Mechanisms for transforming sofas - briefly about each
First, let’s define what a sofa transformation mechanism is. Another name is often used - the sofa folding mechanism. Professionals prefer the concept of transformation, so I will continue to use it.
Under these names lies an element that transforms the sofa into various shapes and provisions. For example, a sofa from a sitting position turns into a sofa bed or a sofa for “relaxation” with a partially reclined back. Another example of transformation is changing the shape of a sofa. For example, a corner sofa can be turned into a straight one or vice versa.
Why is it important to choose the right sofa transformation mechanism?
- The mechanism is one of the main ones, therefore the overall service life of the transformer sofa depends on its reliability.
- The mechanism affects the convenience and ease of converting the sofa into different positions.
- Depending on the transformation mechanism, different free spaces in the room will be required to bring the sofa into the desired positions.
- depends on the type of transformation mechanism. After all, it is under it that the mechanism is hidden from our eyes.
Sofas without transformation mechanisms
By definition, such sofas do not contain transformation elements and are not capable of folding out. Sofas without mechanisms are used to create seating for two or more people. We can offer this option for small size. Less often they can be found as a sofa for sleeping. Although for people without excess weight using a sofa in this capacity is quite acceptable.
Sofas that cannot be folded out can be used as separate sofa modules. Having used several similar modules, especially different sizes, you can change the shape of a sofa made up of modules.
Monolithic the sofa will do For hallway, living room and decorate the kitchen or dining room. Often this type of sofa can be found in public places.
Pros: there is no mechanism, which means there is nothing to break. The service life of monolithic sofas is longer than the service life folding sofas.
Cons: There is no mechanism, there is no possibility of transforming the sofa. Monolithic sofas are not suitable for organizing sleeping places, especially if you need to sleep two or more people.
Transformation mechanism for the sofa “Book”
The “Book” sofa can be folded into two positions: a sitting sofa and a sofa for sleeping.
The sofa can be converted into a sleeping position by tilting the back of the sofa back.
When unfolding, you will not have to move the sofa away from the wall, but you need to take into account that the design of the sofa requires free space between the wall and the back of the sofa.
The folding parts of the sofa are wooden or metal frames with spring blocks attached to them. In addition to spring blocks, another filler can be used - foam rubber or latex. Sofa with spring block is preferable because it has best performance in terms of service life and comfort.
The “Book” sofa often contains a section for bed linen inside
Advantages: durable, reliable, time-tested mechanism. Suitable for frequent use and organizing a sleeping place.
Flaws: The sofa can only be reclined in two positions - sitting and lying down. During transformation, a bulge or depression may appear in the part where the folding parts of the sofa are connected, which will negatively affect the comfort of sleep. The “book” cannot be placed tightly against the wall, since the unfolding mechanism requires free space between the wall and the backrest.
Transformation mechanism for the “Tango” sofa
When preparing this article, I came across the fact that manufacturers come up with their own names for mechanisms of the same type in terms of properties. This causes confusion. This is the case with the Tango mechanism.
The “Click-clack (clack)” mechanism has similar properties. In fact, both mechanisms are similar to the “Book” already described above.
The main difference from the "Book" consists in the ability of "Tango" ("Click-clack (clack)") to take intermediate positions of the back of the sofa when unfolding.
In addition to full horizontal folding, the backrest can be in a half-lying, half-sitting position. This opportunity creates additional comfort for relaxation.
Tango sofas have a section for storing beds
Advantages: the mechanism allows you to fix the back of the sofa in several positions, "Tango" sofas are small in size, and when folded flat, the sofa creates a surface without unevenness or bumps.
Flaws: It is not possible to place the sofa tightly against the wall; when transforming, the backrest needs space to fold out.
Transformation mechanism for the Eurobook sofa
Mechanism operation: the seat of the sofa moves forward on roll-out rollers, creating a niche in shape and size identical to the back cushions of the sofa. The pillows are placed in a niche, resulting in a flat surface for the sleeping area.
Advantages: the ease of converting a sofa into a bed, the simplicity of the mechanism itself - read its high reliability, a large and flat place to sleep, large niches inside the sofa for storing things and a bed.
Flaws Because of the wide seats, it is not comfortable to sit on the sofa leaning against its back, especially for people of short stature.
Transformation mechanism for the sofa "Pantograph" ("Tick-tock", "Puma", "Walking Eurobook")
It’s the same story with the “Pantograph” as with the “Tango” sofas. Apparently, for the sake of catchphrase, sellers and manufacturers came up with a number of bright names for essentially the same mechanism. So, what else did we manage to find under the guise of a “Pantograph” - “Tick-tock”, “Puma” and even “Walking Eurobook”. To avoid confusion, I will further call the mechanism “Pantograph” (it sounds somehow solid and mysterious))) .
The “Pantograph” arose as a variant of the “Eurobook” mechanism. The difference is that the “pantograph” does not have roll-out rollers. Otherwise, it has similar parameters to the “Eurobook”. It is equipped with internal niches for storage, has a large and even sleeping place.
The principle of operation of the mechanism: To unfold, just pull the sofa seat up, grasping its edge in the middle. Often, sofas are equipped with hinges - handles for ease of unfolding. By pulling the sofa seat up, you activate its mechanism, which pushes the seat up and forward and at the same time opens the legs of the support and stands on them. The back cushion is placed in the resulting niche. The result is a flat, without visible joints, place for two people to sleep.
Advantages: sofas with "Pantograph" have a comfortable place to sleep. The mechanism is easy to unfold. Such a sofa will not spoil your flooring because when unfolding, parts of the sofa do not move on the floor.
Flaws: The mechanism is expensive because of this and the cost of the sofa becomes higher. Due to the wide seat, it is not comfortable to sit on the sofa; you need to use additional pillows
Mechanism for transforming the sofa "French folding bed"
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The principle of operation of the mechanism: The sleeping surface of the sofa consists of three sections. You need to pull the edge of the seat and stretch them forward. The sections will open and stand on legs - supports. When folded, the sections are hidden inside the sofa body.
Sofas in this series are not suitable for frequent use since the mechanism is quite weak in terms of wear and tear.
These sofas don't even have space to store a bed - that's all interior space The sofa is occupied by a folded sleeping place.
Assembled" French folding bed" is small in size, but to unfold it you will need free space (at least 1.50 meters) in front of the front of the sofa
Advantages: when assembled it is small in size.
Flaws: uncomfortable sleeping surface, no places to store the bed, short term service (about five years)
Conclusion: you can use the “French folding bed” to organize seating and for rare use as a sleeping place - an option for unexpected guests to stay late (they won’t sleep on such a sofa for a long time and will soon run away))).
Sofa transformation mechanism American folding bed (Sedaflex, Sedaflex)
The principle of operation of the mechanism: The place to sleep 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. 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 operate, has good reliability and durability.
Flaws: there is no place for linen, the surface of the sleeping place has seams.
Mechanism for transforming the sofa “Italian folding bed”
This transformation mechanism belongs to the double-folding mechanisms just like the American clamshell. A double-folding mechanism is a mechanism that is brought into working position in two steps.
The principle of operation of the mechanism
To unfold the Italian folding bed from the sofa to the bed, you need to pull the top part the back of the sofa (usually the back has a special loop for these purposes).
- In the first step of unfolding the back of the sofa, together with the pillows, leans forward and then lies down and rests on the seat of the sofa.
- At the second stage inner part The structure of the sofa rotates around its axis, this is reminiscent of the unwinding of a rolled mattress. After this reversal, the support legs are revealed; the previously hidden ones were hidden and folded inside the structure, and the resulting sleeping area of the sofa rests on them.
Due to reinforced springs, the mechanism can be folded and unfolded without significant effort.
Advantages of the Italian folding bed: this mechanism is the most reliable and durable of folding beds, this was made possible thanks to the use of reinforced metal pipes in the frame of the mechanism, the sofa when folded has a compact size, when unfolding there is no need to remove the pillows from the seat of the sofa, Italian folding beds, among other folding beds, have the thickest and most comfortable mattress for sleeping, in addition, slats and belts are used in the frame, which create an orthopedic effect.
Flaws lack of storage space for linen, high price
Transformation mechanism for the sofa “Accordion”
The principle of operation of the mechanism: “Accordion” acquired its name for its similarity to the principle of operation of the bellows of an accordion (they stretch back and forth). The sleeping space of the sofa also seems to stretch, moving forward, when the sofa is brought into the sleeping position, and rests on the extended supports. After the transformation, we have a flat, although with minor seams there is a spacious place to relax and sleep.
The convenience of the "Accordion" sofa is in its compact size when folded. But we must not forget that to unfold the sofa you will need free space in front of its front part (at least 1.50 meters is needed)
Accordion models are often equipped with an additional storage cabinet bedding This cabinet is located near the back of the sofa.
There is no storage space inside the sofa itself; the space is occupied by a folded sofa.
Advantages: The mechanism is reliable and resistant to stress, which increases the service life of the sofa. Comes with additional storage cabinets. Ease of moving the sofa into a sleeping position.
Flaws: The sofa, when placed in the sleeping position, moves on the floor, so it can damage the floor covering.
Transformation mechanism for the sofa "Spartak"
The principle of operation of the mechanism: Triple folding mechanism. You need to pull the seat of the sofa and it will unfold in three steps while standing on the extended legs.
The design of the mechanism was developed by Italian engineers. This mechanism belongs to the metal frame type. The frame is made of profile pipes on which a dense mesh made of metal rods 4 mm thick is mounted. The frame consists of three sections. The mesh creates a good orthopedic effect. On top of the mesh is a polyurethane foam mattress. It is comfortable to sleep on such sofas. The design of the mechanism provides a large sleeping place, which is especially important for tall people. The mechanism is very reliable because it does not contain wooden or plastic parts.
Advantages: reliability and durability, easy to unfold, can be used daily, flat and large sleeping area
Flaws: there is no place to store bedding since the mechanism occupies the entire interior space of the sofa when assembled, sofa cushions must be removed before unfolding.
Sofa with fold-out floor
The principle of operation of the mechanism The sleeping area 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. That's why similar 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 most cheap look folding sofas.
Flaws: not comfortable to sleep, no places to store bedding
The principle of operation of the mechanism: The sleeping area consists of two segments. When assembled, the segments are located in the sofa body. To unfold the sofa, you need to pull the lower part from the front. After which it will roll forward into the working position. All that remains is to fold the pillow into the free space. As a result of the transformation, convenient place for sleep.
Roll-out sofas are durable and reliable models. Well suited for frequent use. Contains internal space for storing bedding.
Advantages: the most reliable, have a comfortable place to sleep and compact dimensions when assembled.
Flaws: the roll-out casters of the sofa can ruin the floor covering when unfolding, the sleeping place has a low height
Mechanism for folding out the sofa "Conrad" ("Telescope")
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The principle of operation of the mechanism: "Conrad" consists of three sections. To unfold the sofa, you need to pull the lower part of the sofa from the front. In this case, the sections roll out one after another. Because of this feature, the mechanism was nicknamed “Telescope”. The sections roll out and stand on supports.
"Conrad" is a subspecies roll-out sofa. The fundamental difference is the greater height of the berth.
Advantages: reliable mechanism suitable for daily use, the sofas have a compact volume, are equipped with a drawer for linen, and are comfortable for sleeping
Flaws: the mechanism and the sofa are heavy
Transformation mechanism for the sofa "Dolphin"
The principle of operation of the mechanism: To unfold the sofa, you need to pull the front part of the sofa from below. As a result, a section hidden inside the sofa body will roll out towards you. Inside the roll-out section there is a pillow with a strap. You need to grab the strap and pull the pillow up. It will “emerge” and stand on the same level as the seat cushion of the sofa. Voila, the sleeping place is ready.
The Dolphin mechanism is mainly used in the designs of corner sofas. Bed storage space is not located in the roll-out part of the corner sofa. The mechanism puts a significant load on the body of the sofa, so when purchasing, pay attention to the material of the body. Knots are not allowed if wood is used.
Advantages: ease of folding, optimal height sleeping place.
Flaws: not durable.
Transformation mechanism for the sofa "Elf"
The principle of operation of the mechanism: The mechanism unfolds simply. The armrests are moved to the sides to create a sleeping area.
"Elf" refers to metal-frame mechanisms. The frame is made of metal profiled pipes. Wooden slats. The armrests are height adjustable and have several positions. This feature allows you to create the most comfortable position of the armrests for a reclining position.
Advantages: compact model of sofas, good flat sleeping place, slats give a good orthopedic effect, armrests are adjustable - you can create a sofa for yourself.
Flaws: You cannot place the sofa close to the wall; the sleeping area is located in the same place as the seating area.
Transformation mechanism for the sofa "Recliner"
"Recliner" got its name from English word recline - recline or lean back
The principle of operation of the mechanism: The transformation of the sofa is controlled using complex mechanisms hidden in the body of the sofa. With their help, you can adjust the tilt of the back of the sofa and extend the footrest to a given distance and at a certain angle.
Some models have vibrating massagers built into the sofa cushions. Particularly advanced sofas have built-in electric motors that control the transformation of the sofa using a remote control.
There are models with “memory” that are capable of adjusting and remembering the mechanism settings made directly to your body.
Advantages: very easy to use, have fine settings - you can create a sofa just for you.
Flaws: high price, used only as a place to relax since there is no place to sleep
General conclusions
- Pay close attention to the mechanism when purchasing a sofa. The ease of use and service life of the sofa will depend on choosing the right mechanism.
- Match your needs with its capabilities. How often will you unfold the sofa, what space do you have allocated for installing the sofa, especially when unfolded.
- Don’t choose a sofa with a mechanism that is obviously not suitable just because the color is cool or because your neighbors have one. Choose individually for your needs.
Mechanisms for transforming sofas - video review
For greater clarity, I would also like to offer a video that describes the mechanisms of the sofas. True, they have already been discussed above. But, as they taught in school, “Repetition is the mother of learning))),” and this video will facilitate and consolidate your understanding of the topic.
Now you know everything you need about the mechanisms for transforming sofas to make an informed choice. I hope it was useful.
Three-fold transformation mechanism - "Spartak"
The folding bed "Spartak" is produced by the Samara enterprise "BIS-S" under license from the company "Ranucci" (Ranucci, Italy).
Suitable for replacement Italian folding phones French type. Similar to the MTSN “Welded Grid” mechanism produced by the Moscow region group of companies “Allegro” and the “Ifagrid” mechanism from “Via Ferrata”.
It should be noted that the method of fastening transverse pipes on the “Spartak” mechanism is less reliable than on the MTS and MTSN (“Welded Lattice”) mechanisms.
On Spartak mechanisms, cases of transverse pipes being torn off from the frame are not uncommon. Based on this, you should choose mechanisms in which the transverse pipes are attached (welded) to the corner, and not end-to-end.
The “Spartak” mechanism is the only domestic mechanism that has an installation size of 172 cm in the range of standard sizes, which allows it to be used to replace mechanisms with the same standard size and the common American “OverNighter” mechanisms without reducing the width of the berth.
Designation | Installation size | Width sleeping place | MT weight, kg |
Spartak-70 | 82 | 67 | 15,5 |
Spartak-80 | 92 | 77 | 17 |
Spartak-90 | 102 | 87 | 18,5 |
Spartak-100 | 112 | 97 | 20 |
Spartak-120 | 132 | 117 | 22,5 |
Spartak-130 | 142 | 127 | 24 |
Spartak-140 | 152 | 137 | 25 |
Spartak-150 | 162 | 147 | 26,5 |
Spartak-160 | 172 | 157 | 28 |
The Spartak sofa mechanism is practical and reliable. Lack of plastic and wooden joints, makes such sofas truly durable.
Frame made from steel pipes 1.5 thick is reinforced with longitudinal strips, which ensures rigidity and preservation of the shape of the product. Hardwood and deciduous wood is also used for manufacturing. coniferous trees, chipboard and plywood. The seat is made from soft material polyurethane foam on a flexible spring “snake” base. At the base of the backrest, made of synthetic down, there are rubber bands, which gives it a comfortable elasticity.
Sofas with the Spartak mechanism are well suited for daily use, and not just as a guest option. Three-fold mechanism, complemented by elastic polyurethane foam flooring, folds forward, forming an ergonomic sofa with a berth.
For upholstery, fabrics from the VIP collection or genuine leather are used. If desired, in the EkolMebel salon you can order upholstery from any material and color. It should be noted that Spartak sofas are slightly more expensive than other models. But it pays off due to the quality of the product.
The service life of these sofas exceeds the 10-year warranty declared by the manufacturer Pinskdrev at least twice.
Why is it best to buy a Spartak sofa at EkolMebel?
When buying a sofa with a Spartak transformation mechanism installed, a person receives comfort worthy of kings. The safety of the product is confirmed by an international certificate. Delivery of the order occurs quickly to any address in Moscow and even outside the Moscow Ring Road. Experienced consultants are always happy to tell the buyer which sofa is best to choose and how to extend its service life. To do this, you don’t need to go or travel anywhere, just dial or leave your phone number, and the specialist will call you.
Do you want in your office, apartment or country house was it cozy? Prestigious Belarusian furniture can raise the image of any person in the eyes of his friends. In order to buy a sofa in an online store with a Spartak mechanism, you don’t have to be rich. The EkolMebel salon works personally with each visitor and can choose its own loan program for everyone. Call now so that tomorrow your friends and acquaintances will burst with envy!
From the Pinskdrev company, it is equipped with a transformation mechanism that allows you to expand comfortable sleeping places. Let us consider in more detail the main mechanisms of transformation.
Transformation mechanism "Accordion"
The accordion transformation mechanism is easy to unfold and offers a spacious and flat sleeping area with an orthopedic effect. Easy to operate and designed for daily use.
Transformation mechanism "Dolphin"
The design provides a durable frame, often used in corner models. Reliable steel mechanism, guides made of hard rocks wood allow you to easily expand the sofa. The principle of transformation - having pulled the mechanism out of the niche under the seat, you pull the special loop-handle and install the lift soft element in a horizontal position, which, when connected to the seat, forms a berth. Advantages: durable and reliable mechanism; a flat and spacious sleeping area is created. Corner models have a spacious linen drawer. Access to the linen drawer is facilitated by a special lifting mechanism.
Transformation mechanism "Eurobook"
The “Eurobook” mechanism is the most familiar for the buyer. It is considered a classic among transformation mechanisms. Sofas based on the Eurobook mechanism are reliable and durable. The mechanism allows the sofa to transform into a spacious and flat sleeping place. Another undeniable advantage of the Eurobook mechanism is a large box for linen, which will help save space in the apartment and make the sofa more functional.
Transformation mechanism "Click-clack" (Book)
The “Click-Clack” transformation mechanism, otherwise called the “Book”, combines simplicity and functional convenience. This may seem surprising, but it is so simple that it is almost impossible to break or damage it.
Transformation mechanism "Tick-tock"
Transformation mechanism "French folding bed"
The mechanism for transforming sofas “French folding bed” is one of the simplest and at the same time reliable. Probably for this reason, upholstered furniture with such a transformer is recognized as the most popular in the world. In addition, the “French folding bed” sofa remarkably saves space, since it takes up much less space than any of its analogues.
Transformation mechanism "Sedaflex"
Transformation mechanism " Sedaflex" or " Dionysus" is similar in design to the French clamshell mechanism, but is incredibly durable and does not require special handling. It is easy to use, is perfect for any model and, due to its compactness, will reduce the size of furniture.
Transformer type " Sedaflex" (or " Dionysus") is ideal for daily use and will last for many years without breakdowns. Sofas with such a mechanism are considered elite models, and therefore are most often used for them. leather upholstery, however, both fabric and combined upholstery are equally good for them.
The folding system "Sedaflex", or "Dionysus", is durable and is therefore often chosen experienced furniture makers. According to the principle of operation, "Dionysus" is close to the French folding bed transformer, but it is much more compact and more practical
The Sedaflex (Dionysus) transformer can withstand a load of up to 200 kilograms daily. It works simply: you pull the seat forward and lift it up a little, and the links straighten and install themselves on the support legs.
The design uses a full-fledged foam mattress with a thickness of 10 cm. Thus, you have a real bed at your disposal.
Transformation mechanism "Spartak" (Ifagrid)
The sofa mechanism "SPARTAK" / IFAGRID is reliable and very practical. There are no wooden or plastic connections, which makes it extremely durable.
The mechanism frame is assembled from 1.5 mm steel pipes. thick, powder-coated and reinforced with longitudinal elements, which ensures rigidity and preservation of the geometry of the product. Manufactured from metal welded mesh from steel rods with a diameter of 4 mm. The installation method allows you to quickly install and dismantle the transformation mechanism. The transformation mechanism can be transported separately from the furniture.
Sofas with the SPARTAK mechanism are well suited for daily use, and not just as a guest option. The mechanism folds forward in 3 steps, forming an ergonomic sofa with a berth. The product takes up little space when folded, but provides maximum comfort during sleep. The design uses a 7 cm thick foam mattress.
Transformation mechanism "Ribalto"
The Ribalto transformation mechanism is usually used in three-seat designs. When unfolded, it quickly forms a spacious full-sized double bed.
"Forward withdrawable" mechanism
"Ranucci" mechanism
New! Transformation mechanism "Ranucci"!
The Italians, trendsetters in furniture fashion, are sure: you need to sit and sleep on different elements sofa, because sitting requires more soft filler, and for healthy sleep– harder. The Ranucci double-folding mechanism is a unique mechanism for daily sleep, the comfort of which is comparable to a full bed. The berth consists of three parts, two of which are the base of the seat before transformation, and the third, when folded, forms the backrest. Sofas with the “Ranucci” mechanism when assembled occupy minimum area, because The Ranucci mechanism itself is both a sofa and a sleeping place at the same time, which allows you to save space in the living room. The mechanism unfolds in one movement; the seat and back cushions do not need to be removed, because they go under the bed. As a result of unfolding, we get an excellent sleeping place, without joints, without level changes (which often happens when various roll-out systems are used). The mattress is made of high-quality polyurethane foam, and the support for it is a welded steel mesh, fixed to the frame of the mechanism using springs (this creates additional comfort). The frame of the mechanism is made of steel pipes, and the parts of the mechanism itself are made of steel sheet. The simplicity, comfort and reliability of the “Ranucci” mechanism were appreciated and chosen for their furniture by such a world-famous hotel chain as “Hilton”. The global furniture giant NATUZZI also uses these mechanisms for its sofas.
Italian company Fratelli Ranucci s.n.c. specializes in production folding mechanisms For upholstered furniture on a metal frame. The company has existed since 1960 A
The mechanism is certified according to European standards