The Canfield joint is a pointing mechanism that allows for full hemispherical motion from whatever connects to it.
Invented by Stephen Canfield of Tennessee Tech University, this joint was developed specifically for spacecraft thrusters and solar panels.
Its gimbal mount simplifies the roll program performed when the Space Shuttle launches and allows for greater overall manoeuvrability from the reaction control system.
When applied to solar panels, the Canfield joint tracks the Sun more of the time and will not tangle the power cords attached to them.
Its application was expected to be incorporated into the now-defunct Constellation Program as a key element.