Patent ID: 6379073
Filing Date: 2002-04-30
Classification: F16C,F16M,Y10T

Abstract:
An adjustable joint, comprising:a first hollow member having an inner surface and an end portion defining a first connector opening; a piston having a first end and a second end; a chamber within said first hollow member defined by said first end of said piston and said inner surface of said first hollow member; a rotatable connector received in said first hollow member between said second end of said piston and said end portion of said first hollow member such that an increased pressure in said chamber urges said piston towards said first connector opening, to clamp said rotatable connector between said first connector opening and said second end of said piston; a pressurized fluid source in fluid communication with said chamber; a spring in said chamber, said spring providing a force against said piston such that said piston presses against said rotatable connector, thereby providing a frictional resistance to rotation of said rotatable connector; and a second connector opening in said second end of said piston, a portion of said rotatable connector being received in said second connector opening; wherein said pressurized fluid source is in fluid communication with an interior portion of said piston such that increased pressure within said piston creates a pressure against said portion of said rotatable connector being received in said second opening to counteract the force provided by said spring.