Abstract: An apparatus for holding a sensor such that the sensor touches an object at an arbitrary position in a three-dimensional space, the apparatus including a base member; a rotatable member which is rotatable relative to the base member about a vertical axis line; a first link device including a first stationary link, a first movable link, and two first pivotable links which are pivotably connected to the first stationary link and the first movable link, such that the first stationary link, the first movable link, and the two first pivotable links cooperate with each other to define a quadrilateral, wherein the first stationary link is fixed to the rotatable member such that the first movable link is movable in a plane containing the axis line; a second link device including two second pivotable links, and a second stationary link and a second movable link which are pivotably connected to the two second pivotable links, such that the two second pivotable links, the second stationary link, and the second movable l

Abstract: The present invention provides an extension arm apparatus with angled clevis operation to provide enhanced mechanical leverage. The clevis adjusts along a path angled relative to an axis of the device, which significantly boosts performance and can reduce the size of the apparatus. Upper and lower channels of the device taper from a first width to a second width, providing a sleek and functional apparatus that can be used with heavy monitors, displays or other user equipment. When a forearm extension attached to an endcap of the apparatus, an interlocking washer and shaft configuration prevents the forearm extension-endcap connection from loosening during operation.

Abstract: A breakaway basketball goal system is provided for absorbing shocks during playing conditions. In embodiments of the invention, the basketball goal system includes a base, a neck movably coupled to the base, a backboard attached to a distal end of the neck, and a shock-absorbing mechanism that permits a neck, backboard and rim to move downward to absorb severe shocks, and that may automatically return them to their playing position. The shock-absorbing mechanism can include a housing disposed on a rearward side of a mounting post, a shock absorber, a guide attached to a movable end of the shock absorber, and a cable connecting the guide to the neck. In embodiments of the invention, the backboard extends a horizontal distance from the base to provide a safe playing area.

Abstract: A computer-controlled display device. In one embodiment, the display device includes a flat panel display coupled to one end of a moveable assembly. A base containing computer components is coupled to an opposite end of the moveable assembly. Power and data cables linking the flat panel display to one or more of the computer components are positioned within an interior portion of the moveable assembly. In one embodiment, the moveable assembly includes a first arm coupled to a second arm and provides movement in two or more dimensions simultaneously.

Abstract: A portable computer is comprised of a base, a display, and one or more multi-sectioned arms connecting the base and the display. The arms can be folded and parked alongside the computer in a closed position. The arms can also be detached from both the base and the display. The display's viewing position can be continuously adjusted up, down, forward, backward, left, or right relative to the base, in a 3-dimensional range of movement with a semi-diameter of the height of the fully stretched arm. The base and the display are rotatably connected to the arms, so that the base and the display can rotate independently around the connections to control how they face each other, enabling multiple configurations in one computer. Five embodiments of the present invention are presented for illustration, based on arm designs and how they are connected to the base and the display.

Abstract: In a holding arrangement (101) for a medical-optical instrument (103), an electric motor is provided in a rotational joint (111, 119) to compensate a load torque occurring in this rotational joint. This electric motor is supplied with current in correspondence to a detected position of the rotational joint (111, 119). A current control curve required for this purpose is stored in a memory. This current control curve can be determined in that the rotational joints are deflected with the electric motor into predetermined positions and the current demand needed therefor is detected. The holding arrangement (101) has a unit for actively damping vibration including a vibration damping control loop. This vibration damping control loop outputs a superposition motor current to the electric motor as an actuating quantity in order to move the rotational joint (111, 119) with the electric motor so that a detected vibration of the holding arrangement (101) is countered.

Abstract: In a holding arrangement (101) for a medical-optical instrument (103), an electric motor is provided in a rotational joint (111, 119) to compensate a load torque occurring in this rotational joint. This electric motor is supplied with current in correspondence to a detected position of the rotational joint (111, 119). A current control curve required for this purpose is stored in a memory. This current control curve can be determined in that the rotational joints are deflected with the electric motor into predetermined positions and the current demand needed therefor is detected.

Abstract: A surgical theater system includes a boom rotating about a hub and coupled to a counterbalance arm assembly having a counterbalance arm and a monitor mount assembly configured to permit a monitor or other device to be positioned horizontally and vertically within a surgical suite and maintain the vertical elevation selected. The counterbalance arm includes a proximal hub, a first parallel link, a second parallel link, a spring link, a spring and a distal hub. First, second and third proximal pivot axes extend through the proximal hub with the third pivot axis being movable along a radial line forming an angle with a line intersecting the first and second proximal pivot axes. The spring link is coupled to the third proximal pivot axis, spring and second parallel link.

Abstract: An extension arm suitable for mounting a flat-screen electronic peripheral device, including a forearm extension having at one end a first coupling for attachment to a tilter, a platform or other means for supporting a flat-screen device and at the other end a second coupling. The extension arm also includes a pair of end caps, each having a shaft. The shaft of the first end cap is pivotably rotatable in a support mount, such as a wall, desk or pole mount. The shaft of the second end cap is pivotably rotatable in the second coupling of the forearm extension. The extension arm also includes an upper channel and a lower channel. Each channel has at opposite ends a pair of integrally cast rollers which are pivotably attached to each of the end caps. The upper and lower channels and the end caps form an adjustable parallelogram.

Abstract: A basketball goal system may include a rim assembly that forms part of a breakaway rim that can deflect downwardly when a force larger than a predetermined amount is applied to the rim. The basketball goal system may include a support pole, a support structure including a pair of upper arms and a pair of lower arms, a backboard support frame including a pair of elongated members, and a backboard. The elongated members of the backboard support frame are preferably connected to one of the upper support arms and one of the lower support arms of the support structure, and these upper and lower support arms are preferably connected to the support pole. The basketball goal system may also include a backboard connected to the backboard support frame and a rim assembly including a pair of support arms. The support arms of the rim assembly are preferably connected to the elongated members of the backboard support frame.

Abstract: A tilter assembly is provided for positioning an electronic device such as a flat panel display. The tilter assembly includes a tilter shaft holder having an opening aligned along an axis and a shaft received within the opening. The shaft is rotatable about the axis, and may be coupled to a support. The tilter shaft holder is coupled to the electronic device. The tilter assembly also includes a torsion spring device in operative association with the shaft to provide a bias or counterbalance to the electronic device, thereby preventing undesired rotation about the axis.

Abstract: A positionable support device includes a friction cylinder as a counterbalance in place of conventional gas springs. The support device includes a support arm pivotally secured between two endcaps to allow for vertical movement, the first endcap being mounted to a support structure such as a wall or desktop, the second endcap adapted to engage a mounting element for a device such as an electronic device. A friction cylinder is pivotally attached at one end to the first endcap, and at the other to an outward portion of the support arm. The friction cylinder includes a tubular member open at one end for receiving a friction bushing and a shaft. The friction bushing is secured to the tubular member and has a central passage which allows the shaft to slide through the friction bushing, extending and retracting in relation to the tubular member.

Abstract: A deformable basketball goal support structure configured to selectively engage a rigid upright member and allow for adjustment of the height of a basketball goal above a playing surface. The basketball goal support structure has a backboard and an attachment member configured to selectively connect the goal support structure to the upright member. At least one support arm pivotally attaches between the attachment member and the backboard. Preferably, a pair of first support arms and a pair of second support arms pivotally attach between the attachment member and the backboard. The backboard includes a support frame having an internal periphery sufficient for receiving at least a portion of the attachment member and the support arms.

Abstract: A mechanical assembly includes an arm and an extension link that rotate about a pivot point, a yoke, and a force generating device. The yoke includes a first slot in which a pin of the link resides. The yoke translates in a plane responsive to rotation of the counterbalance extension link pin about the pivot point. The force generating device is connected between the counterbalance extension link pin and a fixed point on the yoke to exert a force on the counterbalance extension link pin. The orientation and magnitude of the force produced by the force generating device remains constant as the yoke translates. The force generating device and extension link produce a torque that is equal and opposing to the torque produced by the force of gravity acting on the arm so that the arm is in static equilibrium. The static equilibrium condition is independent of the rotational position of the arm.

Abstract: A carrier system (10) for a medical apparatus (11) is disclosed. The carrier system includes rotation joints (17, 18, 20). A supply line harness runs in the carrier system (10) and is run so that it is covered. The rotation joint (18) includes a tube-shaped holding member on which fingers are formed which hold a rotation joint. A joint element, which is rotatably journalled in a joint receptacle, is provided in the rotation joint (20). The joint element has a wave-shaped section which is connected via a connecting section to an annularly-shaped section functioning to accommodate a connecting arm.

Abstract: A mechanical assembly includes an arm and an extension link that rotate about a pivot point, a yoke, and a force generating device. The yoke includes a first slot in which a pin of the link resides. The yoke translates in a plane responsive to rotation of the counterbalance extension link pin about the pivot point. The force generating device is connected between the counterbalance extension link pin and a fixed point on the yoke to exert a force on the counterbalance extension link pin. The orientation and magnitude of the force produced by the force generating device remains constant as the yoke translates. The force generating device and extension link produce a torque that is equal and opposing to the torque produced by the force of gravity acting on the arm so that the arm is in static equilibrium. The static equilibrium condition is independent of the rotational position of the arm.

Abstract: A mechanical support arm for holding lamps, flat screen monitors or other equipment which comprises a base member and two links joined by pivoting joints and held in position by friction in the joints. The amount of friction required to hold the equipment in position is reduced by the use of spring-assisted counterbalances that compensate for the majority of the weight. The novel aspects of the invention include the design of the pivots, which are linked rings able to rotate about axles disposed at the pivot points, and the manner in which the springs are attached to the pivot points to reduce the amount of force that need be exerted on the arm to place the object being supported in the desired position.

Abstract: An equipoise arm assembly for supporting an article in equipoise with a support arm, a proximal arm joint, a distal arm joint for supporting an article either directly or through a second support arm, a spring arrangement including a spring member with a distal end coupled to a body portion of the support arm and a proximal end pivotally retained to pivot about an effective pivot axis to create a spring force moment arm of a given length whereby the spring arrangement will tend to provide a resistive torque in support to the support arm, and an arrangement for altering the effective pivot axis of the spring arrangement to change the length of the spring force moment arm.

Abstract: The invention relates to an articulated arm system (20) for attaching different medical imaging devices (11) to support structures (14) in an articulated manner. The articulated arm comprises at least one parallelogram device (15a, 15b) including a counterbalancing mechanism for holding the articulated arm and the device (11) supported by it in place when the device is located in the desired imaging position. The system further comprises braking and/or locking means (2: 22) which act on at least one strut bar (6, 7) of the said at least one parallelogram device (15a, 15b) and/or on the at least one additional strut bar (1) in order to prevent mutual linear movement of the strut bars (6, 7) of the parallelogram device, and which braking and/or locking means comprise actuators (3-5; 23; 24).

Abstract: An extension arm suitable for mounting a flat-screen electronic peripheral device, such as a computer monitor or television, includes a forearm extension that has at one end a first coupling for attachment to a tilter, a platform or other means for supporting a flat-screen device and at the other end a second coupling with a slot formed therein. The extension arm also includes a pair of endcaps, each having a shaft. The shaft of the first endcap is pivotably rotatable in a support mount, such as a wall, desk or pole mount. The shaft of the second endcap is hollow and is pivotably rotatable in the second coupling of the forearm extension. The extension arm also comprises an upper channel and a lower channel. Each channel has at opposite ends integrally cast rollers which are pivotably attached to each of the endcaps. The lower channel has a cable channel formed therein. The upper and lower channels and the endcaps form an adjustable parallelogram.

Abstract: A stand having a carrier (2) and a load-equalizing unit (18), in the case of which stand there is provided, between the load-equalizing unit (18) and the support arm (2), a counterbalancing transmission (106) at which, independently of the position of the load, it is possible by means of changing the position of a connecting arm (5) for a constant force (FA) output by the load-equalizing unit (18) to be changed in position for balancing purposes when there are changes in weight at the load (G).

Abstract: An adjustable basketball goal system allowing for adjustment of the height of a basketball goal above a playing surface. The basketball goal system including a rigid support pole having a first end, a second opposing end, and an intermediate body portion disposed between the first and second ends. A first parallelogrammic structure configured to pivotally engage the first end of the rigid support. A basketball goal attached to the first parallelogrammic structure. The first deformable parallelogrammic structure may be deformed into a plurality of configurations resulting in an adjustment to the height of the basketball goal above the playing surface corresponding to each configuration. A second parallelogrammic structure, which may also be deformed into a plurality of configurations, includes a first end pivotally connected to the first parallelogrammic structure and a second opposing end configured to pivotally engage the rigid support pole.

Abstract: An operator adjustable workstation is provided, ranging from a seated work level to a standing work level with an infinite number of health posture arrangements and work surface levels in between. Two trigger controlled height and angle adjustment body support actuators and a foot controlled lower leg and lower leg support pivot actuator, provide the operator with independent control to quickly lock into place and/or release each health posture and work surface at any level within the adjustment range. The workstation includes a base structure, a body support area, a work surface area, and lift arm. The work surface area incorporates two substantially planar work surfaces. The body support area incorporates seat, back, lower leg and lower leg support components. The body support and work areas incorporate two separate lift arms. The lift arms have first ends and second ends.

Abstract: A device for tiltable mounting of a component, such as a display screen, on a wall, which device comprises a first part to be fixed to a wall, as well as a second part to which the component can be connected. Said parts are pivotally interconnected via a first pivot. The device furthermore comprises a spring which is pivotally connected to the second part with a first end via a second pivot and which is pivotally connected, via a third pivot, to the first part with a second end remote from said first end. The second part comprises a mounting surface which extends substantially parallel to a supporting surface extending through the first and second pivots.

Abstract: Cantilevered apparatus for supporting a wired device such as a microphone, video camera, lamp, or illuminated microscope in any desired position comprising boom arms having a U-shaped channel which receives the wire for the device. A method of supporting the wired device wherein the wire can be easily removed and replaced, and yet is essentially hidden from view in most directions, is also disclosed.

Abstract: Stand arrangement, in particular for medical examining and surgical microscopes, having a support foot (1), an upper part (2a), which can be rotated with respect to the support foot (2) about a vertical axis (A), and a boom (3), mounted pivotably thereon, for holding the microscope (9). The lamp housing (11) is arranged on a carrier (10) connected to the boom (3) and thereby serves to balance the stand.

Abstract: The invention concerns a stand for a microscope (6), having an X-Y displacement unit (5), a stand beam (3), a stand column (2), and a stand foot (1), the X-Y displacement unit (5) being no longer arranged, as before, in the region of microscope (6), but rather removed therefrom in the direction of the stand column (2). The X-Y displacement unit thus carries at least a part of the stand beam (3). The location of the center of gravity on the stand is thereby favorably influenced. Both the stand beam (3) and the stand foot (1) can be small.

Abstract: The surgical microscope with a stand, the microscope having altogether up to six degrees of freedom and being fixed on the microscope mounting by means of elements of the stand which has two vertical pivoting axes and for the height adjustment a parallelogram linkage with weight compensation is distinguished by the fact that the microscope is mounted on the stand by means of a third vertical axis, a first further axis perpendicular to said third vertical axis and a second further axis perpendicular to the first further axis, the further axes being designed such that they are essentially perpendicular to the optical axis of the microscope objective and can be adjusted by motor, and the further axis that is closer to the microscope permitting a lateral pivoting of the viewing direction and the further axis that is arranged between the third vertical axis and the further axis that is closer to the microscope permitting a pivoting of the viewing direction forward/backward or upward/downward.

Abstract: A new and improved apparatus for supporting a dial test indicator in a tooling machine comprising at least a pair of pivoting arms that are pivotally attached to a pair of pivoting ends which permit the arms to be positioned parallel to one another and operate in unison motion. This configuration allows the dial test indicator support to maintain constant latitude throughout a full of range of motion during adjustment thereof, resulting in an indicator support that can quickly assist in the acquisition of precise, accurate measurement of the workpiece. Further, the dial test indicator support requires no active adjustment of fastening screws and the alike during repositioning of the arms for progressive measurement of the workpiece.

Abstract: An adjustable basketball goal system allowing for adjustment of the height of a basketball goal above a playing surface. The basketball goal system including a rigid support pole having a first end, a second opposing end, and an intermediate body portion disposed between the first and second ends. A first parallelogrammic structure configured to pivotally engage the first end of the rigid support. A basketball goal attached to the first parallelogrammic structure. The first deformable parallelogrammic structure may be deformed into a plurality of configurations resulting in an adjustment to the height of the basketball goal above the playing surface corresponding to each configuration. A second parallelogrammic structure, which may also be deformed into a plurality of configurations, includes a first end pivotally connected to the first parallelogrammic structure and a second opposing end configured to pivotally engage the rigid support pole.

Abstract: The invention relates to a compression crank adjustment mechanism for a basketball goal assembly that allows for adjustment of the height of a basketball goal into a plurality of configurations above a playing surface. The basketball goal assembly includes a deformable goal support structure having a first end pivotally attached to a rigid support pole. A basketball goal is preferably attached at a second opposing end of the goal support structure. An extension arm may be connected between the goal support structure and a first adjustment member preferably positioned along the back side of the support pole. A second adjustment member may be connected to the support pole and configured for threaded engagement with the first adjustment member. Preferably, the first and second adjustment members are operably disposed in compression relative to each other under the forces acting on the basketball goal assembly.

Abstract: Multi-jointed and pivoted mounting systems for support of a flat panel video display and/or keyboard tray, incorporating a plurality of pivot points providing for pivotal motion of one or more components about a plurality of vertical and horizontal axes. Support arms having elevational pivot assemblies, including plastic friction washers and gas springs, offer elevational arm control requiring constant and predetermined positioning effort on the part of the video display operator and keyboard operator.

Abstract: An extension arm suitable for mounting a flat-screen electronic peripheral device, such as a computer monitor or television, comprises a forearm extension that has at one end a first coupling for attachment to a tilter, a platform or other means for supporting a flat-screen device and at the other end a second coupling with a slot formed therein. The extension arm also comprises a pair of endcaps, each having a shaft. The shaft of the first endcap is pivotably rotatable in a support mount, such as a wall, desk or pole mount. The shaft of the second endcap is hollow and is pivotably rotatable in the second coupling of the forearm extension. The extension arm also comprises an upper channel and a lower channel. Each channel has at opposite ends integrally cast rollers which are pivotably attached to each of the endcaps. The lower channel has a cable channel formed therein. The upper and lower channels and the endcaps form an adjustable parallelogram.

Abstract: A novel constant force adjustment assembly for a basketball goal assembly is disclosed. The basketball goal assembly includes a deformable goal support structure attached at a first end to a support pole. A basketball goal is preferably attached at a second end of the goal support structure. An extension arm is operably connected between the goal support structure and a handle member operable by a user to adjust the height of the basketball goal. The constant force adjustment assembly includes one or more resilient members attached to the deformable goal support structure to counterbalance the weight of the basketball goal. The resilient members maybe attached to a cam fixture rigidly mounted, pivotally attached, or otherwise connected to the deformable goal support structure. The cam fixture varies the moment arm of the restorative force of each resilient member so that as the restorative force of the resilient member increases, the length of the moment arm of that force decreases.

Abstract: The invention relates to an articulated bracket for supporting especially office equipment, such as screens, telephones and the like, in variable positions. The inventive bracket comprises a base part (2) which is secured in a fixed position, a lower bracket part (4) which is connected to said base part via a first joint (8) in such a way that it can pivot, and an upper bracket part (6) which is connected to said lower bracket part (4) via a second joint (10) in such a way that it too can pivot. Said upper bracket part (6) is connected to the base part (2) by means of a pull element (16), said pull element being guided via the joints (8, 10). Elastic means (18) are arranged in such a way that a carrying force (F) is produced to support the bracket parts (4, 6).

Abstract: A body mounted camera support system for isolating the camera from body motion includes two arms linked together. Each of the arms is a four bar linkage with two tension cartridges each extending between two adjacent ones of the links. Two of the links are extended to form the body of the arm. These links are tubular in cross section and receive the tension cartridge. A single pin, in association with a yoke at one open end of the tubular link, locks the cartridge in place. Each tension cartridge includes a draw bar and a canister with a compression spring operatively positioned therebetween. The spring is adjusted to include shims which bias the bowing of the spring under initial compression load. A PTFE coating on the canister and on the coil spring further reduces friction.

Abstract: The surgical microscope with a stand, the microscope having altogether up to six degrees of freedom and being fixed on the microscope mounting by means of elements of the stand which has two vertical pivoting axes and for the height adjustment a parallelogram linkage with weight compensation is distinguished by the fact that the microscope is mounted on the stand by means of a third vertical axis, a first further axis perpendicular to said third vertical axis and a second further axis perpendicular to the first further axis, the further axes being designed such that they are essentially perpendicular to the optical axis of the microscope objective and can be adjusted by motor, and the further axis that is closer to the microscope permitting a lateral pivoting of the viewing direction and the further axis that is arranged between the third vertical axis and the further axis that is closer to the microscope permitting a pivoting of the viewing direction forward/backward or upward/downward.

Abstract: A height adjustable basketball goal system has a backboard with a hoop attached. A hollow vertical support member has brackets proximate its upper end. An upper and a lower support each having a pair of support arms attached at one end to the backboard and at the other ends to the brackets in a prism-like shape. A fulcrum is attached to the vertical support, and a lever arm is attached at one end to one of the upper and lower supports. A linear actuator is disposed within the hollow vertical support member and is pivotally linked to the lever arm. The linear actuator moves the end of the lever arm and in doing so deforms the parallelogram structure to effect arcuate movement of the backboard and hoop thus changing the height of the backboard and hoop relative to a playing surface. The linear actuator is connected to a rack and pinion or jack screw operable by the user to urge the linear actuator and in turn the lever arm to move the backboard.

Abstract: A computer workstation mounting device is provided which permits devices to be accessed by operators in a variety of positions including sitting, standing, or from a wheelchair. The invention permits said devices to be moved in a wide variety of vertical, horizontal, and rotational ranges of motion, and permits the devices to be moved clear of the work area while performing other tasks, or safely moved to a position near the ceiling for security or additional workspace conservation. The invention uses a simple, low maintenance counterweight principle for its vertical travel. It also possesses a simple tilt and swivel mechanism, swivel bracket (32), and dual parallelogram arm assembly for its horizontal and rotational ranges of motion. The invention also incorporates the counterweight principle for maintaining the data cables (14) in an organized, aesthetically pleasing manner without loops or kinks through all ranges of motion.

Abstract: A support arm has a support structure and an arm structure connected to the support structure through a pivotal connection for pivoting about a horizontal axis. A device is provided for adjusting the elevation of the arm structure by pivoting it about the horizontal axis. A support base is connected to the arm structure through a pivotal connection for pivoting relative to the arm structure about an axis that is parallel to the horizontal axis. A support member is connected to the support base through a pivotal connection for pivoting about a vertical pivot axis, and auxiliary structure such as an air extraction arm may be connected to the support member. A linkage between the support base and the support structure maintains the pivot axis of the support base parallel to a vertical axis as the elevation of the arm structure is adjusted, and avoids the auxiliary structure from swinging under the influence of gravity to a neutral position different from that desired by an operator.

Abstract: A mobile or permanently fixed basketball goal system wherein the backboard and hoop can be adjusted to a desired height by a user. The goal has a vertical support member having a base end, a backboard end and an intermediate portion, and a backboard including a hoop. Crossmembers pivotally connect the backboard to the vertical support member on one side of the backboard end to form an adjustable parallelogram. At least one of the crossmembers extends beyond the vertical support member to an extension end. In one embodiment, a weighted pad and clamp are fixedly adjustable within a continuous range on the support member and connect with the extension end via an extension member. Movement of the pad and clamp acts to raise or lower the backboard and hoop.

Abstract: An apparatus is provided for removably mounting an electronic device to a surface and for positioning the device with respect to the surface. The apparatus includes a cradle securable to the electronic device and a pivot link, which has a first end and a second end. The first end being pivotally coupled to the cradle. The apparatus also includes a support having a mounting pedestal coupled thereto. The second end of the pivot link is pivotally coupled to the support. The apparatus has a base which has a lower face that can be coupled to the surface and an upper face. The upper face has a receiving slot for the pedestal, the slot having a shoulder extending thereabove to engage the pedestal. The slot further has an open end to allow the pedestal to be moved within the slot. The base further includes a releasable locking arm having a retaining ridge located in line with the open end of the slot to selectively hold the pedestal within the slot.