Patent ID: 6997656

Claim:
A device for holding an object, said device comprising: a base; at least three posts affixed to and extending from said base, said posts disposed substantially equidistant from a center reference point; at least three followers, wherein each of said followers is pivotably attached to one of said posts and comprises a gripping portion for gripping the object, at least three linkages dimensioned to rotationally link each of said followers such that movement of one of follower causes all of said followers to pivot synchronously; and an adjustable actuator in communication with said followers, said actuator being shaped and dimensioned to cause said followers to rotate about said posts; wherein said actuator comprises a nut rotationally attached to one of said linkages and a threaded fastener disposed in communication with said nut; and wherein said followers and linkages are dimensioned and disposed such that a movement of one follower causes each of said followers to pivot in unison about said posts such that said gripping portions remain in substantially equidistant relation from the center reference point regardless of a degree of rotation of said followers.