Abstract: A telescopic adjustable height apparatus designed to adjust the height of tabletops comprises a pair of slidably engaged columns, a multiple-step groove, and a hand wheel locking mechanism to secure the tabletop at the desired height. The column system includes an inner column, connected at one end to a tabletop and an outer column, connected at one end to a base structure. The inner column defines the vertical multiple-step groove. The outer column possesses a bore in one wall of the column through which the hand wheel fastener passes, and this bore maintains the position of the hand wheel locking mechanism. A first detent is located at the base of a first step and provides a first seat for the hand wheel locking mechanism. A second detent is located at the base of a second step and provides a second seat for the hand wheel locking mechanism. The hand wheel locking mechanism comprises a pin with a connection end shaped to be removably received within a detent, a bearing collar, and a hand wheel.

Abstract: A furniture base construction comprising a top plate mounted on a hollow, vertical standard, which is connected to a hollow, horizontal base. The connection between the vertical standard and the horizontal base forms a male-female joint with interlocking edges. The interlocking edges of the joint resist both rotational and lateral forces. The joint between the vertical standard and horizontal base, is maintained in compression by two tension members connecting an upper mounting plate secured within the vertical standard and a lower mounting plate secured within the horizontal base. Holes in the underside of the horizontal base, aligned with openings in the lower mounting plate, provide access to the tension members.

Abstract: A folding table includes a tabletop and a number of legs operable between a folded and an extended position. A folding table leg apparatus associated with each of the legs comprises a plate assembly mounted to the tabletop, the plate assembly having a pair of handles. Each of the handles has a height greater than the effective diameter of one leg. The handles and the plate assembly define an envelope within which the leg is contained in its folded position and the folding apparatus itself is fully contained within the envelope when the leg is in its folded position. The handles are provided near the center of gravity of the tabletop to improve its maneuverability during handling and facilitate operation of the folding mechanism.