Inspired by outdoor cafe tables, which often wobble or are sloped due to uneven ground, the patent-pending FLAT (Fluid Locking & Adjustment Technologies) system has a number of potential applications, including helicopter landing gear, ladders, industrial crane bases, and mortar launchers for the military. An interconnected series of hydraulic actuators provide horizontal support on uneven surfaces and then locks to provide stability at the chosen level or angle the user requires. Demonstration videos are available here.

FLAT is seeking a partner to commercially develop the technology.

[thanks, gizmag]