Ball Joint and Retaining Arm Having Ball Joints of This Type

Simple SummaryContent extracted from patent full text and abstract with AI.

This invention relates to an improved ball joint design, where the ball component is split into two hemispherical parts with at least one spring element between them. This configuration allows for easy locking and unlocking of the joint by adjusting friction between the ball parts and the socket, using a dedicated switching element. Furthermore, the ball joint can be integrated into a retaining arm with multiple such joints, enabling simultaneous locking or releasing with a single actuation.

Use CasesContent extracted from patent full text and abstract with AI.

• Adjustable mounting arms for cameras, lighting equipment, or monitors
• Robotic arms requiring precise positioning and rigid locking
• Medical equipment holders or articulated instrument arms
• Industrial machinery with adjustable joints
• Support arms in automotive or aerospace components
• Furniture or fixture elements requiring movable but lockable joints

BenefitsContent extracted from patent full text and abstract with AI.

• Simple and reliable locking/unlocking mechanism for ball joints
• Stable fixation with adjustable friction for secure positioning
• Allows for easy manual positioning and fastening in the desired orientation
• Reduces complexity compared to traditional multi-component locking mechanisms
• Can lock multiple joints at once in a retaining arm, improving usability and efficiency
• Versatile application across various engineering fields requiring adjustable articulation

Technical Classifications (CPCs)

Inventors & Applicants

Patent Abstract

The invention relates to a ball joint (1) having two pivoting elements (2, 3), wherein: - a first pivoting element comprises a ball (4) and a second pivoting element comprises a ball socket (5) which receives the ball; - the ball is divided into a plurality of ball parts (6, 7); - by means of displacement of the ball parts relative to one another, the ball can be fastened in the ball socket as a result of a change in the friction between the ball parts and the ball socket such that relative movement of the pivoting elements is prevented, and can be released in order to allow relative movement of the pivoting elements; - the ball is divided into two hemispherical ball parts; - at least one spring element (8) is arranged between the hemispheres, which spring element presses the ball parts apart in order to produce dynamic friction between the ball parts and the ball socket; - at least one switching element (9) is provided for displacing the ball parts relative to one another in such a way that static friction arises between the ball parts and the ball socket. The invention also relates to a retaining arm having at least two ball joints of this type, wherein the first pivoting element of a first ball joint is connected to the second pivoting element of a second ball joint.