Abstract:
One embodiment of the present invention is directed to a clamping device with an attached arm in which the act of opening the clamp makes the arm flexible and the act of closing the clamp makes the arm rigid. By operating in this manner, the present invention may allow a worker to position the arm (while flexible) in any number of different and easily attainable positions while also allowing the worker to secure a workpiece and immobilize the arm in a single step. In another embodiment of the present invention the arm can be made flexible independently of opening the clamp.

Description:
FIELD OF THE INVENTION 
   One embodiment of the present invention is directed to a clamping device with an attached arm in which the act of opening the clamp makes the arm flexible and the act of closing the clamp makes the arm rigid. By operating in this manner, the present invention may allow a worker to position the arm (while flexible) in any number of different and easily attainable positions while also allowing the worker to secure a workpiece and immobilize the arm in a single step. 
   In another embodiment of the present invention the arm can be made flexible independently of opening the clamp. 
   The uses of such a device are numerous, including (but not limited to) many mechanical work projects such as carpentry, plumbing, auto repair, electronics assembly and surgery. 
   For the purposes of the present application the term cable is intended to refer to any type of wire, rope, cord, string, band, strap, chain or the like. 
   Further, for the purposes of the present application the term “flexible” is intended to refer to being moveable or bendable without an undue application of force given the context (e.g., size, material, use) of the device being called flexible. 
   Further still, for the purposes of the present application the term “inflexible” (or “rigid”) is intended to refer to being immoveable or unbendable without an undue application of force given the context (e.g., size, material, use) of the device being called inflexible (or rigid). 
   BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION 
   Clamping devices are well known in the mechanical arts, being useful for work projects such as carpentry, plumbing, electronics, auto repair, and surgery. Many such clamping devices are attached to flexible arms, as described in, for example, U.S. Pat. Nos. 2,510,198, 2,887,974, and 3,858,578. However, none of these clamping devices enables a user to clamp an object and make rigid the flexible arm with one motion. In contrast, each requires that the flexible arm be positioned and then held in place to clamp a workpiece while a separate mechanism is used to render the arm rigid. 
   Each of the prior art clamping devices has the disadvantage that a user must in separate motions: (a) clamp a workpiece; and (b) position and render rigid the arm of the clamp. These separate motions make it difficult to properly position and clamp a workpiece. In these situations, many adjustments are frequently necessary before a workpiece is properly positioned and clamped. Thus, there is a need for a clamp with an attached flexible arm wherein the arm can be made rigid in the same movement that closes the clamp. 

   
     BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS 
       FIG. 1  is a perspective view of a coil spring clamp embodiment of the present invention; 
       FIG. 2   a  is a detailed side view of the spring mechanism of the clamp depicted in  FIG. 1 ; 
       FIG. 2   b  is a perspective view of the mechanism of  FIG. 2   a  with the spring removed; 
       FIG. 2   c  is a perspective view of the mechanism of  FIG. 2   a  depicting the two rings in an engaged position compressing the spring; 
       FIG. 2   d  is a perspective view of a sliding ring with an anchor pin; 
       FIG. 3  is a perspective view of a spring clamp embodiment of the present invention; 
       FIG. 4   a  is a perspective view of a bow spring clamp embodiment of the present invention; 
       FIG. 4   b  is a side view of the clamp of  FIG. 4   a;    
       FIG. 4   c  is a side view of the clamp of  FIG. 4   a;    
       FIG. 5  is a side view of a bow spring clamp embodiment of the present invention; 
       FIG. 6   a  is a side view of a ratchet type clamp embodiment of the present invention; 
       FIG. 6   b  is a side view of the ratchet type clamp of  FIG. 6   a;    
       FIG. 7  is a perspective view of a central anchoring point according to an embodiment of the present invention; 
       FIG. 8   a  depicts another perspective view of a central anchoring point according to an embodiment of the present invention (this view shows a locked position); 
       FIG. 8   b  depicts the central anchoring point embodiment of  FIG. 8   a  (in an unlocked position); 
       FIG. 8   c  depicts a dual central anchoring point according to an embodiment of the present invention; 
       FIG. 9  is a side view of an embodiment of the present invention in which two spring clamps are connected to a common central anchoring point; 
       FIG. 10  is a side view of a coil spring clamp embodiment of the present invention; 
       FIG. 11  is a perspective view of a coil spring clamp embodiment of the present invention; 
       FIG. 12  is a perspective view of a coil spring clamp embodiment of the present invention; 
       FIG. 13   a  is a side view of a bow spring clamp embodiment of the present invention; 
       FIG. 13   b  is a side view of the bow spring clamp embodiment of  FIG. 13   a;    
       FIG. 14   a  is a perspective view of a bow spring clamp embodiment of the present invention; 
       FIG. 14   b  is a side view of the bow spring clamp embodiment of  FIG. 14   a;    
       FIG. 14   c  is a side view of the bow spring clamp embodiment of  FIG. 14   a;    
       FIG. 15  is a side view of an embodiment of a bow spring clamp of the invention; 
       FIG. 16A  is a side view (in cross-section) of another embodiment of the present invention; 
       FIG. 16B  is a side view (in partial cross-section) of the embodiment of  FIG. 16A ; 
       FIG. 16C  is a perspective view of the embodiment of  FIG. 16A ; 
       FIG. 16D  is a perspective view (in partial cross-section) of the embodiment of  FIG. 16A ; 
       FIG. 16E  is a perspective view (in cross-section) of the embodiment of  FIG. 16A ; 
       FIG. 16F  is a side view (in cross-section) of the embodiment of  FIG. 16A ; 
       FIG. 16G  is a side view (in cross-section) of the embodiment of  FIG. 16A ; 
       FIGS. 17A and 17B  are side views (in cross-section) of other embodiments of the present invention; 
       FIG. 18  is a side view (in cross-section) of another embodiment of the present invention; 
       FIG. 19  is a side view (in cross-section) of another embodiment of the present invention; 
       FIG. 20A  is a perspective view of another embodiment of the present invention; 
       FIG. 20B  is a side view (in cross-section) of the embodiment of  FIG. 20A ; 
       FIGS. 21A–21D  show additional embodiments of the present invention ( FIG. 21A  shows a perspective view;  FIGS. 21B and 21C  show side views (in cross-section); and  FIG. 21D  shows a perspective view); and 
       FIG. 22  shows another embodiment of the present invention. 
   

   Among those benefits and improvements that have been disclosed, other objects and advantages of this invention will become apparent from the following description taken in conjunction with the accompanying figures. The figures constitute a part of this specification and include illustrative embodiments of the present invention and illustrate various objects and features thereof. 
   DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION 
   Detailed embodiments of the present invention are disclosed herein; however, it is to be understood that the disclosed embodiments are merely illustrative of the invention that may be embodied in various forms. In addition, each of the examples given in connection with the various embodiments of the invention are intended to be illustrative, and not restrictive. Further, any figures are not necessarily to scale, some features may be exaggerated to show details of particular components. Therefore, specific structural and functional details disclosed herein are not to be interpreted as limiting, but merely as a representative basis for teaching one skilled in the art to variously employ the present invention. 
   In one embodiment an apparatus for clamping an object includes a clamp with a first gripping element and a second gripping element that are connected by a pivot rod. The clamp of this embodiment includes a biasing element to maintain the clamp in a closed position in the absence of applied pressure. The clamp also includes a release mechanism and an arm with a cable encased by a plurality of segments (e.g., tubular, cone shaped segments). The cable is attached to the release mechanism. The release mechanism is in turn attached to the clamp and includes one or more biasing elements (e.g., either coil spring(s) and/or bow spring(s)) for: (a) maintaining tension in the cable when the clamp is in a closed position; and (b) for decreasing (or releasing) tension in the cable when the clamp is opened. 
   In another embodiment a spring clamp connected to a segmented arm that can be made rigid and immobile by releasing pressure on the clamp is provided. In one example (which example is intended to be illustrative and not restrictive), application of hand pressure to the clamp makes the clamp open and the arm flexible, thereby allowing the clamp to be easily repositioned. The clamping device of this embodiment may include a remote release (e.g., at a central anchoring point) that enables a user to render the arm flexible without opening the clamp and releasing the workpiece. 
   In another embodiment the device includes two clamps and two arms, each meeting, for example, at a central anchoring point (which central anchoring point may also have an independent mechanism for making one or more of the arms flexible). In one example (which example is intended to be illustrative and not restrictive), one clamp could be affixed to a stationary object and the other clamp could be used to hold a workpiece and move the workpiece into any of an essentially infinite number of desirable positions before making the arm(s) rigid. Once in position, the user may easily return one or both of the arms to their rigid state, holding the workpiece in a steady, convenient location. 
   In other embodiments the device could include any number of flexible arms (which may be connected together, for example, by a common central anchoring point) to create a spiderlike device useful for holding multiple workpieces or the same workpiece in multiple locations. Further, the flexible arm may be connected to any of a variety of clamping devices (e.g., to maintain the entire assembly in place). Further still, a portable stand could be connected to one end of the flexible arm (or, for example, to a central anchoring point in the case of multiple flexible arms) to allow the device to be freestanding. 
   In another embodiment an apparatus for clamping an object is provided, comprising: at least one clamp with a first gripping element and a second gripping element, which first gripping element and second gripping element are connected by a pivot rod; a biasing element to maintain the clamp in closed position in the absence of applied pressure; and a release mechanism comprising means for maintaining tension in a cable attached to the release mechanism when the clamp is in a closed position, and for releasing tension in the cable when the clamp is opened. 
   In one example the release mechanism may be attached to the second gripping element of the clamp and may further comprise: a fixed anchor point proximal to the pivot rod; a fixed anchor ring with an opening; a hollow grooved tube extending from the fixed anchor ring to the fixed anchor point, the hollow grooved tube comprising a groove; a first sliding ring to which the cable is attached, the first sliding ring encircling the hollow grooved tube, disposed so that it can slide on the hollow grooved tube; a coil spring connecting the first sliding ring to the fixed anchor ring; a second sliding ring encircling the hollow grooved tube, disposed so that it can slide on the hollow grooved tube between the first sliding ring and the fixed anchor point; and a lever arm connecting the second sliding ring to the first gripping element; wherein, in the absence of pressure, the coil spring serves to maintain tension on the cable so as to render the arm rigid, and wherein application of pressure to the clamp gripping elements causes the lever arm to move the second sliding ring into contact with the first sliding ring so as to compress the spring and relieve tension on the cable, causing the arm to become flexible. 
   In another example the first sliding ring may further comprise an anchor pin disposed on the inside of the first sliding ring that extends through the groove of the hollow grooved tube and to which the cable is attached. 
   In another example the release mechanism may be positioned between the first and second gripping elements and may further comprise: a hollow grooved tube extending from the pivot rod to the arm, and terminating with a raised anchor ring, the hollow grooved tube comprising a groove; a first sliding ring to which the cable attaches, the first sliding ring encircling the hollow grooved tube, disposed so that it can slide on the hollow grooved tube; a coil spring connecting the sliding ring to the raised anchor ring; a second sliding ring encircling the hollow grooved tube, disposed so that it can slide on the hollow grooved tube between the first sliding ring and the pivot rod; a first lever arm connecting the second sliding ring to the first gripping element; and a second lever arm connecting the second sliding ring to the second gripping element; wherein, in the absence of pressure, the coil spring serves to maintain tension on the cable so as to render the arm rigid, and wherein application of pressure to the clamp gripping elements causes the first and second lever arms to move the second sliding ring into contact with the first sliding ring so as to compress the spring and relieve tension on the cable, causing the arm to become flexible. 
   In another example the sliding ring may further comprise an anchor pin disposed on the inside of the sliding ring that extends through the groove of the hollow, grooved tube and to which the cable is attached. 
   In another example the release mechanism may be positioned between the first and second gripping elements and may further comprise: a hollow grooved tube extending from the pivot rod to the arm, and terminating with a raised anchor ring, the hollow grooved tube comprising a groove; a first sliding ring to which the cable attaches, the first sliding ring encircling the hollow grooved tube, disposed so that it can slide on the hollow grooved tube; a coil spring connecting the sliding ring to the raised anchor ring; a second sliding ring encircling the hollow grooved tube, disposed so that it can slide on the hollow grooved tube between the first sliding ring and the pivot rod; and a horseshoe lever arm connecting the second sliding ring to one of said first or second gripping elements; wherein, in the absence of pressure, the coil spring serves to maintain tension on the cable so as to render the arm rigid, and wherein application of pressure to the clamp gripping elements causes the horseshoe lever arm to move the second sliding ring into contact with the first sliding ring so as to compress the spring and relieve tension on the cable, causing the arm to become flexible. 
   In another example the sliding ring may further comprise an anchor pin disposed on the inside of the sliding ring that extends through the groove of the hollow, grooved tube and to which the cable is attached. 
   In another example the second gripping element may include a raised knob at an end opposite from the pivot rod, the raised knob including a bore through which the cable can pass, and wherein the release mechanism may be positioned on the first and second gripping elements and may further comprise: a first bow spring with two ends, the bow spring being fixed at both ends to the first gripping element; a second bow spring attached to the second gripping element so as to face the first bow spring fixed to the first gripping element, the second bow spring being fixed at a first end proximal to the pivot rod; and a third bow spring attached to the second gripping element between the second bow spring and the raised knob, wherein a first end of the third bow spring is fixed proximal to the raised knob, and wherein a second end of the third bow spring is attached to the second end of second bow spring by a sliding connection, the third bow spring including a groove through which the cable can pass, and an anchor point proximal to its second end to which the cable can attach; wherein, in the absence of pressure, the third bow spring maintains tension on the cable so as to render the arm rigid, and wherein application of pressure to the clamp gripping elements causes the first bow spring to depress the second bow spring so as to move the sliding connection towards the raised knob and to compress the third bow spring so as relieve tension on the cable, causing the arm to become flexible. 
   In another example the second gripping element may further comprise a recessed track in which the sliding connection can move. 
   In another example the release mechanism may comprise: a first bow spring fixed to the first gripping element; a second bow spring fixed to the second gripping element; a hollow grooved tube connecting the pivot rod to the arm, and terminating with a raised anchor ring; a sliding ring to which the cable attaches, the sliding ring encircling the hollow, grooved tube, disposed so that it can slide on the hollow grooved tube; a coil spring connecting the sliding ring to the raised anchor ring; a first flexible bow spring attached to the hollow grooved tube so as to face the first bow spring, wherein a first end of the first flexible bow spring is fixed proximal to said pivot rod, and wherein a second end of the first flexible bow spring is attached to the sliding ring; and a second flexible bow spring attached to the hollow grooved tube so as to face the second bow spring, wherein a first end of the second flexible bow spring is fixed proximal to the pivot rod, and wherein a second end of the second flexible bow spring is attached to the sliding ring; wherein, in the absence of pressure, the coil spring maintains tension on the cable so as to render the arm rigid, and wherein application of pressure to the clamp gripping elements causes the first bow spring to depress the first flexible bow spring and the second bow spring to depress the second flexible bow spring so as to move the sliding ring towards the anchor ring and to compress the coil spring so as relieve tension on the cable, causing the arm to become flexible. 
   In another example the first sliding ring may further comprise an anchor pin disposed on the inside of the sliding ring that extends through the groove of the hollow, grooved tube and to which the cable is attached. 
   In another example the release mechanism may comprise: a first bow spring fixed to the first gripping element; a second bow spring fixed to the second gripping element; a hollow grooved tube connecting the pivot rod to the arm, and terminating with a raised anchor ring; a first sliding ring to which the cable attaches, the first sliding ring encircling the hollow, grooved tube, disposed so that it can slide on the hollow grooved tube; a coil spring connecting the first sliding ring to the raised anchor ring; a second sliding ring encircling the hollow grooved tube, disposed so that it can slide between the first sliding ring and the pivot rod; a first flexible bow spring attached to the hollow grooved tube so as to face the first bow spring, wherein a first end of the first flexible bow spring is fixed proximal to the pivot rod, and wherein a second end of the first flexible bow spring is attached to the second sliding ring; and a second flexible bow spring attached to the hollow grooved tube so as to face the second bow spring, wherein a first end of the second flexible bow spring is fixed proximal to the pivot rod, and wherein a second end of the second flexible bow spring is attached to the second sliding ring; wherein, in the absence of pressure, the coil spring maintains tension on the cable so as to render the arm rigid, and wherein application of pressure to the clamp gripping elements causes the first bow spring to depress the first flexible bow spring and the second bow spring to depress the second flexible bow spring so as to move the second sliding ring into contact with first sliding ring, moving the first sliding ring towards the anchor ring and compressing the coil spring so as relieve tension on the cable, causing the arm to become flexible. 
   In another example the first sliding ring may further comprise an anchor pin disposed on the inside of the first sliding ring that extends through the groove of the hollow, grooved tube and to which the cable is attached. 
   In another example the release mechanism may comprise: a hollow grooved tube connecting the pivot rod to the arm, and terminating with a raised anchor ring; a bow spring fixed to the first gripping element and the second gripping element, comprising an opening through which the hollow grooved tube can extend; a first sliding ring to which the cable attaches, the first sliding ring encircling the hollow, grooved tube, disposed so that it can slide on the hollow grooved tube; a coil spring connecting the first sliding ring to the raised anchor ring; and a second sliding ring encircling the hollow grooved tube, disposed so that it can slide between the first sliding ring and the bow spring; wherein, in the absence of pressure, the coil spring maintains tension on the cable so as to render the arm rigid, and wherein application of pressure to the clamp gripping elements causes the bow spring to flex towards the second sliding ring so as to move the second sliding ring into contact with first sliding ring, moving the first sliding ring towards the anchor ring and compressing the coil spring so as relieve tension on the cable, causing the arm to become flexible. 
   In another example the first sliding ring may further comprise an anchor pin disposed on the inside of the first sliding ring that extends through the groove of the hollow, grooved tube and to which the cable is attached, and wherein the hollow grooved tube may further comprise a flange disposed proximal to the pivot rod so as to limit a backwards flex of the bow spring. 
   In another example the first and second gripping elements may be connected via a scissors type of connection and the release mechanism may further comprise: a raised knob fixed to an end of the second arm opposite from the pivot rod, the raised knob having an opening through which the cable can pass and serving as a terminus for the arm; a ratchet arm attached to the second gripping element between the raised knob and the pivot rod and extending upward from the second gripping element past said first gripping element; and a cable roller fixed to the first gripping element on a side facing where the ratchet is attached to the second gripping element and adjacent to where the ratchet passes the first gripping element; wherein the cable extends from the raised knob past the cable roller to an end of the ratchet to which the cable is fixed, and wherein the spring maintains the clamp in a closed position in the absence of pressure on the clamp gripping elements and maintains tension on the cable rendering the arm rigid, and applying pressure to pull the gripping elements apart releases tension on the cable rendering the arm flexible. 
   In another example the release mechanism may be positioned between the first and second gripping elements and may further comprise: a hollow grooved tube extending from the pivot rod to the arm, and terminating with a raised anchor ring, the hollow grooved tube comprising a groove; a sliding ring to which the cable attaches, the sliding ring encircling the hollow grooved tube, disposed so that it can slide on the hollow grooved tube; a coil spring connecting the sliding ring to the raised anchor ring; a first lever arm connecting the sliding ring to the first gripping element; and a second lever arm connecting the sliding ring to the second gripping element; wherein, in the absence of pressure, the coil spring serves to maintain tension on the cable so as to render the arm rigid, and wherein application of pressure to the clamp gripping elements causes the first and second lever arms to move the sliding ring so as to compress the spring and relieve tension on the cable, causing the arm to become flexible. 
   In another example the sliding ring may further comprise an anchor pin disposed on the inside of the sliding ring that extends through the groove of the hollow grooved tube and to which the cable is attached. 
   In another example the release mechanism may be attached to the second gripping element of the clamp and may further comprise: a fixed anchor point proximal to the pivot rod; a fixed anchor ring with an opening; a hollow grooved tube extending from the fixed anchor ring to the fixed anchor point, said hollow grooved tube comprising a groove; a sliding ring to which the cable is attached, the sliding ring encircling the hollow grooved tube, disposed so that it can slide on the hollow grooved tube; a coil spring connecting the sliding ring to the fixed anchor ring; and a lever arm connecting the sliding ring to the first gripping element; wherein, in the absence of pressure, the coil spring serves to maintain tension on the cable so as to render the arm rigid, and wherein application of pressure to the clamp gripping elements causes the lever arm to move the sliding ring so as to compress the spring and relieve tension on the cable, causing the arm to become flexible. 
   In another example the sliding ring may further comprise an anchor pin disposed on the inside of the sliding ring that extends through the groove of the hollow grooved tube and to which the cable is attached. 
   In another example the release mechanism may comprise: a hollow grooved tube connecting the pivot rod to the arm, and terminating with a raised anchor ring; a bow spring fixed to the first gripping element and the second gripping element, comprising an opening through which the hollow grooved tube can extend; a sliding ring to which the cable attaches, said sliding ring encircling the hollow, grooved tube, disposed so that it can slide on the hollow grooved tube; and a coil spring connecting the sliding ring to the raised anchor ring; wherein, in the absence of pressure, the coil spring maintains tension on the cable so as to render the arm rigid, and wherein application of pressure to the clamp gripping elements causes the bow spring to flex towards the sliding ring so as to move the sliding ring and compress the coil spring so as relieve tension on the cable, causing the arm to become flexible. 
   In another example the sliding ring may further comprise an anchor pin disposed on the inside of the sliding ring that extends through the groove of the hollow, grooved tube and to which the cable is attached, and wherein the hollow grooved tube may further comprise a flange disposed proximal to the pivot rod so as to limit a backwards flex of the bow spring. 
   In another example the apparatus may further comprise at least one arm comprising a flexible casing that encases the cable. 
   In another example the flexible casing may comprise a plurality of tubular, cone shaped segments. 
   In another example the tubular cone shaped segments may be open at a wide end and closed at a narrow end, and the narrow end may be penetrated by a bore through which the cable can pass. 
   In another example the apparatus may further comprise a central anchor point to which one end of the at least one arm terminates, the central anchor point may further comprise a cylindrical section and a toggle means to which the cable attaches, a first end of the toggle means being hingedly attached to the cylindrical section, wherein when the toggle means is in a locked position the cable is under tension, rendering the arm rigid, and when the toggle means is in an unlocked position, tension in the cable is released rendering the arm flexible. 
   In another example the toggle means may be held in the locked position by a spring disposed between the toggle means and the cylindrical section, and wherein the toggle means is depressed into the unlocked position. 
   In another example the toggle means may include a protuberance proximal to the first end, and the cylindrical section may include a depression disposed to receive the protuberance when the toggle means is in the locked position, the depression shaped to hold the toggle means in the locked position until the toggle means is moved to the unlocked position. 
   In another example the apparatus may further comprise a plurality of clamps and a plurality of arms, each clamp being connected to the central anchor point by one of the arms, each arm encasing a cable that connects from the clamp to the central anchor point, the central anchor point further comprising a plurality of toggle means so that each cable connects to one of the plurality of toggle means. 
   In another embodiment an apparatus for clamping an object is provided, comprising: a clamp with a first gripping element and a second gripping element, which first gripping element and the second gripping element are connected by a pivot rod with a biasing element to maintain the clamp in closed position in the absence of applied pressure; an arm comprising a cable encased by a plurality of tubular, cone shaped segments, each tubular cone shaped segment being open at a wide end and closed at a narrow end, the closed end being penetrated by a bore through which the cable can pass; and a release mechanism attached to the second gripping element, the cable attaching to the release mechanism; wherein the release mechanism further comprises: a fixed anchor point proximal to the pivot rod; a fixed anchor ring with an opening; a hollow grooved tube extending from the fixed anchor ring to the fixed anchor point; a first sliding ring with an anchor pin to which the cable is attached, said first sliding ring encircling the hollow, grooved tube, disposed so that it can slide on the hollow grooved tube; a coil spring connecting the first sliding ring to the fixed anchor ring; a second sliding ring encircling the hollow, grooved tube, disposed so that it can slide on the hollow grooved tube between the first sliding ring and the fixed anchor point; and a lever arm connecting the second sliding ring to the first gripping element; wherein, in the absence of pressure, the coil spring serves to maintain tension on the cable so as to render the arm rigid, and wherein application of pressure to the clamp gripping elements causes the lever arm to move the second sliding ring into contact with the first sliding ring so as to compress the spring and relieve tension on the cable, causing the arm to become flexible. 
   In another embodiment an apparatus for clamping an object is provided, comprising: a clamp with a first gripping element and a second gripping element, which first gripping element and second gripping element are connected by a pivot rod with a biasing element to maintain the clamp in closed position in the absence of applied pressure; an arm comprising a cable encased by a plurality of tubular, cone shaped segments, each tubular cone shaped segment being open at a wide end and closed at a narrow end, the closed end being penetrated by a bore through which the cable can pass; and a release mechanism positioned between the first and second gripping elements that further comprises: a hollow grooved tube extending from the pivot rod to the arm, and terminating with a raised anchor ring; a first sliding ring to which the cable attaches, the first sliding ring encircling the hollow, grooved tube, disposed so that it can slide on the hollow grooved tube; a coil spring connecting the sliding ring to the raised anchor ring; a second sliding ring encircling the hollow, grooved tube, disposed so that it can slide on the hollow grooved tube between the first sliding ring and the pivot rod; a first lever arm connecting the second sliding ring to the first gripping element; and a second lever arm connecting the second sliding ring to the second gripping element; wherein, in the absence of pressure, the coil spring serves to maintain tension on the cable so as to render the arm rigid, and wherein application of pressure to the clamp gripping elements causes the first and second lever arms to move the second sliding ring into contact with the first sliding ring so as to compress the spring and relieve tension on the cable, causing the arm to become flexible. 
   In another embodiment an apparatus for clamping an object is provided, comprising: an arm comprising a cable encased by a plurality of tubular, cone shaped segments, each tubular cone shaped segment being open at a wide end and closed at a narrow end, the closed end being penetrated by a bore through which the cable can pass; a clamp with a first gripping element and a second gripping element, which first gripping element and second gripping element are connected by a pivot rod with a biasing element to maintain the clamp in closed position in the absence of applied pressure, wherein the second gripping element includes a raised knob at an end opposite from the pivot rod, the raised knob including a bore through which the cable can pass; and a release mechanism positioned on the first and second gripping elements that comprises: a first bow spring with two ends, each of which ends is fixed to the first gripping element; a second bow spring attached to the second gripping element so as to face the first bow spring fixed to the first gripping element, the second bow spring being fixed at a first end proximal to the pivot rod; and a third bow spring attached to the second gripping element between the second bow spring and the raised knob; wherein a first end of the third bow spring is fixed proximal to the raised knob, and wherein a second end of the third bow spring is attached to the second end of second bow spring by a sliding connection, the third bow spring including a groove through which the cable can pass and an anchor point proximal to its second end to which the cable can attach; wherein, in the absence of pressure, the third bow spring maintains tension on the cable so as to render the arm rigid, and wherein application of pressure to the clamp gripping elements causes the first bow spring to depress the second bow spring so as to move the sliding connection towards the raised knob and to compress third bow spring so as relieve tension on the cable, causing the arm to become flexible. 
   In another embodiment an apparatus for clamping an object is provided, comprising: a clamp with a first gripping element and a second gripping element, which first gripping element and second gripping element are connected by a pivot rod with a biasing element to maintain the clamp in closed position in the absence of applied pressure; an arm comprising a cable encased by a plurality of tubular, cone shaped segments, each tubular cone shaped segment being open at a wide end and closed at a narrow end, the closed end being penetrated by a bore through which the cable can pass; and a release mechanism that comprises: a first bow spring fixed to the first gripping element; a second bow spring fixed to the second gripping element; a hollow grooved tube connecting the pivot rod to the arm, and terminating with a raised anchor ring; a sliding ring to which the cable attaches, the sliding ring encircling the hollow, grooved tube, disposed so that it can slide on the hollow grooved tube; a coil spring connecting the sliding ring to the raised anchor ring; a first flexible bow spring attached to the hollow grooved tube so as to face the first bow spring, wherein a first end of the first flexible bow spring is fixed proximal to the pivot rod and wherein a second end of the first flexible bow spring is attached to the sliding ring; and a second flexible bow spring attached to the hollow grooved tube so as to face the second bow spring, wherein a first end of the second flexible bow spring is fixed proximal to the pivot rod and wherein a second end of the second flexible bow spring is attached to the sliding ring; wherein, in the absence of pressure, the coil spring maintains tension on the cable so as to render the arm rigid, and wherein application of pressure to the clamp gripping elements causes the first bow spring to depress the first flexible bow spring and the second bow spring to depress the second flexible bow spring so as to move the sliding ring towards the anchor ring and to compress the coil spring so as relieve tension on the cable, causing the arm to become flexible. 
   In another embodiment an apparatus for clamping an object is provided, comprising: a clamp with a first gripping element and a second gripping element, which first gripping element and second gripping element are connected by a pivot rod and include a biasing element to maintain the clamp in closed position in the absence of applied pressure; wherein the first and second gripping elements are connected via a scissors type of connection; an arm comprising a cable encased by a plurality of tubular, cone shaped segments, each tubular cone shaped segment being open at a wide end and closed at a narrow end, the closed end being penetrated by a bore through which the cable can pass; and a release mechanism comprising: a raised knob fixed to an end of the second arm opposite from the pivot rod, the raised knob having an opening through the cable can pass and serving as a terminus for the arm; a ratchet arm attached to the second gripping element between the raised knob and the pivot rod and extending upward from the second gripping element past the first gripping element; and a cable roller fixed to the first gripping element on a side facing where the ratchet is attached to the second gripping element and adjacent to where the ratchet passes said first gripping element; wherein the cable extends from the raised knob past the cable roller to an end of the ratchet to which the cable is fixed, and wherein the spring maintains the clamp in a closed position in the absence of pressure on the clamp gripping elements and maintains tension on the cable rendering the arm rigid, and applying pressure to pull the gripping elements apart releases tension on the cable rendering the arm flexible. 
   In another embodiment an apparatus for clamping an object is provided, comprising: a clamp with a first gripping element and a second gripping element, which first gripping element and second gripping element are connected by a pivot rod with a biasing element to maintain the clamp in closed position in the absence of applied pressure; an arm comprising a cable encased by a plurality of tubular, cone shaped segments, each tubular cone shaped segment being open at a wide end and closed at a narrow end, the closed end being penetrated by a bore through which the cable can pass; and a release mechanism comprising: a first bow spring fixed to the first gripping element; a second bow spring fixed to the second gripping element; a hollow grooved tube connecting the pivot rod to the arm, and terminating with a raised anchor ring; a first sliding ring to which the cable attaches, the first sliding ring encircling the hollow, grooved tube, disposed so that it can slide on the hollow grooved tube; a coil spring connecting the first sliding ring to the raised anchor ring; a second sliding ring encircling the hollow grooved tube, disposed so that it can slide between the first sliding ring and the pivot rod; a first flexible bow spring attached to the hollow grooved tube so as to face the first bow spring, wherein a first end of the first flexible bow spring is fixed proximal the said pivot rod and wherein a second end of the first flexible bow spring is attached to the second sliding ring; and a second flexible bow spring attached to the hollow grooved tube so as to face the second bow spring, wherein a first end of the second flexible bow spring is fixed proximal to the pivot rod and wherein a second end of the second flexible bow spring is attached to the second sliding ring; wherein, in the absence of pressure, the coil spring maintains tension on the cable so as to render the arm rigid, and wherein application of pressure to the clamp gripping elements causes the first bow spring to depress the first flexible bow spring and the second bow spring to depress the second flexible bow spring so as to move the second sliding ring into contact with first sliding ring, moving the first sliding ring towards the anchor ring and compressing the coil spring so as relieve tension on the cable, causing the arm to become flexible. 
   In another embodiment an apparatus for clamping an object is provided, comprising: a clamp with a first gripping element and a second gripping element, which first gripping element and second gripping element are connected by a pivot rod with a biasing element to maintain the clamp in closed position in the absence of applied pressure; an arm comprising a cable encased by a plurality of tubular, cone shaped segments, each tubular cone shaped segment being open at a wide end and closed at a narrow end, the closed end being penetrated by a bore through which the cable can pass; and a release mechanism comprising: a hollow grooved tube connecting the pivot rod to the arm, and terminating with a raised anchor ring; a bow spring fixed to the first gripping element and the second gripping element, comprising an opening through which the hollow grooved tube can extend; a first sliding ring to which the cable attaches, the first sliding ring encircling the hollow, grooved tube, disposed so that it can slide on the hollow grooved tube; a coil spring connecting the first sliding ring to the raised anchor ring; and a second sliding ring encircling the hollow grooved tube, disposed so that it can slide between the first sliding ring and the bow spring; wherein, in the absence of pressure, the coil spring maintains tension on the cable so as to render the arm rigid, and wherein application of pressure to the clamp gripping elements causes the bow spring to flex towards the second sliding ring so as to move the second sliding ring into contact with first sliding ring, moving the first sliding ring towards the anchor ring and compressing the coil spring so as relieve tension on the cable, causing the arm to become flexible. 
   In one example the apparatus may further comprise a central anchor point to which one end of the arm terminates and the central anchor point may further comprise a cylindrical section and a toggle means to which the cable attaches, a first end of the toggle means being hingedly attached to the cylindrical section, wherein when the toggle means is in a locked position the cable is under tension, rendering the arm rigid, and when the toggle means is in an unlocked position, tension in the cable is released rendering the arm flexible. 
   In another example the toggle arm may be held in the locked position by a spring disposed between the toggle arm and the cylindrical section, and wherein the toggle arm may be depressed into the unlocked position. 
   In another example the toggle arm may include a protuberance proximal to the first end, and the cylindrical section may include a depression disposed to receive the protuberance when the toggle is in the locked position, the depression being shaped to hold the toggle arm in the locked position until the toggle arm is moved to the unlocked position. 
   In another example the apparatus may further comprise a plurality of clamps and a plurality of arms, each clamp being connected to the central anchor point by one of the arms, each arm encasing a cable that connects from the clamp to the central anchor point, the central anchor point further comprising a plurality of toggle means so that each cable connects to one of the plurality of toggle means. 
   Referring now to  FIG. 1 , this FIG. depicts a perspective view of an embodiment of a coil spring clamp  100  of the invention. The clamp of this embodiment includes a first gripping element or handle  101  and a second gripping element or handle  102  connected by a center pivot rod  103 . A biasing element such as a pivot spring  104  encircling pivot rod  103  serves to maintain the clamp in a closed position as shown, until pressure is applied to the handles  101  and  102 . The first handle  101  has an underside  121  that faces an underside  122  of second handle  102 . 
   The clamp attaches to an arm encasing a cable. One embodiment of such an arm includes a cable  112  encased in a plurality of short, tubular cone-shaped segments  111  which terminate at a fixed anchor ring  110  that is attached to the underside  122  of second handle  102 . In one example (which example is intended to be illustrative and not restrictive), the cable  112  of the invention can be manufactured from a metallic, plastic, or any other suitable material. The cable  112  need not have a solid cross section, and can be hollow. Each tubular cone-shaped segment  111  is open at a wide end and closed at a narrow end, with the closed end being penetrated by a bore at the center through which the cable  112  can pass. 
   Attached between the fixed anchor ring  110  and a fixed anchor point  106  that is also attached to the underside  122  of second handle  102  is a hollow grooved tube  113 . The cable  112  continues through an opening in fixed anchor ring  110  into the hollow, grooved tube  113  and connects to first sliding ring  108 . As shown in  FIG. 2   a , the first sliding ring  108  is disposed so that it encircles hollow grooved tube  113 , and includes an anchor pin  114  that extends laterally through the groove  115  of hollow grooved tube  113 . A view of first sliding ring with the anchor pin is depicted in  FIG. 2   d . Cable  112  attaches to anchor pin  114 . A coil spring  109  serves to separate first sliding ring  108  from fixed anchor ring  110 . 
   Referring again to  FIG. 1 , pivotally connected to the underside  121  of first handle  101  is a connecting arm  105 , which is also pivotally connected to a second sliding ring  107  disposed to encircle hollow grooved tube  113 . When the handles  101  and  102  are not under pressure, the clamp is closed, there is a space  117  between second sliding ring  107  and first sliding ring  108  (see  FIG. 2   a ), and spring  109  maintains a separation between first sliding ring  108  and fixed anchor ring  110 . By so doing, the coil spring  109  places the cable  112  under tension, causing axial compression of the tubular cone-shaped segments  111  against each other causing the arm of device  100  to remain in a rigid, fixed position. 
   When pressure is applied to the handles  101  and  102 , the clamp begins to open, lever arm  105  slides so as to cause second sliding ring  107  to move towards first sliding ring  108 , closing space  117 . The movement of second sliding ring  107  towards first sliding ring  108  is depicted in  FIG. 2   b . As pressure continues to be applied to the handles  101  and  102 , second sliding ring  107  engages first sliding ring  108  and moves it towards fixed anchor ring  110 , compressing coil spring  109 , which in turn relieves the tension on cable  112 , causing it to go slack, a process depicted in  FIG. 2   c . This enables the tubular cone-shaped segments  111  to separate (or at least be under less frictional engagement with one another) and the arm to become flexible. The existence of the space  117  allows the clamp handles to be squeezed together a certain amount without losing the rigidity of the arm. This allows a user to clamp or unclamp an object without necessarily causing movement of the arm. One must squeeze the handles  101  and  102  (in one example, almost fully) to cause the arm to become flexible. 
   Another embodiment utilizing only one sliding ring and thus lacking the space between sliding rings is depicted in  FIG. 10 . In this embodiment, lever arm  105  connects directly to first sliding ring  108 . Application of pressure to handles  101 ,  102  causes lever arm  105  to move sliding ring  108  towards fixed anchor ring  110 , compressing coil spring  109 , relieving tension on cable  112  (thus rendering the arm flexible). In this embodiment, the arm will loose its rigidity essentially immediately as a user opens the clamp. 
   In another embodiment, there may be disposed at the end of the flexible arm opposite of the clamp a central anchoring point  130 . The central anchoring point  130  is depicted in greater detail in  FIG. 7 . The tubular cone-shaped segments  111  encasing cable  112  terminate at a hollow cylindrical segment  133 , which also encases the cable  112 . In one example of the central anchor point  130  (which example is intended to be illustrative and not restrictive), cable  112  turns on a turning rod  134  attached on the inside of the cylindrical segment  133 , emerges through opening  135  and is attached to lever arm  131 . One end of lever arm  131  is hingedly attached to cylindrical segment  133 , while the other end is held apart from the cylindrical segment  133  by spring  132 , which also serves to maintain the tension on cable  112 . Compressing lever arm  131  relieves the tension on cable  112 , causing the arm to become flexible without releasing the object held by the clamp. This allows the arm to be mobile, independent of the clamp. 
   Another variation of the central anchor point  130  is depicted in  FIGS. 8   a  and  8   b . This variation includes a solid cylindrical segment  139 . The cable  112  is threaded through a bore in the cylindrical segment  139 , emerging at opening  141  and attaching to toggle arm  136 . Toggle arm  136 , which is also hingedly attached at one end to cylindrical segment  139  has a protuberance  137  near the attached end on the side opposite where cable  112  is attached. This protuberance  137  is shaped to fit into a depression  138  on the side of cylindrical segment  139  when the toggle arm  136  is moved to a closed, locked position, as shown in  FIG. 8   a . When the toggle arm  136  is locked, applying tension to cable  112 , protuberance  136  will hold the toggle arm  136  in that position until unlocked by a user.  FIG. 8   b  shows the toggle arm  136  in an open, unlocked position, relieving tension on cable  112 . 
     FIG. 8   c  depicts another variation of the central anchor point  130  that is connected to two flexible arms, with toggle arms for each flexible arm disposed on opposite sides of the anchor point. A top view of two flexible arms attached to a common central anchor point is shown in  FIG. 9 . The central anchor point  130  can be fixed to a supporting or stationary object, such as, for example, a table-top or a wall. 
   Of course, other embodiments of the clamping device of the invention are possible. For example,  FIG. 3  depicts another embodiment of the coil spring clamp. The clamp  200  of this embodiment includes a first handle  201  and a second handle  202  connected by a center pivot rod  206 . A biasing element such as a pivot spring  207  encircling pivot rod  206  serves to maintain the clamp in a closed position as shown until pressure is applied to the handles  201  and  202 . The first handle  201  has an underside  221  that faces an underside  222  of second handle  202 . 
   Attached to the center pivot rod  206  is one end of a hollow, grooved tube  213 . Attached to the other end of hollow, grooved tube  213  is a terminating ring  210  that serves as a terminus for the tubular cone-shaped segments  111  encasing cable  112 . A first sliding ring  205  encircles hollow, grooved tube  213 , and includes an anchor pin (not shown) that extends laterally through groove  211  of hollow grooved tube  213 . The cable  112  continues through an opening in the terminating ring  210  and through the hollow, grooved tube  213  to be attached to the anchor pin of sliding ring  205 . A coil spring  209  serves to separate first sliding ring  205  from terminating ring  210 . In addition, disposed upon hollow, grooved tube  213  between the first sliding ring  205  on the pivot rod  206  is a second sliding ring  215 . 
   Pivotally connected to the underside  221  of first handle  201  is a first connecting arm  203 , the other end of which is pivotally connected to second sliding ring  215 . Similarly, pivotally connected to the underside  222  of second handle  202  is a second connecting arm  204 , which is also pivotally connected to second sliding ring  215 . When the handles  201  and  202  are not under pressure, the clamp is closed and there is a space  214  between first sliding ring  205  and second sliding ring  215 , and spring  209  maintains a separation between first sliding ring  205  and terminating ring  210 . By so doing, the coil spring  209  places the cable  112  under tension, causing axial compression of the tubular cone-shaped segments  111  against each other causing the arm of device  200  to remain in a rigid, fixed position. 
   When pressure is applied to the handles  201  and  202 , the clamp begins to open, lever arms  203  and  204  move so as to cause second sliding ring  215  to move towards first sliding ring  205 . As pressure continues to be applied to the handles  201  and  202 , second sliding ring  215  engages first sliding ring  205  and moves it towards fixed anchor ring  210 , compressing coil spring  209 , which in turn relieves the tension on cable  112 , causing it to go slack. This enables the tubular cone-shaped segments  111  to separate (or at least be under less frictional engagement with one another) and the arm to become flexible. 
   A variation of this embodiment utilizing only one lever arm is depicted in  FIG. 12 . In this embodiment, a horseshoe lever arm  216  replaces lever arms  203  and  204 . The horseshoe lever arm connects one of the handles to the second sliding ring  215 . Alternatively, the single horseshoe lever arm could be replaced by two separate lever arms wherein both lever arms connect to the underside of the same gripping element. Although  FIG. 12  depicts the second handle  202  as being connected to the second sliding ring, the connection can easily be, for example, to the first handle  201 . Again, application of pressure to handles  201  and  202  causes the horseshoe lever arm  216  to move second sliding ring  215  to engage first sliding ring  205  towards fixed anchor ring  210 , compressing coil spring  209 , relieving tension on cable  112  thus rendering the arm flexible. 
   As with the case of the first coil spring embodiment, there is a another embodiment, depicted in  FIG. 11 , that utilizes only one sliding ring and thus lacks the space between the first and second sliding rings. In this embodiment, lever arms  203  and  204  connect directly to the first sliding ring  205 . Application of pressure to handles  201  and  202  causes lever arms  203  and  204  to move sliding ring  205  towards fixed anchor ring  210 , compressing coil spring  209 , relieving tension on cable  112  thus rendering the arm flexible. In this embodiment, the arm will loose its rigidity essentially immediately as a user opens the clamp. 
     FIGS. 4   a  and  4   b  depict a bow spring embodiment of the clamp of the invention. The clamp  300  of this embodiment includes a first handle  301  and a second handle  302  connected by a center pivot rod  307 . A biasing element such as a pivot spring  308  encircling pivot rod  307  serves to maintain the clamp in a closed position as shown until pressure is applied to the handles  301  and  302 . The first handle  301  has an underside  321  that faces an underside  322  of second handle  302 . At the end of the second handle  302  opposite the center pivot rod  307  is a raised knob  309  that serves as a terminus for the tubular cone-shaped segments  111 , not shown in this figure for clarity. The raised knob  309  has a bore  316  through which the cable  112  passes. 
   Attached to the underside  321  of first handle  301  is a first bow spring  303 . This bow spring  303  is fixed at both ends and thus has little ability to flex. Attached to the underside  322  of second handle  302  is a second bow spring  304 . One end  310  of second bow spring  304  is fixed to the underside  322  of second handle  302  proximal to the center pivot rod  307 , while the other end is connected at a sliding connecting point  311  to a third bow spring  305 . The sliding connecting point  311  slides in a track  312  that is recessed in the underside  322  of second handle  302 . 
   The third bow spring is fixed at fixed end  314  to the raised knob  309 , and includes a groove  306  through which the cable  112  can pass. The cable is fixed to the third bow spring  306  at anchor point  315 . When pressure is applied to the handles  301  and  302 , first bow spring  303  comes into contact with second bow spring  304  and depresses it, causing the sliding connecting point  311  to slide in track  312  towards fixed end  314 . This releases tension on cable  112 , allowing it to loosen and to make the arm flexible, as shown in  FIG. 4   c . Release of pressure reverses the process and causes the cable to tighten to make the arm rigid. 
   The degree of compression required to loosen the arm and the magnitude of the space  313  can be adjusted by a simple screw mechanism similar to the adjustment used on the handbrakes of a bicycle. 
   Another variation of the bow spring embodiment of the clamp is depicted in  FIG. 5 . The clamp  400  of this embodiment includes a first handle  401  and a second handle  402  connected by a center pivot rod  411 . A biasing element, not shown for clarity, encircles the center pivot rod  411  and serves to maintain the clamp in a closed position as shown until pressure is applied to the handles  401  and  402 . The first handle  401  has an underside  421  that faces an underside  422  of second handle  402 . 
   Attached to the underside  421  of first handle  401  is a first bow spring  403 , fixed at both ends to limit its ability to flex. Similarly, attached to the underside  422  of second handle  402  is a second bow spring  404 , also fixed at both ends to limit its ability to flex. Attached to the center pivot rod  411  of the clamp is one end of a hollow grooved tube  409 . On the other end of the hollow grooved tube  409  opposite of the center pivot rod  411  is a flange or terminating ring  410  that serves as a terminus for the tubular cone-shaped segments  111 , not shown in this figure for clarity. 
   A sliding ring  407  encircles hollow, grooved tube  409 , and includes an anchor pin (not shown) that extends laterally through groove  414  of hollow grooved tube  409 . The cable, not shown for clarity, continues through the hollow, grooved tube  409  to be attached to the anchor pin of sliding ring  407 . A coil spring  408  serves to separate sliding ring  407  from terminating ring  410 . 
   Attached to the hollow grooved tube  409  on a side opposite the first bow spring  403  is a first flexible bow spring  405 . One end of the first flexible bow spring  405  is fixed to the hollow grooved tube  409  at a point  412  proximal to the center pivot rod  411 , whereas the other end of the first flexible bow spring  405  is attached to sliding ring  407 . Similarly, attached to the hollow grooved tube  409  on a side opposite the second bow spring  404  is a second flexible bow spring  406 . One end of the second flexible bow spring  406  is fixed to the hollow grooved tube  409  at a point  413  proximal to the center pivot rod  411 , whereas the other end of the second flexible bow spring  406  is attached to sliding ring  407 . 
   When pressure is applied to the handles  401  and  402 , first bow spring  403  comes into contact with first flexible bow spring  404 , while second bow spring  404  comes into contact with second flexible bow spring  406 . The pressure applied by bow springs  403  and  404 , respectively, to flexible bow springs  405  and  406  causes the flexible springs  405  and  406  to be depressed, causing the sliding ring  407  to slide in groove  414  towards terminating ring  410 , compressing spring  408 . This releases tension on the cable, allowing it to loosen and to make the arm flexible. Release of pressure reverses the process and causes the cable to tighten to make the arm rigid. 
   As with the first bow spring embodiment, the degree of compression required to loosen the arm and the magnitude of the spaces  415  and  416  can be adjusted by a simple screw mechanism similar to the adjustment used on the handbrakes of a bicycle. 
   Another variation of the bow spring embodiment of the clamp is depicted in  FIGS. 13   a  and  13   b . The clamp  700  of this embodiment includes a first handle  701  and a second handle  702  connected by a center pivot rod  711 . A biasing element, not shown for clarity, encircles the center pivot rod  711  and serves to maintain the clamp in a closed position as shown until pressure is applied to the handles  701  and  702 . The first handle  701  has an underside  721  that faces an underside  722  of second handle  702 . 
   Attached to the underside  721  of first handle  401  is a first bow spring  703 , fixed at both ends to limit its ability to flex. Similarly, attached to the underside  722  of second handle  702  is a second bow spring  704 , also fixed at both ends to limit its ability to flex. Attached to the center pivot rod  711  of the clamp is one end of a hollow grooved tube  709 . On the other end of the hollow grooved tube  709  opposite of the center pivot rod  711  is a flange or terminating ring  710  that serves as a terminus for the tubular cone-shaped segments  111 . 
   A first sliding ring  707  encircles hollow grooved tube  709 , and includes an anchor pin (not shown) that extends laterally through groove  714  of hollow grooved tube  709 . The cable  112 , continues through the hollow grooved tube  709  to be attached to the anchor pin of first sliding ring  707 . A coil spring  708  serves to separate first sliding ring  707  from terminating ring  710 . Disposed on hollow grooved tube  709  between first sliding ring  707  and the center pivot rod  711  is a second sliding ring  716 . 
   Attached to the hollow grooved tube  709  on a side opposite the first bow spring  703  is a first flexible bow spring  705 . One end of the first flexible bow spring  705  is fixed to the hollow grooved tube  709  at a point  712  proximal to the center pivot rod  711 , whereas the other end of the first flexible bow spring  405  is attached to second sliding ring  716 . Similarly, attached to the hollow grooved tube  709  on a side opposite the second bow spring  704  is a second flexible bow spring  706 . One end of the second flexible bow spring  706  is fixed to the hollow grooved tube  709  at a point  713  proximal to the center pivot rod  711 , whereas the other end of the second flexible bow spring  706  is attached to second sliding ring  716 . In the absence of pressure applied to the handles  710  and  702 , there is a space  715  between second sliding ring  716  and first sliding ring  707 . 
   When pressure is applied to the handles  701  and  702 , first bow spring  703  comes into contact with first flexible bow spring  704 , while second bow spring  704  comes into contact with second flexible bow spring  706 . The pressure applied by bow springs  703  and  704 , respectively, to flexible bow springs  705  and  706  causes the flexible springs  705  and  706  to be depressed, causing the second sliding ring  716  to move so as to close space  715  and engage first sliding ring  707 , causing it to slide in groove  714  towards terminating ring  710 , compressing spring  708 . This releases tension on the cable  112 , allowing it to loosen and to make the arm flexible. Release of pressure reverses the process and causes the cable to tighten to make the arm rigid. 
   Again, the degree of compression required to loosen the arm and the magnitude of the spaces  717  and  718  can be adjusted by a simple screw mechanism similar to the adjustment used on the handbrakes of a bicycle. 
   Another variation of the bow spring embodiment of the clamp is depicted in  FIG. 14 . Referring to the side view of  FIG. 14   b , the clamp  800  of this embodiment includes a first handle  801  and a second handle  802  connected by a center pivot rod  811 . A biasing element, not shown for clarity, encircles the center pivot rod  811  and serves to maintain the clamp in a closed position as shown until pressure is applied to the handles  801  and  802 . The first handle  801  has an underside  821  that faces an underside  822  of second handle  802 . 
   Connecting the underside  821  of first handle  801  to the underside  822  of second handle  802  is a bow spring  803 , fixed at a first end to first anchor point  812  on first handle  801 , and fixed at a second end to second anchor point  813  on second handle  802 . Attached to the center pivot rod  811  of the clamp is one end of a hollow grooved tube  809 . On the other end of the hollow grooved tube  809  opposite of the center pivot rod  811  is a flange or terminating ring  810  that serves as a terminus for the tubular cone-shaped segments  111 . Bow spring  803  has an opening  805 , depicted in perspective view  FIG. 14   a , that enables hollow grooved tube to extend through the bow spring  803 . A flange  804  on hollow grooved tube  809  serves to limit the backwards flex of bow spring  803  when the clamp  800  is in an open position. 
   A first sliding ring  807  encircles hollow grooved tube  809 , and includes an anchor pin (not shown) that extends laterally through a groove  814  of hollow grooved tube  809 . The cable  112  continues through the hollow grooved tube  809  to be attached to the anchor pin of first sliding ring  807 . A coil spring  808  serves to separate first sliding ring  807  from terminating ring  810 . Disposed on hollow grooved tube  809  between first sliding ring  807  and the bow spring  803  is a second sliding ring  816 . In the absence of pressure applied to the handles  810  and  802 , there is a space  815  between second sliding ring  816  and first sliding ring  807 . 
   When pressure is applied to the handles  801  and  802 , bow spring  803  flexes and comes into contact with the second sliding ring  816 , causing it to move so as to close space  815  and engage first sliding ring  807 , causing it to slide in groove  814  towards terminating ring  810 , compressing spring  808 . This releases tension on the cable  112 , allowing it to loosen and to make the arm flexible (as depicted in  FIG. 14   c ). Release of pressure reverses the process and causes the cable to tighten to make the arm rigid. 
   As with the case of the coil spring embodiments, there is an embodiment of this bow spring embodiment, depicted in  FIG. 15 , that utilizes only one sliding ring  807  and thus lacks the space between the first and second sliding rings. In this embodiment, application of pressure to handles  801  and  802  causes bow spring  803  to move sliding ring  807  towards fixed anchor ring  810 , compressing coil spring  808 , relieving tension on cable  112  thus rendering the arm flexible. However, in this embodiment, since the motion of sliding ring  807  is limited by groove  814  in hollow grooved tube  809 , a space can be provided by the backward flex of bow spring  803 . Thus, application of pressure to the handles  801  and  802  need not immediately cause the arm to loose rigidity. 
     FIGS. 6   a  and  6   b  depict another embodiment of the invention. This embodiment utilizes a ratchet type clamp instead of a spring clamp. This type of clamp uses a scissors mechanism to close and a ratchet mechanism to tighten and hold the clamp in a closed position. 
   The clamp  600  of this embodiment includes a first handle  601  and a second handle  602  connected by a center pivot rod  608 . At the end of second handle  602  is a raised knob  603  attached to a terminating ring  604  that serves as a terminus for the tubular cone-shaped segments  111 . Extending upwards from the second handle  602  is a ratchet  605 , which extends upwards through an opening in the first handle  601 . On the underside of first handle  601  adjacent to the ratchet  605  is a cable roller  606 . The cable  112  extends through an opening in terminating ring  604  and a trough in raised knob  603  to run around cable roller  606 , terminating at the top end of ratchet  605 , where the cable  112  is attached. 
   Whenever the handles  601  and  602  of the clamp  600  are squeezed together to clamp an object, the cable  112  is tightened so as to make the arm rigid. Whenever the ratchet mechanism is released it simultaneously releases the tension on the cable and renders the arm flexible, as shown in  FIG. 6   b . Whenever the clamp is closed the cable is pulled taut and the arm is made rigid. 
   Referring now to  FIGS. 16A–16G , another embodiment of the present invention is shown. As seen in these FIGS., an apparatus for clamping an object is provided. More particularly, the apparatus includes Arm  1601  (only a portion of which is shown) and Cable  1603  (only a portion of which is shown). Cable  1603  is disposed within Arm  1601  (as discussed in more detail below, Arm  1601  may be made substantially inflexible when tension is applied to Cable  1603  and Arm  1601  may be made flexible when the tension in Cable  1603  is reduced or eliminated). Of note, Arm  1601  may be, for example (which example is intended to be illustrative and not restrictive), of the tubular cone-shaped segments type described above. 
   In any case, First Handle  1605  is attached to Arm  1601  (wherein First Handle  1605  receives Cable  1603 ) and First Handle  1605  includes First Gripping Element  1607 . In addition, the apparatus includes Second Handle  1609  and Second Gripping Element  1611 . 
   Moreover, Pivot Mechanism  1613  is provided for mounting First Handle  1605 , Second Handle  1609  and Second Gripping Element  1611  in a pivoting relationship relative to one another. In this regard, Second Handle  1609  is configured to pivot relative to First handle  1605  independently of Second Gripping Element  1611  for a first portion of a pivot distance that Second Handle  1609  can move relative to First handle  1605  (see arc “A”) and Second Handle  1609  is configured to cause Second Gripping Element  1611  to pivot relative to First Handle  1605  along with Second Handle  1609  for a second portion of the pivot distance that Second Handle  1609  can move relative to the First Handle  1605  (see arc “B”). 
   Further, Cable  1603  is attached to Cable End Cap  1615  and First Spring  1617  is provided for biasing Cable End Cap  1615  forward (wherein such forward biasing of Cable End Cap  1615  keeps Cable  1603  in tension). 
   Of note, in this embodiment, movement of Second Handle  1609  towards First Handle  1605  within the first portion of the pivot distance that Second Handle  1609  can move relative to First Handle  1605  (i.e., within arc “A”) actuates an actuating mechanism (discussed in more detail below) to reduce the bias of First Spring  1617  and to reduce the tension in Cable  1603  without substantially changing the position of Second Gripping Element  1611  (thus, an object (not shown) which is being held between First Gripping Element  1607  and Second Gripping Element  1611  may be retained while Second Handle  1609  moves relative to First Handle  1605  within arc “A” even while Arm  1601  is rendered flexible for repositioning and the like). 
   Of further note, movement of Second Handle  1609  towards First Handle  1605  for the second portion of the pivot distance that Second Handle  1609  can move relative to First Handle  1605  (i.e., within arc “B”) causes Second Gripping Element  1611  to pivot open relative to First Gripping Element  1607  (thus, an object (not shown) which is being held between First Gripping Element  1607  and Second Gripping Element  1611  may be released while Second Handle  1609  moves relative to First Handle  1605  within arc “B”). More particularly, Second Gripping Element  1611  is caused to pivot open relative to First Gripping Element  1607  via contact at surfaces S and S′. 
   Of still further note, the arcs shown as “A” and “B” are provided for example only (which example is intended to be illustrative and not restrictive) and the absolute and/or relative sizes of such arcs “A” and “B” may depend upon the size and/or shape of an object being gripped between First Gripping Element  1607  and Second Gripping Element  1611 . In one specific example (which example is intended to be illustrative and not restrictive), arc “A” may be sized such that Second Gripping Element  1611  does not begin to pivot until Second Handle  1609  moves below about 32 degrees (relative to First Handle  1605 ). 
   In addition, it is noted that the actuating mechanism may include Lever Arm  1619  (pivoting at Pivot  1621 ) and Cam  1623 . More particularly, Lever Arm  1619  may be disposed between Cam  1623  (operatively connected, for example, to Second Handle  1609 ) and Cable End Cap  1615 . Lever Arm  1619  may be used for applying force to Cable End Cap  1615  and First Spring  1617  (see the general direction of arrow “1” of  FIG. 16B ) in response to movement of Second Handle  1609  and Cam  1623  (see the general direction of arrow “2” of  FIG. 16B ). The force thus applied by Lever Arm  1619  to Cable End Cap  1615  and First Spring  1617  operates to reduce the bias of First Spring  1617  and to reduce the tension in the Cable  1603 . 
   Moreover, Second Handle  1609  may be biased closed by Spring End Cap  1625  (biased by Second Spring  1627 ) and Second Gripping Element  1611  may be biased closed by Third Spring  1629 . In this regard, Pivot Mechanism  1613  may include Pivot Rod  1631  and Third Spring  1629  may be a coil spring which is coiled around Pivot Rod  1631 . 
   Further, as seen in these  FIGS. 16A–16G , First Handle  1605  and First Gripping Element  1607  are formed as an integrated unit (in another example, not shown, First Handle  1605  and First Gripping Element  1607  may be separate components which are operatively connected together). 
   Further still, it is noted that a second end of Cable  1603  (i.e., the end of Cable  1603  opposite the portion of Cable  1603  received by First Handle  1605 ) may be held in a substantially fixed relationship to Arm  1601 . In one specific example (which example is intended to be illustrative and not restrictive), a second end of Cable  1603  may be held in a substantially fixed relationship to Arm  1601  at a second end of Arm  1601  (i.e. the end of Arm  1601  opposite the portion of Arm  1601  attached to First Handle  1605 ). 
   Further still, it is noted that a mounting element may be disposed at the second end of Arm  1601  (i.e. the end of Arm  1601  opposite the portion of Arm  1601  attached to First Handle  1605 ). In one specific example (which example is intended to be illustrative and not restrictive), the mounting element may be selected from the group including, but not limited to: (a) a temporary mounting element; and (b) a permanent mounting element. In another specific example (which example is intended to be illustrative and not restrictive), the mounting element may be selected from the group including, but not limited to: (a) a clamp (see, e.g.  FIGS. 20A and 20B ); (b) a threaded fastener; (c) a suction cup; and/or (d) a weighted base. 
   Two other embodiments of the present invention are shown in  FIGS. 17A and 17B  (in these  FIGS. 17A and 17B , the same elements of  FIGS. 16A–16G  will be shown with the same reference numerals). In any case, as seen in these  FIGS. 17A and 17B , the actuating mechanism may comprise Cam  1700 A ( FIG. 17A ) or  1700 B ( FIG. 17B ) operatively connected to Second Handle  1609  for applying force directly against Cable End Cap  1615  (i.e., without an intervening lever arm) to reduce the bias of First Spring  1617  and to reduce the tension in Cable  1603 . Of note, the main difference between Cam  1700 A ( FIG. 17A) and 1700B  ( FIG. 17B ) is in the specific shape of the cam profile (which shape is intended to be illustrative and not restrictive). 
   Referring now to  FIG. 18 , another embodiment of the present invention is shown (in this  FIG. 18 , the same elements of  FIGS. 16A–16G  will be shown with the same reference numerals). In any case, as seen in this  FIG. 18 , Adjustment Screw  1800  may be provided for adjusting (e.g., tightening or loosening) Second Spring  1627 . 
   Referring now to  FIG. 19 , another embodiment of the present invention is shown (in this  FIG. 19 , the same elements of  FIGS. 16A–16G  will be shown with the same reference numerals). In any case, as seen in this  FIG. 19 , Adjustment Screw  1900  may be provided for adjusting (e.g., making larger or smaller) the first portion of the pivot distance that Second Handle  1609  can move relative to First Handle  1605  (i.e., arc “A”). 
   Referring now to  FIGS. 20A and 20B , another embodiment of the present invention is shown. As seen in these  FIGS. 20A and 20B , Clamp  2001  (of the type shown in  FIGS. 16A–16G , for example) is connected (via Arm  2003 ) to a conventional-type Clamp  2005  (in another example, not shown, a clamp of the type shown in  FIGS. 16A–16G  may be disposed at each end of Arm  2003 ). Further, Adjustment Mechanism  2007  (shown in detail in  FIG. 20B ) may be provided for adjusting (e.g., tightening or loosening) tension in Cable  2009 . More particularly, as seen in  FIG. 20B , when Rotatable Knob  2011  is rotated one way, Rotatable Knob  2011  will move towards Clamp  2005  (Rotatable Knob  2011  may include external threads (not shown) for engagement with complementary internal threads (not shown) of Clamp  2005 ). Since Cable  2009  is fixed relative to Clamp  2005  at Fixed Point  2013  in this embodiment, this movement of Rotatable Knob  2011  towards Clamp  2005  will, in effect, shorten the length of Arm  2003  and reduce the tension in Cable  2009 ). In contrast, when Rotatable Knob  2011  is rotated the other way, Rotatable Knob  2011  will move away from Clamp  2005 . Again, since Cable  2009  is fixed relative to Clamp  2005  at Fixed Point  2013  in this embodiment, this movement of Rotatable Knob  2011  away from Clamp  2005  will, in effect, increase the length of Arm  2003  and increase the tension in Cable  2009 ). Of note, Adjustment Mechanism  2007  may be used, for example, to adjust for stretching of Cable  2009  over time and/or to adjust the tension in Cable  2009  in real-time (e.g., as Clamp  2001  is being used). 
   Referring now to  FIGS. 21A–21D , other embodiments of the present invention are shown. More particularly, as seen in  FIG. 21A , the present invention may utilize one or more interchangeable clamps (shown here as Clamp  2101 ,  2103  and  2105 ). Further (as seen in  FIGS. 21A–21D ), the present invention may utilize a mechanism, such as Compression Mechanism  2107 , for adjusting tension in the cable independently of the clamps. Further still, (as seen in  FIG. 21D ), the present invention may utilize Mounting Base  2109 . In one specific example (which example is intended to be illustrative and not restrictive), Mounting Base  2109  may be rotating. In another specific example (which example is intended to be illustrative and not restrictive), Mounting Base  2109  may have a magnetic bottom (e.g., for attaching to a metallic surface). 
   Referring now to  FIG. 22 , another embodiment of the present invention is shown. More particularly, as seen in this FIG., Clamp  2201  may utilize Guide Groove  2203  for reducing tension in Cable  2205 . More particularly, when Clamp  2201  is fully closed (as depicted at “State A”) Cable  2205  may be under essentially full tension (as seen by the position of Cable  2205  in Guide Groove  2203 ). Likewise, when Clamp  2201  is open, but not fully open (as depicted at “State B”) Cable  2205  may still be under essentially full tension (as seen by the position of Cable  2205  in Guide Groove  2203 ). Of note, this “State B” permits an object (not shown) to be released even while arm is rendered essentially inflexible. Finally, when Clamp  2201  is fully open (as depicted at “State C”) Cable  2205  may be given slack (as seen by the position of Cable  2205  in Guide Groove  2203 ). Of note, in this “State C” the arm is rendered flexible. 
   While a number of embodiments of the present invention have been described, it is understood that these embodiments are illustrative only, and not restrictive, and that many modifications may become apparent to those of ordinary skill in the art. For example, the cam and/or the lever arm may utilize any desired profile (e.g., to achieve a desired amount of leverage and/or actuation speed). Further, arcs A and B may be of any desired size (e.g., arc A may produce a gap of about 1 cm). Further still, adjustment mechanisms (e.g. adjustment screws) may be provided for adjusting (e.g., tightening or loosening) any of the springs and/or for adjusting (e.g., making smaller or larger) any of the pivot distances. Further still, while an arm made of a plurality of tubular, cone shaped segments has been described, the present invention may be utilized with any desired type of arm which is capable of being rendered flexible and inflexible. Further still, instead of (or in addition to) a central anchoring point, one or more anchoring points at any place(s) along an arm may be utilized.