Folding table and chair

Abstract

A folding table and chair each have an unobtrusive folding mechanism that cannot be easily seen when unfolded for use. Because the folding mechanism is not readily seen, folding tables and chairs of a number of well-known and popular styles can be provided that are suitable for use as everyday home furniture. Folding furniture may be particularly desirable for apartment and condominium dwellers who have limited living space and need to occasionally store bulky furniture to fully use such space. The folding furniture of the invention is also easier to move than traditional furniture, including the hinge of the table, which can also serve as a carrying handle.

What is claimed is: 
     
         1 . A mechanism for a folding table, the mechanism comprising:
 a first plate configured to attach to an underside of a table top;   a second plate configured to attach to a table leg, the second plate rotatably connected to the first plate by means of a pin;   a clasp configured to hold the second plate against the first plate such that the second plate does not rotate with respect to the first plate;   a lever configured to move the clasp such that the second plate is no longer held against the first plate, the lever extending above the first plate, the lever configured to be positioned within a recess in the table top; and   a push button positioned in the recess in the table top, the push button configured to engage the lever, thereby releasing the second plate from the first plate.   
     
     
         2 . The mechanism of  claim 1 , wherein the lever is biased against the push button. 
     
     
         3 . The mechanism of  claim 2 , where the lever is biased by a spring. 
     
     
         4 . The mechanism of  claim 1 , wherein an upper surface of the push button is substantially coplanar with an upper surface of the table top. 
     
     
         5 . A table comprising the mechanism of  claim 1 . 
     
     
         6 . A folding table comprising:
 a table top having an upper surface and a lower surface;   a plurality of legs;   a plurality of mechanisms, each mechanism in the plurality of mechanisms configured to attach one leg in the plurality of legs to the lower surface of the table top, each mechanism further configured to lock its corresponding leg in an unfolded position; and   a plurality of push buttons set into the table top, each of the plurality of buttons having an upper surface that is substantially coplanar with the upper surface of the table top, each button further configured to release one mechanism in the plurality of mechanisms from locking its corresponding leg in an unfolded position.   
     
     
         7 . The folding table of  claim 6 , further comprising a plurality of recesses, wherein each mechanism in the plurality of mechanisms is positioned in one recess of the plurality of recesses. 
     
     
         8 . The folding table of  claim 6 , wherein each mechanism is biased against its corresponding push button. 
     
     
         9 . The folding table of  claim 8 , wherein each mechanism is biased by a spring. 
     
     
         10 . The folding table of  claim 6 , further comprising a mechanism for folding the table top.