The PositionALL - kind of a universal rotator for a vise or any work.

[CharlesWaugh]

Des,
WOW! I love people like you (who think like me).
: - )

The sockets are CNC turned to match the 8.5" diameter of the ball, so they have a large bearing area and do not 'crease' into the ball.
I am using a used ball for this proto and I like the slightly roughened surface of the ball, b/c it give 'bite'. New balls are polished. Though I have been in talks with a ball mfgr who is glad to do whatever I need.

The clamping arm and all pivot points are oilite bearings, press fit. there currently is no dust-seal designed in, but your question makes me think that a simple square-ring and keeper might be in order.

The 'crank arm' between the pedal and the main clamping arm is adjustable so you can dial it in as needed.

Yes, the wood is temporary - the idea is to incorporate a locking mechanism to keep the pedal all the way down in the 'loose ball' position, so you have both feet free to use a TIG pedal, or kick the cat, etc.
With the ability to stop the ball at vertical of horizontal axis, this obviously becomes a handy 'turntable' for welding, in particular.

BUT, that said, I have designed this to be a 'dead man' action: if your foot slips off the pedal is CLAMPS! in position. My first horribly hacked-together-but-actually-working test wasn't that way and it scared the crap outta me to use it. : - )

BTW: I want to design a vise with centering jaws so things clamped are on-axis. : - )

THANKS very much for your questions - KEEP 'EM COMIN'!!
You see, so far this has been designed in a bit of a vacuum, so having experienced eyes on it helps immensely.
: - )

Cheers!