How to Create an Adjustable Height Podium

The market for adjustable height podiums, presentation stations, lecterns & pulpits has been a growing trend in the last 5 years. Ergosource has two different hydraulic lift products to make these podiums adjustable height. Both systems are available in hand crank or electric. The projects are typically contracted with the end user by a cabinet or casework shop. 

One popular solution is using the model XHCT 2-leg adjustable cantilever frame. This frame is available in motorized (XECT) or hand crank (XHCT). The frame is 24” deep by any width up to 84.” The frame has a weight capacity of 500lbs so it can be completely enclosed and bear the weight of a laminated top and side & modesty panels. The outer legs have extruded slots that can carry nut plates allowing the fabricator the ability to attach panels or electronics anywhere in front back or side. Casters are also available to move the adjustable podium into storage or send to other rooms.

Another option is to use the Retro-fit Hydraulic Lift System in a 4-leg version. Like the motorized frame, the Lift System is available in both hand crank and motorized versions. The Hand Crank model (LM4X-xx) and the Motorized (LE4X-xx). The 4-leg lift system has weight capacity of 1000lbs.

The adjustable portion of the carcass can be as simple as fabricating 2 cubes. The design involves making one cube slightly smaller than the other. The concept is to have a smaller cube fit inside the larger cube. Both cubes will be made with no tops. The larger cube will have the top open upward. The builder will install the Lift Systems legs into smaller cube using ¼-20 machine screws. The screws will pass through the wall and thread into pre-drilled and tapped holes in the Lift System leg. The smaller cube is then placed with the open top (adjustable legs are now installed) facing down towards the floor of the larger cube. The floor levelers can be installed and will push off the floor of the larger cube. Alternatively the extension tube can be anchored to the floor by using a 3/8-16 screw which passes through the floor of the larger cube into threaded extension tube end plugs. The nylon tubes that convey hydraulic fluid to the legs can be coiled in up to one inch diameter. They are then anchored to the inside of the carcass using cable ties.

The adjustable portion of the podium is now complete. From here the cabinet maker will complete the lectern as designed.