Patent ID: 7461995
Filing Date: 2008-12-09
Classification: B63B,Y10T

Abstract:
1. A socket retainer assembly for retaining a ball of a support post, the assembly comprising: a socket retainer body having a channel for receiving the ball and a hole formed therein, said hole being substantially perpendicular to said channel, said channel having a c-shape and said channel being constricted at an end opposite said hole for retaining the ball in said channel; a pin disposed in said hole, said pin having a cutout formed therein corresponding to a diameter of the ball, said pin being rotatable for aligning said cutout with said channel to allow entry of the ball into said channel; a spring disposed at said pin for preventing an unintended rotation of said pin; and a cam surface disposed at one end of said hole on said socket retainer body; and a handle disposed on an end of said pin, said handle having a cam following surface, said cam following surface engaging said cam surface for alternatingly increasing and decreasing the compression on said spring.