US3216378A

US3216378A - Adjustable table construction

Info

Publication number: US3216378A
Application number: US281663A
Authority: US
Inventors: Hoppe Boris
Original assignee: Individual
Current assignee: Individual
Priority date: 1963-05-20
Filing date: 1963-05-20
Publication date: 1965-11-09
Anticipated expiration: 1982-11-09

Description

Nov. 9, 1965 B. HoPPE ADJUSTABLE TABLE CONSTRUCTION Filed May 20, 1963 7 Sheets-Sheet 1 /N VEA/roe 50g/5 OPPE.

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Nov. 9, 1965 B.- HOPPE 3,216,378

ADJUSTABLE TABLE CONSTRUCTION Filed May 20, 1963 7 Sheets-Sheet 2 Nov. 9, 1965 B, HOPPE 3,216,378

ADJUSTABLE TABLE CONSTRUCTION Filed May 20, 1963 7 Sheets-Sheet 5 ATTP/VEKZ Nov. 9, 1965 B. HOPPE 3,216,378

ADJUSTABLE TABLE CONSTRUCTION Filed May 20, 1963 13a /736/132 f/ /42 40 f 7 Sheets-Sheet 4 14a 142 1/ z 73651/ f3@ \\5\ l I -I l I .--L l r -f 1 /06 I I f J W2 INVENTOR.

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Nov. 9, 1965 B. HoPPE ADJUSTABLE TABLE CONSTRUCTION Filed lMay 2o, 1965 '7 Sheets-Sheet 5 10.

3a 9o 9/ 74a 701 94 92N INVENTOR.

Nov. 9, 1965 B. HOPPE 3,216,378

ADJUSTABLE TABLE CONSTRUCTION Filed May 20, 1963 7 Sheets-Sheet 6 ljyze 240 @2 2/2 22a 20\- 2,0 222 2/3/ 222 ,i i\ 224 I? 222 TUI;

222 23 i 227 gi 22?) HTTOfP/VEH Nov. 9, 1965 B. HoPPE ADJUSTABLE TABLE CONSTRUCTION 7 Sheets-Sheet '7 Filed May 20, 1965 2 2 P 9J e J//. l T P 1D 2 7. N O MH a i iii! 1 |||i|| lillliiiiliiHHHli Z J 1 d 2M/@ FW f of@ w 5 5 Z M 0 m Y y 2% 2 B 2 Z M M om ,f 2// 1LL \W T\ /M/ y/ 6/ 3 ,L V -M /dZ m w. l (vw 2 fiek Q67 `,.\.w.\.\\ 7. //I\ 4a/ 4. FHHHHHHHHHWNVNIIHWI. Z I iivi ii f 0 70 n 7m/ United States Patent O 3,216,378 ADJUSTABLE TABLE CONSTRUCTION Boris Hoppe, 117-14 Union Turnpike, Kew Gardens, N.Y. Filed May 20, 1963, Ser. No. 281,663 22 Claims. (Cl. 10S-147) This invention relates to table constructions of types adapted for ready conversion from one useful elevation to another so that the same table may be used for a variety of different purposes. Among other possible uses the same table may be used either as a so-called coffee or cocktail table with the top in a relative low position, or for more convenient sofa use the same table may be raised to an intermediate position or as a dining table or card table with the top in a still higher position. This table is ideally suited for use as a lamp or end table or serving cart due to its versatile adjustable characteristics. Moreover, the table top may be expanded for use when a large number of articles are to be placed thereon such as when additional place settings are required for dinner, for example.

A feature of the invention is to provide an improved table construction which may readily be adjusted to any one of a plurality of table top elevations, which presents vthe attractive appearance of a conventional form of table having leg structures of artistic design, which provides leg construction such that the table top may be extended without disturbing the balance or stability of the table, which counterbalances the table elevating mechanism so as to ease the shifting of table top elevations, and which is simple to operate, compact, convenient, practical and inexpensive.

Another feature of the invention is to provide an improved table construction which may be adjusted to a plurality of table top elevations while the foot of the leg structures remain in substantially the same position relative to the :support or floor and thereby eliminate the need of casters when shifting the table top elevation, and which will be stable when the top is shifted to the various elevations.

Further objects, features and advantages of the invention hereof will appear from the detailed description given below, taken in connection with the accompanying drawings which form a part of the specification and illustrate by way of example, several preferred embodiments of the invention.

In the drawings:

FIG. 1 is an inverted plan view of a table construction embodying one form of the present invention and showing the table top at its intermediate elevation;

FIG. 2 is a sectional view taken along lines 2--2 of FIG. 1;

FIG. 3 is a side elevation of the table of FIG. 1 showing the table top at its lower elevation;

FIG. 4 is a side elevation of the table of FIG. 1 showing the table top at its upper elevation;

FIG. 5 is an enlarged sectional View taken along lines 5 5 of FIG. 2;

FIG. 6 is a side elevation of another embodiment of the table, with certain parts shown in section, showing the table top at its upper elevation;

FIG. 7 is a side elevation of the embodiment shown in FIG. 6, showing the table top at its intermediate elevation;

FIG. 8 is a side elevation of the embodiment shown in FIG. 6, when the table top is at its lower elevation;

FIG. 9 is an inverted plan view of the embodiment shown in FIG. 6, showing the table top at its lower elevation;

ice

FIG. 10 is an enlarged side elevation of the table of FIG. 6 showing the table top at its intermediate elevation;

FIG. 11 is an enlarged fragmentary perspective view showing the upper pedestal leg construction;

FIG. l2 is an inverted plan view of still another embodiment of the invention;

FIG. 13 is a side elevation of the embodiment of FIG. 12 showing the table top at its upper elevation in solid lines and showing the table top at its lower elevation in broken lines;

FIG. 14 is a sectional view taken along line 14-14 of FIG. 13; and

FIG. 15 is a top plan view drawn to a reduced scale of the embodiment of FIG. l2 showing the rotation of the table top in broken lines and the extension thereof in solid lines.

In thel embodiment of the invention illustrated in FIGS. 1 to 5, the table includes a top 10 having end skirts or aprons 12. The top 10 is adjustable for use at either a lower elevation (FIG. 3) or an intermediate elevation (FIGS. 1, 2) or an upper elevation (FIG. 4). Secured to the under side of the top 10 are a pair of leg structures 14 having lower leg portions 16, upper leg portions 18 and upper pedestal leg extensions 20. One end of each of the upper leg portions 18 is pivotally connected to the under side of the table top as at 22 and the other end thereof is hingedly or pivotally connected to their corresponding lower leg portions 16 as at 24. One end of each of the upper pedestal leg extensions 20 is pivotally or hingedly connected t-o the under side of the table top as at 26 and the other end thereof is adapted to frictionally engage the corresponding upper end of the lower leg portions 16 as at 28 (FIG. 2). In the position shown in FIG. 2 the table top 10 is at the intermediate elevation. Accordingly, the upper legportions 18 are in an inoperative position extending inwardly of the leg structures 14. TheI lower leg portions 16 are vertically disposed and are spaced apart when the top 10 is adjusted to the upper elevation (FIG. 4) and further spaced apart when the top is at the intermediate elevation (FIG. 2) and still further spaced apart when the top is at the lower elevation (FIG. 3). Secured to the under side of the foot of each leg 16 is a caster 15 in order to facilitate the inward and outward movement of the lower leg portions 16. Moreover, these casters form convenient means for moving the entire ta'ble from one location to another location within the home as desired. Hand buttons 17 are xedly connected to the outside surface of the lower leg portions 16 to further facilitate the inward and outward movement of the lower leg portions 16 when positioning the table top 10.

The upper end of each of the lower leg portions 16 (FIG. l) may be recessed 16 to receive the lower end of the upper leg portions 18 having a complementary recess 18 and in a manner `so that when the leg portions come together as shown in FIG. 4, a rm knuckle-like joint will bey provided'and the exposed outer line of demarcation at the joint viz, at 19, will be somewhat higher than the pivot 24 and, thus, be more clearly concealed from view than would be the case if a butt joint straight across were provided between the two leg portions at this point.

As seen in FIG. 2, the upper pedestal leg extensions 20 are in a vertical position and frictionally engage the lower leg portions 16 at 28 thereby forming a leg structure 14 comprising two members, namely, the lower leg portion 16 and the upper pedestal leg extension 20. Handles 30 each having one end thereof ixedly connected to the upper pedestal leg extensions 20 respectively as at 32 for manipulating the upper pedestal leg extensions 20 v1? between their operative positions (FIG. 2) and inoperative positions (FIG. 3).

Secured to the under side of the table top 10, and centrally thereof, are a pair of depending spaced brackets '34 and 36 which form a housing (FIG. 1). Link member 38 is pivotally attached to bracket 34 as at 40 and each end thereof is pivotally attached to a link arm 42 as at 44, the other end of the link arm 42 being pivotally connected to the handles 30 as at 50. A helical tension spring 46 is xedly connected to one of the pins 44 at one end thereof and xedly connected at the other end thereof to pin 48 which is mounted on bracket 34 (FIG. l). The link arms 42, link 3S and spring 46 kcoordinate the movement of both of the upper leg extensions 20 for ysimultaneousmovement thereof as well as providing the means for retaining the extensions firmly in either of their positions.

It will be noted that when the upper pedestal leg extensions 2.0 are in .their vertical position as shown in FIGS. 2 and 4, the table top may be at either the upper elevation (FIG. 4) or the intermediate elevation (FIG. 2). In order to position the table top at its lower elevation, the upper pedestal leg extensions 20 must be pivoted to their horizontal positions las shown in FIG. 3. The upper ends of the lower leg portions 16 will then engage resilient buttons 45 which are xedly connected to the under surface of the table top 10.

It will be appreciated that the elevation of the table top when at its lower elevation is substantially determined by the linear length of the lower leg portion 16 (FIG. 3), and when the table top is in its intermediate positionthe elevation thereof will be substantially determined by the summation of the linear length of the lower leg portion 16 and the upper pedestal leg extension 20 (FIG. 2), and when the table top is in its upper position the elevation thereof is substantially determined by the summation of the linear length of the lower leg portion 16 and the linear length of the upper leg portion 18 as shown in FIG. 4.

The

brackets

34 and 36 form a housing and support for the coordinating arms or

links

52 and 54 which are pivotally connected thereto as by means of

pins

56 and 58 respectively (FIG. l). The lowerleg portions 16 are provided with horizontal inwardly extending brace members 60 which are rigidly secured thereto by angle members 62 or the equivalent (FIG. l). The inward ends of brace members 60 are pivotally attached to the

arms

52 and 54 as by hinges 64 having pins 66 (FIG. l).

The pivotally connected members in the embodiment of the invention just described are of such a length, and the pivots are so located that the pivots on the right hand side of the table 4as seen in FIG. 2, 58, 22, 24 and 66 and the pivots as viewed on the left hand side of the table as viewed in FIG. 2, 56, 22, 24 and 66 are the corners of true parallelograms. Thus, when the upper leg members 18 are swung from their horizontal position of FIG. 3 to a verticalV position (see FIG. 4) the lower leg portions 16 remain vertical, lalthough they become more closely spaced with respect to each other, being in alignment with the upper leg members 18.

In order to coordinate the movement of both pairs of legs, in changing the height of the table, the

arms

52 and 54 are provided with

drum portions

68 and 70, to the peripheries of which are secured

flexible straps

72 and 74, the drums being substantially in rolling engagement with one another save for the thickness of either

strap

72 and 74. The straps are cross connected, one end of strap 74 is secured as at 76 to drum 68 and as at 78 to drum 70, and strap 72 is secured as at 80 to drum 70 and as at S2 to drum 68. Thus, the

arms

52 and 54 are constrained to rotate oppositely in unison So that the legs at one end automatically effects movement of the legs at the other end.

To counterbalance the weight f the top 10, and thus facilitate raising the top to the upper elevation, and at the same time to prevent its weight from tending to fall when lowering to the lower elevations, one or more counterbalance springs 84 may be employed. One end of spring 84 rests against the side edge of bracket 34 and the other end of spring 84 rests against the edge of arm 54, as best seen in FIGS. l and 2, and thereby spring 84 tends to urge arm 54 (as illustrated at the right hand side of FIG. 1) to rotate in a clockwise direction and arm 54 (as illustrated at the left hand side of FIG. 1) to rotate in a counterclockwise direction as viewed in FIG. 2 and thereby tend to move the lower leg portions 16 in an inwardly direction. That is, spring 84 in effect tends to pull the lower leg portions 16 in an inwardly direction and tends to maintain the table top in an elevated position as viewed in FIG. 4 so that when the legs are manually pulled outwardly to move the table top from an upper elevation to a lower elevation, the weight of the table top pressing downwardly is resisted by the spring 84 so that in effect the table top will be lowered slowly in a smooth manner.

In the embodiment of the invention shown in FIGS. 6 to 11 inclusive, there is shown a table constructed in accordance with the invention comprising a top having end skirts 91. The table top 90 is adjustable for use at either a lower elevation (FIG. 8) or at an intermediate elevation (FIGS. 7, 9, 10 and 11) or at an upper elevation as shown in FIG. 6, while the table top 90 is being maintained in a horizontal attitude. The table top 90 is provided with a pair of drop leaf portions 92 (FIG. 10) which are pivotally connected thereto as by means of hinges 94. Inclined reinforcing brackets 96 are hingedly connected to the central portion of the under side of the drop leaves 92 as at 98, the other ends thereof frictionally engaging catch 100 which is xedly mounted on the -side of members 101 which are xedly attached to the bottom surface of the table top 90. As best seen in FIG. 10, the drop leaves 92 may be pivoted to a vertical position or they may be pivoted to a horizontal positiontfor purposes of extending the surface area of the table top 90, one position being indicated by the dotted lines and the other position being indicated by the solid lines. As best seen in FIG. 9, hinges 98 comprise spring members 99 for urging the reinforcing brackets 96 in an upwardly direction and thereby facilitating the engagement between brackets 96 and catch 100 when the drop leaf 92 is in its horizontal position as illustrated at the left hand side of FIG. 10, and urging the bracket 96 upwardly against the lower surface of member 101 as illustrated at the right hand side of FIG, 10.

Secured to the under side of the top 90 are a pair of jointed leg panels designated generally at 102 comprising lower members or leg portions 104 which are provided with casters 106 at the foot thereof (FIGS. 6, 7 and 8). Secured to the under side of the table top 90., and centrally thereof, are a pair of depending spaced

brackets

114 and 115 forming a housing and support for members to be described more fully hereinafter (FIG. 9). Referring back to FIGS. 6, 7 and 8,v leg structure 102 are provided with upper members or leg portions 110 which are pivotally or hingedly connected to the upper end of the lower leg portions 104, respectively, as at 112 and the other ends thereof are pivotally connected to the

brackets

114 and 115 as at 116. A pair of upper pedestal leg extensions 118 are pivotally or hingedly connected to the corresponding upper ends of the lower legs 104 as by means of spring hinges 120 which tend to urge the upper leg extensions into vertical position as best seen in FIG. 11. The upper end of each lower leg 104 may be recessed as at 124 (FIG. 7) to receive the lower end of the upper leg 110 having a complementary recess 126. Recess 126 is elongated so that the upper leg extension 11S-will also it therein as illustrated in FIG. 6. Thus, when the leg portions come together as shown in FIG. 6, a 'rm knuckle-like joint will be provided and the exposed router line of demarcation at the joint, viz., at 128, will be somewhat higher than the

pivots

112 and 120 and thereby more nearly concealed from view than would be the case if a butt joint straight across were provided between the leg portion at this point as well as providing space for both of said pivots (112 and 120). The middle portion 130 of the upper edge of the upper leg extension 118 is adapted to engage cam 132 (FIGS. 7 and l1) when the table top 90 is at its intermediate elevation. Cams 132 are fixedly mounted on cam rod 134 which extends substantially the entire length of the table and is rotatably journalled in the aprons 91 as at 136 (FIG. 6), handles 138 being provided at both extremities of the cam rod 134 as at 135 and thereby restrain rotation thereof in the cam rod 134 and thereby rotate the cams 132 to their operative positions (FIGS. 6 and 7) or inoperative positions (FIG. 8). A resilient friction member 137 is provided having one end thereof xedly connected to the under side of the table top as at 139 and the other end thereof being adapted to frictionally engage the cam rod 134 as at 135 and thereby restrain rotation thereof in order to prevent the cams 132 from being accidentally rotated (FIG. 10). One pair of blocks 140 are xedly attached to the under side of the table top 90 towards the diangularly opposite corners thereof (FIG. 9) the under side of which are provided with arcuate lower faces 142 which act in a track-like manner for wheels or rollers 144, which are rotatably mounted as at 146 on opposite corners of the ends of the upper pedestal leg extensions 118 respectively as best seen in FIG. 8.

Attention is directed to FIG. 6 wherein the table top 90 is shown at its upper elevation, the leg structure or pedestal 102 comprises the lower leg portion 104 and the upper leg portion 110 which is in its vertical position.

' In order to adjust the table to its intermediate position,

knob 138 is rotated so that cam 132 is in its operative position as viewed in FIG. 7. Knobs 119 mounted on It is to be noted that the rollers 144 do not engage the r arcuate faces 142 when the table is in this position. It

is further noted that the linear length of the upper leg extension 118 is less than the linear length of the upper leg portion 110 and the surface of contact between the edge 130 and the cam 132 is at a position nearer the table top than the pivot point 116 of the upper leg portion 110 and, therefore, the elevation of the table top 90 is reduced by the difference there-of.

In order to adjust the table top 90 to its lower elevation as shown in FIG. 8, handle 138 is rotated in order to rotate the cam 132 to its inoperative position as seen in FIG. 8. The table top 90 and the arcuate lower face 142 move slightly in a downwardly direction so that the two wheels 144 engage the two arcuate lower faces 142 and move inwardly thereon until the upper leg extension 118 moves to the position as seen in FIG. 8. The top edge 148 of the lower legs 104 are in engagement with the bottom edge of the apron 91. Rollers 144 are prevented from leaving the arcuate lower face 142 because the opposite surface of the upper leg extension 118 engages the upper leg 110 and thereby prevents further movement.

In order to coordinate the movement of the upper leg portions 110, a connecting'link 150 is provided which is pivotally connected to lugs 152 and 154 as by means of

pins

156 and 158 respectively, lug 152 depending from the top surface of one of the upper leg portions 110 and lug 154 depending from the under surface of the other upper leg portion 110 as seen in FIG. 8. The

brackets

114 and 115 are interconnected by a cross member 160 xedly secured toward the end edges thereof as best y6 seen in FIG. 9. Secured to the under side of the cross member 160 and centrally thereof, are a pair of depending spaced arm brackets 162 and 164 (FIG. 9). A pair of arms 166 are pivotally connected to the

arm brackets

162 and 164 at their inside ends as at 168 (FIG. 8). The other ends of the arms 166 are pivotally connected to inwardly extending horizontal brace members 170 depending from the lower legs 104 as at 172. Brace members 170 are xedly connected to the lower leg portions 104 as at 174. Thus, the leg structures 102 are constrained to move inwardly and outwardly, oppositely in unison, and movement of the legs at one end of the table automatically effects movement of the legs at the other end thereof.

To counterbalance the weight of the top, and thus facilitate raising the top to the elevated positions and at the same time to prevent its weight from tending to fall when lowering to the lower positions shown, one or more counterbalance springs 176 may be employed. As shown, the spring 176 is tensioned between an eye 178 inthe cross member 160, and the pin 156 connecting the connecting link 150 to the upper leg portion 110.

It will be appreciated that the pivotally connected members in the embodiment of the invention just described are of such a length, and have pivots so located that on the right hand side of the table as viewed in FIG. 7, the

pivots

168, 116, 112 and 172 on each `side of the table structure are the corners of true parallelograms. Thus, when the upper leg members 110 are swung to a vertical position (see FIG. 6) the lower leg members 104 remain vertical, although they become more closely spaced with respect to each other, being in alignment with the upper leg members 110.

Referring next to the embodiment of the invention illustrated in FIGS. 12 to 15, the table structure includes a table top designated generally at 180 which is supported by a sub-trop 182 as best seen in FIG. 13, the sub-top 182 A'being provided with a surrounding skirt or apron 1'83.

Secured to the under side of the sub-top 182, and centrally thereof, lare a pair of depending spaced brackets 184 forming a housing having a bottom 186 which is tixedly secured to the brackets 184 as at 188 towards the end edges thereof. Secured to the under side of the bottom 186, are a -pair of depending spaced support bars which lare interconnected by member 192 which is tixedly secured to the lower ends 0f the support bars 190 as 'at 194.

This table is adjustable for use at either a lower or an upper elevation and in FIG. 13 the ta-ble is illustrated in its -upper position by the solid lines and in its lower position by the broken lines, the numerals for the movable components being indicated with primes in their lower positions. Secured to the under side of the sub-top 182 are a pair of jointed leg panels 196, comprising lower leg members 198 and upper 4leg portions 200 which are pivotally or hingedly connected to the under side of the sub-top 182 as at 202 (FIGS. 13 and 14). The other end of the upper leg portions 200 frictionally engage the upper ends of their corresponding lower leg portion 198 at an inclined angle as at 204. Interc-onnecting each of the lower legs 198 with their corresponding upper legs 200 are a pair of connecting links 206, one end Iof which are pivotally connected to the central portion of the upper legs 200 respectively as by means of pin 208, and the Iother end of which are pivotally attached to the upper portion of the lower legs 198 respectively as by means of pin 210.

A vertically extending central pivot pin 212 is provided having one end thereof tixedly connected to the under side Iof the sub-top 182 and the other end thereof xedly connected to the bottom 186 as best seen in FIGS. 12 and 13. A control lever l214 having an upper guide plate 216 is rotatably mounted on the central pivot pin 212 (FIG. 13), the guide plate 216 being provided for alignment purposes. Tension spring 215 is connected to the apron 183 as at 21-7 and to the lcontrol lever 214 as at 219 for the same purposes as described in connection with spring 176 in the embodiment of FIGS. 6411, inclusive. ILinks 218 are provided having -one of their ends thereof pivotally connected to pins 208 and the yother ends thereof pivotally connected to the control lever 214 as at 220. Two pair of arms 222 are pivotally or hingedly connected to the bottom 186 -as at 224, the other ends of which are pivotally connected to pins 210. A pair of braces lare provided having the ends thereof pivotally or hingedly connected to the member -192 as 'at 227, respectively, and the other ends thereof pivotally or hingedly -connected t-o the lower leg portions 198 as at 229.

In operation in order to adjust the table top 1-80 from its upper elevation to its lower elevation, control lever 214 is rotated in a clockwise direction as viewed in FIG. L2, and in order to adjust the table top 180 from its lower elevation to its upper elevation the control llever 214 is rotated in a counterclockwise direction as viewed in FIG. 12. Thus, when the table is in its upper position the upper leg portions 200 are in .a vertical position with the lower edges there-of abutting the upper edges of t-he :lower leg portion 198 as at 204. When the table is being adjusted to its lower position the upper leg portions 200 pivot inwardly about their hinges 202 respectively, the force being exerted thereon via link 218. IThe lower 4leg portions 198 move upwardly and slightly outwardly guided by the arms 222 and the braces 225 until the upper ends thereof rest Iagainst the under lside of the sub-top 182 as at 226. 'It is noted that the corner of the top edge of the lower leg 198 may rest against the inside surface of the 'apron 183 in order to add rigidity to the structure when in this position. It will be appreciated by those skilled in the art that the lower leg portion 1-98 moves -outwardly a very small distance when the table top moves from its upper elevation to its lower elevation. Such a small movement is advantageous because it eliminates the necessity of providing casters at the foot of the legs and provides a sturdy frame as well as a stable support for the table in vari-ous vertical positions and which is adaptable for many different types of table top extensions.

Table top 180 comprises a sub-top 182 and a pair of top leaves 232 .and 234 asbest seen in FIGS. 14 and 15. Fixedly connected to the under side of the leaf 234 yare 4a pair of screws 236 and 238 (FIG. 13), the head of which are spaced from the surface of the top member 234. Arcuate sl-

ots

240 and 242 are provided in the subtop 182 .as best seen in FIG. 12. l'Ihe shank of the

screws

236 and 238 extend through the

slots

240 and 242, respectively, and the lheads of the screws are adapted to loosely engage the edge surfaces of their respective slots and, hence, when the top member 18|) is rotated, screws 236 and 238 follow the contour of the

arcuate slots

240 and 242, respectively, and thereby guide the top member 234 in its movement as best seen in FIG. 15.

Referring particularly to FIG. l5, the top member 232 is exposed when the table top 180 is in its position designated by theletter a and the end edges a thereof extend parallel to the leg structures 196. As the top 180 is rota-ted top member 232 moves to position b, thence to position c, thence to position d, the movement being guided by the

screws

236 and 238 in

arcuate slots

240 and 242 respectively. Upon reaching the position designated by the numeral d in FIG. 15, the top member 232 is pivotally swung open to the position indicated by the numeral e by means of hinges 246 provided for the purpose. Thus, the surface area of the table top now comprises the surface area of

leaves

232 and 234. Thus, the table top has been expanded for use when a large number of articles are to be placed thereon such as when additional place settings are required for dinner, for example.

'8 to the appended claims in determining the lscope of the invention.

What is claimed and desi-red to be secured by Letters Patent is:

1. In a table construction having a top middle portion adjustable for use at either a lower or at an intermediate or at upper elevation, the combination comp-rising two lower leg structures which are spaced apart, a pair of upper leg portions hingedly connected to the under side of said top portion and providing substantially vertical upward continuations for said lower leg structures respectively when said top portion is at the upper elevation, said upper leg portions respectively being pivotally connected to points fixed with respect to the upper ends of said leg structures, a pair of arms each pivotally connected at a point xed with respect to the under side of the mid part of said table top portion, said arms also being pivotally connected respectively at points fixed with respect to said lower leg structures, whereby said leg structures, upper leg portions and arms collectively form under each side of the table, substantially a quadrilateral linkage with the table top, additional means located just beneath the mid portion of the table top and interconnecting one of said quadrilateral linkages with the other and coacting therewith to cause said upper leg portions to pivot through equal and opposite angles when said table top portion is raised or lowered, a pair of upper leg extensions which form substantially vertical upper continuations for said lower leg structures respectively when the top is at -the intermediate elevation, and means for pivoting each of said upper leg extensions to a non-operative position when the top is at the lower elevation.

2. In a table construction having a top middle portion adjustable for use at either a lower or at anI intermediate or at an upper elevation while being maintained horizontal, the combination comprising two lower leg structures which are spaced apart when said top portion is adjusted to the upper elevation and further spaced apart when said top portion is at the intermediate elevation and still further spaced apart when said top portion is at the lower elevation, a pair of members hingedly connected to the under side of said top portion and providing substantially vertical upward continuations for said lower leg structures respectively when said top portion is at the upper elevation, said members respectively being pivotally connected to points ixed with respect to the upper ends of said leg structures, a pair of links each pivotally connected at a point fixed with respect to the under side of the mid portion of said table top portion, said links also being pivotally connected respectively at points xed with respect to the lower leg structures, whereby said leg structures, portions of said members and said links collectively form under each side of the table, substantially a quadrilateral linkage with the table top, and additional means located just beneath the mid portion of thetable top and interconnecting one of said quadrilateral linkages with the other and coacting therewith to cause said members to pivot through equal and opposite angles when said table top portion is raised or lowered, a pair of upper leg extensions which form substantially vertical upward continuations for said leg structures respectively when the top is at the intermediate elevation, means mounting said upper leg extensions for inwardly pivotal movement to a non-operative position substantially horizontal below said top, and means for retaining said extensions rmly in either position.

3. In a table construction having a top adjustable for use at either a lower or an intermediate or an upper elevation while being retained horizontal, the combination comprising two lower leg structures which are spaced apart when the top is adjusted to the upper elevation and further spaced apart when the top is at the intermediate elevation and still further spaced apart when the top is at the lower elevation, a pair of members which form upward continuations for said leg structures respectively when the top is at the upper elevation and which are directed inwardly toward each other in folded positions along and below the level of the table top when the latter is at the lower elevation, one end of each of said members respectively being pivotally connected to points iixed with respect to the upper ends of said leg structures, the other ends of said members respectively being pivotally connected at spaced points with respect to the under side of the top, a pair of links each pivotally connected at a point fixed with respect to the under side of the mid portion of the table top, said links also being pivotally connected respectively at points xed with respect to said lower leg structures, whereby said leg structures, members and links collectively form under each side of the table, substantially a quadrilateral linkage with the table top, and additional means located just beneath a mid portion of the table top and interconnecting one of said quadrilateral linkages with the other and coacting therewith to cause said members to pivot through equal and opposite angles when the table top is raised or lowered, a pair of upper leg extensions which form substantially vertical upward continuations for said link structures respectively when the top is at the intermediate elevation, and means mounting said upper leg extensions for pivotal movement for pivoting inwardly the respective ends thereof towards each other in folded positions along below the level of the table top when the latter is at the lower elevation.

4. In a table, a top, jointed legs at either end comprising upper and lower sections, means for positioning said top with said sections in substantial alignment at one elevation, and means for positioning said top at a lower elevation with said sections extending upright, and said upper sections extending substantially horizontal, linkage means for each of said lower leg sections for determining the inward and outward movement thereof in moving the top from one elevation to another, means coordinating the movements of both of said linkage means for simultaneous movement thereof, a pair of upper leg extensions which form substantially vertically upward continuations for said lower leg sections respectively when the top is at the intermediate elevation, and one end of each of said extension respectively being pivotally connected to the under side of the top for pivoting the extension to a non-operative position when the top is at the lower elevation.

5. In a table construction having a top middle portion adjustable for use at either a lower or at an intermediate or at an upper elevation, the combination comprising two lower leg structures which are spaced apart, a pair of members hingedly connected to opposite edges of said top portion and providing substantially vertical upward continuations for said lower leg structures respectively when v said top portion is at the upper elevation, said members respectively being pivotally connected to points fixed with.

respect to the upper ends of said leg structures, a pair of links each pivotally connected at a point xed with respect to the under side of the mid part of said table top portion, said links also being pivotally connectedvrespectively at points xed with respect to said lower leg structures, whereby said leg structures, portions o-f said members and said links collectively form under each side of the table, substantially a quadrilateral linkage with the table top, and additional means located just beneath the mid portion of the table top and interconnecting one of said quadrilateral linkages with the other and coacting therewith to cause said members t pivot through equal and opposite angles when said table top portion is raised or lowered, a pair of upper leg extensions which form substantially vertical upward continuations for said leg structures respectively when the top is at the intermediate elevation, one end of each of said extensions respectively being pivotally connected to the under side of the top for pivoting the extension to a non-operative position when the top is at the lower elevation, and means for pivoting said Y 150 t upper leg extensions between their operative and nonoperative positions.

6. A table construction in accordance with claim 5 :wherein said means -for pivoting said upper Ileg extensions comprises a link member having the center portion thereof pivotally connected to a point xed with respect to the under side of the mid part of said table top portion and a pair of link arms each having one end thereof pivotally vattached to a point fixed with respect to an upper leg extension respectively and the other ends thereof pivotally connected to the ends of said link member respectively whereby said upper leg extensions pivot through equal and opposite angles between their operative and non-operative positions.

7. In a table construction having a top adjustable for use at either a lower or an intermediate or an upper elevation while being retained horizontal, the combination comprising two lower leg structures which are spaced apart when the top is adjusted to the upper elevation and further spaced apart when the top is at the lower elevation, a pair of members which form substantially vertically upward continuation for said leg structures respectively when the top is at the upper elevation, one end of each of said members respectively being pivotally connected to points fixed with respect to the upper end of said leg structures, the other end of said members respectively being pivotally connected at spaced points with respect to the under side of the top, a pair of links each pivotally connected at a point fixed with respect to the under side portion of the table top, said links being pivotally connected respectively at points xed with respect to said lower leg structures, whereby said leg structures, members and links collectively form under each side of the table, substantially a quadrilateral linkage with the table top, and additional means located just beneath the mid portion of the table top and interconnecting one `0f said quadrilateral linkages with the other and coacting therewith to cause said members to pivot through equal and opposite angles when the table top is raised or lowered, a pair of upper leg extenp sions which form substantially vertical upward continuations for said leg structures respectively when the top is at the intermediate elevation, one end of each of said extensions respectively being pivotally connected to the under side of the top for pivoting the extension to a nonoperative position when the top is at the lower elevation, and said leg extensions having a linear length less then the linear length of said members.

8. In a table construction having a top adjustable for use at either a lower or an intermediate or an upper elevation while being retained horizontal, the combination comprising two lower leg structures which are spaced apart when the top is adjusted to the upper elevation and further spaced apart when the top is at the intermediate elevation and still further spaced apart when the top is at the lower elevation, a pair of members which form upward continuations for said leg structures respectively when the top is at the upper elevation and which are directed inwardly toward each other in folded positions along below the level of the table top when the latter is at the lower elevation, one end of each of said members respectively being pivotally connected to points xed with respect to the upper ends of said leg structures, the other ends of said members respectively being pivotally connected at spaced points with respect to the under side of the top, a pair of links each pivotally connected at a point ixed with respect to the under side of the mid portion of the table top, said links also being pivotally connected respectively at points tixed with respect to said lower leg structures, whereby said leg structures, members and links collectively form under each side of the table substantially a quadrilateral linkage with the table top, linkage means with connections to control the relative movement of said members with respect to the under side of the mid portion of the table top to cause said members to pivot through equal and opposite angles when the tabletop is raised or-lowered, a pair of upper leg lextensions which form substantially vertically upward continuations for said leg structures respectively when the top is at the intermediate elevation, one end of each of said extensions respectively being pivotally connected to the under side of the top for pivoting the extension to a non-operative position when the top is at the lower elevation, and resilient linkage means for retaining said extensions firmly in either position.

9. In a table construction having a top adjustable for use at either a lower or an intermediate or an upper elevation while being retained horizontal, the combination comprising two lower leg structures which are spaced apart when the top is adjusted to the upper elevation and further spaced apart when the top is at the intermediate elevation and still further spaced apart when the top is at the lower elevation, a pair of members which form upward `continuations for said leg structures respectively when the top is at the upper elevation and vwhich are directed inwardly toward each other in folded position along below the level of the table top when the latter is at the lower elevation, one end of each of said members respectively being pivotally connected to points fixed with respect to the upper ends of said leg structures, the other ends of said members respectively being pivotally connected at spaced points with respect to the under side of the top, a pair of links each pivotally connected at a point iixed with respect to the under side of the mid portion of the table top, said links also being pivotally connected vrespectively at points fixed with respect to said lower leg structures, whereby said leg structures, members and links collectively form under each side of the table substantially at quadrilateral linkage with the table top, linkage means with connections to control the relative movement of said members with respect to the under side of the mid portion of the table top to cause said members to pivot through equal and opposite angles when the table top is raised or lowered, a pair of upper leg extensions which form substantially vertically upward continuations for said leg structures respectively when the top is at the intermediate elevation, one end of each of said extensions respectively being pivotally connected to the under side of the top, a link member having the center portion thereof piv-otally connected to a point iixed with respect to the under side of the mid portion of the table top, a pair of link arms each having one end thereof pivotally connected to a point xed with respect to its corresponding upper leg extension and the othervend thereof pivotally connected to its corresponding end of said link member, whereby said link member and link arms with connections control the relative movement of said upper leg extensions with respect to the under side of the mid portion of the table top to cause said upper leg extensions to pivot through equal and opposite angles when pivoted between operative and non-operative positions, and resilient means for retaining said extensions iirmly in either position.

10. In a table construction having a top middle portion adjustable for use at either a lower or at an intermediate or at an upper elevation, the combination comprising two lower leg structures which are spaced apart, a pair of members pivotally connected at spaced points with respect to the under side of the top portion and providing substantially vertical upward continuations for said lower leg structures respectively when said top portion is at the upper elevation, said members respectively being pivotally connected to points fixed with respect to the upper `ends of said leg structures, a pair of links each pivotally connected at a point iixed with respect to the under side of the mid part of said top portion, said links also being pivotally connected respectively at points iixed with respect to said lower leg structures, whereby said leg structures, portions of said members and said links collectively form under each side of the table, substantially a quadrilateral linkage with the top portion, and additional means located just beneath the mid portion of the top portion Vwith the other and coacting therewith to cause said members to pivot through equal and opposite angles when said top portion is raisedor lowered, a pair of upper leg ex- 'tensions which form substantially vertically upward continuations for said leg structures respectively when the top portion is at the intermediate elevation, and one end of each of said extensions respectively being pivotally connected to the upper end of said lower leg structures respectively for pivoting the extension to a non-operative position when the top is at the lower elevation.

11. In a table construction having a top middle portion adjustable for use at either a lower or at an intermediate or at an upper elevation, while being maintained horizontal, the combination comprising two lower leg structures which are spaced apart, when said top portion `is adjusted to the upper elevation and further space-d apart when said top portion is at the intermediate elevation and still further space-d apart when said top portion is at the lower elevation, a pair of members pivotally connected at spaced points with respect to the under side of the top portion and providing substantially vertical upward continuations -`for said lower leg structures respectively when said top portion is at the upper elevation, said members respectively being pivotally connected to points fixed with respect to the upper ends of said leg structures, a pair of links each pivotally connected at a point fixed with respect tothe under side of the mid part of said top portion, said links also being pivotally connected respectively at points fixed with respect -to said lower leg structures, whereby said leg structures, portions of said members and said links collectively form under each side of the table, substantially a quadrilateral linkage with the top portion, and additional means located just beneath the mid portion of the top portion and interconnecting one of said quadrilatreal linkages with the other and coacting therewith to cause said members to pivot through equal an-d opposite angles when said top portion is raised or lowered, a pair of upper leg extensions which form substantially vertically upward continuations for said leg structures respectively when the top portion is at the intermediate elevation, and one end of each of said extensions respectively being pivotally connected to the upper end of said lower leg structures respectively for pivot-ing the extension to a non-operative position When the top is at the lower elevation, and releasable means depending from the under side of said table top for engaging the other ends of said leg extensions when the top is at the intermediate elevation.

1.2. A table construction in accordance with claim 11 wherein said releasable means comprises a pair of spaced apart cams interconnected by a cam rod pivotally mounted to the under side of said table top for rotation between an operative position and a non-operative position, the lower edges of said cams being adapted to engage the upper edges of said upper leg extensions when the top is at the intermediate elevation, and said cams being adapted t-o rotateto their inoperative lposition when said top is at the lower elevation.

13. In a table construction having a top adjustable for use at either 'a lower or an intermediate or an upper elevation, the combination comprising two lower leg structures which are spaced apart, a pair of members which form substantially vertically upward continuations for said leg structures respectively when the top is at the upper elevation, each of said members respectively being pivotally connected to points ixed with respect to the spect to said lower leg structures, whereby said leg structures, members and links collectively form under each Vside of the table, substantially a quadrilateral linkage with the table top, and additional means located just beneath the mid portion of the table top and interconnecting one of said quadrilateral linkages with the other and coacting therewith to cause said members to pivot through equal and opposite angles when the table top is raised or lowered, a pair of upper leg extensions which forms substantially vertically upward continuations with said leg structures respectively when the top is at the intermediate elevation, one end of each of said extensions respectively being pivotally connected to the upper end of the lower leg structures for pivoting the extensions to nonoperative positions when the top is at the lower elevation, spaced arcuate surfaces fixed with respect to the underside of said top, and means provided at the other end of each of said extensions respectively for engaging the arcuate surfaces whereby said upper leg extensions are pivoted to a non-operative position when the top is at the lower elevation.

14. In a table construction having a table top adjustable for use at either a lower or an intermediate or an upper elevation, the combination comprising two lower leg structures which are spaced apart, a pair of members which form substantially vertically upward continuations for said leg structures respectively when the top is at the upper elevation, one end of each of said members respectively being pivotally connected to points fixed with respect to the upper end of said leg structures, the other end of said members respectively being pivotally connected at spaced points with respect to the under side of the top, a pair of links each pivotally connected at a point fixed with respect to the under side portion of the table top, said links being pivotally connected respectively at points fixed with respect to said lower leg structures, whereby said leg structures, members and links collectively form under each side of the table top, substantially a quadrilateral linkage with the table top, and additional means located just beneath the mid portion of the table top and interconnecting one of said quadrilateral linkages with the other and coacting therewith to cause said members to pivot through equal and opposite angles when the table top is raised or lowered, a pair of upper leg extensions which form substantially vertical upward continuations for said leg structures respectively when the top is at the intermediate elevation, one end of each of said extensions respectively being hingedly connected to the top end of said lower leg structures and adapted for pivotally inward movement, a pair of spaced apart cams mounted on a cam rod which is rotatably connected to the under side of said table top, said cams being adapted for movement between an operative position and a nonoperative position, the lower edge of said cams being adapted to engage the upper edge respectively of the leg extension when said table top is in the intermediate position, means mounted on the upper edge of said leg extentions respectively for engaging portions of the under surface of said table top respectively when said cams are in their inoperative position, whereby said leg extensions are pivoted inwardly to a substantially horizontal position disposed below the table top when the top is at the lower elevation.

15. In a table construction having a table top adjustable for use at either a lower or an intermediate or an upper elevation, the combination comprising two lower leg structures which are spaced apart, a pair of members which form upward continuations for said leg structures respectively when the top is at the upper elevation and which are directed inwardly toward each other in folded positions below the table top when the latter is at the lower elevation, one end of each of said members respectively being pivotally connected to points fixed with respect to the upper ends of said leg structures, the other ends of said members respectively being pivotally connected at spaced points with respect to the under side of the top, a

'pair of links each pivotally connected at a point fixed with respect to the under side of the mid portion of the table top, said links also being pivotally connected respectively at points fixed with respect to said lower leg structures, whereby said leg structures, members and links collectively form under each side of the table, substantially a quadrilateral linkage with the table top, linkage means with connections to control the relative movement of said members with respect to the under side of the mid portion of the table top to cause said members to pivot through equal and opposite angles when the table top is raised or lowered, a pair of upper leg extensions which form substantially vertically upward continuations for said leg structures respectively when the top is at the intermediate elevation, one end of each of said extensions respectively being pivotally connected to points fixed with respect to the upper ends of said leg structures for pivoting the extensions to a non-operative substantially horizontal position when the top is at the lower elevation, rotatable cams depending from the under side of said top, means interconnecting said cams for simultaneously positioning them between an operative and an inoperative position, spaced arcuate surfaces fixed with respect to the under side of said top, means mounted on the upper end of said lower leg structures respectively for engaging said arcuate faces when said cams are in their inoperative position and said table top is at the lower elevation, and said cams being adapted to engage their corresponding upper ends of said lower leg structures when in their operative positions.

16. In a table, a top, jointed legs at either end com prising upper and lower sections, means for positioning said top with said' sections in substantial alignment at one elevation, and means for positioning said top at a lower elevation with said lower sections extending `upright, and said uppersections extending substantially horizontal, linkage means for eac-h of said lower leg sections for determining the movement thereof in moving the top from one elevation to another, means coordinating the movements of both of said linkage means for simultaneous movement thereof, a pair of upper leg extensions which form substantially vertical upward continuations for said lower leg sections respectively when the top is at the intermediate elevation, one end of each of said extensions respectively being pivotally connected to the upper end of each of'said lower sections for pivoting the extension to a non-operative position when t-he top is at the lower elevation, cam means pivotally mounted on the under side of said top for engaging the upper ends of said lower leg sections respectively when the top is at the intermediate elevation, a pair of spaced arcuate surfaces fixed with respect to the under side of said top, and means mounted on t-he upper ends of said lower sections respectively for engaging said arcuate faces when said cams are in their inoperative position and said top is at the lower elevation.

17. In a table, a top, jointed legs at either end comprising upper and lower sections, means for positioning said top with said sections in substantial alignment at one elevation, and means for positioning said top at a lower elevation with said lower sections extending upright, and said vupper sections extending substantially horizontal, linkage means for each of said lower leg sections for determining the movement thereof in moving the top from one elevation to another, and means coordinating the movements of both of said linkage means for simulatneous movement thereof, a pair of upper leg extensions which form substantially vertical upward continuations for said lower leg sections respectively when the top is at the intermediate elevation, one end of each of said extensions respectively being pivotally connected to the upper end of the lower section for pivoting the extension to a non-operative position when the top is at the lower elevation, resilient means for retaining said extensions firmly in either position, a pair of spaced apart cams for frictionally engaging the upper ends of said lower sections respectively when said table top is at an intermediate position, means for coordinating the movements of both of said cams for simultaneous movement thereof, a pair of spaced apart blocks depending downwardly from said top having lower arcuate faces respectively, and roller means connected to the upper ends of said leg extensions respectively for engaging said arcuate lower faces when said top is at the lower elevation.

18. In a table construction having a top adjustable for use at either a lower or an upper elevation while being retained horizontal, the combination comprising two spaced apart lower leg structures, a pair of spaced apart lupper leg structures which form upward continuations for said lower leg structures respectively when the top is at the upper elevation, one end of each of said upper leg structures being pivotally connected at spaced points respectively with respect to the upper side of the top, pivotal means for connecting each of said lower leg structures to the mid portion of the underside of the said top, pivotal means interconnecting each of said lower leg Ystructures to its respective upper leg structures, a control lever having the center portion thereof pivotally connected to the under side of the mid portion of the table top and adapted for rotary motion, means connecting said control valve to each of said upper leg structures, whereby when said table is in a iirst position and said control lever is rotated in one direction said leg structures and means collectively fold said upper leg structures inwardly towards each lother in folded positions along below the level of the table top and the lower leg structures move upwardly and slightly outwardly until the upper portions thereof engage said table top, and when lsaid control lever is rotated in the opposite direction the table returns to its first position.

19. In a table construction having a top adjustable for use at either a lower or an upper elevation while being retained horizontal, the combination comprising two lower leg structures which are spaced apart, a pair of upper leg structures which form upward continuations for said lower leg structures respectively when the top is at the upper elevation, a pair of connecting links for each leg structure having the upper ends thereof pivotally attached to the upper leg structure respectively and the lower ends thereof pivotally attached to the lower leg structures respectively, means pivotally connecting each lower leg structure to the under side of the mid portion of the top, a control lever having the center portion thereof pivotally connected to the under side of the mid portion of the table top and being adapted for horizontal rotational movement, a pair of links eac'h having one end thereof pivotally connected to said upper leg structures respectively and the other end thereof pivotally connected towards the ends respectively of said control lever, whereby the table is in a first position and said control lever is rotated in one direction said leg structures, links and means collectively fold said upper leg structures inwardly towards each other in folded positions along below the level of the table top and the lower leg structures move upwardly and slightly outwardly to a position where the upper edges thereof engage the under side of the table top, and when said control lever is rotated in the opposite direction the table returns to its first position. y

20. In a table, a top, jointed legs at either end comprising upper and lower leg structures, said upper leg structures forming upward extensions for said lower leg structures respectively when the top is at the upper elevation, the upper ends of said upper leg structures being pivotally connected to the under side of the table top in spaced relationship one to the other, means for pivoting said upper leg structures inwardly towards each other in folded positions along below the level of the table top when the latter is at the lower elevation, connecting links interconnecting said 'upper leg structures to said lower leg structures respectively, each link having one -end thereof pivotally 'connected to the lupper leg'struc- Jture and the other en d thereof pivotally connected to the corresponding lower leg structure, a pair of arms pivotallyconnecting each lower leg structure to the under side of the mid portion of the top, whereby when said table is moved from a first position thereof and when said means pivots said upper leg structures, the lower leg structures move upwardly and slightly outwardly to engage the under side of the table top in spaced apart relationship one to the other, and when said means actuates said upper .leg portions to return them to their rst positions respectively said lower leg portions are thereby returned to their first positions.

21. In a table construction having a top adjustable for -use at either a lower or upper elevation while being retained horizontal, the combination comprising two lower leg structures which are spaced apart when the top is at the upper elevation and slightly further spaced apart when the top is at the lower elevation, a pair of upper legs which form upward continuations for said leg structures respectively when the top is at the upper elevation and which are directed inwardly towards each other in folded positions along below the level of the table top when the latter is at the lower elevation, one end of each of said upper legs respectively being pivotally connected at spaced points with respect to the under side of the top, one pair of arms for each lower leg, each `arm having one end thereof pivotally connected to its corresponding lower leg and the other end thereof pivotally connected to the under side of the mid portion of the table top, a brace member for each lower leg having one end thereof pivotally connected to said corresponding lower leg and the other end thereof pivotally connected to the under side of the mid portion of the table top, a control lever having the mid portion thereof pivotally connected to the under side of the mid portion of the top and adapted for substantially horizontal rotational movement, a pair of links having one of their ends pivotally connected to vsaid upper legs respectively and the other ends thereof pivotally connected towards the corresponding ends of the control lever, a pair of connecting links pivotally linterconnecting each lower leg structure to its correspond-ing upper leg structure, whereby when the table structure is in an original position and the control lever is `rotated in one direction said arms, links and braces collectively fold the upper legs inwardly towards a horizontal position below the level of the table top and the lower legs move upwardly and slightly outwardly until the v upper ends thereof engage the under side of the top, and

when the control lever is rotated in the opposite direction the links, arms, braces and legs return to their original positions.

2'2. In a table construction having a top adjustable for use at either a lower or upper elevation while being retained horizontal, the combination comprising two lower leg structures which are spaced apart when the top is at the upper elevation and slightly further spaced apart when the top is at the lower elevation, a pair of upper legs which form upward continuations for said leg structures respectively when the top lis at the upper elevation and which are directed linwardly towards each other in folded positions along below the level of the table top when the latter is at the lower elevation, one end of each of said upper legs respectively beingpivotally connected at spaced points with respect to the under side of the top, one pair of arms for each lower leg, each arm having one end thereof pivotally connected to its corresponding lower leg and the other end thereof pivotally Connected to the under side of the mid portion of the table top, a brace member for each lower leg having one end thereof pivotally connected t-o said corresponding lower leg and the other end thereof pivotally connected to the under side of the mid portion of the table top, said braces being pivotally connected to the under side of the mid portion of the top and being adapted for substantially horizontal rotational movement, a pair of links having one of their ends pivotally connected to said upper legs respectively and the other ends thereof pivotally connected towards the corresponding ends of the control lever, a pair of connecting links pivotally interconnecting each lower leg structure to its correspond-ing upper leg structure, resilient means for urging said control lever to rotate in one direction, whereby when the table structure is in a first position and when the control lever is rotated in one direction said arms, links and braces collectively fold the upper legs inwardly towards a horizontal position below the level of the table top and the lower legs move upwardly and slightly outwardly to engage the under side of the table top in spaced apart relationship one to the other, `and when the control lever is rotated in the opposite direction the links, arms, braces and legs return to their rst positions respectively.

References Cited by the Examiner UNITED STATES PATENTS Hofmann 108-72 Tiemann 10S-113 Owens 108-35 Angert 10S-63 Follmer 10S-63 Stoner 108-130 Bureau 108--11 Hoppe 108--145 Curtis 108-144 X McGinley 10S- 144 X Davis 108-145 Hoppe 108-145 FOREIGN PATENTS 3/56 Belgium.

FRANK B. SHERRY, Primary Examiner.

Claims

1. IN A TABLE CONSTRUCTION HAVING A TOP MIDDLE PORTION ADJUSTABLE FOR USE AT EITHER A LOWER OR AT AN INTERMEDIATE OR AT UPPER ELEVATION, THE COMBINATION COMPRISING TWO LOWER LEG STRUCTURES WHICH ARE SPACED APART, A PAIR OF UPPER LEG PORTION HINGEDLY CONNECTED TO THE UNDER SIDE OF SAID TOP PORTION AND PROVIDING SUBSTANTIALLY VERTICAL UPWARD CONTINUATIONS FOR SAID LOWER LEG STRUCTURES RESPECTIVELY WHEN SAID TOP PORTION IS AT UPPER ELEVATION, SAID UPPER LEG PORTIONS RESPECTIVELY BEING PIVOTALLY CONNECTED TO POINTS FIXED WITH RESPECT TO THE UPPER ENDS OF SAID LEG STRUCTURES, A PAIR OF ARMS EACH PIVOTALLY CONNECTED AT A POINT FIXED WITH RESPECT TO THE UNDER SIDE OF THE MID PART OF SAID TABLE TOP PORTION, SAID ARMS ALSO BEING PIVOTALLY CONNECTED RESPECTIVELY AT POINTS FIXED WITH RESPECT TO SAID LOWER LEG STRUCTURES, WHEREBY SAID LEG STRUCTURE, UPPER LEG PORTIONS AND ARMS COLLECTIVELY FORM UNDER EACH SIDE OF THE TABLE, SUBSTANTIALLY A QUADRILATERAL LINKAGE WITH THE TABLE TOP, ADDITIONAL MEANS LOCATED JUST BENEATH THE MID PORTION OF THE TABLE TOP AND INTERCONNECTING ONE OF SAID QUADRILATERAL LINKAGES WITH THE OTHER AND COACTING THEREWITH TO CAUSE SAID UPPER LEG PORTIONS TO PIVOT THROUGH EQUAL AND OPPOSITE ANGLES WITH SAID TABLE TOP PORTION IS RAISED OR LOWERED, A PAIR OF UPPER LEG EXTENSION WHICH FORM SUBSTANTIALLY VERTICAL UPPER CONTINUATION FOR SAID LOWER LEG STRUCTURES RESPECTIVELY WHEN THE TOP IS AT THE INTERMEDIATE ELEVATION, AND MEANS FOR PIVOTING EACH OF SAID UPPER LEG EXTENSIONS TO A NON-OPERATIVE POSITION WHEN THE TOP IS AT THE LOWER ELEVATION.