Patent ID: 6776551
Filing Date: 2004-08-17
Classification: F16B,F16L,G02B,Y10T

Abstract:
A retaining device for releasably retaining an object in a fixed position, comprises:a spherically shaped portion connected or connectable to the object; a holder into which the spherically shaped portion is inserted; a clamping device which surrounds the circumference of the holder; and a plurality of recesses provided between the inner surface of the clamping device and the holder, such that when tightened, the clamping device applies forces at symmetrical points around the circumference of the holder which in turn transmits symmetrical clamping forces to the object, wherein the holder is deformable and deforms in shape when the clamping device is tightened, the spherically shaped portion enables the object to be angularly adjusted about at least one axis inside the holder until the clamping device is tightened to fix the object in position, wherein the symmetrical clamping forces hold the object in said position without movement of said object during tightening of the clamping device, wherein the clamping device has an inner surface comprising a plurality of recesses located about the longitudinal axis of the holder, wherein only those portions of the inner surface between adjacent recesses are in contact with the holder, and wherein those portions of the inner surface in contact with the holder are arranged symmetrically about the longitudinal axis of the holder, and wherein after the clamping device is tightened, the recesses between the portions of the inner surface in contact with the holder are filled with sealant.