Table and seating arrangement

A folding table and seating assembly comprising:

• a pair of table tops, each of the table tops having a table top frame;
• seating associated with at least one of the table tops;
• a folding framework supporting the table tops and folding the table tops between a first position and a second position, the folding framework defining a rotational axis with each of the table tops;
• a mechanical strut assembly having a telescoping outer housing, at least one spring within the outer housing;
• wherein the mechanical strut assembly is adapted to offset at least a portion of forces acting to accelerate and to impede folding and unfolding at different phases of folding and unfolding operations of the folding table and seating assembly.

A method of folding a folding table and seating apparatus between a first position and a second position, the folding table and seating apparatus comprising a folding framework and a plurality of leg assemblies rotatably mounted to the framework, each leg assembly rotating about tubular member extending along an associated axis of rotation;

• the method comprising:
• providing at least one mechanical strut having springs adapted to offset forces resisting or accelerating folding, each of the at least one mechanical struts mounting to the framework connecting one of the leg assemblies to the framework;
• providing a cap snapping into an orifice in the framework aligned with axis of rotation and having a receiving section providing a rotation surface receiving an end of the tubular member;
• and
• moving the folding table and seating apparatus from the first position to the second position with folding assistance being provided solely by the at least one mechanical strut.