Abstract: A flex joint (22) includes a bellows (33) and a liner system (46) disposed in the bellows. The liner system includes two generally cylindrical liner pieces (50,52) that are connected to each other in an articulated joint (54). One of the two generally cylindrical liner pieces defines a ball joint end (56) and the other of the two generally cylindrical liner pieces defines a socket joint end (58). The ball joint end is engaged with the socket joint end to form a ball and socket joint as the articulated joint.

Abstract: In accordance with an embodiment of the present invention, a device including a first optical table, a second optical table, and at least one optical mount coupled to the first and second optical tables and configured to support at least one optical component. The first optical table is positioned on a first plane, while the second optical table is positioned on a second plane that is different from the first plane.