Mechanisms for transforming sofas. Types of folding mechanisms: options and methods for laying out a sofa, photo and name

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The housing area does not always allow for additional guest beds in case of frequent visits from friends or relatives. We have to look for ways to rationally use free space, choosing an alternative option for sleeping space. Ideally, such furniture should successfully combine a stylish appearance, a high level of comfort and reliability of the transformation mechanism - a French folding sofa with a three-section base fits perfectly into these criteria. The model is more practical than all its analogues, every element here is carefully thought out, from its appearance it is difficult to guess that the design is folding. Since the range of French folding beds is quite large, an untrained user will need to find out the operating principle, advantages and disadvantages of this furniture - this is the only way to choose the optimal model for themselves.

Sofa with Elf mechanism

Elf is the simplest and most unpretentious type of sofa.

It unfolds by simply lowering the side armrests, which can be locked in a comfortable lying position. This ability to sit in a reclining position creates an orthopedic effect. This sofa is very compact, although it is designed for only one person. In addition to this, it has a drawer for bedding.

Sofa with Book mechanism

Sofa book is clear from the name that this type is transformed by analogy with the opening of a book.

To turn it into a seating area, you need to raise the seat. The back will go down, taking a horizontal position. The seat then lowers back down. Transformation mechanisms of this type are considered the most durable of all existing ones. In addition, these models have a drawer at the bottom for bedding. But they also have certain disadvantages. Due to the nature of the transformation, they cannot be moved close to the wall. In addition, when unfolded they are not particularly spacious. But the most unpleasant thing is that over time, a gap forms at the junction of the back and seat, which prevents you from sleeping comfortably.

Advantages and disadvantages

Sofas with a French folding bed mechanism are consistently in demand. They owe this to their undeniable advantages, which include:

Compactness. When folded, they take up very little space. You can choose a suitable model even for a small room and properly organize the free space.
Convenient transformation. Laying out the bed is done in 2 movements, without scratching the floor covering, and no physical effort is required.
The presence of orthopedic properties and the ability to withstand loads of up to 200 kg. We are talking about models made of welded metal mesh.
Durability. The service life of the sofa increases when it is used as a sleeping place exclusively upon the arrival of guests.
Favorable price. A budget model of a sofa with a “French folding bed” transformation mechanism can be purchased by people even with modest incomes.
Stylish design that allows the selected model to fit organically into the interior and become its successful addition.
Ease of use when folded. Comfort during relaxation is provided by armrests, soft pillows and the correct backrest curve, which reduces the load on the spine.
Possibility of using a removable cover to prevent rubbing of the outer covering and its damage by the claws of pets.

With models that have a base in the form of a welded mesh, it is allowed to use a thin foam rubber or polyurethane foam orthopedic mattress up to 6 cm thick. A thick hard mattress for sofas with the transformation mechanism in question is absolutely not suitable.

As for the possible disadvantages that sofas equipped with a “French folding bed” mechanism have, they include the fact that the transformable sleeping place is not suitable for sleeping tall people, since its length is 180–185 centimeters. Most models do not have a drawer for bed linen. Most importantly, the sofas in question are not suitable for everyday sleeping, they are recommended exclusively for guest use. Such furniture is contraindicated for children and people with back pain.

Review of popular sofa transformation mechanisms, tips for choosing

Compactness

Convenient transformation

Favorable cost

Durability

Stylish design, ease of use

Sofa with Euronizhka mechanism

Eurobook sofa. Despite the similarity in name with the previous type, this model unfolds differently. The seat extends or rolls forward, and the soft backrest tilts into the freed space.

The result is a very spacious seating area with storage underneath for bedding. Design features allow you to move it tightly against the wall. And the simplicity of the mechanism makes it more durable than the previous type. However, when folded, such sofas are inconvenient: their seat is too wide, so it is not very comfortable to lean back.

Which sofa mechanism is better?

Since all the mechanisms for transforming sofas differ significantly from each other, consumers are faced with the question: which sofa mechanism is better. Here it is worth starting not only from personal wishes and financial capabilities, but also from the purpose of the furniture item.

For daily use

For daily sleep, it is better to choose the following types of folding sofa mechanisms: accordion, eurobook, tick-tock, puma, dolphin.
An excellent solution for every day would be a rotary or roll-out mechanism. If a product is purchased for the purpose of regular use, first of all, attention is paid to its design and the quality of the frame, which will bear the maximum load.

When choosing a sofa, it is important to consider the type of filling. He can be:

springy. In such a product, coiled springs are located inside in a vertical position. They, in turn, are divided into dependent and independent. The second option is more reliable, since such a filler does not bend, and during rest the spine is maintained in the correct position;
springless. It has an orthopedic effect, safety and ease of use. Such products guarantee sound and healthy sleep.

When choosing a sofa for daily use, you should pay attention not only to its folding mechanism and how it works, but also to the degree of mattress hardness, the quality of the upholstery, and the ability to change covers.

As a guest option

Compact models are used as guest sofas, which can be folded out from time to time. Quite often they are equipped with folding mechanisms that are not very strong (for example, a French folding bed), and it is not always comfortable to sleep on them. In these products, the main emphasis is on the spaciousness and convenience of the seats, and the function of the bed in them is secondary.

Sofa with Tango mechanism (click-clack)

Tango (click-clack) is a stylish sofa, which is an improved version of the “book”.

It unfolds according to the same principle: the seat rises, lowering the backrest, and then falls back. A notable feature of this type is the comfortable folding sides, which can be lowered to increase the sleeping area or raised to make armrests. Another feature of this sofa is the ability to transform the backrest into a semi-unfolded state. Despite the apparent complexity, the mechanism of this sofa is also durable. Plus there is a compartment for storing linen at the bottom. However, like the “book,” it cannot be moved close to the wall.

Sofa with Pantograph mechanism

Pantograph - this type of sofa unfolds according to a principle similar to the “Eurobook”, except that to extend the seat it needs to be lifted up and then moved forward.

After which the backrest also tilts onto the vacant seat. Thanks to this design, it retains its advantages in surface area, but when folded it is still not very comfortable to sit on. Although such a mechanism provides ease of transformation, as well as an absolutely flat surface for resting, it significantly increases the cost of the model. But there is a drawer for bedding.

Sofa with Puma mechanism

Puma - similar to the previous type of mechanism, this one unfolds according to the principle of raising and extending the sofa seat.

At the same time, a soft platform rises to the free space below, creating a single place for sleeping and relaxing. Such models are advantageous due to their easy folding, but, as a rule, they do not have a drawer for bedding. In addition, the backs of such models are separate pillows, which in sleep mode always have nowhere to put them. Most often, this type of mechanism is found on corner sofas.

Sofa with Accordion mechanism

The accordion is perhaps the most versatile model. It unfolds according to the “accordion” principle by extending the seat, which drags behind it and unfolds the backrest folded in half.

The result is a spacious sleeping area. Whereas when folded it is very compact. But such an advantage also results in a significant disadvantage: a lot of space is needed for an unfolded sofa, which will be fatal for a small room. In addition, such a mechanism requires considerable effort.

Sofa with mechanism French folding bed

French folding bed - this option is unlikely to be suitable for everyday use, but as an additional guest place it is quite suitable.

The back of this model is usually replaced by pillows, which are removed before transformation. After this, the seat is sequentially folded out into three sections (like a folding bed), forming a spacious place to rest. This type of mechanism is not reliable. In addition, inconvenient gaps remain between the unfolded sections, interfering with a comfortable rest. In addition, there is no drawer for linen.

French folding bed - review of the mechanism

Depending on the type of bed, French folding beds can be divided into types:

armored mechanisms
tent-plate mechanisms
mechanisms with welded grating

and purpose:

guest cots
folding beds for daily use

Lat French folding beds.

A very ambiguous type of French folding beds. Despite the large number of armor (lamellas) - 13 pieces, due to the fact that each lamella bends separately and it is not entirely comfortable to sleep on such a mechanism unevenly. In our assortment, the brass French folding bed is represented by the “Cosmolat”

Awning-latte French folding beds.

The base of the berth of tent-batten mechanisms is bent-glued birch battens (from 4 to 10 pieces) fixed to the frame with plastic batten holders and a polypropylene awning. The awning is attached to the frame with springs and is necessary to evenly distribute the load between the armor. The combination of battens and awning makes the base more resistant to sagging.

Mechanisms with an awning and battens, according to their intended purpose, belong to French guest cots and are not recommended for daily use. An exception may be a mechanism with 10 battens and an awning, but still for daily use we recommend mechanisms with a welded grid.

Mechanisms with welded grid

Mechanisms with a welded grid are the most reliable among all types of French folding beds. The base of the sections is filled with a grid of steel rods with a diameter of 4 mm. The grille is attached by springs to the frame of the mechanism. The mechanism frame is made of steel pipes with a diameter of 25 mm. In places of folding, reinforcing pipes are welded to the mechanism frame, to which narrow lattice elements are welded. This design is designed for daily use and can withstand distributed loads of up to 100 kg per bed.

Advantages of French folding beds with a welded grid over mechanisms with armor:

No hammock effect.
More durable design.
The hard surface of the sleeping place does not bend under the weight of the sleeper.
Using a thicker, 7 cm mattress.

Guest French folding beds:

French folding bed "Cosmolat"
French folding bed "Mixotoil-4"
French folding bed "Mixotoy-8"
French folding bed “Mirolat” (the mechanism is not represented in our assortment)

French folding beds for daily use:

French folding bed "Ifagrid"
French folding bed “Welded grid” (MTS/MTSN)
French folding bed "Suzy"

For reference! Outdated French folding beds:

Awning mechanisms. A polypropylene awning is used to support the mattress, which sag quickly. Currently, such mechanisms are not produced.

Mechanisms with wire mesh. The base is filled with wire mesh, which cannot retain its springy properties for long.

Sofa with mechanism American folding bed

American clamshell - unlike its “French” counterpart, this type of mechanism is more reliable and will withstand frequent transformations. It unfolds a little differently.

First, a block with a folded component slides out from the sofa body. The seat of the pull-out unit is raised, and the composite section is folded forward like a clamshell and placed on legs. This results in a spacious sleeping area. However, there are not very comfortable seams between the sections. In addition, there is no compartment for linen.

Sofa transformation mechanism American folding bed (Sedaflex, Sedaflex)

The principle of operation of the mechanism: The sleeping place has three parts - sections. You need to pull the seat of the sofa, as a result of which the sections of the sleeping place will open and stand on supports. The unfolding takes place in two stages - first one section will open, followed by the next one.

In essence, this mechanism is identical to the “French clamshell” mechanism.

Its main difference can be called reliability.

The frame of the sofa and the mechanism itself are made of wear-resistant materials. This makes it possible to regularly use Sedaflex as a transformable sleeping bed.

Advantages : easy to use, has good reliability and durability.

Disadvantages: there is no place for linen, the surface of the sleeping area has seams.

Sofa with Spartak mechanism

Spartak is a stylish sofa, the folding mechanism of which is similar to the “American folding bed”. Before the transformation begins, the cushions are removed from the seat. After that, the sofa block is lifted from the body, which, in turn, folds out into two more sections that are installed on the legs. All sections are made of durable metal, which significantly reduces the weight of the structure in comparison with standard elements of other types of sofas. However, this design makes it impossible for the sofa to store bed linen below.

Selecting sizes by sofa type

In addition to straight sofas, you can also select U-shaped, corner and more.

Let's look at several common options, and also talk about their standard sizes or the nuances of choosing dimensions.

Sofa with roll-out mechanism

Roll-out is another type of mechanism, characterized by both simplicity and reliability.

Its transformation is based on the retractable front part, on which there is a folded pillow. This pillow unfolds and fits into the free space. A spacious, and most importantly, seamless sleeping area is created. However, the height from the floor of such a sofa may seem too small to some.

French folding bed with 10-lats + awning

more details from RUB 6,200

The mechanism with an awning and 10 armor plates is a model of a standard French tent-latten clamshell, additionally reinforced with 6 armor plates. Compared to a transformation mechanism with 4 battens, installing additional battens increases the reliability of the berth and virtually eliminates sagging. Orthopedic elastic armor gives the sleeping place elasticity. The polypropylene awning evenly distributes the load between the battens. The folding mechanism is designed for a load of up to 180 kg. Installation of 10 battens in combination with an awning is the optimal number of battens for the tent-batten model of a French folding bed.

Sofa with floor mechanism

Floor-standing is perhaps the simplest and most economical type of sofa.

The folding part, consisting of two parts, when folded, fits completely into the body of the sofa, forming its seat. Whereas, when unfolded, it is placed on the floor without legs or supports. The design is simple and therefore reliable. But, of course, there can be no talk of any linen drawer.

Sofa with Conrad mechanism

Conrad is a model with a three-section mechanism. When assembled it is a beautiful and stylish sofa, and when disassembled it is a spacious place to sleep.

It is transformed by pulling out the seat, from which, in turn, a third section with a lifting part extends. As a result, the place to relax is not only large in area, but also high. The mechanism of this model, although reliable, is quite heavy. But there are drawers for storing bedding.

Sofa with fold-out floor

The principle of operation of the mechanism The berth consists of two sections. When folded, the sections are hidden inside the sofa body. To unfold the sofa, you need to pull up the inner edge of the sofa seat. Then, move the sections forward towards you. The sleeping place has no supports and folds directly onto the floor.

It cannot be said that the sofa is comfortable for sleeping since the joints of the sections are noticeable and the sleeping place itself is located very low. Therefore, such models can be used for occasional use as a bedroom. But for sitting it’s a completely acceptable option.

Advantages : compact dimensions when assembled, the cheapest type of folding sofas. Disadvantages : not comfortable to sleep, no places to store bedding

Sofa with Dolphin mechanism

Dolphin - this type of transformation is most often found in corner sofas. The principle of its operation is to extend the lower section of the long side and then lift the pillow upward using a soft handle.

As a rule, a corner sofa of this design has a backrest consisting of individual pillows. Pillows have to be removed when unfolding the bed. The mechanism is resistant to loads, but wears out quite quickly. In addition, a carpet laid on the floor will make it very difficult to pull out the section.

What is a French folding bed?

French clamshell is the name of the triple-action transformation mechanism. This type of transformation mechanism is one of the most popular: it is used in most models of upholstered furniture sold in stores. To unfold a sofa with a French folding bed, you need to follow a number of simple steps:

Remove pillows from the part of the furniture that people usually sit on;
Carefully lift this part up and pull it towards you.

French folding beds come in two main types:

Guest structures - have an awning and four battens;
Designs for everyday use - have an awning, eight battens and a reinforced folding mechanism on a welded grid.

In addition to French folding beds, American folding beds can be used as a folding mechanism in sofas, and if you are planning to change the mechanism of upholstered furniture, you should remember: replace a French folding bed in a sofa with a similar design!

If you find it difficult to determine on your own what type of mechanism is installed in your sofa, call us! Our company’s specialists will help you determine the type of transformation device and provide the most detailed advice on its replacement.