WO2016081986A1

WO2016081986A1 - Table foot stabiliser

Info

Publication number: WO2016081986A1
Application number: PCT/AU2015/000722
Authority: WO
Inventors: Kevin Miah FREGON
Original assignee: Fregon Kevin Miah
Priority date: 2014-11-28
Filing date: 2015-11-27
Publication date: 2016-06-02
Also published as: EP3223661A4; AU2015354392A1; EP3223661A1; AU2015354392B2

Abstract

An adjustment device for use in stabilising and possibly levelling a dining table, when located on an uneven floor, is provided as a replacement foot for one of the existing feet of a multi-legged table. The adjustment device has a threaded post or insertable plug for secure connection to the leg and a slidably movable stem angularly interconnected to each other using a spring to urge the stem into a fully extended position. When sufficient force is applied, the stem moves against the bias of the spring to adopt a more retracted adjusted position in which all of the feet contact the uneven floor to stabilise the position of the table. The advantage of the adjustment device is that it automatically adjusts itself to the correct position to prevent rocking of the table when force is applied to the device or to the table, but retains the adjusted position due to the weight of the table.

Description

TABLE FOOT STABILISER

FIELD The present invention relates to adjustment devices for stabilising and optionally levelling items when supported on a substrate, and to methods of using such adjustment devices to stabilise the items when supported on the substrates.

In one form, the present invention relates to stabilising of an item having support elements using an adjustment device for adjusting one of the support elements so that the item is stabilised when supported upon an uneven substrate.

In one form, the present invention relates to an adjustment device for adjusting the position of part of at least one of the support elements of the item, in which at the least one support element having the adjustment device cooperates with others of the support elements to stabilise the item when supported on an uneven substrate.

In one form, the present invention has particular application as an adjustment device and method of using an adjustment device for adjusting the position and/or orientation of part of one or more of the legs of a multi-legged table to stabilise and optionally to possibly level the table when located on an uneven surface so as to provide a stable dining surface.

In forms of the invention , the adjustment device can, in situations where the unevenness or gradient or slope of the substrate is within adjustment limits of the device, achieve a substantially level position for the item being adjusted . Using multiple adjustment devices on the one item will extend the range of unevenness, gradient or slope of the substrate over which the item can be stabilised and levelled, such as for example, an outdoor dining table.

Although the present invention will be described with particular reference to one or other embodiment of a stabilising device or adjustment device, particularly for stabilising and levelling a dining table, and to one or more methods of using such devices to stabilise and level dining tables, it is to be noted that the scope of protection is not restricted to the described embodiments but rather, the scope of protection is more extensive so as to include other forms and arrangements of the devices, other forms and arrangements of the components of the device, and to other applications of the various forms of the devices than specifically described. BACKGROUND

There are many situations in which it is desirable to locate a supporting structure on an uneven surface so that the supporting structure is stable and level and/or remains stable and level during use. Examples of such situations include locating a multi-leg table, bench or similar on an uneven floor of a building or outdoors on an uneven surface. A very common example of having a table located on an uneven surface is at a restaurant with outdoor seating, or a restaurant located in an older building having an uneven floor, or a restaurant located in a renovated building in which the floor was never truly even on completion or has become uneven over time due to the nature of the subfloor conditions and the varying movements of different flooring materials used, including combinations of new and used flooring materials.

Although the adjustment device will be described with reference to stabilising and levelling dining tables, the devices are not restricted to use with dining tables only, but have more universal application.

Many dining tables have four legs located at or towards the four corners of the table. When the table is located on an uneven surface, the table is prone to rocking, wobbling, pivoting or undergoing other unwanted movement. Because of uneven surfaces, the table can continually rock back and forth about two grounded opposing legs due to the clearance between the floor surface and the other two opposing legs. The continual rocking of the table often causes annoyance to diners, as well as there being a risk of food or beverages being spilt as the table rocks from side to side about the two legs in contact with the substrate or floor, sometimes unexpectedly.

In the past, there have been many attempts to address the rocking movement of the table, such as by placing shims, wedges or similar, under one or more of the legs of the table in an effort to reduce the rocking or other unwanted movement of the table. In restaurants, a typical form of the shim is a folded paper sheet, such as a napkin or serviette, or a drink coaster or similar, placed under one of the legs of the table by either a waiter or a diner. However, at best this solution is only temporary, and usually requires repeated attempts to eliminate the rocking movement, and then it usually offers temporary relief only. Not only is it time consuming for a waiter to attempt repeatedly to reduce rocking of the table using the shims, but invariably the shims themselves move as a result of the pressure executed on the table by the diners, or the table is inadvertently knocked, displacing the shims from under the leg of the table. During use, the table inevitably adopts a slightly different position on the uneven surface and recommences to rock or otherwise move because either the shim is dislodged from under the leg, or the floor conditions of the new position in which the table is located are different from the original position, which position is not

compensated by the placement of the existing shims.

Other attempts of providing adjustable length legs include mechanisms which can independently alter the length of one or more of the legs. However, such mechanisms have not been entirely satisfactory due to the cost and complexity of such devices.

Other attempts to overcome the problem of unwanted movement of the table, particularly four-legged tables, have resulted in complex and costly mechanisms fitted to the tables during manufacture in an attempt to compensate for the unevenness of the substrates upon which the table is to be supported. However, owing to the cost of the mechanism, and the complexity of installing such mechanisms during the manufacturing process of the tables, or retrofitting such mechanisms, there has been very little, if any, adoption of such mechanisms or of tables having such mechanisms. Further, the problem of using some previously available mechanisms, is the

mechanisms cannot be retro fitted to existing four-legged tables. These mechanisms have to be incorporated into brand new tables as original equipment. Restaurateurs are reluctant to replace their existing fixed leg tables with alternatives due to the financial implications of incurring unnecessary costs, merely to provide stable and level dining tables.

Accordingly, there is a need for a simple low cost adjustment device that can be used to stabilise and/or level a table when located upon an uneven surface. According to an aim of the present invention, there is provided an adjustment device for stabilising and/or levelling a table when located upon an uneven surface.

Accordingly, it is an aim of the present invention to provide a method of adjusting the position or orientation of part of a leg, or legs, of a table to stabilise and/or level the table when located upon an uneven surface.

Accordingly, it is an aim of the present invention to provide an adjustment device that can be retrofitted to an existing table for use in stabilising and/or levelling the table when located upon an uneven surface.

Accordingly, it is an aim of the present invention to provide a method of installing on part of the leg of a table, a low cost adjustment device for stabilising and/or levelling the table when located upon an uneven surface. Accordingly, it is an aim of the present invention to provide a simple, easy to use adjustment device for stabilising and/or levelling a table when located upon an uneven surface.

SUMMARY

According to one form of the present invention , there is provided an adjustment device for use in stabilising and/or levelling an item having more than one support element or contact point with an uneven substrate upon which the item is supported, the adjustment device comprising a first member for connecting the adjustment device to the item , a second member for supporting the item on the substrate, the first member and the second member being biasedly interconnected to one another, wherein the first member and the second member are movable with respect to each other for allowing relative movement with respect to each other such that force applied to the second member releases the interconnection between the first member and the second member to enable the second member to move against the bias with respect to the first member to adopt an adjusted position with respect to the substrate to stabilise and/or level the item. According to one form of the present invention , there is provided a method of stabilising and/or levelling an item having more than one support element or contact point when supported on an uneven substrate, the method comprising the steps of locating an adjustment device associated with the at least one support element or point of contact on the substrate, the adjustment device comprising a first member for connecting the adjustment device to the item,

a second member for supporting the item on the substrate, the first member and the second member being biasedly interconnected to one another, wherein the first member and the second member are movable with respect to each other for allowing relative movement with respect to each other such that force applied to the second member releases the interconnection between the first member and the second member to enable the second member to move against the bias with respect to the first member to adopt an adjusted position with respect to the substrate to stabilise and/or level the item. According to one form of the present invention , there is provided an item having an adjustment device for stabilising the item when supported on an uneven surface, the adjustment device comprising a first member for connecting the adjustment device to the item , a second member for supporting the item on the substrate, the first member and the second member being biasedly interconnected to one another, wherein the first member and the second member are movable with respect to each other for allowing relative movement with respect to each other such that force applied to the second member releases the interconnection between the first member and the second member to enable the second member to move against the bias with respect to the first member to adopt an adjusted position with respect to the substrate to stabilise and/or level the item.

According to one form of the present invention , there is provided an adjustment device for use in stabilising and/or levelling an item having more than one support element or contact point with an uneven substrate upon which the item is supported, the adjustment device comprising a first member for connecting the adjustment device to the item in a first orientation so that the first member extends in a first direction , the first member having a first connector located at or towards a first end of the first member for connecting the adjustment device to the item, the first member having a second connector located at or towards a second end of the first member, a second member extending in a second direction for adopting a second orientation, the first direction being different to the second direction, the second member having a first end connected to the second end of the first member, the first member and the second member being movable with respect to each other, and an operating member fixedly connected to the second end of the second member, wherein the first member and the second member are resiliently and biasedly connected to one another for allowing movement with respect to each other such that movement of the operating member releases the connection between the first member and the second member to enable the second member and the operating member to move with respect to the first member against the resilient bias to adopt an adjusted position with the substrate or floor to stabilise and/or level the item.

According to one form of the present invention , there is provided a method of stabilising and/or levelling an item having more than one support element or contact point when supported on an uneven substrate, the method comprising the steps of locating an adjustment device associated with the at least one support element or point of contact on the substrate, the adjustment device comprising a first member having a first end and a second end, the first end for connecting the device to the item at the first support element or point of contact, the first member extending in a first direction , the second end of the first member being movably connected to a second member provided with an operating member, the second member extending in a second direction, the first direction being different to the second direction, wherein moving the operating member moves the second member with respect to the first member to allow the second member to move to adopt an adjusted position to stabilise and/or level the item on the uneven support substrate.

According to one form of the present invention , there is provided an item having an adjustment device for stabilising the item when supported on an uneven surface, the adjustment device comprising a first member for connecting the adjustment device to the item in a first orientation so that the first member extends in a first direction , the first member having a first connector located at or towards a first end of the first member for connecting the adjustment device to the item, the first member having a second connector located at or towards a second end of the connector, a second member extending in a second direction for adopting a second orientation, the first direction being different to the second direction, the second member having a first end connected to the second end of the first member, the first member and the second member being movable with respect to each other, and an operating member fixedly connected to the second end of the second member, wherein the first member and the second member are resiliently and biasedly connected to one another for allowing movement with respect to each other such that movement of the operating member releases the interconnection between the first member and the second member to enable the second member and the operating member to move with respect to the first member against the resilient bias to adopt an adjusted position with the substrate or floor to stabilise and/or level the item.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION

In one form, the item can be any suitable item. Typically, the item is a supporting structure for supporting or storing articles. Preferably, the item is an item of furniture, including domestic, industrial, residential, office or commercial furniture or the like.

In one form, the item is a table, bench or other elevated supporting structure having a work or operation surface, and more typically, one or more supporting elements or points of contact with the substrate on which it is located.

In one form, the table is a fixed or stationary table of the type having the legs permanently attached to the table top.

In one form, the table is a folding table in which one or more legs are foldable between two or more positions, such as for example, a hospitality table, or other table capable of being converted between an expanded configuration for use and a folded configuration for storage.

In one form, the item is a table, bench, desk, chair or similar. One form of the item is a table used in the hospitality industry, such as a dining table, a restaurant table, a cafe table, a terrace table, a folding table, stands, display stands, nestable tables or chairs, stackable tables or chairs, or similar.

In forms of the table having fixed legs, the legs are typically located at or towards corners of the table, such as for example, located at the four corners of a square or rectangular table. One form of the table or chair is a pedestal table or chair having a central column and a hub from which a multitude of legs extend outwardly from the pedestal or base of the table, typically, radially outwards at spaced apart locations, so that there are multiple points of contact with the floor, typically four, five or six points of contact. One form of the table has adjustable length legs, typically legs having an adjustable foot, more typically, an axially adjustable leg or foot. In some forms, the legs of the table are provided with interchangeable feet.

In one form, the table is a pedestal type table having four, five or six or more outwardly extending legs, typically each leg is provided with an adjustable foot.

In one form, the base of the chair or of the table is of a pedestal type or is provided with a pedestal base, more typically, having four legs extending radially outwardly from a central hub located below a central column in which the distal end of each leg is provided with a fitting including a fixed foot or an adjustable foot, an interchangeable foot or replaceable foot, or similar.

In one form of the table, one or more of the existing fittings at the foot of the legs of the table is replaced by an adjustment device of the type described herein, typically one foot only needs to be replaced by the adjustment device in order to be able to stabilise, and possibly level, the table.

In one form, the adjustment device has three, four or more components, typically arranged for cooperative relationships with each other or being operatively

interconnected to each other for effecting movement of the adjustment device, more typically, resiliently interconnected.

In one form of the adjustment device, the first member is a connector member for use in attaching the adjustment device to the item, typically to the foot or end of one leg of the table. In one form, the connector member is provided with a first connector at one end thereof for connecting the adjustment device to the item and a second connector at the other end thereof for connecting the first member to a second member, typically, interconnecting the first and second members, more typically, movably interconnecting the first and second members. In one form, the first connector member is a post in the form of a stud, rod, bar, column, shank, shaft, tube, block, insert, cap or similar, and the first connector is a threaded end, preferably an externally threaded end of the post, shaft, rod, bar etc. Typically, the diameter of the threaded portion is from about 4mm to 10mm or equivalent. In one form, where the device is to be retrofitted to the end of one leg of the item which is already fitted with a threaded bore for threadingly receiving a conventional foot or similar fitting, the connector is adapted to suit the existing connection, such as for example, by having an externally threaded portion

complementary to the existing internally threaded bore so that the adjustment device is a direct replacement for the foot. It is to be noted that the first connector can be adapted to suit whatever form is required to secure the device firmly to the item. The connector is not limited to being of a threaded form but can take on any form required to securely attach the adjustment device to the item being stabilised and/or levelled. Other forms of the first connector include a fastener or a fastener and mounting element. One form of the fastener is a bolt or screw, or is a combination of an aperture and a bolt or screw. One form of the mounting element is a mounting block or mounting plate. In one form, the first connector is an insert, typically an insert having a plug for insertion into a socket, cavity, hollow or similar provided at the distal end of the leg.

In one form, the second connector at the second end of the first connector member in the form of a post, shaft, rod, bar etc., is a receiver, typically a receiver in the form of an aperture, bore, opening, cavity, hole, channel, gap, hollow or similar for receiving an end portion of the second member therethrough.

In one form, the bore forming the second connector of the first connector member has an axis, typically a central linear axis. In one form, the axis of the bore is angularly inclined to the lengthwise extending axis of the post.

In one form, the end or end surface of the end of the post forming the second connector end is inclined, such as being tapered, bevelled, sloping, inclined, slanted or the like. ln one form, the second member is a link member for linking the first connector member or post etc., to an operating element. In one form, the link member is a stem, typically in the form of a rod, bar, shaft, tube, cage, sleeve, arm or the like, including a hollow tube or solid bar or the like. The second member can be of any suitable form, type, or the like.

One end of the stem is received in the receiver of the post, typically, the upper end, proximal end, inner end or similar, whereas the other end of the stem is connected either directly or indirectly to the operating element. In one form, the operating element includes a resting portion, a foot pad, or other substrate contacting element. In forms of the adjustment device, the operating element is integral with the stem, or is formed as part of the stem, or is fixedly connected to the stem. In one form, the end of the stem is held in the opening at the second end of the post by a retainer, typically in the form of a pin, clip, wedge, spring, peg, detente, collar or the like. In some forms, the retainer includes a spring or similar for providing a biasing force.

In one form, the stem is slidably movable with respect to the post. Typically, the stem is slidably movable between an extended position corresponding to an at-rest position and a retracted or partially retracted position corresponding to a resiliently biased position, such as for example, an adjustment position for compensating for the unevenness of the substrate.

In one form, the stem is rotatable with respect to the post, typically rotatably and slidably movable to adopt a position with respect to the post to support, stabilise and/or level the table when located upon an uneven surface by the stem moving to the adjustment position or a position which corresponds to the positions of the other feet of the item to level the item.

In one form, the adjustment device is provided with a brake or stop to either prevent unwanted movement of the adjustment device and/or item, such as the table, and/or to suspend movement of the stem with respect to the post, typically to suspend or prevent slidable movement of the stem with respect to the post. In one form, the brake or stop is associated with the stem, preferably for engagement with the stem in the vicinity of the opening of the post. In one form, the stop or brake is received in the opening of the post along with the stem. Typically, the stop or brake is collinear or coaxial with the stem. In one form, the brake is a wedge, pin, taper, inclined surface or similar having a tapering side edge or end for engaging with the stem and post.

It is to be noted that the stop or brake can have or take any suitable or convenient form. One form is a wedge or a component having an inclined surface, a tapering surface, a sloping surface or the like. In one form, the brake is a ball in a groove or similar arrangement or assembly, typically in a form of a biased component able to move along a track or similar. More typically, the brake is spring biased or spring loaded. In one form, the brake allows movement of the stem in one direction but prevents movement of the stem in the opposite direction to lock the stem and post together, typically into an adjustment position corresponding to the item being levelled upon the substrate to stabilise the item in a level configuration.

In one form, the ball of the brake is a ball bearing or similar and the groove is a channel in the side of the stem, typically a part circular channel, such as a semicircular channel extending along the lengthwise extending axis of the stem in which the curvature of the channel matches the radius of the ball or sphere. In one form, the ball moves in the channel when the stem is released from the post but is wedged or otherwise held captive in the channel between the walls of the opening or bore of the post and the stem to prevent further movement of the stem in one direction with respect to the post, typically in a direction to extend the length of the stem from the post, i.e. in the direction of the force applied by the resiliently biased stem to prevent the adjustment device from returning to the fully extended at-rest position. It is to be noted that in forms of the adjustment device, the brake engages when the first and second member are in the optimum position to stabilise and /or level the item. The brake holds the device in the last set position to maintain the stability of the item.

In one form, the adjustment device is provided with a spring to bias the stem and post to each other. Typically, the spring is a compression spring, preferably a helical compression spring in which the stem is received in the hollow of the spring internally within the turns of the spring collectively. Typically, the spring is held in place between the enlarged foot pad or operating member at the lower end of the stem and the end of the post having the opening or bore through which the stem passes. In one form, the operating member of the adjustment device is, or is provided with, an operating element or operating system. In one form, the operating element is or includes an impact surface or an area capable of withstanding and/or transmitting an impact, such as for example, by contact by a suitable tool, implement or other force impacting the adjustment device, particularly part of the operating element.

In one form, the impact surface extends outwardly from the leg of the table, typically outwardly in at least two directions, preferably in two directions, such as both downwardly and laterally beyond the perimeter of the leg of the table so that the impact surface can be contacted with force, by either an implement, such as a hammer or other percussion implement, or by a person kicking the contact surface to move the operating element to allow the adjustment device to move to stabilise the table.

Movement of the operating element against the resilient biasing force releases the stem from the post and allows the stem to move with respect to the post from the fully extended position to a partially retracted position. Once the force, applied by either the implement or by kicking, is removed, the resilient biasing force of the connection between the post and stem allows the resting surface to move back in the direction of the at-rest position, stopping when the resting portion, footpad, and opposing foot or leg of the item rest firmly on the substrate, at which point the table is stable and possibly level, .

Typically, the table is stabilised and/or levelled by the striking of the operating element or member and the combined effect of, the weight of the table, the resiliently biased member, and its fixedly connected components.

In forms of the adjustment device, the first and second members move with respect to each other under load applied to the table or to the device when the adjustment device is supporting the weight of the item. In one form of the adjustment device, the first and second members temporarily bind in the position determined as the at rest position, set position, neutral position, equilibrium position or the like, which position is determined at least in part by the weight of the table acting upon the adjustment device, typically in a downward direction, more typically a substantially vertical downward position.

In one form, the impact surface is in the form of a block, sphere, ball, curved arm or the like, typically a smooth surfaced block, more typically an asymmetrical block in which part of the block extends beyond the edge or perimeter of the table leg.

In one form, the impact surface is a curved surface, or partially resilient surface to absorb some of the shock of impact, so as not to dislodge or move the entire table, but rather to allow relative movement of or within the adjustment device to level the item.

In one form, the operating element is a flat bar having a curved end at least partially folded back upon itself, typically, of a J-shape, in which the hook portion is spaced apart from the shank portion. In one form, the operating element is in the form of a flat steel bar or stamping having a curved distal end.

In one form, the adjustment device includes a resting surface for resting upon or connecting the uneven surface supporting the item. In one form, the resting portion is in the form of a footpad or resting portion, or surface contacting portion or the like. In one form, the resting surface or surface contacting portion is part of the operating element, typically part of the impact surface of the operating element, more typically, the lower surface in use of the asymmetrical block or curved end forming the, or part of the operating element. In one form, the resting portion or surface contacting portion of the block, sphere, ball or the like is a flat section or surface for resting on the substrate, typically for contacting the substrate to transmit the applied adjusting forces that are required to stabilise and level the table from the adjustment device to the table, typically due to the resiliently biasedly member to which the resting portion is fixedly connected by pushing down on the substrate to support the weight of the table. In one form, the resting surface is angularly inclined to the stem, typically to the end of the stem. In one form, the resting surface is located substantially perpendicularly to the post.

In one form, the operating member and resting portion or foot pad are amalgamated, integral or joined together, but can be implemented as individual components.

In one form, the post and stems are angularly inclined to one another, typically, in the range of from about 10° to about 80°, typically in the range of from about 20° to about 60°, preferably from about 25° to about 55°, more preferably from about 30° to about 50°, most preferably about 40°. In one form, the angle of inclination is about 40° ±15°. In one form, the adjustment device extends from the undersurface of the leg to which it is attached, to a greater extent than the amount of extension of the ends of the remaining legs so that the adjustment device is proud in relation to the other feet to ensure that the adjustment device is in contact with the uneven surface so that the table will always rock or wobble from side to side pivoting on the adjustment device and the foot or end of the leg of the table opposite the position of the adjustment device prior to the adjustment device being adjusted to level the table or other item so as to ensure that movement of the foot pad or resting surface of the stem is able to level the table.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

Embodiments of the adjustment device will now be described by way of examples to illustrate forms of the invention with reference to the accompanying drawings in which:

Figure 1 is a schematic perspective view of one form of a table having one form of an adjustment device attached to one leg thereof.

Figure 2 is a partial cross-section view of one form of the usual footpad of the table located at the distal end of one leg and one form of the adjustment device fitted in situ to the distal end of the leg as a replacement for the usual footpad.

Figure 3 is a partial cross-section view of one form of the adjustment device in a fully extended position prior to adjustment.

Figure 4 is a partial cross-section view of the form of the adjustment device of Figure 3 in a partially retracted position after adjustment to stabilise and/or level the table.

Figure 5 is a partial cross-section view of another form of an adjustment device, including the addition of the ball spring and groove to operate as a brake, in an extended position prior to adjustment.

Figure 6 is a partial cross-section view of the form of the adjustment device, including the addition of the ball spring and groove to operate as a brake, of Figure 5 in a partially retracted position after adjustment. Figure 7 is a partial cross-section view of another form of the adjustment device, including the addition of the wedge spring and groove to operate as a brake, in a fully extended position prior to adjustment.

Figure 8 is a partial cross-section view of the form of the adjustment device, including the addition of the wedge spring and groove to operate as a brake of Figure 7 in a partially retracted position after adjustment. Figure 9 is an exploded view of another form of the adjustment device shown in isolation.

Figure 10 is a partial cross-section view of the form of the adjustment device of Figure 9 when in an extended position prior to adjustment.

Figure 1 1 is a partial cross-section view of the form of the adjustment device of Figure 9 when in a partially retracted position after adjustment.

Figure 12 is a perspective view of another embodiment of the adjustment device shown in isolation.

Figure 13 is a partial section view partial side elevation view of the adjustment device of Figure 12 located in situ at the distal end of a table leg prior to adjustment to level the table leg.

Figure 14 is a partial section view partial side elevation view of the adjustment device of Figure 12 located in situ at the distal end of a table leg after adjustment to level the table leg. Figure 15 is a perspective view of another embodiment of the adjustment device shown in isolation.

Figure 16 is a sectional view of the adjustment device of Figure 15 located in situ at the distal end of the table leg prior to adjustment to stabilise the table leg. Figure 17 is a sectional view of the adjustment device of Figure 15 located in situ at the distal end of the table leg after adjustment to stabilise the table leg.

Figure 18 is a perspective view of another embodiment of the adjustment device shown in isolation.

Figure 19 is a sectional view of the adjustment device of Figure 18 located in situ at the distal end of the table leg prior to adjustment to stabilise the table leg. Figure 20 is a sectional view of the adjustment device of Figure 18 located in situ at the distal end of the table leg after adjustment to stabilise the table leg.

Figure 21 is a perspective view of another form of the adjustment device comprising three different alternative types of brackets shown in isolation.

Figure 22 is an enlarged view of the embodiment of Figure 21 showing the cooperative engagement of one form of alternative bracket with the slotted sleeve.

Figure 23 is a cross-section of the adjustment device of Figure 21 in situ prior to adjustment.

SPECIFIC EMBODIMENT

In one form, the item to be stabilised and possibly levelled is a table. One form of the table, generally denoted as 2, is a pedestal type table having a base 4, a central column 6 and a table top 8 fixedly attached to column 6. Base 4 includes four outwardly radially extending legs 10 located at regularly spaced apart locations with respect to each other, typically at about 90° to one another. However, it is to be noted that base 4 can have more than four legs, such as five, six, seven or more legs, all extending radially outwardly from the hub of the base.

Legs 10 are each provided with suitable attachment points 14 at the respective distal ends thereof for use in attaching a conventional adjustable height foot 12 to the leg. In one form, the attachment is an internally threaded bore. However, other forms of the attachment are possible. One form of height adjustable conventional foot 12 includes a movable foot pad 15, such as a rotatable foot pad or a swivelable foot pad or similar for adjusting the length or the height of leg 10 as required for use on an even floor to level table 2 when on the even floor. In one form, height adjustable foot 12 includes a stem or similar having a threaded upper portion 13, and an enlarged lower portion including the fixed or rotatable foot pad in the form of a flattened generally rounded disc 15 or similar for contact with an even supporting substrate, typically the floor or an outdoor area, such as a paved area, boardwalk or similar upon which the table rests or is supported. In one form, the lower surface of foot pad 15 of adjustable foot 12 is flat for resting upon an even floor. The usual or conventional form of foot pad 15 is not well adapted to cope with uneven floors.

In one form of the table, attachment 14 located at the distal end of each leg 10, being the internally threaded bore is in the form of an internally threaded socket 16 for threadingly receiving the externally threaded upper portion or end 13 of a shaft 17 or similar extending upwardly from foot pad 15 of height adjustable foot 12. In use, the height of leg 10 can be altered by rotating foot 12 within socket 16 to axially move the position of shaft 17 and foot pad 15 with respect to socket 16 to alter the amount that the foot pad extends outwardly from the socket. This above described arrangement is the usual configuration of a conventional type table which table suffers from unwanted rocking when located on an uneven surface by pivoting on two of the opposed feet, represented by foot 12a of Figure 2.

A second conventional foot pad 12a, located at the end of another leg, typically is shown at the end of a leg located between the two oppositely extending legs in Figure 2 about the central axis of table 2.

An embodiment of the adjustment device will now be described as a replacement for one of the conventional foot pads as just described above to assist in automatically stabilising the table to which it is fitted. One of the adjustable feet 12 of table 2 is replaced by an adjustment device to automatically adjust the height of the leg to which it is attached so as to compensate for the respective lengths of the remaining legs upon an uneven surface so as to stop the table from rocking. One form of the adjustment device is as follows. One form of the adjustment device, generally denoted as 20, is illustrated in Figures 2 to 4 and includes a first connector member in the form of a post 22, typically a post having an externally threaded upper portion 24, located at one end for threadingly engaging with the correspondingly internally threaded socket 16 of leg 10 of table 2 for attaching adjustment device 20 to the leg of table 2 as shown more particularly on the right hand side of Figure 2 as indicated by circle "B" of Figure 1.

The other end of threaded post 22 is provided with an enlarged diameter smooth outer surfaced cylindrical end portion 26 of a generally greater diameter than the diameter of the externally threaded upper portion 24 and is also provided with an inclined end surface 28 at the distal end thereof, in which cylindrical portion 26 extends coaxially with the threaded portion 24 of post 22 and the inclined portion 28 extends generally transversely to the longitudinal axis of post 22. Typically, the angle of inclination of the inclined surface is an angle within the range of about 40° ± 15°. Inclined surface 28 is provided with a second connector or is a second connector end. One embodiment of the second connector is a receiver in the form of an opening, typically in the form of an aperture or bore 30. In one form, the longitudinally extending axis of bore 30 is substantially normal to the plane of inclined end surface 28 of post 22, or nearly so. However, it is to be noted that the axis of bore 30 can be at any suitable angle to the plane of the inclined surface 28, and can have any suitable angle of inclination independent of the angle of inclination of end surface 28. Bore 30 is for receiving another part of adjustment device 20 as will now be described in detail.

Adjustment device 20 further comprises a second connector member having two opposite ends in which one end is connected to the second connector of post 22 being bore 30. One form of the link member is such as for example, in one embodiment, a link member, in the form of a stem 34, typically in the form of a solid rod, shaft, bar, tube or similar, typically a cylindrical rod having a diameter less than the diameter of bore 30 so that stem 34 can be received through bore 30 for slidable movement therein and therethrough to facilitate adjustment of adjustment device 20. One end of stem 34, typically the upper end or inboard end or inner end, is provided with an aperture, typically in the form of a transverse bore 36 for receiving a retainer therein for securely retaining one end of stem 34 in bore 30. Typically, the axis of bore 36 is transverse to the longitudinal axis of stem 34, such as for example, being arranged to extend substantially perpendicularly to stem 34. In one form, the retainer is a clip, such as for example, a circlip, a pin, such as a split pin, or a curved pin, peg or other suitable type or shape of retainer. One preferred form of the retainer is a generally U- shaped clip or bent pin or similar received in bore 36 at the end of stem 34 to maintain stem 34 in post 22 to form the interconnection between post 22 and stem 34 so as to prevent complete separation of post 22 and stem 34. Thus, stem 34 is capable of slidable movement within bore 30 with respect to post 22 whilst remaining connected to post 22.

A suitable resilient biasing element is associated with stem 34 as part of the interconnection to post 22 to bias movement of stem 34 to adopt a fully extended position with respect to post 22 when adjustment device 20 is not subjected to any load, i.e. when in the at-rest, neutral or no-load position prior to being adjusted. In one form, the resiliently biasing element is a spring 40, typically a compression spring, preferably a helical compression spring within which stem 34 is received to push stem 34 to the fully extended position prior to adjustment by one end of spring bearing against inclined end 28 and the other end bearing against a remote part of stem 34 or a part connected to stem 34, such as the operating element or member at the distal end of stem 34.

The other end of stem 34, being the distal end thereof, is provided with an operating portion for use in operating or moving adjustment device 20 into an adjusted position. The operating portion which in one form is an operating element or member, can be of any suitable form or type or have any suitable shape, such as a solid lump, a block, a solid sphere, a ball, or other shape, a curved arm or lever or the like. One form of the operating portion is a block 42, typically, a smooth sided rounded block, more typically an eccentric or asymmetric smooth rounded block which is located off centre or to one side of post 22 at the distal end of stem 34. Typically, the operating portion extends outwardly from the boundary or side of the table leg or foot of the table leg so as to be contactable by a suitable implement, such as for example, a hammer or similar impact tool, or as a result of kicking or bumping the end of stem 34 such as for example, by the footwear of a waiter.

Rounded block 42 is provided with a resting surface or foot pad 44 for contacting the surface of the floor or substrate upon which table 2 is located. In one form, foot 44 is formed with a flat surface 46 or foot 44 is attached or fitted to block 42 to form a single unit. In one form, foot 44 and block 42 are formed integrally with each other so that there is a single unit only. In still other embodiments, the block and foot are formed separately, and separately attached to the end of stem 34, or in other embodiments, are joined to each other before being attached to the end of stem 34. One form of foot 44 is provided with a flat surface 46 for resting on the uneven surface 48 when the 5 table is level, as shown in Figures 2, 4, 6 and 8.

In operation, one of the usual adjustable feet 12 of one of legs 10 of table 2 is replaced by one form of the adjustment device 20 as described herein. In one form, the externally threaded upper portion 24 of post 22 is threadingly connected to internally o threaded socket 16 of attachment 14 at the distal end of the selected leg 10.

As no weight or load is applied to adjustment device 20, stem 34 adopts the fully extended position under the influence of spring 40 which resiliently biases stem 34 to fully extend from post 22.

5

Adjustment device 20 is connected to leg 10 of table 2 in the fully extended position in which the end of stem 34 is retained in place within bore 30 of post 22 by the retainer bearing against post 22, as shown more particularly in Figure 3. In this position, table 2 pivots on foot 44 of block 42 of adjustment device 20 and on the usual foot 12 of the o opposite leg of the table so as to rock or wobble from side to side about the axis

extending in the plane containing the leg fitted with the adjustment device 20 and the opposite leg, both of which alternately come into contact with the uneven floor surface 48, i.e., floor or outdoor area upon which the table is supported, as the table rocks about the axis containing the two other feet 12a.

5

With table 2 in this unstable state, the operating part of device 20, namely block 42 of adjustment device 20 is impacted, such as by contacting the rounded block 42 by a kick from a waiter or other person, or by knocking or striking block 42 with a rigid or solid implement, such as the shoe of the waiter or other percussion device, such as a0 hammer or other hand implement or tool, with sufficient force to overcome the force applied by compression spring 40 to release stem 34 from being held within bore 30 of post 22 at the fully extended position so as to facilitate inwards sliding movement of stem 34 to move from the fully extended position against the bias of spring 40, to travel in bore 30 of post 22 to adopt a less extended and more retracted position in5 accordance with the amount of unevenness of floor surface 48 so that now all four legs of the table are now in contact with the uneven floor to prevent rocking or pivoting movement of the table, such as from wobbling, rocking or pivoting from side to side. The position adopted by adjustment device 20 is such that the amount of extension or retraction of stem 34 with respect to post 20 is such that all of the feet of the legs of the table rest firmly on the uneven surface.

The adjustment device is maintained in the partially retracted position by the weight of the table bearing down on the adjustment device. Stem 34 moves relative to post 22 to adopt a position in which all ends of the legs of the table are resting on the substrate 48 to stabilise the table so that the table is free from unwanted movement on the floor or the surface of the outdoor area. Thus, after release of stem 34 from being held in post 22 against the biasing force of spring 40, the table provided with the adjustment device 20 is substantially automatically self-stabilising when located on an uneven surface by the change in length or amount that stem 34 extends from post 22 of the adjustment device.

It is to be noted that the weight of the table retains the relative position of stem 34 with respect to post 22 to maintain the table in a level configuration. During use, should table 2 be bumped or move location on the uneven floor 48, stem 34 moves with respect to post 22 to compensate for the different amount of unevenness of the floor at the new location thus relevelling the table to maintain stability of the table.

Another form of the adjustment device as shown in Figures 5 and 6 will now be described. In this form of adjustment device 50, post 22 is as previously described with reference to adjustment device 20 of Figures 2 to 4, but stem 34 is replaced with a different stem which is now referred to as stem 51. Adjustment device 50 is provided with a brake or movement limiting device for restricting movement of stem 51 with respect to post 22. In one form, stem 51 of this embodiment is provided with a flat section 52 extending axially along the length of stem 51. A wedge 54 having a flat lower surface 56 and a tapering upper surface 57 engages with flat section 52 of stem 51 on one side and with the interior of bore 30 of post 22 on the other side to retain the relative position of stem 51 within bore 30 of post 22.

A spring, such as a tension spring 58 interconnects wedge 54 with post 22. Tension spring 58 is preferably fixed to the enlarged smooth sided end of portion 26 of post 22 to retain wedge 54 within the area of bore 30 of post 22 to maintain contact with flat section 52. It is to be noted that the orientation of wedge 54 is such so as to resist movement of stem 51 of adjustment device 50 towards the fully extended position allowing the table or such item to be moved upon surface 48 without there being the need for the device to be reset.

Another form of the adjustment device is shown in Figures 7 and 8. In this form, the adjustment device is in the form of adjustment device 60 having stem 62 provided with a channel 64 such as a channel having a generally concavely curved profile in which the channel extends axially along the length of stem 62 for forming a track along the side wall of stem 62 in which track rolls a sphere, in the form of a ball bearing 66, or similar, for being lodged in bore 30 of post 22 to prevent movement of stem 62 within bore 30 in the direction towards being fully extended under the influence of the bias of spring 40. A spring, such as a coiled tension spring 68 interconnects ball 66 and post 22 to retain ball 66 in channel 64 within the area of bore 30 of post 22.

Another form of the adjustment device is illustrated in Figures 9 to 1 1. This form of the adjustment device which is adjustment device 70, includes a modified stem in the form of a generally planar sliding stem 72 having a curved distal end 74 located at or towards one end, being the distal end of stem 72. Curved distal end 74 functions as both the operating member and also the resting portion of the stem for contact with uneven surface 48 upon which table 10 is located.

A helical compression spring 76 is held captive between curved end 74 and composite post 78, which composite post has a first generally wedge shaped portion 80 provided with a tapered lower surface 82 located on the inner side of stem 72, and a second portion, which is a generally flat portion located on the outer side of stem 72. One form of the generally flat portion is in the form of a plate 84. Stem 72 is biased in a direction towards a fully extended position as shown in Figure 10 under the influence of spring 76. This ensures that the foot pad in the form of curved end 74, always wants to push downward in relation to post 78 to maintain contact with the support surface or substrate on which the table 2 is supported. Sliding stem 72 is provided with slot 86 for allowing fasteners 88 of post 78 to pass through and secure the two components being portion 80 and plate 84 to one another to sandwich stem 72 therebetween whilst allowing sliding movement. A stop in the form of a wedge 90, is received in slot 86 to lock movement of sliding stem 72 with respect to post 78, to limit the extent of travel of sliding stem 72 in operation.

In the form of adjustment device 70, sliding stem 72 is designed to move easily through the angled bore or aperture in the post defined between tapered surface 82 and flat plate 84. Curved distal end 74 forming both the operating member and the resting portion, such as the foot pad, is provided at one end of sliding stem 72. The operating member functions as the point to which a force is applied, either from impact by an implement or as a result of a kicking action, to release the binding connection between post 78 and stem 72 to allow adjustment of the device by stem 72 moving to a more inwardly retracted position against the bias of spring 76 for levelling the table. In this adjusted position, curved end 74 forming the foot pad rests firmly on substrate 48 to support the table being stabilised. In various forms of the adjustment device, the distance between the resting portion, the foot pad, and the stop, and accounting for the biasing force applied by spring 76, determines the distance the stem can travel. The length and angle of the stem determines the relative vertical movement of the foot pad. As the stem moves through the post, the foot pad moves up and down in relation to the post. This relative upwards and downwards movement of the foot pad determines the range of uneven surfaces the adjustment device can effectively deal with to level and stabilise the table

In embodiments of the adjustment device having the optional brake or movement limiter, the addition of a wedge or ball located within the slot of the sliding stem, above the post position, locks the sliding stem in the last set position. The table can now be moved to either a different part of the floor or support surface or to a similar floor/ground or support surface condition without the need to reset the device.

Operating the device with a kick or firm push releases the brake mechanism. The sliding stem and foot can now be adjusted by moving to find its new position to level the table.

In forms of the adjustment device, the angled sprung sliding stem works like an active wedge by constantly pushing outwards and downwards. As the sliding stem pushes downwards, and assuming the two diagonal feet started in a grounded position, the opposing foot is also pushed downwards. Pressure will be distributed to all supporting points (feet) of the table.

The angle of the sliding stem through the post introduces leverage and friction forces which cannot be easily overcome, ensuring the foot stays in position.

The angled stem and spring combination ensures continuous stability even when additional static and dynamic weight, through normal table use, is exerted down through the feet. By altering the angle and the length of the stem at the point of manufacturing, the device can be adapted to operate over a wide range of uneven surfaces.

The foot pad has two functions, (i) operation point, and (ii) foot pad. Designed to be operated by the operator's foot with a pressing or kicking force. The foot pad is designed to present a large surface outwards from under the table leg or pedestal so the operator's foot can access it easily and securely without slipping off. There is no need to bend down. The locking brake is designed to only engage once the sliding stem has reached its optimal position for the desired surface. As the foot touches down onto the floor/ground surface, a gap opens up on the opposing upper top side between the post and sliding stem. The looser the post/sliding stem fit, the wider the gap which opens. A wedge or ball is located at this position but can only enter the gap once nearing its maximum aperture. An applied force, such as a spring, pushes the wedge or ball into the gap to bind the three components (post, sliding stem, wedge or ball) together. The table can now be moved without the device resetting itself to its full extended position. Kicking or pushing the foot in its intended operational way dislodges the wedge or ball from the gap and the sliding stem is free to travel as designed, only engaging again once the gap sufficiently reopens.

Another form of the adjustment device is illustrated in Figures 12 to 14. This form of the adjustment device, which is adjustment device 90, has a different type of post or first connecting member. Instead of a post for threadingly engaging with a threaded bore, adjustment device 90 has an insert 91 which takes the place of the post or first connecting member. The stem which is slidingly received within an inclined bore or opening located internally within insert 91 , can be of any suitable type or style. One preferred form of the stem is the same as or similar to stem 34 of the embodiment shown in Figures 3 and 4.

In one form, the distal end of leg 10 of table 2 is provided with a cavity into which the foot of the table is inserted. This form of the adjustment device is a replacement for the conventional foot insertable into the cavity. Insert 91 is provided with a main body portion in the form of a plug 94 of a generally rectilinear form having opposed pairs of sides of a shape complementary to the shape of the socket portion (not shown) of the cavity. Plug 94 is received in the socket in use. An end cap 96 is provided at the outer end in use of insert 91 to close the open end of the cavity. End cap 96 extends substantially perpendicularly to the lengthwise extending axis of plug 94.

An inclined bore 98 is located through plug 94 to receive stem 91. One suitable form of the stem of the adjustment device is similar to stem 34 of adjustment device 20 as illustrated in Figures 3 and 4. Similar reference numerals will be used to describe corresponding parts. The proximal end of stem 34 is held captive in bore 98 by a suitable pin, such as pin 38 located in transverse bore 36 at the proximal end of stem 34. A spring in the form of a helical spring 40 is provided over stem 34 to provide a resilient biasing force on stem 34 to push the adjustment device to its fully extended position. A foot pad 42 having flat rest surface 46 is provided at the distal end of stem 34. Operation of the form of the adjustment device shown in Figures 12 to 14 is similar to operation of the form of the adjustment device 20.

Another form of the adjustment device is shown in Figures 15 to 17. This form of the adjustment device is denoted by reference numeral 1 10. Adjustment device 1 10 includes a cage 1 12 for attaching adjustment device 1 10 to the leg of a table or other item requiring stabilising and for capturing the proximal end of stem 1 14 to retain stem 1 14 in the desired adjusted position.

Cage 1 12 is provided with a pair of tabs 1 16 superposed on each other and having a pair of aligned apertures 1 18, typically forming a common circular hole or similar for receiving therethrough a suitable fastener for attaching device 1 10 to the leg of the table such as for example, a bolt 1 17 typically within the cavity 1 19, or hollow formed in the distal end of the leg 121 as shown more particularly in Figures 16 and 17. Cage 1 12 is in the form of an open rectangular box having two open sides. Proximal end 120 is provided with opening 122, typically in the form of a circular hole and distal end 124 is provided with an opening 126, typically a circular hole. Openings 122 and 126 are in alignment with each other for slidably receiving therethrough stem 1 14. The proximal part of stem 1 14 is retained within the open section of cage 1 12 by a pin 130 located part way along the length of stem 1 14. The proximal end of stem 1 14 is received through the internal opening of helical compression spring 132.

A foot pad, shown in the form of a sphere 134 or similar ball-like shape is fixedly attached to the distal end of stem 1 14 to rest upon the uneven surface 48. Although, sphere 134 is illustrated as being substantially spherical, it is to be noted that the foot pad can have any suitable shape or form and be of any suitable size or profile, including being provided with flat sections for contacting the floor or support substrate.

Operation of this form of adjustment device 1 10, after attachment in cavity 1 19 or leg 121 , is substantially the same as operation of other forms of the adjustment device.

Another form of the adjustment device is illustrated in Figures 18 to 20. This form of adjustment device, generally denoted as 140 is similar to form 1 10 apart from modifications to the cage for holding the stem which cage is of a modified irregular shape.

Adjustment device 140 includes an irregularly shaped cage 142, generally in the form of an irregular quadrilateral or a trapezium having upper side 144 angularly inclined to the two ends 146, 148. Upper side 144 is provided with an aperture 150, being in the form of a circular hole, for receiving therethrough a suitable fastener in the form of a bolt 149 for securely attaching adjustment device 140 to the inside of leg 152 within the cavity or hollow end of leg 152. Ends 146, 148 are provided with respective apertures 154, 156 in alignment with each other for slidably receiving therethrough stem 158. Stem 158 is retained within cage 142 by pin 160. Device 140 is attached to leg 152 by bolt 149 being received through aperture 150 and a bore within a mounting block 162 located intermediate leg 152 and device 140, more particularly upper side 144. Distal part of stem 158 is received through aligned apertures 154, 156 and internally through helical compression spring 162 which is located on stem 158 between ends 146, 148. Stem 158 is retained within the opening of cage 142 by pin 164.

A foot pad in the form of a sphere 166, or similar shape, is fixedly attached to the distal end of stem 158 for contact with the uneven floor or support surface 48 on which the table or similar having adjustment device 140, is supported.

After attaching device 140 to leg 152, operation of adjustment device 140 is similar to operation of other similar forms of the adjustment device.

A further form of the adjustment device is illustrated in Figures 21 to 23. This form of the adjustment device, generally denoted as 202, includes a stem 204 having a spherical foot pad 206 fixedly attached at the distal end of stem 204, and the proximal end or portion of stem 204 being received in slotted sleeve 208 provided with multiple grooves 209 located on the outside of sleeve 208 at or towards one end of sleeve 208. Thus, the operative part of adjustment device 202 comprises slotted sleeve 208, stem 202, foot pad 206 and the biased interconnection of slotted sleeve 208 and stem 202.

Adjustment device 202 is attached to the underside of leg 210 of a table using one or other forms of a bracket. Three different forms of a suitable bracket are illustrated in Figure 21 . Other forms are possible.

One form of the bracket, generally denoted as 220, has three arms, being inner arm 222, central arm 224, and outer arm 226. Inner arm 222 is provided with an aperture 228, typically in the form of a circular hole for receiving the proximal end of stem 204 therethrough to assist in connecting stem 204 to leg 210. Central arm 224 is provided with an opening, typically in the form of a circular hole, for receiving a suitable fastener, typically bolt 232 therethrough to securely fasten bracket 220 to leg 210 using a spacer or mounting block 212 as shown more particularly in Figure 23. Outer arm 226 is provided with an opening 234 in the form of a cut-out or yoke for engaging with a selected one of grooves 209 for holding sleeve 208 in place. In one form, opening 234 is in the form of a part circular opening having the distal part removed to form two fingers 240, one on either side of the opening. Fingers 240 engage within the selected pair of opposed grooves 209 of slotted sleeve 208 to retain the other end of slotted sleeve 208 in position within device 202 as shown more particularly in Figure 22. Another form of the bracket is also shown in Figure 21 , being bracket 250, which is also provided with an inner arm having a circular aperture and an outer arm having an opening with two fingers, one on either side of the central arm. In bracket 250, the central arm is modified by having three sections, namely an inclined first section 254, and two other sections 256, 258 folded over one another so as to be superposed on each other. Both of the two superposed sections 256, 258 are provided with apertures in the form of circular openings in alignment with each other for receiving bolt 232 therethrough to secure adjustment device 202 to leg 210.

Another form of the bracket is also shown in Figure 21 , being bracket 260, which is provided with an inner arm similar to the inner arms of bracket 220, 250, and a central arm having two sections 262, 264 superposed on one another having a pair of aligned circular openings 266 for receiving bolt 232 therethrough to securely connect adjustment device 202 to let 210. Outer arm of bracket 260 is provided with a part circular opening 234 having two fingers 240 for engaging with a selected pair of opposed grooves 209 to retain stem 204 in place.

A helical compression spring 270 is located within sleeve 208 around the proximal end of stem 204 to provide a resilient biasing force to stem 204. A collar 272 is provided around stem 204 to retain spring 272 in place around stem 204 within sleeve 208.

Mounting block 212 is located intermediate the under surface of leg 210 and the central arm 224, of bracket 220 to assist in correctly locating adjustment device 202 to leg 210 using bolt 232. Operation of adjustment device 202 is similar to operation of other similar forms of the adjustment device.

ADVANTAGES Advantages of one form at least of the adjustment device as described include the following.

A table with four points of contact with the substrate needs only one adjustment device in order to be able to stabilise and possibly level the table when located on an uneven surface.

A table with five or more points of contact with the substrate needs only one adjustment device in order to be able to level the table when located on an uneven surface.

The adjustment device can be provided as part of Original Equipment Manufacture (OEM) on a new table or fitted retrospectively to existing tables.

Any item designed to take the standard adjustable foot, a foot attached to the end of a thread, can be quickly and easily fitted with the device by anyone with a small range of tools and minimal amount of practical skill.

The range of pedestal bases which Device 90 is specifically designed to fit do not require any tools to fit

The devices design can be altered to fit a range of items and adapted to specific situation

Tables to which the adjustment device is fitted are or can be self-stabilising and levelling after release of two components of the adjustment device.

The described arrangement has been advanced by explanation and many

modifications may be made without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention which includes every novel feature and novel combination of features herein disclosed. Those skilled in the art will appreciate that the invention described herein is susceptible to variations and modifications other than those specifically described. It is understood that the invention includes all such variations and modifications which fall within the spirit and scope.

Claims

THE CLAIMS DEFINING THE INVENTION ARE AS FOLLOWS:

1. An adjustment device for use in stabilising and/or levelling an item having more than one support element or contact point with an uneven substrate upon which the item is supported, characterised in that the adjustment device comprises a first member for connecting the adjustment device to the item, a second member for supporting the item on the substrate, the first member and the second member being biasedly interconnected to one another, wherein the first member and the second member are movable with respect to each other for allowing relative movement with respect to each other such that force applied to the second member releases the interconnection between the first member and the second member to enable the second member to move against the bias with respect to the first member to adopt an adjusted position with respect to the substrate to stabilise and/or level the item.

A method of stabilising and/or levelling an item having more than one support element or contact point when supported on an uneven substrate characterised in that the method comprises the steps of locating an adjustment device associated with the at least one support element or point of contact on the substrate, the adjustment device comprising a first member for connecting the adjustment device to the item, a second member for supporting the item on the substrate, the first member and the second member being biasedly interconnected to one another, wherein the first member and the second member are movable with respect to each other for allowing relative movement with respect to each other such that force applied to the second member releases the interconnection between the first member and the second member to enable the second member to move against the bias with respect to the first member to adopt an adjusted position with respect to the substrate to stabilise and/or level the item.

An item having an adjustment device for stabilising the item when supported an uneven surface, characterised in that the adjustment device comprises a first member for connecting the adjustment device to the item, a second member for supporting the item on the substrate, the first member and the second member being biasedly interconnected to one another, wherein the first member and the second member are movable with respect to each other for allowing relative movement with respect to each other such that force applied to the second member releases the interconnection between the first member and the second member to enable the second member to move against the bias with respect to the first member to adopt an adjusted position with respect to the substrate to stabilise and/or level the item.

An adjustment device for use in stabilising and/or levelling an item having more than one support element or contact point with an uneven substrate upon which the item is supported, characterised in that the adjustment device comprises a first member for connecting the adjustment device to the item in a first orientation so that the first member extends in a first direction, the first member having a first connector located at or towards a first end of the first member for connecting the adjustment device to the item, the first member having a second connector located at or towards a second end of the first member connector, a second member extending in a second direction for adopting a second orientation, the first direction being different to the second direction, the second member having a first end connected to the second end of the first member, the first member and the second member being movable with respect to each other, and an operating member fixedly connected to the second end of the second member, wherein the first member and the second member are resiliently and biasedly connected to one another for allowing movement with respect to each other such that movement of the operating member releases the connection between the first member and the second member to enable the second member and the operating member to move with respect to the first member against the resilient bias with respect to the first member to adopt an active adjusted position with the substrate or floor to stabilise and/or level the item.

A method of stabilising and/or levelling an item having more than one support element or contact point when supported on an uneven substrate, characterised in that the method comprises the steps of locating an adjustment device associated with the at least one support element or point of contact on the substrate, the adjustment device comprising a first member having a first end and a second end , the first end for connecting the device to the item at the first support element or point of contact, the first member extending in a first direction, the and a second end of the first member being movably connected to a second member provided with an operating member, the second member extending in a second direction , the first direction being different to the second direction, wherein moving the operating member moves the second member with respect to the first member to allow the second member to move to adopt an adjusted position to stabilise and/or level the item on the uneven support substrate.

An item having an adjustment device for stabilising the item when supported on an uneven surface, characterised in that the adjustment device comprises a first member for connecting the adjustment device to the item in a first orientation so that the first member extends in a first direction, the first member having a first connector located at or towards a first end of the first member for connecting the adjustment device to the item, the first member having a second connector located at or towards a second end of the connector, a second member extending in a second direction for adopting a second orientation, the first direction being different to the second direction , the second member having a first end connected to the second end of the first member, the first member and the second member being movable with respect to each other, and an operating member fixedly connected to the second end of the second member, wherein the first member and the second member are resiliently and biasedly connected to one another for allowing movement with respect to each other such that movement of the operating member releases the interconnection between the first member and the second member to enable the second member and the operating member to move with respect to the first member against the resilient bias to adopt an adjusted position with the substrate or floor to stabilise and/or level the item.

An adjustment device according to any preceding claim in which the item is a table including a pedestal table having a central column and a hub from which multitude of legs extend radially outwards wherein each of the legs have a foot.

An adjustment device according to any preceding claim in which the adjustment device is attached to the leg of the item to replace the existing foot of the leg.

An adjustment device according to any preceding claim in which the first connector member is a post, stud, rod, bar, column, shank, shaft, tube, block, insert, cap, plug or similar.

An adjustment device according to any preceding claim in which the first connector or first connector end of the first connector member is a threaded portion or is a fastener for threadingly being received in a socket provided at the distal end of the leg.

An adjustment device according to any preceding claim in which the second connector at the second end of the first connector member is a receiver for receiving an end of the second connector member therein or therethrough.

An adjustment device according to any preceding claim in which the receiver is in the form of an aperture, bore, opening, cavity, hole, channel, gap, void, hollow or similar.

An adjustment device according to any preceding claim in which the receiver has a central axis, the central axis being angularly inclined to the lengthwise extending axis of the first connector member.

An adjustment device according to any preceding claim in which the second connector member is a link member for linking the first connector member to an operating element, wherein the first connector of the second member is movably interconnected to the second connector of the first member and the second connector of the second member is fixed to the operating element.

15. An adjustment device according to any preceding claim in which the link

member is a stem, rod, bar, shaft, tube, cage, sleeve, arm or similar having an elongate axis wherein the elongate axis is angularly inclined to the lengthwise extending axis of the first member.

An adjustment device according to any preceding claim in which the operating member is an operating element including a block, pad, sphere, arm, ball or similar, having a flat portion, segment or resting portion for contacting the substrate for supporting the item.

An adjustment device according to any preceding claim in which the end of the second connector member is maintained in place interconnected to the first member by a retainer associated with the second member.

An adjustment device according to any preceding claim in which the retainer is a pin, clip, wedge, spring, peg, detente, collar, ball, cup, track, groove or similar.

An adjustment device according to any preceding claim in which the second connector member is rotatably movable or slidably movable, or both rotatably and slidably movable with respect to the first connector member enabling the second connector member to move to an adjusted position.

An adjustment device according to any preceding claim further comprising a brake or stop, or movement limiter to prevent unwanted movement of the adjustment device or to limit movement of the second member to assist in maintaining the item in a stable or level condition.

An adjustment device according to any preceding claim in which the interconnection of the first connector member and the second connector member includes a resilient biasing element to bias the second connector member in a fully extended position with respect to the first connector member when the adjustment device is at an at rest position prior to moving to an adjustment position.

22. An adjustment device according to any preceding claim in which the resiliently biasing member is a compression spring, including a helical compression spring associated with the second member.

23. An adjustment device according to any preceding claim in which the operating member or operating element extends outwardly from the leg of the item so as to be accessible beyond the leg of the item wherein the operating element is or includes an impact surface or area capable of withstanding and/or transmitting impact to move the second connector member with respect to the first connector member to move the second connector member to an adjustment position.

24. An adjustment device according to any preceding claim in which the adjustment device automatically adjusts the position of the second connector member in response to force applied to the item or to the device to overcome the biasing force of the interconnection between the first connector member and the second connector member.

25. An method of using an adjustment device according to any preceding claim to level and/or stabilise an item on an uneven substrate by applying a force to the item or device sufficient to overcome the bias of the interconnection between the first connector member and the second connector member to move the device to an adjusted position.

26. An adjustment device substantially as hereinbefore described with reference to the drawings.

27. A method of adjusting an item to stabilise and/or level an item substantially as hereinbefore described with reference to the drawings.