Abstract: One preferred embodiment of the present invention provides a handle and shaft assembly including a rotatable shaft with a shaped end portion, where the shaped end portion has a non-circular cross-section. A handle cross-member is mounted to the shaft. A first distal portion of the cross-member is offset from the shaft. A pedestal is mounted to the distal portion of the cross-member. A ball portion is associated with the pedestal. In one embodiment, a knob defines a socket, which is coupled to the cross-member with a ball and socket joint. In a preferred shaft connection assembly, a locking member is fittingly engaged to the shaped end portion of the rotatable shaft such that the locking member and the rotatable shaft are substantially rigid in rotation. The locking member is also fittingly engaged with the cross-member such that the locking member and the cross-member are also substantially rigid in rotation.

Abstract: One preferred embodiment of the present invention provides a handle and shaft assembly including a rotatable shaft with a shaped end portion, where the shaped end portion has a non-circular cross-section. A handle cross-member is mounted to the shaft. A first distal portion of the cross-member is offset from the shaft. A pedestal is mounted to the distal portion of the cross-member. A ball portion is associated with the pedestal. In one embodiment, a knob defines a socket, which is coupled to the cross-member with a ball and socket joint. In a preferred shaft connection assembly, a locking member is fittingly engaged to the shaped end portion of the rotatable shaft such that the locking member and the rotatable shaft are substantially rigid in rotation. The locking member is also fittingly engaged with the cross-member such that the locking member and the cross-member are also substantially rigid in rotation.