Hardware (not computer) question

Hypatia

I had this idea for a table, what I'd like to build is essentially a table where the "inner table" can be pushed down a track and locked so that any work being done on it can be saved, and where the leaves can then be folded back in to form a second table surface. Then when the second table surface is no longer being used (ie: we're done eating), then the leaves can be folded out again and the "inner table" can be pulled back up to the top so that work can continue.



I have a vague notion that there must be some kind of sliding track mechanism that I can stick on the inside of the table legs to support the "inner table", so that it lowers at a reasonably level rate and doesn't require 2 people to lock into the lower position smoothly, and that said track mechanism may exist with 2 positions (ie: top and bottom). Unfortunately, I have no idea of what that piece of hardware might be called if it exists, and Google is turning up everything except for what I have in mind.

Any gurus out there who can confirm that it's do-able, does exist, and what I'm looking for?

mightyjongyo

I'm no guru, nor do i have any experience in hardware - but from what I'm seeing, you're going to have a little trouble with the foldy-leaves. You want to fold them back in so that they form a surface, but there's nothing to support it in the middle. You can make it so they rest on the "legs" of the table, but then the legs would have to be thick enough so that when you put stuff on the leaves, they don't just cave in.

But, like i said, i dont really know much about it - just my two cents.

SunDragon

Since you mentioned eating, Im gonna guess this is like a dinner table? It would be uncomfortable to sit at it to eat since you wouldnt be able to slide your chairs in under the table during "eating mode".

AtomBomb

You're going to need cross braces from each pair of legs, since if the only thing connecting them is the sliding table top it's going to be wobby as fuck. Cross braces are going to block putting your legs/chairs under the table somewhat, and the sliding top is totally going to block that when it's down (as said).

Rather than doing that, why not do a fixed table with 2 surfaces? Permanently fix your lower table top 6" below the upper edge. Flip the upper table top into place when you want to eat. Your going to need support in the middle, but you can attach that to the upper halves to avoid breaking up the flat surface of the lower table. The lower table provides structural support, eliminating the need for support braces.

If you're working on tall models or something on the lower portion this obviously won't work. However, getting something to move smoothly enough to not disturb stuff like that without a ton of bracing would be difficult anyway. If you're set on that I'd probably start looking into manual or electric screw drives.