Build Folding/Connecting Rail (1 Viewer)

[sawbeans]

I'm currently working on plans for a table top build for my kitchen table. It measures 93" x 42" which makes storage difficult. My idea is to get a custom mat to put down then place a rail on top of that. I'd like to make the rail fold or come apart in two pieces so that it can be stored a little easier.

Suggestions on how to make the rail fold or connect/disconnect?

Also finding a custom mat that size is difficult

 

[rjdev7]

If it's going to just be sitting on a kitchen table, you can probably get by with these 180 degree lock hinges, one on each side:
https://www.amazon.com/dp/B081VDL94B?psc=1&ref=ppx_yo2ov_dt_b_product_details
This would let the rails fold up one way.

I used these on my recent table build which was folding:

I ended up needing to add more legs in the middle to provide more support when people lean down on the rail, but if you're just creating the rails on a table, you wouldn't have this issue.

My design allows for a mat to fit underneath the rail, but above the foam base:

If you wanted to keep them separate and not folding, you could probably look into something like this that you latch once you put them on the dining table.
https://www.amazon.com/dp/B073TXMSJY?ref_=cm_sw_r_cp_ud_dp_MGMB9MA2SHVHQ9D0SWA2

 

[sawbeans]

If it's going to just be sitting on a kitchen table, you can probably get by with these 180 degree lock hinges, one on each side:
https://www.amazon.com/dp/B081VDL94B?psc=1&ref=ppx_yo2ov_dt_b_product_details
This would let the rails fold up one way.

I used these on my recent table build which was folding:
View attachment 915910
View attachment 915911
I ended up needing to add more legs in the middle to provide more support when people lean down on the rail, but if you're just creating the rails on a table, you wouldn't have this issue.

My design allows for a mat to fit underneath the rail, but above the foam base:
View attachment 915915

If you wanted to keep them separate and not folding, you could probably look into something like this that you latch once you put them on the dining table.
https://www.amazon.com/dp/B073TXMSJY?ref_=cm_sw_r_cp_ud_dp_MGMB9MA2SHVHQ9D0SWA2

Toggle bolts look like a good idea. Are you still doing custom sizes on the mats?

 

[rjdev7]

Toggle bolts look like a good idea. Are you still doing custom sizes on the mats?

May do custom sizes depending on how many folks want them. Wouldn't be until the fall if I did.