Importance

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Abstract

A base for supporting a load defines a first articular concave spherical surface segment forming a first socket about an axis extending through the center of curvature of the surface segment. The socket is nested with a first mating articular convex spherical surface segment forming a first ball segment joined to a load carrying platform. A first strip of low friction bearing material is seated in a first recess encircling the axis at the perimeter of the first socket to support the first ball segment. The side of the first ball segment facing away from the first socket defines a second articular concave spherical surface segment forming a second socket. A second mating articular convex spherical surface segment forming a second ball segment joined to a retaining member is nested in the second socket. A second strip of low friction bearing material is seated in a second recess encircling the axis at the perimeter of the second ball to support the second ball segment. A circular hub with a key at one side thereof extends along the axis from the center of the second ball segment and through an elongated aperture formed in first ball segment to a mating seat and keyway formed at the center of the first socket. The key and keyway lock and base and retaining member together against relative movement. The elongated aperture permits the load carrying platform to move relative to the hub in the directions along the long dimension of the aperture and about the axis. Stops are located to limit the movement of the load carrying member in the permitted directions.

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First Claim