the pawl 442, as shown in the diagram. Figure 6D and Figure 6F As shown in the diagram. The bias spring 436 contacts the top of the engaging arm 434 at the midpoint between the trigger button 432 and the two pawls 442, as... Figure 6F As shown in the diagram. The engaging arm 434 and the trigger button 432 are connected by a locating pin 441 extending through the pawl retainer hub 440. Figure 6B (As shown in the image) Keep.

[0076] The articulated joint 400 serves as a pivot point for the upper arm 120 of the load support unit 100. More specifically, the bottom end 122 of the upper arm 120 is coupled to the articulated joint 400. The actuator element 430 of the articulated joint 400 includes a locked configuration and an unlocked configuration. When the actuator element 430 is in the locked configuration ( Figure 6D , Figure 6F and Figure 6G The upper arm 120 is locked in place, preventing it from pivoting in the rotational direction at the joint joint 400. When the actuator element 430 is in the unlocked configuration ( Figure 6E The teeth 444 of the pawl 442 disengage from the circumferential teeth 412 of the body 410, allowing the upper arm 120 to pivot in the rotational direction about the articulation joint 400 relative to the lower arm 110 of the load support unit 100, as described in further detail below.

[0077] In the locking configuration, the tooth 444 located at the tip 442A of the pawl 442 engages with the circumferential tooth 412 located on the inner surface of the body 410, as shown below. Figure 6D , Figure 6F , Figure 6GAs shown in the diagram, the engagement between the teeth 444 of the pawl 442 and the circumferential teeth 412 of the body 410 locks the rotation of the body 410 relative to the pawl retainer hub 440. The pawl retainer hub 440 is fixed to the housing 420, which is fixed to the lower arm 110. The body 410 is fixed to the upper arm. Therefore, by making the body 410 immovable relative to the housing 420, the rotation between the body 410 and the pawl retainer hub 440 is locked, thus locking the rotation between the upper arm 120 and the lower arm 110. When the teeth 444 of the pawl 442 engage with the circumferential teeth 412, the body 410 cannot rotate relative to the housing 420. The contact between the tip 442B of the pawl 442 and the engaging arm 434 prevents the left pawl 442 from rotating clockwise and prevents the right pawl 442 from rotating counterclockwise. Therefore, a force that tends to rotate the body 410 in either direction is countered by at least one of the pawls 442. The engagement arm 434 and trigger button 432 are arranged such that the engagement arm 434 can be displaced in one direction (as shown, vertically upward, but this can vary depending on orientation) from the opposite direction (as shown, vertically downward, but this can vary depending on orientation) rather than in the opposite direction, thus providing a rigid baffle for the articulated joint 400. Due to the structure and position of the pawl 442, the force generated by the rotational force applied to the body 410 is carried through the pawl pin 446 and the engagement arm 434 and not through the spring element 450. Therefore, the strength of the articulated joint 400 does not depend on the stiffness of the spring element 450. When the pawl 442 engages the body 410, rotation cannot be generated by applying additional force to overcome the spring element 450. This arrangement has the advantage of providing a durable and long-lasting joint because it does not have wear-prone friction components and because weakening of the spring element 450 will not cause weakening of the joint.

[0078] To change the actuator element 430 of the articulated joint 400 from a locked configuration to an unlocked configuration, the user can push the bottom portion of the front side of the trigger button 432 inward toward the body 410 of the articulated joint 400. When the trigger button 432 is engaged, the engagement arm 434 coupled to the trigger button 432 is lifted in a direction toward the tip 442B of the pawl 442 (vertically upward, as illustrated). As the engagement arm 434 moves toward the tip 442B of the pawl 442, a bias spring 436 provides resistance to the engagement arm 434, such that when the trigger button 432 is released, with the actuator element 430 in the locked configuration, the bias spring 436 will push the engagement arm 434 back to its rest position (horizontally, as illustrated). When the engagement arm 434 is displaced, the engagement arm 434 also pushes the tip 442B of the pawl 442 in the same direction (vertically upward, as illustrated), as... Figure 6EAs shown in the diagram, when the tip 442B of the pawl 442 is pushed, the two pawls 442 pivot about the pawl pin 446 disposed within the opening 443 of the pawl 442. As the two pawls 442 pivot in response to the movement of the engaging arm 434, the tooth tips 442A of the two pawls 442 begin to move radially inward toward each other. As the tooth tips 442A of the two pawls 442 pivot inward, the teeth 444 on the tooth tips 442A of the two pawls 442 disengage from the circumferential teeth 412 of the body 410. As the tooth tips 442A of the two pawls 442 pivot inward, the spring element 450 disposed between the two pawls 442 is compressed. Once the teeth 444 of the actuator pawl 442 disengage from the circumferential teeth 412 of the body 410, the actuator element 430 of the articulated joint 400 is in the unlocked configuration. When the articulated joint 400 is in the unlocked configuration, the upper arm 120 of the load support unit 100 can pivot radially in either direction about the axis of the articulated joint 400 because the opening 122A located at the bottom end 122 of the upper arm 120 is circumferentially arranged around the articulated joint 400 of the load support unit 100. Figure 6E As shown in the image.

[0079] When the trigger button 432 is engaged and the articulated joint 400 is in the unlocked configuration, the user can rotate the upper arm 120 of the load support unit 100 about the axis of the articulated joint 400, thereby pivoting the articulated joint 400 from its lower end 122 located at the bottom of the upper arm 120 until the desired position is reached. To return the actuator element 430 of the articulated joint 400 to the locked configuration, the user releases the trigger button 432. When the trigger button 432 is released, the bias spring 436 pushes the engagement arm 434 back to its rest position, as... Figure 6G As shown in the diagram, when the engaging arm 434 moves away from the tip 442B (e.g., downward in the illustrated embodiment), the tips 442B of the two pawls 442 also decrease. In this and other embodiments, the engaging arm 434 may move in directions other than downward, depending on the orientation of the load support unit 100. As the tips 442B of the two pawls 442 shift, the spring element 450 disposed between the tooth tips 442A of the two pawls 442 pushes the tooth tips 442A radially outward, causing the teeth 444 disposed on the tooth tips 442A of the pawls 442 to contact the inner surface of the body 410. Once the tooth tips 442A of the pawls 442 contact the inner surface of the body 410, the teeth 444 at the tooth tips 442A of the pawls 442 align and engage with the circumferential teeth 412 of the body 410, thereby locking the articulated joint 400 in the desired position.

[0080] Figures 7A to 7FThe rotary joint 500 of the load support unit 100 is illustrated. As discussed above, the rotary joint 500 of the load support unit 100 is located at the load end 124 of the upper arm 120 and attaches the load 700 to the load support unit 100 via the load attachment device 600. The rotary joint 500 includes a rotator ball 510, a rod 520, a collar 530, a socket 540 having a first socket portion 550 and a second socket portion 560, and the load attachment device 600, as shown below. Figure 7A As shown in the diagram, the rotary joint 500 is configured to allow a user to rotate the load 700 around the load end 124 of the upper arm 120 to the desired position.

[0081] For reference Figure 7B and Figure 7F The rotating joint 500 has a rod 520 that is a screw assembly comprising a head 522 and a body 524. The body 524 of the rod 520 is a cylindrical longitudinal assembly that is coupled to and extends from the bottom end of the head 522. The body 524 of the rod 520 includes an upper portion 524A and a lower portion 524B. The upper portion 524A of the body 524 is coupled to the head 522 of the rod 520 and extends outward. The length of the upper portion 524A of the body 524 may be approximately 25 mm (i.e., in the range of 20 mm to 30 mm), and the diameter may be approximately 8 mm (i.e., in the range of 6 mm to 10 mm). The end of the upper portion 524A connects to the lower portion 524B at a shoulder or lip 525. At the lip 525 of the body 524, the upper portion 524A transitions into the lower portion 524B. The lower portion 524B of the body 524 of the rod 520 may be threaded and have a smaller diameter than the upper portion 524A of the body 524. The lower portion 524B of the body 524 has a length of approximately 11 mm (i.e., in the range of 9 mm to 13 mm) and a diameter of approximately 6 mm (i.e., in the range of 5 mm to 7 mm). The load end 124 of the upper arm 120 of the load support unit 100 includes a cavity 124A, which is sized and shaped to receive, for example, the lower portion 524B of the rod 520 of the rotary joint 500 within it through engagement between the threads of the lower portion 524B and the threads of the cavity 124A, such as, for example. Figure 7B and Figure 7F As shown in the diagram. In another embodiment, the two components can be press-fitted or secured in any other suitable manner. During assembly, the lower portion 524B of the rod 520 is positioned within the cavity 124A of the upper arm 120 such that the rod 520 extends longitudinally outward from the load end 124 of the upper arm 120 and the lip 525 abuts against the surface of the upper arm 120 to orthogonally position the rod 520, as shown in the diagram. Figure 7F As shown in the image.

[0082] The rotator ball 510 is a spherical plastic, rubber, polymer element, or any other suitable material known to a person skilled in the art, having a cylindrical opening 516 extending from the first end 512 through it to the second end 514, as shown below. Figure 7B As shown in the diagram. The rotator ball 510 further includes a cylindrical extension or neck 518A that extends radially outward from the center of the rotator ball 510 and extends the length of the opening 516. A square baffle 518B extends radially outward from the end of the neck 518A, as shown in the diagram. Figure 7B As shown in the diagram. A square baffle 518B of the rotator ball 510 engages with a square cavity 124A of the upper arm 120 to prevent the rotator ball 510 from rotating during adjustment. The square baffle 518B has a length of approximately 13 mm (i.e., in the range of 10 mm to 16 mm) and a width of approximately 1 mm (i.e., in the range of 0.8 mm to 1.2 mm). The diameter of the rotator ball 510 may be approximately 32 mm (i.e., in the range of 26 mm to 38 mm). The cylindrical opening 516 further includes an upper portion 516A and a lower portion 516B that meet at the shoulder or lip. The upper portion 516A of the opening 516 is positioned at the first end 512 of the rotator ball 510 and is sized and shaped to receive or accommodate the head 522 of the rod 520, as shown. Figure 7DAs shown in the illustration. In this embodiment, the rotator ball 510 and the rod 520 are integrally formed. The upper portion 516A has a length of about 19 mm (i.e., in the range of 15 mm to 24 mm) and an inner diameter of about 8 mm (i.e., in the range of 6 mm to 10 mm). The lower portion 516B of the opening 516 is connected to the upper portion 516A and extends to the second end 514 of the rotator ball and passes through the neck 518A. The lower portion 516B of the opening 516 is sized and shaped to receive or accommodate the upper portion 524A of the rod 520, and has a length of about 25 mm (i.e., in the range of 20 mm to 30 mm) and an inner diameter of about 8 mm (i.e., in the range of 6 mm to 10 mm). During assembly, the rod 520 is positioned so that it passes through the opening 516 of the rotator ball 510 at its first end 512, such that the lower portion 524B of the body 524 of the rod 520 extends through the opening 516 of the rotator ball 510 and exits the rotator ball 510 through the neck 518A at its second end 514. The rod 520 is slightly shorter than the length of the opening 516 of the rotator ball 510 to ensure a tightening effect when the rod 520 is installed and tightened. The rod 520 extends through the opening 516 of the rotator ball 510 until its head 522 abuts against the shoulder or lip within the opening 516 of the rotator ball 510, such that the upper portion 524A of the body 524 of the rod 520 is positioned within the lower portion 516B of the opening 516, the head 522 of the rod 520 is positioned within the upper portion 516A of the opening 516, and the lower portion 524B of the body 524 of the rod 520 is positioned within the cavity 124A of the upper arm 120. Figures 7C to 7D As shown in the diagram. During assembly, the neck 518A of the rotator ball 510 abuts against the load end 124 of the upper arm 120.

[0083] For reference Figure 7D and Figure 7F The rotary joint 500 further includes a collar 530 and a socket 540. The socket 540 further includes a first socket portion 550 and a second socket portion 560. The collar 530, the first socket portion 550, and the second socket portion 560 are hollow annular elements comprising aluminum, steel, stainless steel, and / or any other suitable material known to those skilled in the art. The first socket portion 550 has a first end 552, a second end 554, an inner diameter of about 32 mm (i.e., in the range of 26 mm to 38 mm), an outer diameter of about 34 mm (i.e., in the range of 27 mm to 41 mm), and a length of about 5 mm (i.e., in the range of 4 mm to 6 mm). The first socket portion 550 further includes a substantially square flange 556 extending from the first end 552 of the first socket portion 550, such as... Figure 7BAs shown in the illustration, square flanges 556 may be equidistantly spaced around the circumference of the first recess portion 550. In the illustrated embodiment, the first recess portion 550 includes exactly four flanges 556 spaced substantially 90 degrees apart from each other; however, this is not intended to be limiting, as the first recess portion 550 may include more or fewer than four flanges 556. Additionally, the flanges 556 may be spaced irregularly or asymmetrically. The flanges 556 may extend approximately 2.5 mm (i.e., in the range of 2 mm to 3 mm) from the first end 552 of the first recess portion 550, and may have a width of approximately 6 mm (i.e., in the range of 5 mm to 7 mm).

[0084] The second socket portion 560 has a first end 562, a second end 564, an inner diameter of about 32 mm (i.e., in the range of 26 mm to 38 mm), an outer diameter of about 34 mm (i.e., in the range of 27 mm to 41 mm), and a length of about 16 mm (i.e., in the range of 13 mm to 19 mm). The second socket portion 560 includes a substantially square cutout 566 on the second end 564 of the second socket portion, such as... Figure 7B As shown in the diagram, square cutouts 566 are equidistantly spaced around the circumference of the second recess portion 560. In the illustrated embodiment, the second recess portion 560 includes exactly four cutouts 566 spaced substantially 90 degrees apart from each other; however, this is not intended to be limiting, as the second recess portion 560 may include more or fewer than four cutouts 566. The cutouts 566 extend approximately 2.5 mm (i.e., in the range of 2 mm to 3 mm) from the second end 564 of the second recess portion 560 and have a width of approximately 6 mm (i.e., in the range of 5 mm to 7 mm). The cutouts 566 of the second recess portion 560 are sized and shaped to receive the flange 556 of the first recess portion 550, such as, for example... Figures 7D to 7E As shown in the diagram, the cutout 566 of the second bearing portion 560 and the flange 556 of the first bearing portion 550 are radially aligned such that each cutout 566 of the second bearing portion 560 receives one of the flanges 556 of the first bearing portion 550, as shown in the diagram. Figure 7D As shown in the diagram, a first bearing portion 550 is keyed to a second bearing portion 560 via a flange 556 and a notch 566 to prevent relative rotation between the first bearing portion 550 and the second bearing portion 560. When the first bearing portion 550 and the second bearing portion 560 are coupled via the flange 556 and the notch 566, the first bearing portion 550 cannot rotate relative to the second bearing portion 560, and the second bearing portion 560 cannot rotate relative to the first bearing portion 550. The second bearing portion 560 further includes an external thread 568 on its outer surface, the external thread being configured to engage with the internal thread of the collar 530, which is described in further detail below.

[0085] The assembly of the first socket portion 550 and the second socket portion 560 (referred to as socket 540) is configured to receive the rotator ball 510 of the rotary joint 500 within the hollow opening of the socket 540, such as Figure 7E and Figure 7F As shown in the diagram, a portion of the rotator ball 510 is fitted into the hollow opening of the socket 540, such that the first end 512 of the rotator ball 510 is positioned radially inward relative to the socket 540. The hollow opening of the socket 540 is formed by the inner walls of the first socket portion 550 and the second socket portion 560. The hollow opening is configured to have a larger diameter at its center, and is therefore configured to retain or lock the rotator ball 510 therein. The socket 540 may not completely cover or close the rotator ball 510, as... Figure 7E As shown in the diagram. The socket 540 can be configured to rotate about the rotator ball 510, as described in further detail below.

[0086] The collar 530 of the rotary joint 500 is a hollow annular element having a first end 532, a second end 534, an inner diameter of approximately 34 mm (i.e., in the range of 27 mm to 41 mm), an outer diameter of approximately 45 mm (i.e., in the range of 36 mm to 54 mm), and a length of approximately 23 mm (i.e., in the range of 19 mm to 27 mm). The collar 530 includes tabs 536 spaced apart from each other around the circumference of the collar 530 and extending radially outward from the outer surface of the collar 530, such as... Figure 7B As shown in the illustration, tabs 536 may extend radially outward from the outer surface of collar 530 by approximately 10 mm (i.e., in the range of 8 mm to 12 mm) and may extend over the entire length or a portion of the length of collar 530. In the illustrated embodiment, collar 530 includes exactly four tabs 536 spaced substantially 90 degrees apart from each other; however, this is not intended to be limiting, as collar 530 may include more or fewer than four tabs 536. Tabs 536 provide a better grip for the user to rotate collar 530.

[0087] The collar 530 further includes internal threads 538 disposed on the inner surface of the collar 530. During assembly, the collar 530 is configured to cover or enclose the socket 540 of the rotary joint 500, such as, for example... Figure 7F As shown in the diagram, the internal thread 538 of the collar 530 is configured to mate with the external thread 568 of the second bearing recess portion 560, thereby effectively coupling the collar 530 to the bearing recess 540, as shown in the diagram. Figure 7F As shown in the diagram, the collar 530 is configured to secure the rotator ball 510 within the socket 540 by tightening the first socket portion 550 to the second socket portion, as... Figure 7FAs shown in the diagram, the first recess portion 550 is laterally captured by a lip 537 located at the second end 534 of the collar 530. When the collar 530 is tightened to the second recess portion 560 (e.g., rotated relative to the second recess portion 560), the engagement between the external thread 568 and the internal thread 538 pulls the second recess portion 560 toward the first recess portion 550. The first recess portion 550 is stopped by the lip 537, and further tightening causes the second recess portion to be pulled into contact with the rotator ball 510. The level of rotational resistance between the recess 540 and the rotator ball 510 is set by the collar 530. The collar 530 can tighten the second recess portion 560 toward the first recess portion 550 by rotating the collar 530 via a tab 536 on the outer surface of the collar 530. Rotation of the collar 530, via the internal thread 538 of the collar 530 and the external thread 568 of the second socket portion 560, screws the collar 530 into the second socket portion 560. This pulls the first socket portion 550 toward the second socket portion 560, while the flange 556 of the first socket portion 550 engages with the notch 566 to prevent the first and second socket portions 550 from rotating relative to each other. This, in turn, tightens the socket 540 around the outer surface of the rotator ball 510, increasing the level of rotational resistance between the socket 540 and the rotator ball 510. The level of rotational resistance can be reduced by unscrewing the collar 530 from the second socket portion 560. Because the first and second socket portions 550 and 560 are rotatably locked to each other, rotation of the rotator ball 510 within the socket 540 does not cause the collar 530 to loosen.

[0088] The load support unit 100 further includes a load attachment device 600, such as Figures 8A to 8E As shown in the illustrations. In the embodiments shown and described herein, the load support unit 100 is configured to support a tablet computer or similar load 700, as illustrated. Figure 8B and Figure 8E As shown in the figure. However, this is not intended to be limiting, as the load support unit 100 can be used to support any object or load, such as a book, laptop, computer, display screen, microphone, or any other device or object.

[0089] Figure 8A The load attachment device 600 includes a connector unit 600A and a load unit 600B. The connector unit 600A is coupled to the second bearing portion 560 of the rotary joint 500 (which in... Figure 8A (Not visible in the image) and includes the rear portion 620 of the load attachment device 600, such as Figure 8A As shown in the diagram. The load unit 600B is coupled to the load 700 and includes a front portion 610 and a coupling portion 640 of the load attachment device 600, as shown in the diagram. Figure 8B and Figure 8DAs shown in the figure. The load attachment device 600 further includes a spring load locking tab 630, which allows the front portion 610 and the rear portion 620 of the load attachment device 600 to lock and unlock each other.

[0090] The rear portion 620 of the load attachment device 600 is substantially elliptical and includes an inward side 622. Figure 8C (as shown) and the outermost 624 opposite to the inner side 622 (as shown) Figure 8A (As shown in the diagram). The inward side 622 of the rear portion 620 faces the rotary joint 500 at the load end 124 of the upper arm 120. The inward side 622 of the rear portion 620 is coupled to the second socket portion 560 of the socket 540 via screws or other suitable attachment means, as shown in the diagram. Figure 8A and Figures 8D to 8E As shown in the diagram. Therefore, the inward side 622 of the rear portion 620 of the load attachment device 600 abuts against the second bearing portion 560 and the collar 530 of the rotary joint 500.

[0091] The rear portion 620's outermost 624 faces away from the rotary joint 500 of the load support unit 100. The outermost 624 of the rear portion 620 includes a tapered cavity 626 defined by a boundary 629, which extends along at least a portion of the bottom edge and two side edges of the outermost 624. At least the top portion or edge of the outermost 624 remains open and is not obstructed by the boundary 629. The boundary 629 projects outward from the outermost 624, thereby creating the tapered cavity 626. The boundary 629 includes a boundary surface 629B disposed substantially parallel to the outermost 624. The boundary 629 is substantially U-shaped; however, the inner surface 629A of the boundary 629 (and substantially perpendicular to the boundary surface 629B) angles outward toward the top portion of the outermost 624, such that the tapered cavity 626 expands at the top portion of the outermost 624 and gradually narrows or tapers toward the bottom portion of the outermost 624, as... Figure 8A As shown in the diagram. Boundary 629 includes two top portions at both ends of the "U" shape. At the top portions of boundary 629, boundary 629 includes two extending arms or extensions 628A, 628B forming overhangs on each side of the top portions of boundary 629, as shown in the diagram. Figure 8AAs shown in the diagram. The two extensions 628A, 628B of the boundary 629 are spaced apart from the outward 624 of the rear portion 620, such that two grooves 627A, 627B are formed between the outward 624 of the rear portion 620 and the two extensions 628A, 628B. Located at the top portion of the boundary 629, for example at the "U"-shaped extensions 628A, 628B, the boundary 629 further includes two chamfered edges 625A, 625B, which extend from either extension 628A, 628B of the "U" and provide an angled transition from the boundary surface 629B to the inner surface 629A, such as... Figure 8A As shown in the image.

[0092] The front portion 610 of the load attachment device 600 is generally elliptical, having a shape adapted to conform to boundary 629, as discussed below, and includes... Figure 8D The load side 612 shown, and Figure 8B and Figure 8C The attachment side 614 shown is opposite to the load side 612. The load side 612 of the front portion 610 faces outward and away from the rotary joint 500, and the attachment side 614 of the front portion 610 faces the rear portion 620 of the load attachment device 600. The load side 612 of the front portion 610 further includes a cylindrical coupling portion 640, such as... Figures 8D to 8E As shown in the diagram. The coupling portion 640 is attached to the load 700 using a double-sided pressure-sensitive adhesive. However, this is not intended to be limiting, as the coupling portion 640 can be attached to the load 700 using adhesive-based materials such as screws, bolts, fasteners, and / or any other suitable materials known to those skilled in the art. The coupling portion 640 is sized and shaped to fit within an opening in the protective cover 710 coupled to the load 700, as shown in the diagram. Figure 8B and Figure 8E As shown in the image.

[0093] like Figure 8C As can be seen in the exploded view, the attachment side 614 of the front portion 610 faces the outward 624 of the rear portion 620 of the load attachment device 600. The attachment side 614 of the front portion 610 includes a cavity 616, which may be tapered and is defined by a boundary 619 along at least a portion of the edge of the attachment side 614. An opening 617 may be provided in the boundary 619 at the top portion of the attachment side 614, such as... Figure 8B and Figure 8C As can be seen, boundary 619 protrudes outward from attachment side 614, thereby creating cavity 616. The inner surface 619A of boundary 619 may be angled outward towards the top portion of attachment side 614, such that cavity 616 expands at the top portion of attachment side 614 and gradually narrows or tapers towards the bottom portion of attachment side 614, as shown. Figures 8B to 8C As shown in the diagram. Boundary 619 further includes two protrusions 618A, 618B extending outwards from both sides of the attachment side 614, as shown in the diagram. Figures 8B to 8C As shown in the diagram, two tabs 618A and 618B are sized and shaped to slide and fit within two slots 627A and 627B of the rear portion 620, as described below.

[0094] The locking tab 630 of the load attachment device 600 is a generally flat, substantially rectangular piece, comprising a body 632 and two forked teeth 638A, 638B extending from the body 632 and substantially parallel to each other. The locking tab 630 is inserted into the cavity 616 of the attachment side 614 of the front portion 610, as... Figures 8B to 8C As shown in the diagram. The main body 632 further includes an outer portion 634 and an inner portion 636. The outer portion 634 of the locking tab 630 extends outward from the cavity 616 of the front portion 610, and the inner portion 636 is disposed within the cavity 616 of the front portion 610, as shown in the diagram. Figure 8B As shown in the diagram, two fork teeth 638A and 638B extend from the inner portion 636 of the body 632 and advance into the fork tooth recess 644 within the attachment side 614 of the front portion 610 of the load attachment device 600, as shown in the diagram. Figure 8B As can be seen in the text.

[0095] The locking tab 630 is disposed within the attachment side 614 of the front portion 610 of the load attachment device 600. The fork teeth 638A and 638B of the locking tab 630 are advanced through the opening 617 in the top portion of the boundary 619 until the fork teeth 638A and 638B are inserted into the fork tooth recess 644 located in the bottom portion of the cavity 616, and the inner portion 636 of the body 632 is disposed within the cavity 616 of the attachment side 614. Figure 8B As shown in the diagram. Once the locking tab 630 is in place, the outer portion 634 of the body 632 extends outward from the opening 617 of the boundary 619, as... Figure 8B As shown in the image.

[0096] To lock the front portion 610 of the load attachment device 600 to the rear portion 620 of the load attachment device 600, the attachment side 614 of the front portion 610 slides against the outward side 624 of the rear portion 620 until the tabs 618A, 618B of the front portion 610 slide into the grooves 627A, 627B of the rear portion 620, said grooves being formed by extensions 628A, 628B of the boundary 629 disposed on each side of the rear portion 620, as shown. Figures 8D to 8EAs shown in the diagram, the outer portion 634 of the locking tab 630 is biased toward the rear portion 620 of the load attachment device 600 by a spring (not shown) or other biasing member, i.e., biased toward the rotary joint 500. When the front portion 610 is locked to the rear portion 620, the forks 638A, 638B of the locking tab 630 push the rear portion 620 away from the front portion 610 of the load attachment device 600. By pushing the rear portion 620 away from the front portion 610 of the load attachment device 600, the pressure between the extensions 628A, 628B of the rear portion 620 and the tabs 618A, 618B of the front portion 610 holds both the front portion 610 and the rear portion 620 in place. When a user attaches a load 700 to the rear portion 620 of the load attachment device 600 using the front portion 610, it is often difficult to see, for example, when the load 700 is a tablet computer and obstructs the user's view. When the tabs 618A and 618B are inserted into the slots 627A and 627B of the rear portion 620, the chamfered edges 625A and 625B of the extensions 628A and 628B provide a wide inlet to assist in guiding the tabs 618A and 618B into the slots 627A and 627B. Additionally, when the front portion 610 slides against the rear portion 620, the cavities 616 and 626 of the front portion 610 and the rear portion 620 of the load attachment device 600 provide a wide inlet to assist in guiding and aligning the tabs 618A and 618B of the front portion 610 into the slots 627A and 627B of the rear portion 620 when the user cannot see them.

[0097] To unlock the front portion 610 of the load attachment device 600 from the rear portion 620, the outer portion 634 of the locking tab 630 can be pushed or pressed toward the load 700, i.e., in a direction away from the rotary joint 500, so that the forks 638A, 638B of the locking tab 630 no longer push the rear portion 620 away from the front portion 610 of the load attachment device 600. By reducing or eliminating the pressure between the extensions 628A, 628B of the rear portion 620 and the tabs 618A, 618B of the front portion 610, the user can pull or lift the load 700 together with the front portion 610 of the load attachment device 600 upward and away from the rear portion 620 of the load attachment device 600.

[0098] like Figure 8EAs can be seen, the coupling portion 640 is coupled to the protective cover 710 of the load 700 and the load side 612 of the front portion 610 of the load attachment device 600. The attachment side 614 of the front portion 610 of the load attachment device 600 is securely locked to the outer side 624 of the rear portion 620 of the load attachment device 600, and the inner side 622 of the rear portion 620 of the load attachment device 600 is fixed to the socket 540 of the rotary joint 500.

[0099] When the load attachment device 600 is effectively coupled to the socket 540 of the rotary joint 500 and the load 700 is effectively coupled to the load attachment device 600, then the load 700 is effectively coupled to the load support unit 100, for example... Figures 1A to 1B As shown in the diagram. The user can then freely rotate the load 700 around the rotator ball 510 to the desired position via the load attachment device 600, the socket 540, and the collar 530. The socket 540 and collar 530 of the rotary joint 500 can be released to allow the user to adjust the orientation of the load 700 around the rotator ball 510, and once the user has adjusted and released the load 700, they can be tightened to hold the load 700 in place.

[0100] Figures 9A to 9C The illustrations depict load support units of different dimensions consistent with embodiments of the present invention. Load support units 901, 902, and 903 ( Figure 9A , Figure 9B , Figure 9C Each of the load support units 901, 902, and 903 is similar to load support unit 100 and may include any combination of components of load support unit 100. Each of load support units 901, 902, and 903 includes mounting pivot 200, rotary joint 300, articulated joint 400, and swivel joint 500, as described herein. As discussed above, such components are designed and adapted to provide robust support for a load 700 coupled to load support unit 600. As described herein, the load support units are not limited to the size and / or shape of load support unit 100. Figure 9A , Figure 9B and Figure 9C Examples of load support units 901 / 902 / 903 with alternative upper and lower arm dimensions are provided. Load support units 901 / 902 / 903 are merely illustrative and do not limit the potential configurations of the upper and lower arms of load support units consistent with embodiments of the invention. As described herein, the advantages provided by mounting the rotating element 200, swivel joint 300, articulated joint 400, and rotary joint 500 allow for the mounting of loads with high-torque arms that may generate considerable torque. However, the strength and stability of these joints and rotating elements permit this mounting while reducing adverse consequences that may otherwise be associated with it.

[0101] Figure 9A The diagram illustrates a load support unit 901, which has a lower arm 911 and an upper arm 921 that is longer than the lower arm 911. (See diagram for reference.) Figure 9A As illustrated, the upper arm 921 may be curved, while the lower arm 911 may be straight and substantially vertical. The length of the upper arm 921 may be between 1.5 and 3.5 times that of the lower arm 911. Figure 9B The diagram illustrates a load support unit 902, which has a lower arm 912 and an upper arm 922 shorter than the lower arm 912. The upper arm 922 can be between 5 and 10 times shorter than the lower arm 912. Figure 9B As shown in the illustration, the upper arm 922 may be bent, while the lower arm 912 may be straight and substantially vertical. Figure 9C The diagram illustrates a load support unit 903, which has a lower arm 913 and an upper arm 923 that is longer than the lower arm 913. (See diagram for reference.) Figure 9C As illustrated, the upper arm 923 may be curved, while the lower arm 913 may be straight and substantially vertical. The upper arm 923 may be between 5 and 15 times longer than the lower arm 913. Table 1 below provides example measurements of the lengths of the upper and lower arms for each of the load support units 901, 902, and 903. In each of the load support units 901, 902, and 903, the lower arms 911 / 912 / 913 are straight and arranged substantially vertically, and the upper arms 921 / 922 / 923 are curved. Such an arrangement is not required, and the lower arms 911 / 912 / 913 may extend from the mounting pivot 200 at different angles and distances and may be curved. The upper arms 921 / 922 / 923 may be straight and may extend from the lower arms 911 / 912 / 913 at different angles and / or distances.

[0102]

[0103] Figure 10 A load support unit 100 coupled to a trolley is shown. The load support unit 100 supports a load 700 above the trolley. However, this is not intended to be limiting, as it is merely one example of the use of the load support unit 100. The load support unit 100 can be mounted to any surface and extends orthogonally from it.

[0104] It should be understood that the load support unit described herein is provided as an example and is not intended to limit the invention or its application and use. It should be understood that the various embodiments disclosed herein can be combined with combinations different from those specifically presented in the embodiments and drawings. It should also be understood that, depending on the instance, certain actions or events in any of the processes or methods described herein may be performed in a different order, added, combined, or omitted entirely (e.g., all described actions or events may not be necessary to perform the described technique). Furthermore, although some aspects of this disclosure are described as being performed by a single device or component for clarity, it should be understood that the techniques of this disclosure can be performed by a combination of devices or components.

[0105] Other embodiments of this disclosure include the following.

[0106] Example 1 is a joint configured for connecting a lower arm and an upper arm. The joint includes: a housing; a body sized and shaped to fit within an opening in the upper arm; and an actuator element. The actuator element includes: a trigger button disposed outside the body and including an engagement arm extending therefrom and into the body; at least one actuator pawl disposed within an internal surface of the body; a biasing spring configured to bias the engagement arm so as not to interact with the at least one actuator pawl; and a spring element configured to bias the at least one actuator pawl toward the internal surface of the body. When the trigger button is engaged, the engagement arm interacts with the at least one actuator pawl, causing the joint to be in an unlocked configuration.

[0107] Example 2 is a joint joint according to Example 1, wherein the body includes circumferential teeth on the inner surface of the body, and at least one actuator pawl includes teeth configured to engage the circumferential teeth of the body.

[0108] Example 3 is a joint joint according to Example 2, wherein when the trigger button is engaged, the engagement arm interacts with at least one actuator pawl, causing the teeth of at least one actuator pawl to disengage from the circumferential teeth of the body, thereby placing the joint joint in an unlocked configuration; and wherein when the trigger button is released, the engagement arm is biased by a bias spring and does not interact with at least one actuator pawl, causing the teeth of at least one actuator pawl to engage the circumferential teeth of the body, thereby placing the joint joint in a locked configuration.

[0109] Example 4 is a joint joint according to any one of Examples 1 to 3, wherein the joint joint includes exactly two actuator pawls.

[0110] Example 5 is a joint joint according to any one of Examples 1 to 4, wherein the housing further includes an opening configured to receive a trigger button for an actuator element.

[0111] Example 6 is a joint according to any one of Examples 3 to 5, wherein when the joint is in the unlocked configuration, the main body is movable relative to the housing.

[0112] Example 7 is a joint joint according to any one of Examples 3 to 6, wherein when the joint joint is in a locked configuration, the main body is immovable relative to the housing.

[0113] Example 8 is a joint joint according to any one of Examples 3 to 7, wherein in a locking configuration, the teeth of at least one actuator pawl prevent the body from rotating relative to the housing.

[0114] Example 9 is a joint according to any one of Examples 4 to 8, wherein the first of the two actuator pawls prevents the body from rotating relative to the housing in a first direction, and the second of the two actuator pawls prevents the body from rotating relative to the housing in a second direction.

[0115] Example 10 is a joint joint according to any one of Examples 1 to 9, wherein the outer surface of the body includes a plurality of faces, each face being configured to engage a corresponding face of the inner surface of the opening of the upper arm.

[0116] Example 11 is a joint joint according to any one of Examples 3 to 10, wherein in the locking configuration, the engagement between the teeth of at least one actuator pawl and the circumferential teeth is a face-to-face engagement.

[0117] Example 12 is a joint according to Example 11, wherein the biasing force provided by the spring element is provided in a different direction than the supporting force generated by the surface-to-surface engagement.

[0118] Example 13 is a rotary joint configured for connecting a lower arm and an upper arm. The rotary joint includes: a housing; a first tapered sleeve having a first circumferential opening through its center; a second tapered sleeve having a second circumferential opening through its center; and a shouldered screw. The first tapered sleeve is rotatably keyed to the shouldered screw to prevent relative rotation with the shouldered screw and to provide friction during relative rotation with the housing.

[0119] Example 14 is a rotary joint according to Example 13, wherein the outer shell is configured with a conical internal cavity, a first conical sleeve is placed in the conical internal cavity of the outer shell, and a second conical sleeve is configured to be placed in the conical well of the lower arm.

[0120] Example 15 is a rotary joint according to Example 14, wherein a shoulder screw is sized and shaped to fit into a conical inner cavity, a first circumferential opening of a first conical sleeve, and a second circumferential opening of a second conical sleeve.

[0121] Example 16 is a rotary joint according to Example 15, wherein a shoulder screw is configured to engage with a screw hole in a tapered well.

[0122] Example 17 is a rotary joint according to any one of Examples 14 to 16, which further includes a first biasing element configured to bias a first tapered casing into a tapered internal cavity and a second biasing element configured to bias a second tapered casing into a tapered well.

[0123] Example 18 is a rotary joint according to Example 17, wherein the second conical sleeve is rotatably keyed to the housing to prevent relative rotation with the housing and to provide friction during relative rotation with the conical well.

[0124] Example 19 is a rotary joint according to any one of Examples 13 to 18, wherein the circumference of the second conical sleeve is larger than the circumference of the first conical sleeve.

[0125] Example 20 is a rotary joint according to any one of Examples 17 to 19, wherein the first biasing element is configured to further bias the first tapered sleeve into the tapered internal cavity when the surface of the first tapered sleeve is worn.

[0126] Example 21 is a rotary joint according to any one of Examples 17 to 20, wherein the second biasing element is configured to further bias the second tapered sleeve into the tapered well when the surface of the second tapered sleeve is worn.

[0127] Example 22 is a rotary joint according to any one of Examples 16 to 21, wherein the rotary joint is configured to provide friction for relative rotation between the upper and lower arms when the shouldered screw engages with the screw hole in the tapered well and the lower arm is coupled to the housing.

[0128] Example 23 is a mounting rotating member configured for supporting an arm. The mounting rotating member includes: a base plate configured for coupling to the arm; a retainer post extending from the base plate, wherein the retainer post includes at least one keyway; and a base adapter configured to receive the retainer post. The base adapter includes: a base block, wherein the base block further includes at least one keyway; and a base recess extending from the base block. The mounting rotating member further includes a friction stack including a plurality of clutch plates; a plurality of friction plates disposed between corresponding ones of the plurality of clutch plates; and a spring element. The base recess of the base adapter is configured to receive the retainer post of the lower arm. Rotation of the retainer post causes uniform rotation of the plurality of friction plates relative to the plurality of clutch plates. The rotation of the plurality of friction plates relative to the plurality of clutch plates causes resistance to the rotation of the retainer post.

[0129] Example 24 is an installation rotating component according to Example 23, wherein the base block includes a cylindrical cavity defined by a circumferential wall.

[0130] Example 25 is an installation rotating member according to Example 24, wherein at least one keyway of the base block is disposed in the circumferential wall of the base block.

[0131] Example 26 is an installation rotating member according to any one of Examples 23 to 25, wherein the retainer post extends longitudinally from the base plate.

[0132] Example 27 is an installation rotating member according to any one of Examples 23 to 26, wherein the base bearing is configured to accommodate the retainer post of the lower arm.

[0133] Example 28 is a mounting rotating member according to any one of Examples 23 to 27, wherein the spring element is configured to provide a biasing force to the friction stack.

[0134] Example 29 is an installation rotating member according to any one of Examples 23 to 28, wherein the retainer column is rotatable relative to the base adapter.

[0135] Example 30 is an installation rotating member according to any one of Examples 23 to 29, wherein a plurality of clutch plates are rotatably locked to a base block.

[0136] Example 31 is an installation rotating member according to any one of Examples 25 to 30, wherein each of the plurality of clutch plates includes at least one key, said at least one key being configured to engage at least one keyway in the circumferential wall of the base block.

[0137] Example 32 is an installation rotating member according to any one of Examples 23 to 31, wherein a plurality of friction plates are rotatably locked to the retainer post.

[0138] Example 33 is an installation rotating member according to Example 32, wherein each of the plurality of friction plates includes at least one key, the at least one key being configured to engage at least one keyway of a retainer post.

[0139] Example 34 is an installation rotating member according to any one of Examples 23 to 33, wherein the base adapter is configured to be attached to the trolley.

[0140] Example 35 is a mounting rotating member according to any one of Examples 23 to 34, wherein the mounting rotating member includes exactly three clutch plates.

[0141] Example 36 is a mounting rotating member according to any one of Examples 23 to 35, wherein the mounting rotating member includes exactly two friction plates.

[0142] Example 37 is an installation rotating member according to any one of Examples 23 to 36, which further includes a latch extending from the base plate and disposed in a recess of the retainer post.

[0143] Example 38 is a rotary joint configured to support a load at the end of an arm. The rotary joint includes: a ball attachment comprising a swivel ball and a rod; a socket configured to receive the swivel ball, the socket including a first socket portion and a second socket portion; a collar configured to secure the swivel ball within the socket; and a load support coupled to the first socket portion of the socket. Relative rotation of the swivel ball within the collar does not cause the collar to loosen. The socket, collar, and load attachment connected thereto are capable of free rotation about the swivel ball attached to the arm.

[0144] Example 39 is a rotary joint according to Example 38, wherein the rotator ball includes a cylindrical opening.

[0145] Example 40 is a rotary joint according to Example 39, wherein the rod of the ball attachment includes a first end configured for insertion into a cylindrical opening passing through the rotator ball and into a screw hole in the arm.

[0146] Example 41 is a rotary joint according to any one of Examples 38 to 40, wherein the rotator ball and rod are integrally formed.

[0147] Example 42 is a rotary joint according to any one of Examples 38 to 41, wherein the first socket portion is keyed to the second socket portion to prevent relative rotation between the first socket portion and the second socket portion.

[0148] Example 43 is a rotary joint according to Example 42, wherein the collar is configured to tighten the second socket portion to the first socket portion and thus fix the rotator ball in the socket.

[0149] Example 44 is a rotary joint according to any one of Examples 38 to 43, wherein the rotation of the rotator ball does not cause the collar to loosen.

[0150] Example 45 is a rotary joint according to any one of Examples 38 to 44, wherein the level of rotational resistance between the bearing socket and the rotator ball is set by the collar.

[0151] Example 46 is a rotary joint according to any one of Examples 43 to 45, wherein the collar is configured to engage the second socket portion via the internal thread of the collar and the external thread of the second socket portion, and to engage the first socket portion via the flange.

[0152] Example 47 is a rotary joint according to Example 46, wherein the collar is screwed into the second bearing portion via internal and external threads, and the first bearing portion is pulled toward the second bearing portion via a flange.

[0153] Example 48 is a load support unit, comprising: a lower arm; an upper arm; a mounting rotating member configured to support the lower arm; a rotating joint disposed between the lower arm and a joint joint; a joint joint disposed between the rotating joint and the upper arm; a housing configured to house the rotating joint and the joint joint; and a rotary joint configured to support a load at the upper arm.

[0154] Example 49 is a load support unit according to Example 48, wherein the lower arm includes a first end and a second end, and the upper arm includes a first end and a second end, a mounting rotating member is configured to support the first end of the lower arm, a rotating joint is disposed between the second end of the lower arm and a joint joint, the joint joint is disposed between the rotating joint and the first end of the upper arm, and the rotating joint is configured to support the load at the second end of the upper arm.

[0155] Example 50 is a load support unit according to Example 48 or 49, wherein the mounting rotating element further includes a base plate configured for coupling to the lower arm.

[0156] Example 51 is a load support unit according to Example 50, wherein the mounting rotating member further includes a retainer post extending longitudinally from the base plate, wherein the retainer post includes at least one keyway.

[0157] Example 52 is a load support unit according to Example 50 or 51, wherein the mounting rotating member further includes a base adapter configured to receive a retainer post.

[0158] Example 53 is a load support unit according to any one of Examples 50 to 52, wherein the base adapter further includes a base block, the base block including a cylindrical cavity defined by a circumferential wall, wherein the base block further includes at least one keyway disposed in the circumferential wall.

[0159] Example 54 is a load support unit according to any one of Examples 5 to 53, wherein the base adapter further includes a base socket extending from the base block and configured to receive the retainer post of the lower arm.

[0160] Example 55 is a load support unit according to any one of Examples 50 to 54, wherein the mounting rotating element further includes a friction stack.

[0161] Example 56 is a load support unit according to any one of Examples 50 to 55, wherein the friction stack further includes a plurality of clutch plates and a plurality of friction plates, the plurality of friction plates being disposed between corresponding ones of the plurality of clutch plates.

[0162] Example 57 is a load support unit according to any one of Examples 50 to 56, wherein the mounting rotating element further includes a spring element that provides a biasing force to the friction stack.

[0163] Example 58 is a load support unit according to any one of Examples 48 to 57, wherein the housing further includes a conical internal cavity.

[0164] Example 59 is a load support unit according to Example 58, wherein the rotary joint further includes a first tapered sleeve having a first circumferential opening through its center, the first tapered sleeve being disposed within a tapered internal cavity of the housing.

[0165] Example 60 is a load support unit according to Example 58 or 59, wherein the rotary joint further includes a second tapered sleeve having a second circumferential opening through its center and configured to be placed in a tapered well of the lower arm.

[0166] Example 61 is a load support unit according to any one of Examples 58 to 60, wherein the rotary joint further includes a shouldered screw, the shouldered screw being sized and shaped to fit into the conical inner cavity, the first circumferential opening of the first conical sleeve and the second circumferential opening of the second conical sleeve, and configured to engage with a screw hole in the conical well.

[0167] Example 62 is a load support unit according to any one of Examples 58 to 61, wherein the rotary joint further includes a first biasing element configured to bias the first tapered sleeve into the tapered internal cavity.

[0168] Example 63 is a load support unit according to any one of Examples 58 to 62, wherein the rotary joint further includes a second biasing element configured to bias the second tapered casing into the tapered well.

[0169] Example 64 is a load support unit according to any one of Examples 49 to 63, wherein the articulated joint further includes a circumferential body, the circumferential body being sized and shaped to fit into an opening at a first end of the upper arm, the circumferential body having circumferential teeth on its inner surface.

[0170] Example 65 is a load support unit according to Example 64, wherein the articulated joint further includes an actuator element.

[0171] Example 66 is a load support unit according to Example 64 or 65, wherein the actuator element further includes a trigger button disposed outside the body and having an engagement arm extending therefrom and into the body.

[0172] Example 67 is a load support unit according to any one of Examples 64 to 66, wherein the actuator element further includes at least one actuator pawl disposed within the inner surface of the body, the at least one actuator pawl having teeth configured to engage circumferential teeth of the circumferential body.

[0173] Example 68 is a load support unit according to any one of Examples 64 to 67, wherein the actuator element further includes a bias spring configured to bias the engagement arm so as not to interact with at least one actuator pawl.

[0174] Example 69 is a load support unit according to any one of Examples 64 to 68, wherein the actuator element further includes a spring element configured to bias the teeth of at least one actuator pawl toward the circumferential teeth of the body.

[0175] Example 70 is a load support unit according to any one of Examples 48 to 69, wherein the rotary joint further includes a ball attachment.

[0176] Example 71 is a load support unit according to Example 70, wherein the ball attachment further includes a swivel ball and a rod, the rod being integrally formed with and extending from the swivel ball.

[0177] Example 72 is a load support unit according to Example 70 or 71, wherein the rotary joint further includes a socket configured to receive a rotator ball.

[0178] Example 73 is a load support unit according to any one of Examples 70 to 72, wherein the bearing socket further includes a first bearing socket portion and a second bearing socket portion.

[0179] Example 74 is a load support unit according to any one of Examples 70 to 73, wherein the first bearing portion is keyed to the second bearing portion to prevent relative rotation between the first bearing portion and the second bearing portion.

[0180] Example 75 is a load support unit according to any one of Examples 70 to 74, wherein the rotary joint further includes a collar configured to secure a rotator ball within a socket, wherein the collar is configured to tighten a first socket portion and a second socket portion and thus secure the rotator ball within the socket.

[0181] Example 76 is a load support unit according to any one of Examples 70 to 75, wherein the rotary joint further includes a load support member coupled to a first socket portion of the socket.

[0182] Example 77 is a load support unit according to any one of Examples 48 to 76, wherein the mounting rotating element is configured to be attached to the trolley.

Claims

1. A joint connector configured for connecting a lower arm and an upper arm, the joint connector comprising: shell; The main body is sized and shaped to fit into the opening of the upper arm; Actuator elements, including: A trigger button is disposed outside the body and has an engaging arm extending therefrom and into the body; At least one actuator pawl is disposed within the inner surface of the body; A biasing spring configured to bias the engaging arm so as not to interact with the at least one actuator pawl; and A spring element configured to bias the at least one actuator pawl toward the inner surface of the body. When the trigger button is engaged, the engagement arm interacts with the at least one actuator pawl, causing the articulated joint to be in an unlocked configuration.

2. The joint of claim 1, wherein the body includes circumferential teeth on an inner surface of the body, and the at least one actuator pawl includes teeth configured to engage the circumferential teeth of the body.

3. The joint according to claim 2, wherein when the trigger button is engaged, the engagement arm interacts with the at least one actuator pawl such that the teeth of the at least one actuator pawl disengage from the circumferential teeth of the body, thereby placing the joint in an unlocked configuration, and wherein when the trigger button is released, the engagement arm is biased by the bias spring and does not interact with the at least one actuator pawl such that the teeth of the at least one actuator pawl engage the circumferential teeth of the body, thereby placing the joint in a locked configuration.

4. The joint joint according to claim 1, wherein the joint joint comprises exactly two actuator pawls.

5. The joint of claim 1, wherein the housing further includes an opening configured to receive the trigger button of the actuator element.

6. The articulated joint of claim 3, wherein when the articulated joint is in the unlocked configuration, the body is movable relative to the housing.

7. The joint joint of claim 3, wherein when the joint joint is in the locking configuration, the body is immovable relative to the housing.

8. The joint according to claim 3, wherein in the locking configuration, the teeth of the at least one actuator pawl prevent the body from rotating relative to the housing.

9. The joint according to claim 4, wherein the first of the two actuator pawls prevents the body from rotating relative to the housing in a first direction, and the second of the two actuator pawls prevents the body from rotating relative to the housing in a second direction.

10. The joint of claim 1, wherein the outer surface of the body comprises a plurality of faces, each face configured to engage a corresponding face of the inner surface of the opening of the upper arm.

11. The joint joint of claim 3, wherein in the locking configuration, the engagement between the teeth of the at least one actuator pawl and the circumferential teeth is a face-to-face engagement.

12. The joint of claim 11, wherein the biasing force provided by the spring element is provided in a direction different from the supporting force generated by the surface-to-surface engagement.

13. A rotary joint configured for connecting a lower arm and an upper arm, the rotary joint comprising: shell; The first tapered sleeve has a first circumferential opening passing through its center. The second tapered sleeve has a second circumferential opening passing through its center, and Shoulder screws The first tapered sleeve is rotatably keyed to the shouldered screw to prevent relative rotation with the shouldered screw and to provide friction during relative rotation with the housing.

14. The rotary joint according to claim 13, wherein the housing is configured with a conical internal cavity, the first conical sleeve is disposed within the conical internal cavity of the housing, and the second conical sleeve is configured to be placed within the conical well of the lower arm.

15. The rotary joint of claim 14, wherein the shouldered screw is sized and shaped to fit within the conical inner cavity, the first circumferential opening of the first conical sleeve, and the second circumferential opening of the second conical sleeve.

16. The rotary joint of claim 15, wherein the shouldered screw is configured to engage with a screw hole in the tapered well.

17. The rotary joint of claim 14, further comprising a first biasing element configured to bias the first tapered casing into the tapered internal cavity and a second biasing element configured to bias the second tapered casing into the tapered well.

18. The rotary joint of claim 17, wherein the second tapered sleeve is rotatably keyed to the housing to prevent relative rotation with respect to the housing and to provide friction during relative rotation with respect to the tapered well.

19. The rotary joint according to claim 13, wherein the circumference of the second tapered sleeve is larger than the circumference of the first tapered sleeve.

20. The rotary joint of claim 17, wherein the first biasing element is configured to further bias the first tapered sleeve into the tapered internal cavity when the surface of the first tapered sleeve is worn.

21. The rotary joint of claim 17, wherein the second biasing element is configured to further bias the second tapered sleeve into the tapered well when the surface of the second tapered sleeve is worn.

22. The rotary joint of claim 16, wherein the rotary joint is configured to provide friction for relative rotation between the upper arm and the lower arm when the shouldered screw engages with the screw hole in the tapered well and the lower arm is coupled to the housing.

23. A mounting pivot configured for supporting an arm, the mounting pivot comprising: A base plate configured for coupling to the arm; A retainer post extending from the base plate, wherein the retainer post includes at least one keyway; A base adapter configured to receive the retainer post and comprising: Base block, wherein the base block further includes at least one keyway, and A base bearing recess extending from the base block; and Friction stack, comprising: Multiple clutch plates; Multiple friction plates, disposed between corresponding ones of the multiple clutch plates; and Spring element, The base socket of the base adapter is configured to receive the retainer post of the lower arm. The rotation of the retainer post causes the plurality of friction plates to rotate uniformly relative to the plurality of clutch plates, and The rotation of the plurality of friction plates relative to the plurality of clutch plates causes resistance to the rotation of the retainer post.

24. The mounting rotating member according to claim 23, wherein the base block includes a cylindrical cavity defined by a circumferential wall.

25. The mounting rotating member according to claim 24, wherein the at least one keyway of the base block is disposed in the circumferential wall of the base block.

26. The mounting rotating member according to claim 23, wherein the retainer post extends longitudinally from the base plate.

27. The mounting rotating member according to claim 23, wherein the base bearing is configured to receive the retainer post of the lower arm.

28. The mounting rotating member of claim 23, wherein the spring element is configured to provide a biasing force to the friction stack.

29. The mounting rotating member according to claim 23, wherein the retainer post is rotatable relative to the base adapter.

30. The mounting rotating member according to claim 23, wherein the plurality of clutch plates are rotatably locked to the base block.

31. The mounting rotating member of claim 25, wherein each of the plurality of clutch plates includes at least one key, the at least one key being configured to engage at least one keyway in the circumferential wall of the base block.

32. The mounting rotating member according to claim 23, wherein the plurality of friction plates are rotatably locked to the retainer post.

33. The mounting rotating member of claim 32, wherein each of the plurality of friction plates includes at least one key, the at least one key being configured to engage the at least one keyway of the retainer post.

34. The mounting rotating member according to claim 23, wherein the base adapter is configured to be attached to the trolley.

35. The mounting rotating member according to claim 23, wherein the mounting rotating member comprises exactly three clutch plates.

36. The mounting rotating member according to claim 23, wherein the mounting rotating member comprises exactly two friction plates.

37. The mounting rotating member according to claim 23, further comprising a latch extending from the base plate and disposed in a recess of the retainer post.

38. A rotary joint configured for a load at the end of a support arm, the rotary joint comprising: Ball attachment, which includes a spinner ball and a rod, A socket, configured to receive the rotator ball, the socket comprising a first socket portion and a second socket portion. A collar configured to secure the rotator ball within the bearing socket, and A load-bearing support member, which is coupled to the first bearing portion of the bearing socket. The relative rotation of the rotator ball within the collar does not cause the collar to loosen, and The bearing, the collar, and the load support connected thereto are capable of rotating freely about the rotator ball attached to the arm.

39. The rotary joint of claim 38, wherein the rotator ball includes a cylindrical opening.

40. The rotary joint of claim 39, wherein the rod of the ball attachment includes a first end configured for insertion through the cylindrical opening of the rotator ball and into a screw hole of the arm.

41. The rotary joint according to claim 38, wherein the rotator ball and the rod are integrally formed.

42. The rotary joint according to claim 38, wherein the first socket portion is keyed to the second socket portion to prevent relative rotation between the first socket portion and the second socket portion.

43. The rotary joint of claim 42, wherein the collar is configured to screw the second socket portion to the first socket portion and thus secure the rotator ball within the socket.

44. The rotary joint of claim 38, wherein the rotation of the rotator ball does not cause the collar to loosen.

45. The rotary joint according to claim 38, wherein the level of rotational resistance between the socket and the rotator ball is set by the collar.

46. ​​The rotary joint of claim 43, wherein the collar is configured to engage the second socket portion via an internal thread of the collar and an external thread via a second socket portion, and to engage the first socket portion via a flange.

47. The rotary joint of claim 46, wherein the collar is screwed into the second socket portion via the internal thread and the external thread, and the first socket portion is pulled toward the second socket portion via the flange.

48. A load support unit, comprising: Forearm; upper arm; A rotating component is installed, configured to support the lower arm; A rotary joint is located between the lower arm and the joint joint; The joint joint is disposed between the rotary joint and the upper arm; A housing configured to receive the rotary joint and the articulated joint; and A rotary joint configured to support the load at the upper arm.

49. The load support unit of claim 48, wherein the lower arm includes a first end and a second end, and the upper arm includes a first end and a second end, the mounting rotatable member is configured to support the first end of the lower arm, the rotatable joint is disposed between the second end of the lower arm and the joint joint, the joint joint is disposed between the rotatable joint and the first end of the upper arm, and the rotatable joint is configured to support the load at the second end of the upper arm.

50. The load support unit of claim 48, wherein the mounting rotating member further includes a base plate configured for coupling to the lower arm.

51. The load support unit of claim 50, wherein the mounting rotating member further comprises a retainer post extending longitudinally from the base plate, wherein the retainer post includes at least one keyway.

52. The load support unit of claim 51, wherein the mounting rotating member further comprises a base adapter configured to receive the retainer post.

53. The load support unit of claim 52, wherein the base adapter further comprises a base block, the base block comprising a cylindrical cavity defined by a circumferential wall, wherein the base block further comprises at least one keyway disposed in the circumferential wall.

54. The load support unit according to claims 22 to 53, wherein the base adapter further includes a base recess extending from the base block, the base recess being configured to receive the retainer post of the lower arm.

55. The load support unit according to claims 50 to 54, wherein the mounting rotating member further comprises a friction stack.

56. The load support unit of claim 55, wherein the friction stack further comprises a plurality of clutch plates and a plurality of friction plates disposed between corresponding ones of the plurality of clutch plates.

57. The load support unit according to claims 55 to 56, wherein the mounting rotating member further comprises a spring element that provides a biasing force to the friction stack.

58. The load support unit of claim 48, wherein the housing further comprises a tapered internal cavity.

59. The load support unit of claim 58, wherein the rotary joint further comprises a first tapered sleeve having a first circumferential opening through its center, the first tapered sleeve being disposed within the tapered internal cavity of the housing.

60. The load support unit of claim 59, wherein the rotary joint further comprises a second tapered sleeve having a second circumferential opening through its center and configured to be placed within the tapered well of the lower arm.

61. The load support unit of claim 60, wherein the rotary joint further comprises a shouldered screw, the shouldered screw being sized and shaped to fit within the conical inner cavity, the first circumferential opening of the first conical sleeve and the second circumferential opening of the second conical sleeve, and configured to engage with a screw hole in the conical well.

62. The load support unit according to claims 59 to 61, wherein the rotary joint further includes a first biasing element configured to bias the first tapered sleeve into the tapered internal cavity.

63. The load support unit according to claims 60 to 62, wherein the rotary joint further includes a second biasing element configured to bias the second tapered casing into the tapered well.

64. The load support unit of claim 49, wherein the joint further comprises a circumferential body, the circumferential body being sized and shaped to fit within an opening at the first end of the upper arm, the circumferential body having circumferential teeth on its inner surface.

65. The load support unit of claim 64, wherein the joint further comprises an actuator element.

66. The load support unit of claim 65, wherein the actuator element further comprises a trigger button disposed outside the body and having an engagement arm extending therefrom and into the body.

67. The load support unit according to claims 65 to 66, wherein the actuator element further comprises at least one actuator pawl disposed within the inner surface of the body, the at least one actuator pawl having teeth configured to engage the circumferential teeth of the circumferential body.

68. The load support unit according to claims 66 to 67, wherein the actuator element further includes a bias spring configured to bias the engagement arm so as not to interact with the at least one actuator pawl.

69. The load support unit according to claims 65 to 68, wherein the actuator element further comprises a spring element configured to bias the teeth of the at least one actuator pawl toward the circumferential teeth of the body.

70. The load support unit of claim 48, wherein the rotary joint further comprises a ball attachment.

71. The load support unit of claim 70, wherein the ball attachment further comprises a swivel ball and a rod, the rod being integrally formed with and extending from the swivel ball.

72. The load support unit according to claims 70 to 71, wherein the rotary joint further includes a socket configured to receive the rotator ball.

73. The load support unit according to claim 72, wherein the bearing socket further comprises a first bearing socket portion and a second bearing socket portion.

74. The load support unit according to claim 73, wherein the first bearing portion is keyed to the second bearing portion to prevent relative rotation between the first bearing portion and the second bearing portion.

75. The load support unit according to claims 73 to 74, wherein the rotary joint further includes a collar configured to secure the rotator ball within the socket, wherein the collar is configured to tighten the first socket portion and the second socket portion and thus secure the rotator ball within the socket.

76. The load support unit according to claims 73 to 75, wherein the rotary joint further includes a load support member coupled to the first socket portion of the socket.

77. The load support unit of claim 48, wherein the mounting rotating member is configured to be attached to the trolley.

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