a support system for stabilizing a high - pressure feed line in a high - speed water jet food portioner , comprising a rigid span assembly connected at one end to an extendable universal joint that provides rotational motion around two axes as well as linear freedom along a third axis , and at the other end to a rod - end bearing that permits motion about two axes at a fixed attachment point . the extendable universal joint and the rod - end bearing are each anchored to a fixed point , one on a portioner housing and the other on a cutting carriage such that the rigid span assembly is allowed freedom at one end to move with the rapid and dramatically changing motion of the cutting carriage in order to provide support to the high - pressure feed line mounted thereon , with minimal vibration .