There are numerous types of joints used in carpentry and furniture making. To try to cover them all at this point would be too much. Modern furniture as we know it would not be possible without these structural innovations.
The joint that’s getting all the attention today is the rule joint. It is primarily used for making the drop-leaf extension table possible.
Creatively designed to infuse both form and function, when the drop-leaf is in the upright position, it creates an almost seamless connection. When it’s hanging down, however, the crease resembles a molded edge.
Necessity is , without a doubt, the mother of invention. This is especially relevant, as the rule joint was developed for the creation of the drop-leaf table.