Importance

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Abstract

A support unit, for locating a body at different positions relative to another part of the body, comprising a chassis and a working carrier comprising a first section for the trunk, a second section for the thighs, and a third section for the legs. A waist coupling is located between the first section and the second section enabling the first section and second section to rotate relative to one another about a waist axis. A knee coupling is located between the second section and the third section enabling the second section to rotate relative to one another about the knee axis. The waist axis is parallel to the knee axis and separated substantially by the length of the second section. The working carrier at least with the first, second and third sections lie in a substantially common horizontal plane, having in plan overall dimensions substantially greater than the overall dimensions in plan of the chassis. A frame member slidably retaining the first section to support the working carrier at least when the working carrier is substantially horizontal. A variable length column extends between the chassis and the frame member to support the frame member and provide height adjustment. A link serves to limit rotation of the second section towards the first section, at least when the first section is tilted from horizontal. A first variable length longitudinal actuator for enabling the frame member and the working carrier to be rotated relative to the chassis about a horizontal main axis, and a second variable length longitudinal actuator for enabling the first section to be displaced linearly relative to the working carrier. A control mechanism controls operation of the support unit.

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First Claim