Patent Publication Number: US-6702727-B2

Title: Multi-position paint roller

Description:
CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS 
     This application is a continuation-in-part of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 09/490,417 now abandoned, entitled “Paint Roller with Flexure Joint” and filed Jan. 24, 2000, which is a continuation-in-part of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 09/041,507 now abandoned, entitled “Paint Roller With Flexure Joint” and filed Mar. 12, 1998. 
    
    
     BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION 
     The present invention relates to a paint roller. More particularly, it relates to a paint roller adapted to allow selective positioning and repositioning of a tubular paint applicator relative to a handle. 
     Countless people engage in home-related painting projects on a daily basis. In particular, as part of normal upkeep and/or improvement efforts, interior and exterior walls, floors, ceilings, etc. are often painted and repainted over the course of several years. While the types and colors of paint available have continually evolved, the tools used to apply paint have basically remained the same. 
     A standard paint brush is a very common tool used to apply a coat of paint to a wall or similar surface. When the surface area to be painted is relatively large, however, the use of a paint brush can be quite time consuming and tiresome. Alternatively, compressed air paint sprayers have more recently been made available. While a paint sprayer is able to distribute a large volume of paint in a relatively short time period, the costs associated with such a device are very high. As a result, while the compressed air paint sprayer can greatly reduce the time required for paint application, it is not a viable alternative to most individuals due to its high costs. Further, it is often times difficult to paint tight spaces with a paint sprayer. 
     A third, widely available alternative is a hand-held paint roller. The paint roller tool is generally inexpensive, and can be used to apply paint over a large surface area in a relatively short period of time. 
     Generally speaking, a standard paint roller includes a handle, a U-shaped shaft and a tube receiving frame. One end of the U-shaped shaft extends from the handle. The tube receiving frame is rotatably secured to a second end of the shaft. In this regard, the tube receiving frame is sized to selectively receive and maintain a tubular paint applicator. With this design, prior to use, a user simply inserts a clean tubular paint applicator over the rotatable frame. The tubular paint applicator is then covered with paint. For example, a volume of paint can first be poured into a receptacle, such as a pan. The tubular paint applicator is then dipped into the pan and then rolled back and forth. Once the tubular paint applicator is adequately soaked with paint, the paint roller is used to apply a coating of paint. 
     Application of paint with the paint roller is a relatively straight forward process. The user grasps the paint roller by the handle and contacts the desired surface with the tubular paint applicator. The handle is pivoted at a slight angle relative to the surface to be painted (and thus relative to the tubular paint applicator) so that the user can maintain constant contact between the surface and tubular paint applicator. Once in this position, the user maneuvers the handle in an up-and-down or back-and-forth motion. Because the tubular paint applicator is rotatably secured to the shaft, the tubular paint applicator rotates along the wall surface in response to movement of the handle by the user. With this configuration, then, the user is then able to rapidly cover a large surface area with a simple up-and-down, or back-and-forth, motion. 
     The standard paint roller design does address at least one ergonomic concern. Namely, by employing a U-shaped shaft, the standard paint roller design centrally positions the tubular paint applicator perpendicular to an axis of the handle. This orientation allows a user to use a painting motion generally parallel to an axis of the user&#39;s forearm. In other words, the user can grasp the handle within his or her palm and then hold the handle at a slight angle relative to the surface being painted. In this way, the user can rotate the tubular paint applicator along the wall surface, yet avoid contact with the wall with his or her hand. 
     While the U-shaped shaft satisfies one important ergonomic issue, other drawbacks with the standard paint roller design exist. For example, it is virtually impossible to use a paint roller near a corner, such as between a wall and ceiling. Under these circumstances, the user is unable to use the paint roller in the above-described manner. Once again, the U-shaped shaft orientates the tubular paint applicator perpendicular to the handle. Thus, when the handle is grasped in a normal fashion, the tubular paint applicator will be parallel to the corner formed between a wall and ceiling. Because the paint applicator is cylindrical, it is impossible for the tubular paint applicator to contact the wall at the corner without also undesirably contacting the ceiling. The only available solution is for the user to rotate his or her arm and wrist 90 degrees so that an end of the tubular paint applicator fits into the corner being painted. It should be recognized that this positioning of the wrist, arm and shoulder is very uncomfortable and presents a limited range of movement. 
     An additional concern arises when attempting to paint elevated surfaces. In this scenario, the normal solution is for the user to employ a ladder. Use of a ladder does allow the user to reach elevated surfaces. Unfortunately, however, only a small area can be painted before the user is required to descend and move the ladder. Even if an elongated handle is employed, a distinct problem remains. Namely, because the U-shaped shaft is rigid, it is very difficult for a user to properly orientate the handle when maneuvering the paint roller. In other words, the U-shaped shaft cannot easily be maintained at a large enough angle relative to the wall (or other surface) to provide appropriate leverage to the user. Importantly, this same concern arises in a number of different painting situations. For example, when painting a ceiling, it is often times difficult for the user to provide sufficient force, via the handle, to the tubular paint applicator for adequate paint distribution. Similarly, when painting a high surface with a paint roller having an elongated handle, the user is required to stand extremely close to the wall in question. As a result, because of the minimal angular displacement of the tubular paint applicator and the handle, it is extremely difficult to apply sufficient force to the tubular paint roller. 
     Paint rollers continue to be cost effective painting tools. However, several drawbacks exist with the standard paint roller design. Therefore, a substantial need exists for a paint roller designed to facilitate natural ergonomic movements for painting high surfaces, ceilings and corners. 
     SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION 
     One aspect of the present invention relates to a paint roller apparatus for use with a tubular paint applicator. The apparatus includes a shaft, a tube-receiving frame, a handle, and a connector. The shaft defines a first end and a second end. The tube-receiving frame is rotatably attached to the second end of the shaft. The handle includes a leading section that defines a plurality of shaft-receiving passages and a bore. The passages each extend from a respective opening in the handle, and are sized to slidably receive the first end of the shaft. The bore extends from a side face of the handle in a generally perpendicular fashion relative to an axis of each of the passages. In this regard, the bore intersects each of the passages. Finally, the connector includes a shank sized for placement within the bore. With this in mind, the apparatus is adapted such that upon insertion of the first end of the shaft into one of the passages, the shaft is selectively locked relative to the handle via advancement of the shank within the bore. In one preferred embodiment, three, non-parallel passages are provided. 
     Another aspect of the present invention relates to a method of assembling a paint roller apparatus. The method includes providing a shaft defining a first end and a second end, with a tube-receiving frame being rotatably attached to the second end. A handle is provided that includes a leading section that defines a plurality of shaft-receiving passages and a bore. The shaft-receiving passages each extend from a respective opening in the handle and are sized to slidably receive the first end of the shaft. The bore extends from a side face of the handle and intersects each of the passages. The first end of the shaft is inserted into one of the passages. The shaft is positioned to a desired rotational orientation relative to the handle. Finally, a portion of a connector is advanced within the bore to lock the shaft relative to the handle. 
    
    
     BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS 
     FIG. 1 is a plan view of a paint roller in accordance with the present invention; 
     FIG. 2 is an enlarged cross sectional view of a flexure joint portion of the paint roller of FIG. 1; 
     FIG. 3 is a plan view of an alternative paint roller in accordance with the present invention; 
     FIG. 4A is a perspective view of flexure joint portion of the paint roller of FIG. 3; 
     FIG. 4B is a cross-sectional view of the flexure joint of FIG. 4A; 
     FIG. 5 is a plan view of the paint roller of FIG. 3 in an angularly displaced orientation; 
     FIG. 6 is an exploded, plan view of a paint roller apparatus in accordance with the present invention; 
     FIG. 7 is a side, perspective view of a handle portion of FIG. 6; and 
     FIG. 8 is an enlarged, cross-sectional view of a portion of the paint roller of FIG. 6 upon final assembly. 
    
    
     DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS 
     A preferred embodiment of a paint roller  10  is shown in FIG.  1 . The paint roller  10  includes a handle  12 , a shaft  14 , a flexure joint  16  and a tube receiving frame  18 . The tube receiving frame  18  is shown in FIG. 1 as being generally encompassed by a tubular paint applicator  20 . The handle  12  is selectively secured to an end of the shaft  14  by the flexure joint  16 . Further, the tube receiving frame  18  is rotatably secured to an opposite end of the shaft  14 . 
     The handle  12  preferably includes a grip portion  22  and a neck  24 . In a preferred embodiment, the grip portion  22  is made of a molded plastic and is sized to rest within a user&#39;s hand (not shown). In this regard, the grip portion  22  may include finger articulations for enhancing fit with a user&#39;s hand. The neck  24  extends from a leading end  26  of the grip portion  22  and is preferably made of a rigid material, such as stainless steel. The neck  24  terminates at the flexure joint  16 . While the grip portion  22  and the neck  24  have been described as separate components, the handle  12  may be integrally formed of a single material. In fact, the neck  24  can be eliminated entirely. Further, the grip portion  22  and the neck  24  may be made from other rigid material, such as aluminum, ceramic, etc. 
     The shaft  14  forms an approximate U-shape, and includes a first end  28  and a second end  30 . The first end  28  is secured to a portion of the flexure joint  16 . The second end  30  is rotatably secured to the tube receiving frame  18 . The shaft  14  is preferably a rigid rod, formed from a strong material, such as stainless steel. As shown in FIG. 1, the shaft  14  approximates the U-shape associated with a “standard” paint roller design. It should be understood, however, that other shapes and materials, such as plastic or aluminum, are equally acceptable. 
     The tube receiving frame  18  is of a type commonly known in the art and is rotatably secured to the shaft  14 . In this regard, the tube receiving frame  18  may include a ball bearing system (not shown) to provide rotatable association with the shaft  14 . Further, the tube receiving frame  18  preferably includes axially extending rods (not shown) sized to frictionally maintain the tubular paint applicator  20 . 
     The flexure joint  16  is configured to provide repositionable orientation of the shaft  14  relative to the handle  12 . In one preferred embodiment, as shown in FIG. 2, the flexure joint  16  includes a spherical member  40 , a receiving member  42  and a connector  44 . In a preferred embodiment, the spherical member  40  is attached to the neck  24  of the handle  12 . The receiving member  42 , in turn, is secured to the first end  28  of the shaft  14 . Finally, the connector  44  is releasably secured to the spherical member  40  and the receiving member  42 . 
     The spherical member  40  is preferably an enlarged stainless steel ball bearing secured to the neck  24 . In one preferred embodiment, the spherical member  40  has a diameter of 1 inch, although it should be recognized that other diameters, either greater or smaller, are also available. Further, the spherical member  40  preferably includes an interiorly threaded portion  46  sized to received a similarly threaded portion (not shown) of the neck  24 . It should be understood, however, that other materials and forms of attachment are equally acceptable. For example, the spherical member  40  can be welded or otherwise adhered to the neck  24 . Alternatively, the interiorly threaded portion  46  may simply be a bore sized to be frictionally received and maintained by the neck  24 . Even further, the neck  24  and the spherical member  40  can be integrally formed during manufacture. Regardless of the exact construction, the spherical member  40  provides a circumferential engagement surface  48 . 
     The receiving member  42  preferably includes an exteriorly threaded flange  50 , forming an aperture  52 . In this regard, a leading end of the flange  50  forms an engagement ring  54 . The receiving member  42  is preferably made from a hardened material, such as stainless steel. However, other rigid materials, such as copper, plastic, etc. are acceptable. As should be noted from FIG. 2, a diameter of the aperture  52  formed by the flange  50  is less than a diameter of the spherical member  40 . The receiving member  42  is preferably welded to the shaft  14 . Alternatively, other forms of attachment, such as an adhesive or a frictional fit, are acceptable. 
     The connector  44  is preferably a wing nut including a receiving member engagement surface  56  and a spherical member engagement surface  58 . The receiving member engagement surface  56  is threaded to threadably engage the exterior threads of the flange  50 . In this regard, the receiving member engagement surface  56  has a diameter greater than a diameter of the spherical member  40 . Conversely, the spherical member engagement surface  58  generally forms a ring having an inner diameter less than a diameter of a spherical member  40 . Thus, the receiving member engagement surface  56  can pass over the spherical member  40 . The spherical member engagement surface  58 , however, will engage the spherical member  40 . 
     While the connector  44  has been described as preferably being a wing nut to facilitate grasping by a user, other forms are acceptable. For example, the connector  44  can be a generic nut or a spring-loaded clamp configured to selectively engage either the spherical member  40  or the receiving member  42 . 
     The flexure joint  16  is assembled as follows. The connector  44  is axially disposed over the neck  24 . The spherical member  40  is then secured to the neck  24 . As shown in FIG. 2, then, the connector  44  is now associated with the neck  24  such that it cannot entirely pass over the spherical member  40 . The receiving member  42  is secured to the first end  28  of the shaft  14 . The connector  44  is then positioned over the neck  24  such that the receiving member engagement surface  56  extends beyond the spherical member  40 . The receiving member  42  is threadably secured to the connector  44  via the receiving member engagement surface  56 . 
     More particularly, the connector  44  is rotated relative to the receiving member  42  such that the threaded surfaces engage one another. As the connector  44  further engages the receiving member  42 , the flange  50  is directed toward the spherical member  40 . This movement is continued until the engagement ring  54  of the receiving member  42  contacts the spherical member  40 . As shown in FIG. 2, in this engaged position, a portion of the spherical member  40  extends into the aperture  52  of the receiving member  42 . The connector  44  is then tightened to lock the flexure joint  16 . In this locked positioned, the spherical member engagement surface  58  of the connector  44  is secured against the spherical member  40 . Further, the engagement ring  54  of the receiving member  42  is also secured to the spherical member  40 . As a result, the attached shaft  14  and the handle  12  are likewise locked relative to one another. 
     Position of the shaft  14  relative to the handle  12  can be altered by simply loosening the connector  44 . As the connector  44  is at least partially unthreaded from the receiving member  42 , the engagement ring  54  of the receiving member  42  is released from the spherical member  40 . Likewise, the spherical member engagement surface  58  of the connector  44  is disengaged from the spherical member  40 . In this released position, the shaft  14  can be repositioned relative to the neck  24  (and thus the handle  12 ). Due to the spherical nature of the spherical member  40 , the shaft  14  can be maneuvered in virtually any direction relative to the handle  12 . As the shaft  14  is maneuvered or rotated relative to the neck  24 , the receiving member  42  and the connector  44  move in a similar fashion. Once the shaft  14  is at a second, desired position, the connector  44  is simply tightened relative to the receiving member  42 . Once again, this entails rotating the connector  44  relative to the receiving member  42  until the engagement ring  54  and the spherical member engagement surface  58  lock against the spherical member  40 . 
     Returning to FIG. 1, the above-described flexure joint  16  provides for repositioning of the shaft  14  relative to the handle  12  from a first position (shown with continuous lines) to a second position (shown with dashed lines). Because the flexure joint  16  includes the spherical member  40  (FIG.  2 ), the shaft  14  can be maneuvered to virtually any position along the circumferential engagement surface  48  of the spherical member  40  so long as the connector  44  is able to engage the spherical member  40  as previously described. For example, the shaft  14  can be rotated about a plane parallel to a central axis of the handle  12 , or radially about the circumferential engagement surface  48 . Thus, while FIG. 1 depicts the second position (dashed lines) as being a counterclockwise (or center-left) movement of the shaft  14  relative to the handle, center-right, center-forward or center-rearward movement and angle in between are also available. This preferred attribute afford a user (not shown) the ability to address a wide variety of painting situations. For example, moving the shaft  14 , and thus the attached tubular paint applicator  20 , forward relative to the handle  12 , a slight forward angular displacement is generated. This forward angular displacement is applicable when painting ceilings, floors, elevated surface, and assists in providing necessary leverage to a user. Further, the shaft  14  can be repositioned radially relative to the handle  12  for corner painting. 
     While the flexure joint  16  of the preferred embodiment has been shown as being positioned near the grip portion  22  of the handle  12 , other locations are equally acceptable. For example, the flexure joint  16  can be positioned along the shaft  14  proximate the tube receiving frame  18 . With this configuration, the shaft  14  is essentially defined by two sections; a paint applicator section and a handle section. The handle section of the shaft  14  is essentially an extension of the neck  24 . In other words, the neck  24  and the shaft  14  are integrally formed such that the handle section of the shaft  14  is attached to the handle  12 . The paint applicator section of the shaft  14  is rotatably secured to the tube receiving frame  18 . The flexure joint  16  selectively secures the two sections of the shaft  14  as previously described. In other words, at least a portion of the shaft  14 , and thus the tube receiving frame  18 , is repositionable relative to the handle  12 . 
     While the flexure joint  16  has been preferably described as including the spherical member  40 , the receiving member  42  and the connector  44 , other repositionable attachment means are acceptable. For example, the spherical member  40  may be attached to the shaft  14 , whereas the receiving member  42  is associated with the handle  12 . Even further, an entirely different attachment means can be provided. For example, the attachment means  16  may include a spring actuated lever positioned to provide for a locked, repositionable orientation of the shaft  14  relative to the handle  12 . Even further, a ratchet-type assembly or a pin retention system can be used. Regardless of the specific design, the attachment means  16  is configured to provide a user with the ability to selectively change position of the tube receiving frame  18  (and thus an attached tubular paint applicator  20 ) relative to the handle  12  via movement of at least a portion of the shaft  14 . The attachment means  16  is simply configured to selectively lock the paint roller  10  in a desired position regardless of whether a round, square or any other shaped component is used. Importantly, it is not necessary that the attachment means  16  provide the degrees of freedom offered by the preferred embodiment. In other words, the attachment means  16  need only be configured to allow one degree of freedom for many applications. 
     In another alternative embodiment, the handle  12  includes a receiving means  60  positioned at a trailing end  62  of the handle  12 . The receiving means  60  is configured to receive and engage a portion of an extension device (not shown). The extension device may be an elongated rod or other apparatus used to effectively extend a length of the handle  12  for a user. In one embodiment, the receiving means  60  is an interiorly threaded bore sized to threadably receive an exteriorly threaded end of the extension device. Alternatively, a friction fit or other engagement approach may be used. 
     Another alternative embodiment of a paint roller  100  is shown in FIG.  3 . As with previous embodiments, the paint roller  100  includes a handle  102 , a shaft  104 , a flexure joint  106  and a tube receiving frame  108 . The tube receiving frame  108  is shown in FIG. 3 as being generally encompassed by a tubular paint applicator  110 . The handle  102  is selectively secured to an end of the shaft  104  by the flexure joint  106 . Further, the tube receiving frame  108  is rotatably secured to an opposite end of the shaft  104 . 
     The handle  102  is preferably similar to the handle  12  (FIG. 1) previously described. Thus, in a preferred embodiment, the handle  102  includes a grip portion  112  and a neck  114 , with the neck  114  terminating at the flexure joint  106 . Alternatively, other shapes, configurations and/or constructions known in the art can be employed. 
     The shaft  104  is likewise preferably similar to the shaft  14  (FIG. 1) previously described, preferably forming an approximate U-shape and including a first end  116  and a second end  118 . The first end  116  is preferably secured to a portion of the flexure joint  106 , whereas the second end  118  is preferably secured to the tube receiving frame  108 . Alternatively, other shapes, configurations and/or constructions know in the art can be employed. 
     The tube receiving frame  108  is preferably similar to the tube receiving frame  18  (FIG. 1) previously described. In this regard, the tube receiving frame  108  is preferably rotatably secured to the shaft  104 . 
     The flexure joint  106  is, similar to the flexure joint  16  (FIG. 2) previously described, configured to provide for a repositionable, “locked” orientation of the shaft  104  relative to the handle  102 . The flexure joint  106  includes a spherical member  120 , a receiving member  122  and a connector  124 . In one preferred embodiment, the spherical member  120  is attached to the first end  116  of the shaft  104 , whereas the receiving member  122  is attached to the neck  114  of the handle  102 . Alternatively, location of the spherical member  120  and the receiving member  122  can be reversed. Regardless, the connector  124  is connected to the receiving member  122  to releasably secure the spherical member  120  to the receiving member  122 . 
     The spherical member  120  is preferably similar to the spherical member  40  (FIG. 2) previously described. In one preferred embodiment, the spherical member  120  is a stainless steel ball bearing having a diameter of approximately 0.687 inch, although other materials and diameters are equally acceptable. Further, the spherical member  120  preferably forms a bore  126  for facilitating attachment to the first end  116  of the shaft  104 , such as by a weld. Alternatively, other attachment techniques known in the art, such as threading, adhesives, frictional fit, etc., are equally acceptable. Even further, the spherical member  120  and the shaft  104  (or, in accordance with an alternative embodiment, the spherical member  120  and the neck  114  of the handle  102 ) can be integrally formed. Regardless, the spherical member  120  provides a circumferential engagement surface  128 . 
     The receiving member  122  is shown in greater detail in FIGS. 4A and 4B. In a preferred embodiment, the receiving member  122  is generally Y-shaped, defined by a shoulder  140  and a clamp  142 . The clamp  142  extends in a substantially uniform fashion from the shoulder  140 . 
     The shoulder  140  is preferably configured for attachment to the neck  114  (FIG.  3 ), forming a longitudinal bore  144  and a transverse pin passage  146 . The longitudinal bore  144  is sized to receive the neck  114 , and can be interiorly threaded to promote a more complete engagement with the neck  114 . The transverse pin passage  146  extends through the longitudinal bore  144  and is sized to receive and frictionally maintain a roll pin (not shown). The roll pin effectively affixes the neck  114  to the shoulder  140 . Alternatively, the shoulder  140  can be configured for other forms of attachment to the neck  114  (or, in an alternative embodiment, to the shaft  104  (FIG.  3 )), such as by a weld, adhesive, etc. With these alternative configurations, one or more of the longitudinal bore  144  and the transverse pin passage  146  can be eliminated. 
     The clamp  142  includes opposing flanges or arms  148   a ,  148   b  separated by a longitudinal slot  150 . In this regard, the opposing arms  148   a ,  148   b  preferably extend in a substantially identical fashion from the shoulder  140 . Each of the opposing arms  148   a ,  148   b  forms an outer surface  152 , an inner surface  154  (defined by the slot  150 ), a ball receiving groove  156  and a connector receiving passage  158 . The ball receiving grooves  156  are aligned with one another. Likewise, the connector receiving passages  158  are also aligned with one another, with the ball receiving grooves  156  being spaced distally from the connector receiving passages  158  (relative to the orientations of FIGS. 3,  4 A and  4 B). 
     The opposing arms  148   a ,  148   b  are preferably formed such that the outer surfaces  152 , respectively, are substantially flat, having a width in the range of 0.5-1.5 inches; more preferably in the range of 0.75-1.25 inches; most preferably approximately 1 inch. The inner surfaces  154 , respectively, are substantially flat, forming a concave channel  160  in one preferred embodiment. The concave channels  160  are preferably identical, each extending from a leading end  162  of the clamp  142  to at least the respective ball receiving groove  156 . The concave channels  160  are sized in accordance with a diameter of the spherical member  120  (FIG. 3) so as to facilitate initial assembly of the spherical member  120  to the receiving member  122 , as described in greater detail below. Thus, in one preferred embodiment, a spacing of the inner surfaces  154  of the opposing arms  148   a ,  148   b  (or height of the slot  150 ) is smaller than a diameter of the spherical member  120 , except in the region of the concave channels  160  whereby the spacing approximates, or is only slightly smaller than, a diameter of the spherical member  120 . As a result, the spherical member  120  can relatively easily slide along the concave channels  160  into engagement with the ball receiving grooves  156 . Alternatively, with other assembly techniques, the concave channels  160  need not be formed. 
     As depicted in FIGS. 4A and 4B, the slot  150  is elongated, extending proximally from the leading end  162  of the clamp  142  and preferably defining a first region  164  and a second region  166 . A height of the first region  164  is preferably greater than a height of the second region  166 . That is to say, the slot  150  is preferably formed such that a spacing between the opposing arms  148   a ,  148   b  is greater along the first region  164  than the second region  166 . With this configuration, the first region  164  preferably extends proximally beyond at least the connector receiving passages  158 , respectively. The height of the first region  164  (or spacing between the opposing arms  148   a ,  148   b ) corresponds with a diameter of the spherical member  120  (FIG. 3) as well as a thickness of the shaft  104  (FIG.  3 ). More particularly, the height of the first region  164  is preferably less than a diameter of the spherical member  120  such that the spherical member  120  is retainable between the opposing arms  148   a ,  148   b , in a labeled position as described below. Further, to facilitate a wide range of motion of the shaft  104  relative to the handle  102  (FIG.  3 ), the height of the first region  164  (especially in a locked position of the clamp  142 ) is preferably greater than a thickness of the shaft  104 . In other words, as described in greater detail below, the first region  164  is sized to allow passage of the shaft  104  within the first region  164 . With these preferred constraints in mind, in one preferred embodiment where the spherical member  120  has a diameter of approximately 0.687 inch and the shaft  104  has a thickness or diameter of approximately 0.375 inch, the height of the first region  164  is approximately 0.4 inch. Alternatively, other heights or spacings are equally acceptable. 
     As described below, incorporation of the slot  150  allows the opposing arms  148   a ,  148   b  to slightly deflect toward or away from one another to engage or release the spherical member  120  (FIG.  3 ). By forming the slot  150  to be elongated (in a longitudinal direction), the opposing arms  148   a ,  148   b  are more easily deflectable at a trailing end  168  of the slot  150 . Thus, by forming the slot  150  to further include the second region  166 , an overall length of the slot  150  is increased. However, in a preferred embodiment, the second region  166  has a height (or spacing between the opposing arms  148   a ,  148   b ) that is less than the first region  164 , with the second region  166  terminating at the trailing end  168 . With this preferred configuration, the desired, relatively easy deflection characteristic is achieved, with the opposing arms  148   a ,  148   b  pivoting relative to one another at the trailing end  168 . Further, an overall strength of the clamp  142  is enhanced. That is to say, the opposing arms  148   a ,  148   b  are preferably thicker in the area of the second region  166 , and in particular the trailing end  168 , such that the clamp  142  is less likely to fail over time. Alternatively, however, the slot  150  can be formed to have a relatively uniform height. 
     The ball receiving grooves  156  are formed transverse to the slot  150 , and are configured to receive and maintain the spherical member  120  (FIG.  3 ). In one preferred embodiment, for ease of manufacture, the ball receiving grooves  156  are bores extending through the respective opposing arm  148   a ,  148   b . Alternatively, the ball receiving grooves  156  need not extend through the respective arm  148   a ,  148   b , instead being formed at the respective inner surface  154 . Regardless, the ball receiving grooves  156  are sized to be slightly smaller than a diameter of the spherical member  120  such that the spherical member  120  is retainable within each of the ball receiving grooves  156 . For example, in accordance with a preferred embodiment whereby the spherical member has a diameter of approximately 0.687 inch, each of the ball receiving grooves preferably defines a diameter of approximately 0.5 inch. Alternatively, other dimensions are equally acceptable. Regardless, the ball receiving grooves  156  are configured to engage the spherical member  120  in a locked position, as well as to generally retain while allowing rotation of the spherical member  120  in virtually any direction in an unlocked position. 
     The connector receiving passages  158  are spaced from the ball receiving grooves  156 , and are configure to selectively retain the connector  124  (FIG.  3 ). For example, in one preferred embodiment, the connector receiving passage  158  associated with the arm  148   a  provides clearance about a portion of the connector, whereas the connector receiving passage  158  associated with the arm  148   b  is interiorly threaded for threadably engaging a corresponding portion of the connector  124 . Alternatively, other attachment configuration are equally acceptable. Regardless, the connector receiving passages  158  are preferably spaced (longitudinally) from the ball receiving grooves a sufficient distance to allow clearance from the spherical member  120  (FIG. 3) upon final assembly, but close enough to provide an appropriate clamping force. As described below, the connector  124  will force the opposing arms  148   a ,  148   b  toward one another to secure the spherical member  120  in a locked position. By positioning the connector receiving passages  158  in relative close proximity to the ball receiving grooves  156 , the clamping force provided by the connector  124  will relatively rigidly maintain the spherical member  120  within the clamp  142  in a locked position. For example, in one preferred embodiment, a center of the connector receiving passages  158  is spaced from a center of the ball receiving grooves  156  by approximately 0.625 inch, although other dimensions are equally acceptable. 
     In a preferred embodiment, the shoulder  140  and the clamp  142  are integrally formed from a high strength material, preferably T6 aluminum. Alternatively, other high strength materials, such as metals or metal alloys, plastic, ceramic, etc., are also acceptable. 
     Returning to FIG. 3, the connector  124  is preferably a bolt, including a shank  170  and a head  172 . The shank  170  is sized to preferably configure through one of the connector receiving passage  158  (FIG. 4B) and threadably engage the other connector receiving passage  158  (FIG. 4B) as previously described. Conversely, the head  172  has a width greater than the connector receiving passages  158  such that head  172  will abut the outer surface  152  of the arm  148   a . Alternatively, the connector  124  can assume other configurations known in the art. 
     With additional reference to FIGS. 4A and 4B, the flexure joint  106  is assembled by disconnecting the connector  124 . The spherical member  120  is placed into engagement with the receiving member  122 . More particularly, the spherical member  120  is aligned with the clamp  142  at the leading end  162 , and then slid along the concave channels  160  into contact with the ball receiving grooves  156 . Notably, the opposing arms  148   a ,  148   b  will deflect slightly at the trailing end  168  of the slot  150  to allow passage of the spherical member  120 . The circumferential surface  128  of the spherical member  120  is thereby retained within the ball receiving groove  156  in this unlocked position such that the spherical member  120  will not easily disengage the ball receiving grooves (due to a light clamping force of the opposing arms  148   a ,  158   b , but can easily rotate within the ball receiving grooves  156 . 
     Once the spherical member  120  is inserted within the ball receiving grooves  156 , the connector  124  is tightened relative to the clamp  142 , forcing the opposing arms  148   a ,  148   b  toward one another. This tightening action effectively “locks” the spherical member between the opposing arms  148   a ,  148   b  at the ball receiving grooves  156  in an engaged or locked position. As a result, the shaft  104  and the handle  102  are likewise locked to one another. 
     Orientation and positioning of the shaft  104  relative to the handle  102  can be altered by simply loosening the connector  124 . As the connector  124  is at least partially loosened, the opposing arms  148   a ,  148   b  disengage or partially release the spherical member  120 . Preferably, however, the spherical member  120  remains within the ball receiving grooves  156  so that a general assembly of the flexure joint  106  remains intact. Once the clamping force imparted by the opposing arms  148   a ,  148   b  is decreased, the shaft  104  can be rotated to any position about a central axis A defined by the first end  116  of the shaft  104 /spherical member  120 . In addition, and with reference to FIG. 5, the shaft  104  can be rotated or angularly displaced in a sideways fashion about an axis (into the sheet of FIG. 5) perpendicular to the central axis A. In other words, with reference to the orientation of FIG. 5, the shaft  104  can be rotated clockwise or counterclockwise, centered at the spherical member  120 , otherwise maintained generally within the ball receiving grooves  156 . To this end, the receiving member  122  does not overly inhibit angular displacement or rotation of the shaft  104 . More particularly, by forming the slot  150  (FIG. 3) to have a height (or spacing between the opposing arms  148   a ,  148   b ) greater than a width or thickness of the shaft  104 , the shaft  104  can pass within the receiving member  122  as shown in FIG.  5 . Effectively, then, with reference to the orientation of FIG. 5, the shaft  104  can be angularly displaced clockwise or counterclockwise until the shaft contacts a lower section of the receiving member  122 . With this configuration, the flexure joint  106  permits a wide range of angular displacement of the shaft  104  relative to the handle  102 . For example, with reference to the “upright” orientation of FIG. 3, the flexure joint  106  allows the shaft  104  to be angularly displaced relative to the handle  102  by at least 30 degrees, more preferably by at least 60 degrees, even more preferably by at least 90 degrees (as shown in FIG.  5 ), and most preferably by at least 135 degrees. Notably, the shaft  104  can be further rotated along the central axis C at any clockwise or counterclockwise angular position of the shaft  104 . Thus, the flexure joint  106  effectively provides two degrees of freedom of movement. 
     Once the shaft  104  (and thus the tubular paint applicator  110 ) is located in a desired angular and rotational position relative to the handle  102 , the connector  124  is tightened so as to lock the spherical member  120  within the clamp  142 . The paint roller  100  is then available for use. Subsequently, depending upon the particular painting application, the connector  124  can be loosened, and the shaft  104  (and thus the tubular paint applicator  110 ) maneuvered to a third angular and rotational position relative to the handle. 
     An alternative preferred embodiment paint roller apparatus  200  is shown in FIG.  6 . The paint roller  200  includes a shaft  202 , a handle  204 , a connector  206 , and a frame  208 . Details on the various components are provided below. In general terms, however, the frame  208  is rotatably secured to the shaft  202  and is adapted to receive a tubular paint applicator (similar to the tubular paint applicator  20  of FIG.  1 ). An opposite end of the shaft  202  is connectable to the handle  204 , with the connector  206  selectively locking the shaft  202  relative to the handle  204  in a desired angular orientation and rotational position. 
     As with previous embodiments, the shaft  202  forms an approximate U-shape, and includes a first end  220  and a second end  222 . The frame  208  is rotatably secured to the second end  222 . The first end  220 , however, is adapted to be slidably received within a passage provided by the handle  204 , as described in greater detail before. Further, the first end  220  provides a plurality of flattened surfaces  224  (referenced generally in FIG. 6) that facilitates locked engagement with the connector  206 . That is to say, the first end  220  is preferably not rounded (or circular in cross-section), with the flattened surfaces  224  providing sufficient surface area for engaging contact with a portion of the connector  206 , as described below. 
     In one preferred embodiment, the first end  220  defines a square in transverse cross-section, such that four of the flattened surfaces  224  are provided, three of which ( 224   a - 224   c ) are identified in FIG.  6 . Alternatively, the first end  220  can be configured to provide more or less of the flattened surfaces  224 , such as by being triangular, octagonal, etc., in transverse cross-section. Regardless, each of the flattened surfaces  224  are identical, having a preferred length (relative to a tip  226  of the first end  220 ) in the range of 0.5-1 inch, more preferably 0.75 inch. In a most preferred embodiment, the first end  220  is a squared body having a length and width of 0.25 inch. In conjunction with the handle  204  and the connector  206  described below, it has been surprisingly found that a 0.25 inch squared body having a length of 0.75 inch provides adequate surface area for engagement by the connector  206  to achieve a desired locked orientation. 
     The handle  204  includes a trailing section  230 , an intermediate section  232 , and a leading section  234 . Similar to previous embodiments, the trailing section  230  is preferably configured to receive and engage a portion of an extension device (not shown), such as by an interiorly threaded bore (not shown). Similarly, the intermediate section  232  preferably includes finger articulations  236  adapted for enhancing a fit within a user&#39;s hand. 
     The leading section  234  is adapted to selectively receive and maintain the first end  220  of the shaft  202  via a plurality of shaft-receiving passages  238  (referenced generally in FIG. 6) and a bore  240 . Each of the passages  238  are sized to slidably receive the first end  220  of the shaft  202 . The bore  240  is sized to receive a portion of the connector  206  and intersects each of the passages  238 . 
     Each of the passages  238  preferably extend in a non-parallel fashion relative to each other. The varying angular orientation of each of the passages  238  provide a corresponding, varying angular orientation of the shaft  202  relative to the handle  204  upon final assembly. For example, in one preferred embodiment, three of the passages  238  are provided, with a first passage  238   a  extending parallel with a central axis H of the handle  204 . A second one of the passages  238   b  extends in an angular fashion relative to the handle axis H, preferably defining an angle of approximately 60° (±5°) relative to the handle axis H. A third one of the passages  238   c  also extends at an angular fashion relative to the handle axis H, preferably at a differing angle. More particular, in one preferred embodiment, the third passage  238   c  defines an angle of approximately 30° (±5°) relative to the handle axis H. Other angular orientations of the passages  238   a - 238   c  can also be employed. 
     In conjunction with the above-described positioning of the passages  238  relative to the handle axis H, the leading section  234  is further preferably configured to facilitate easy identification of the resultant shaft  202 /handle  204  positioning upon final assembly via a top surface  242  thereof. With the preferred embodiment of three of the passages  238   a - 238   c , the top surface  232  is preferably configured to define first, second, and third top surface portions  244   a ,  244   b ,  244   c , respectively. The first passage  238   a  extends from an opening  246   a  in the first top surface portion  244   a . Similarly, the second passage  238   b  extends from an opening  246   b  in the second top surface portion  244   b . Finally, the third passage  238   c  extends from an opening  246   c  in the third top surface portion  244   c . The top surface portions  244   a  - 244   c  are preferably oriented such that the corresponding passage  238   a  - 238   c  extends in a generally perpendicular fashion relative to a plane defined by the respective top surface portion  244   a  - 244   c . With this in mind, and in one preferred embodiment, then, the second top surface portion  244   b  extends from the first top surface portion  244   a  at an angle that is different from an extension of the third top surface portion  244   c  relative to the first top surface portion  244   a . For example, in one preferred embodiment, the first and second top surface portions  244   a ,  244   b  define an angle of approximately 240° (±5°), whereas the first and third top surface portions  244   a ,  244   c  combine to define an angle of approximately 210° (±5°). Again, other angular extensions are acceptable. Regardless, a user can quickly discern by simply viewing a relationship of the second or third top surface portions  244   b ,  244   c  relative to the first top surface portion  244   a  as to what the final angular orientation of the shaft  202  relative to the handle  204  will be upon final assembly. The angular orientation of the second top surface portion  244   b  relative to the first top surface portion  244   a  is illustrated in greater detail in FIG.  7 . 
     In one preferred embodiment, each of the passages  238  are co-planar. Alternatively, one or more of the passages  238  can be offset relative to others of the passages  238 . 
     As previously described, the bore  240  is positioned and extends in a manner so as to intersect with each of the shaft-receiving passages  238 . As shown in FIG. 7, and in one preferred embodiment, the bore  240  extends from an opening  250  formed in a side face  252  of the leading section  234 . By intersecting each of the passages  238 , the bore  240  facilitates locking of the shaft  202  relative to the handle  204 , with the first end  220  placed in one of the passages  238  via the connector  206 . In this regard, the bore  240  preferably extends in a substantially perpendicular fashion (i.e., ±5°) relative to an axis of each of the passages  238 . 
     The bore  240  is preferably centered relative to opposing side faces  252   a ,  252   b  of the leading section  234  as shown in FIG.  6 . Further, the bore  240  is preferably positioned a sufficient distance below the first top surface portion  244   a  to ensure that a sufficient length of the first end  220  of the shaft  202  is inserted within the first passage  238   a  upon final assembly. By way of reference, each of the passages preferably has a depth of approximately 1 inch. This preferred depth, in conjunction with a preferred location of the bore  240  has surprisingly been found to provide sufficient surface area engagement between the handle  204  and the shaft  202  in the locked state as a relatively lengthy portion of the shaft  202  is supported within the handle  204 . In one preferred embodiment, the bore  240  is positioned approximately 0.5625 inch below the first top surface portion  244   a.    
     The bore  240  is preferably interiorly threaded to facilitate coupling with the connector  206 . In this regard, the handle  204  can be manufactured to define the internal threads. Alternatively, a threaded metal insert  260  can be press fitted within the bore  240  as shown in FIG.  8 . Regardless, the bore  240  and/or the insert  260  has a sufficient length to ensure adequate threaded interaction with the connector  206 . Thus, in one preferred embodiment, the bore  240  has a length of approximately 0.3125 inch, although other dimensions are acceptable. 
     Returning to FIG. 6, the connector  206  includes a shank  270  terminating in a tip  271 . In conjunction with the preferred threading of the bore  240  and/or the threaded insert  260 , the shank  270  preferably forms exterior threads sized to threadably engage the bore  240  or the threaded insert  260 . The tip  271  is preferably flat, and defines an engagement end of the connector  206 . In one preferred embodiment, the connector  206  is a wing nut that defines finger extensions  272 . Alternatively, other connectors known in the art are equally acceptable. 
     During use, the first end  220  of the shaft  202  is inserted into a selected one of the passages  238 . In this regard, a desired rotational orientation of the shaft  202  relative to the handle  204  can be determined prior to insertion of the first end  220 . Alternatively, the passages  238  can be configured to allow rotation of the first end  220  about an axis thereof following insertion (e.g., the passages  238  are circular in cross-section). Conversely, the passages  238  can be configured in accordance with a shape of the first end  220  such that a limited number of rotational positions are available when initially inserting the first end  220  (e.g., the first end  220  and the passages  238  are square in transverse cross-section). 
     Regardless, the first end  220  is fully inserted within the selected passage  238 . The connector  206  is then used to lock the shaft  202  relative to the handle  204 . In particular, and in one preferred embodiment, the connector  206  is maneuvered relative to the handle  204  such that the shank  270 , and in particular the tip or engagement end  271  is advanced within the bore  240 . For example, where the shank  270  is threadably secured within the bore  240 , the connector  206  is rotated in an appropriate direction to effectuate advancement within the bore  240 . Movement of the connector  206  continues until the engagement end  271  contacts the first end  220  of the shaft  202  (otherwise inserted within the desired passage  238 ). In this regard, the preferred flattened surfaces  224  formed by the first end  220  provide a relatively large surface area for enhanced contact with the preferably flat tip  271  of the connector  206 . In one of the flattened surfaces is not fully aligned with the tip  271 , advancement of the shank  270  causes the first end  220  to rotate slightly within the passage  238  until a flattened surface  224  is aligned with the tip  271 . The connector  206  is then tightened, thereby locking the shaft  202  relative to the handle  204 . 
     As should be evident from the above, the paint roller  200  provides for a number of different shaft  202 /handle  204  angular orientations and rotational positions. With the one preferred embodiment in which three of the shaft-receiving passage  238   a - 238   c  are provided and the first end  220  of the shaft  202  is square in transverse cross-section, the paint roller  200  provides for twelve possible angular/rotational positions of the shaft  202  relative to the handle  204 . By having the bore  240  intersect each of the passages  238 , the user can quickly assemble the paint roller  200  to any of the available angular orientations/rotational positions. 
     The paint roller of the present invention provides a marked improvement over the standard paint roller design. By providing a user with the ability to easily change orientation of an attached tubular paint applicator relative to the handle, a wide variety of new applications for the paint roller are now available. For example, a simple rotation of the shaft (and thus the attached paint applicator) relative to the handle facilitates painting a corner. Additionally, selecting a slight forward angle between the tubular paint applicator and the handle allows for expedient painting of elevated surfaces, including ceilings. Finally, the ability to create a forward angle between the tubular paint applicator on the handle results in a more ergonomically correct handling of the paint roller by a user, thus minimizing stress on the user&#39;s wrist, arm and shoulder. 
     Although the present invention has been described with reference to preferred embodiments, workers skilled in the art that changes may be made in form and detail without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention. For example, the paint roller of the present invention has been described as relating to a standard size. It should be recognized, however, that the present invention can be utilized with any sized paint roller. In this regard, the tube receiving frame is sized according to a length and inner diameter of the tubular paint applicator. In this same respect, because the paint roller allows for a relatively full range of movement of the shaft relative to the handle, it may not be necessary to incorporate the standard U-shaped shaft design. In other words, any of a number of different shapes and configurations are available.