The transformation mechanism is a structural element of upholstered furniture that allows it to be given different positions. For example, use it for comfortable sleep or recline the backrest for comfortable rest. Some mechanisms turn corner sofas into straight ones and vice versa. When choosing a sofa that you will often use for sleeping, pay attention to its folding mechanism, and only then to the appearance and quality of the upholstery.
The transformation mechanism is an important design element
This element of folding upholstered furniture is its main part. The better quality it is, the greater the durability of the sofa. As practice shows, this unit is the most frequently failing one. Especially if you use it daily.
The choice of transformation mechanism is an important criterion for purchasing a sofa. After all, the ease of use of upholstered furniture and the occupied space in the room depend on it.
Book
The most popular transformation mechanism, which allows you to use two positions:
- Normal (sedentary);
- For sleeping (unfolded).
To unfold a sofa with such a mechanism, you need to recline the back. This must be taken into account when placing upholstered furniture in a room. Modern “books” have a durable design. They can be used every day. Such sofas can be equipped with additional elements. For example, sections for bed linen.
Advantages of the “book”:
- Reliable, time-tested design;
- You can test it for strength every day.
Disadvantages of the “book”:
- There are only two positions;
- Defects may appear at the installation site of the unit, interfering with a comfortable rest;
- You need to consider the space for reclining the backrest.
IMPORTANT: The “Book”, thanks to its simple mechanism, is well suited for daily use. But the more often you use them, the faster unevenness will appear on the sleeping area.
In essence, this is an improved “Book”. Sometimes this mechanism is called “Click-clack”. Its difference is the presence of a third, intermediate position. Using this mechanism, you can recline the backrest to a reclining position. This allows you to create a comfortable place to relax.
Advantages of "Tango":
- More backrest locking position;
- Small sizes;
- No deformation in places where the mechanism is installed.
Disadvantages of "Tango":
- You need to leave space between the wall and the back.
IMPORTANT: Tango mechanisms can withstand intense loads well. There are practically no deformations left at the bends. Relaxing on such unfolded sofas does not cause discomfort.
Transformation of a sofa using the “click-click” method
A sofa with a click-clack mechanism will be the best choice - it is reliable and forms a comfortable surface.
Similar to the “book” mechanism, only more modern and comfortable. Most manufacturers call the device “click-click”.
Click-klyak sofas with an orthopedic base made of reliable steel have maximum strength
Advantages Disadvantages The backrest can be in a vertical or horizontal position, and it is also attached at an angle, which allows you to relax in comfort. To transform the sofa into a sleeping place, you will need free space, it is not recommended to place it close to the wall. The design mechanism is simple and suitable for daily use. To fold out such a sofa you will need effort There is a spacious drawer for bedding
Sofa transformation mechanism - click-clack
Eurobook
The Eurobook folds out very simply. The seat, with the help of built-in rollers, moves forward, and the back fits into the space created by such a transformation. This allows you to create a flat plane.
Advantages of Eurobook:
- Ease of folding;
- Reliability of the mechanism due to the simplicity of the design;
- Possibility of creating a large space;
- The voids can be used to organize the storage of bed linen.
Disadvantages of the Eurobook:
- People with short stature will find it uncomfortable to sit on such upholstered furniture.
IMPORTANT: This design is highly reliable. Which allows you to use it quite often.
Pantograph
This mechanism can also have other names: “Walking Eurobook”, “Puma”, etc. The design of the “Pentograph” is similar to the design of the “Eurobook”. The difference is the absence of rollers in the withdrawable mechanism.
To unfold a sofa with this mechanism, you need to pull the seat up. This will activate the structure and move it forward. The final stage of the transformation will be lowering the seat. Which will be flush with the backrest.
Advantages of "Pantograph":
- Forms a comfortable large sleeping area;
- Ease of folding out the structure;
- Due to the absence of rollers, it does not damage the decorative coating.
Disadvantages of the Pantograph:
- The high cost of the mechanism, which is reflected in the high cost of the entire product;
- When folded, without additional pillows, it is not always comfortable.
IMPORTANT: Sofas of this design will help create a place to sleep for two people at once. When unfolded, such structures will not spoil the laminate or linoleum. Recommended for frequent use.
Which mechanism for sofas is better?
A sofa that transforms into a bed is very comfortable and functional furniture. It is perfect for cozy home living rooms and can be an elegant solution for the office. However, a common problem with such sofas is an insufficiently comfortable sleeping place. Due to the peculiarities of the folding mechanisms, unevenness is formed that prevents you from fully relaxing. The Estetica company offers luxury designer sofas from the manufacturer. For the sleeping place we use independent spring blocks with anatomical properties. They support the body, help you sleep and restore strength.
Which folding sofa mechanism is better?
- you decide. Much depends on the size of the room and the required functionality. We offer a brief overview of different transformation mechanisms with their features, advantages and disadvantages.
Sofa configurations
Before choosing a folding mechanism, you need to decide on the type of sofa. Models that transform into a bed come in three varieties:
- classic straight;
- with ottoman;
- modular - straight and angular.
Classic straight sofas when folded can be of different sizes. Even a two-seater sofa can turn into a spacious sleeping place if it has a suitable folding mechanism built into it. An ottoman
is a protruding part that serves as additional seating.
Inside such an ottoman, as a rule, there is a box for storing bedding. Modular sofas
consist of separate sections that are connected to each other in almost any order. Such models can be modified depending on needs. When creating a modular sofa design, a built-in sleeping area is also provided.
Now let’s look at what types of sofa transformation mechanisms there are so that you can choose the best one for yourself. Sedaflex
This mechanism is also called the “American clamshell”. The berth is hidden under the seat and consists of three sections that rise one after another. To determine which sofa transformation mechanism is best suited for your needs, we present the main advantages and disadvantages of Sedaflex.
Pros:
- spacious and flat sleeping area;
- a simple mechanism that is suitable for daily use
- quite thick mattress up to 14 cm high.
use;
Minus:
- no linen drawer.
The HILTON sofa from Estetica can be equipped with a Sedaflex transformation mechanism.
It is suitable for interiors in a classic style and in the spirit of Art Deco. The low backrest and voluminous seat cushions are inspired by oriental culture. Roll-out mechanism One of the most popular transformation methods in modern sofas. To make a sleeping place appear, you need to pull a special loop, and an additional block will roll out from under the seat. If you are faced with the question of choosing a sofa for daily use, take a closer look at models with a roll-out mechanism. This furniture does not take up much space when folded; its design is simple and reliable. The sofa can be folded out and put back together very easily. The only drawback is related to the design features: the berth is lower than usual. The Estetica collection includes a modular sofa DOMINO LUX, equipped with a Dedalo roll-out mechanism made in Italy. The size of the berth is 160*200 cm. A two-layer filler (highly elastic polyurethane foam and a down-feather analogue) was used for the seat cushions, and Roloconf for the back cushions. All cases have an additional soft layer of holofiber. "Accordion"
This folding mechanism is more suitable for small rooms if you are looking for a sofa for a small living room or office. The berth consists of three parts: two are in the back and one is in the seat. To turn the sofa into a bed, you need to pull the seat. The main advantages of the Accordion are its perfectly flat sleeping area and compact dimensions when folded. Disadvantages include difficult unfolding (effort required) and the risk of damaging the floor covering, since you have to move the supporting elements along the floor. We recommend sofas with the Accordion mechanism for rooms where there is no need for a permanent sleeping place. These models are great for accommodating guests. In the Estetica line you will find a COOPER sofa equipped with an “Accordion” mechanism. It is decorated with a unique stitch, for which especially strong threads are used. Independent spring blocks are built into the back and seat, and highly elastic polyurethane foam of the HR brand is used for additional comfort.
"Eurobook"
This is one of the types of withdrawable mechanism. It is necessary to pull out the drawer under the seat and raise the second part of the berth. This transformation method is widely used for sofa beds that are used every day.
Pros:
- a very simple mechanism that even a child can handle
- wide and high berth;
- spacious drawers for storing linen;
- reliable and durable system.
Minuses:
- the impossibility of applying the mechanism to compact models of sofas;
- if there are no rollers, there is a risk of scratching the floor;
- very deep seat (this may be uncomfortable for some).
According to the “Eurobook” principle, the QUADRO sofa can be folded out.
It attracts with soft pillows and original designer stitching. We used innovative filler and a Multipocket spring block, which supports the body during rest and sleep. "Millennium"
One of the most modern ways to transform upholstered furniture. To create a sleeping place, you need to tilt the backrest, unfold the frame and put it on its legs. The surface has no joints, which promotes comfort and relaxation when lying down. Our catalog contains a large assortment of sofas that can be folded out using the Millennium mechanism. For example, the Hollywood model is suitable for bohemian classic interiors. The sofa has a modular design and you can choose its configuration.
"Puma"
This simple mechanism is activated in one motion: you need to pull the seat up and towards you: the upper part will extend and stand next to the lower one.
Pros:
- ease of transformation and possibility of daily use;
- there is no risk of damaging the floor covering.
Minuses:
- inability to use for small sofas;
- low location of the berth;
- no linen drawer.
The refined and elegant ETRO sofa can be equipped with the Puma mechanism.
It attracts with its unique design stitching, deep seat, wide armrests and comfortable backrest. The model is perfect for fashionable interiors in the Art Nouveau spirit. "Big"
This is an original movement made in Italy. In principle, it resembles Sedaflex: the sleeping area is hidden under the seat in two layers. After transformation, the sofa turns into a bed with a perfectly flat surface. The representative of this mechanism in the Estetica line is the Lampolet model, which attracts with its discreet respectability. The size of the sleeping place varies from 140*200 to 160*200 cm, the height is 11 cm. The anatomical mattress uses an independent spring block, in which each spring is in a separate case. This allows you to avoid punctures and evenly distribute the load over the surface of the bed. We looked at the main types of transformation mechanisms for sofas, and each of them has its own advantages and disadvantages. The choice depends on the purpose, style and size of upholstered furniture. Which mechanism is better to buy a sofa with is a question that needs to be answered individually. If you need help, contact Estetica specialists at number.
French folding bed
It has three sections folded like an accordion. In order to transform it, the edge of the seat is pulled forward, which allows you to remove the remaining sections. After which they will open and stand on supports. Folding occurs in the reverse manner.
Advantages of the “French folding bed”:
- Ultra-compact size;
Disadvantages of the "French folding phone":
- Very weak transformation mechanism;
- When unfolded, it has irregularities that interfere with comfortable rest;
- There are no drawers for linen.
IMPORTANT: Due to the weak transformation mechanism, such a sofa cannot be laid out every day. It is used as a place to sleep and rest for late guests or relatives who have come to stay.
Which sofa transformation mechanism is best for daily use?
join the discussion
Share with your friends
Although some experts argue against using sofas as a permanent place to sleep, many people prefer this functional option for upholstered furniture. And if just recently our industry produced sofas of only two types, now furniture showrooms display products with a variety of transformation mechanisms. Which one is best suited for daily use - we will try to answer this question in our article, and will also review reviews from owners of sofas of different designs.
American folding bed
Other names for this mechanism are: Sadaflex (sometimes indicated in Russian transcription as Sedaflex). The operation of this system is identical to the mechanism described above. The section stretches forward and pulls others along with it. But unlike the “French clamshell”, the mechanism of the American “namesake” is more reliable.
Advantages of the “American folding bed”:
- The mechanism is made of wear-resistant materials;
- Easy to operate;
- Creating a perfectly flat surface.
Disadvantages of the American Folding Phone:
- There is no place to store linen.
IMPORTANT: A folding sofa with such a mechanism can be used for daily sleep. Thanks to the high-quality materials of both the upholstered furniture and the transformation unit, sofas of this design will be a good solution for organizing a sleeping area for a small apartment.
Accordion
The name of this mechanism speaks for itself. The principle of its operation is similar to playing the accordion. The sleeping place moves forward and a flat plane is formed. Very often, such upholstered furniture is equipped with an additional cabinet for storing blankets and pillows.
Advantages of "Accordion":
- The transformation system is highly reliable;
- The set includes drawers for organizing the storage of bedding;
- Easily unfolds and creates a place to relax.
Disadvantages of "Accordion":
- When unfolded, it may damage the floor covering.
IMPORTANT: A good solution for creating a daily place to rest and sleep. It has a simple but reliable design. But you need to take into account that if you unfold it frequently, your laminate, parquet or linoleum may suffer.
Spartacus
Design from Italian industrial engineers who designed a reliable transformation mechanism. Its basis is a metal frame made of profile pipes. It consists of three elements. To recline, simply pull the seat forward. The Spartak design is complemented by a metal mesh that supports the polyurethane filler and creates an orthopedic effect.
Spartak's advantage:
- Reliability due to the absence of wooden and plastic elements;
- Easy to unfold and use;
- When unfolded, it provides space for two people.
Disadvantages of Spartak:
- Lack of space for storing bedding;
- The high cost of the mechanism and sofas in general.
IMPORTANT: Spartak sofas have the most reliable folding mechanisms. Even daily use will not cause problems with the durability of the structure. It is worth noting the orthopedic effect of such sofas.
Types of mechanisms
Manufacturers develop and create a large number of metal elements of upholstered furniture that will satisfy the buyer with any living space and physical capabilities for unfolding.
Folding mechanisms for sofas are different.
Transformation of a sofa using the “book” method
The simplest option, which involves two positions: a place to sit and sleep. When disassembled, it forms a comfortable double bed and has an internal drawer for bedding.
“Book” is the easiest way to transform. It is easily transformed and does not take up much space in the room, but requires 10-15 cm of free space against the wall. It unfolds by tilting the backrest and partially moving the seat forward.
Such furniture does not take up much space. Suitable for use in small rooms, kitchens and children's rooms; it is convenient to receive guests and sleep on it.
This sofa model is well suited for any room - kitchen, living room, children's room.
Transformation of a sofa using the Eurobook method
Quickly transforms by extending the seat on casters and lowering the back cushions into the resulting niche. Equipped with internal storage drawers and creates a large sleeping area.
This sofa can be transformed very simply and does not require any effort. The roller element is simple and reliable, but requires a flat floor surface for easy movement when unfolding. And the wide seat of the “Eurobook” does not allow you to comfortably lean back to relax, but it will comfortably accommodate one person to sleep.
These sofas are comfortable and comfortable for sleeping.
Transformation of a sofa using the “click-click” method
The principle of unfolding a “book”, but improved. The mechanism allows you not only to fold it into a sleeping position, but also to partially recline the backrest, creating a comfortable seat for relaxation.
“Click-klyak” is a more advanced version of the “book” transformation. The metal frame makes the system reliable, and soft armrests can replace pillows, but installation requires 10-15 cm of free space against the wall.
The frame makes such sofas reliable and comfortable. Made straight or angular, the folding design is reliable and convenient for daily use.
This design is suitable for daily use.
Transformation of a sofa using the “dolphin” method
It has an angular shape, consisting of two sections: the main one for seating and an internal pull-out one for creating a sleeping place.
These sofas consist of two main sections. To transform, simply pull out the front part, which is equipped with guide rollers and a hinge for convenience. In the inner section there is an additional pillow, which, when rising, extends to the same level as the entire surface.
These sofas can be folded out by pulling out the front part. The “dolphin” sofa occupies a significant area in the room, is suitable for large living rooms, and can be used as the main sleeping place.
It should be taken into account that when unfolded, “dolphin” sofas take up a lot of space. To the question which sofa mechanisms are the most reliable, there is an answer: it depends on the frequency of use when disassembled. Manufacturers of all designs provide for daily use of all furniture elements, which should last at least 7-10 years.
The reliability of the mechanism will depend on the frequency of its use.
Foldable to the floor
Folding sofas have two sections. The edge of the seat is pulled up and then forward. The entire structure is laid on the floor. The place to sleep itself is not comfortable. But in a “sitting” position, such sofas are compact and comfortable.
Advantages of laying out on the floor:
- One of the cheapest designs;
- When assembled, the sofa is very compact.
Disadvantages of laying out on the floor:
- Provide minimal sleeping comfort;
- There is no storage compartment for bedding items.
IMPORTANT: Due to its inconvenience, it is not suitable for daily use. Can be used for force majeure situations, as a spare place to sleep.
Roll-out mechanism
A fairly simple but reliable mechanism. To unfold it, you need to pull the bottom part towards you. Then fold the back into the formed niche. The roll-out design is considered the most durable. Therefore, it is well suited for frequent use.
Advantages of a roll-out sofa:
- High reliability and durability of the design;
- The ability to create a comfortable place to sleep.
Disadvantages of a roll-out sofa:
- The rollers that ensure the seat moves out spoil the floor covering;
IMPORTANT: This mechanism is perfect for everyday use. The problem of damage to the floor covering can be solved by placing additional flooring while the structure is being rolled out.
Conrad
This mechanism is sometimes called "Telescom". The sections slide out one after another and stand on legs. "Conrad" can be called an improved roll-out mechanism. But unlike it, the sleeping place is at a comfortable level.
Advantages of "Conrad":
- Has a reliable and durable design;
- Equipped with space for storing accessories;
- Comfortable for relaxing and sleeping.
Disadvantages of Conrad:
- Has a lot of weight.
IMPORTANT: Conrad is a good solution for creating a sleeping area in a small room. But do not forget that when you purchase a sofa of this design, order home delivery. Without reliable dexterity and physical strength, you won’t be able to carry it yourself.
"Cot"
The mechanism for transforming a folding sofa has several popular options. The principle of transformation here is simple. The berth is located directly under the seat. Behind the front panel, which is located below, the seat moves forward. There are French and American folding beds. Their principle is very similar.
The French one extends in the form of a scroll, which unfolds in 3 stages. This mechanism has compact dimensions, so it can be built into even very sophisticated sofas. However, this model is not used every day.
The American folding bed is designed for heavy loads. This sofa is practical and durable. However, this feature significantly increases the price of this furniture. To transform the sofa, you need to lift it a little and then pull it towards you. This type of mechanism does not harm the floor covering, but it must be lubricated periodically to avoid squeaks.
Dolphin
To unfold this mechanism, you need to pull out the lower section. And to “fill” the niche you need to lift the section from below using a special strap. After such actions, a flat surface will appear that can be used for sleeping. This design is mainly used in corner sofas.
Advantages of "Dolphin":
- You can create a comfortable place to relax;
- Very easy to use;
- They have a compartment for storing things.
Disadvantages of Dolphin:
- The mechanism has many weak points and quickly breaks down.
IMPORTANT: It is impossible to use this design every day. Even with rare use, Dolphin sofas fail after 7-10 years.
Elf
In order to unfold a sofa of this design, it is necessary to move the armrests to the sides. Elf sofas have a reliable metal frame construction. They form comfortable sleeping places and have the ability to set the “reclining” position.
Advantages of "Elf":
- When folded they are compact, but with their help you can create a large and comfortable place to sleep;
- They are equipped with wooden inserts under the sections, which provide an orthopedic effect.
Disadvantages of "Elf":
- It is necessary to create space between the wall and the sides of the sofa;
- Cannot be installed in the corner of a room.
IMPORTANT: “Elf” has a fairly reliable design. It can be used daily. But at the same time, a sofa with such a transformation mechanism must be installed correctly in the room.
Transformation of a sofa using the Eurobook method
The sofa with the Eurobook mechanism is equipped with flexible slats that will provide good support for the body during rest.
The furniture can be placed almost close to the wall. The modification differs from the usual “book”. Rollers are attached to the seat; it rolls out easily, creating a zone equal to the size of the backrest. She fits into this space and creates a place to sleep.
The mechanism for changing the position of the Eurobook sofa is aimed at daily use
Advantages: furniture can easily be transformed into a comfortable sleeping place; the sleeping area is large enough; The mechanism is strong, suitable for daily use; These sofas have a drawer for bedding.
Disadvantages: the seat is deep; in order to sit comfortably and lean on the back, you have to climb onto the seat with your feet or prop up sofa cushions; if for some reason there are no rollers on the exit part, the floor can easily be deformed.
Sofa transformation mechanism - Eurobook
conclusions
Choosing a sofa for daily transformation into a sleeping place is a very difficult task. Some manufacturers can create mechanisms that are reliable on paper from low-quality elements. Which will cause it to quickly fail. Pay attention to the manufacturer. Well-known brands in the furniture world monitor their reputation and will not risk it to save money.
When choosing transformable upholstered furniture, be sure to ask sales consultants what a folding unit is and what it is made of. And only after that make a purchasing decision. We hope our review will help you choose the sofa that will satisfy you in all respects.
Video:
Sofa for every day for sleeping, which mechanism is better?
The modern design of the sofa allows you to use this piece of furniture not only as a soft and comfortable piece of furniture for relaxation, but also “with one movement of the hand” to turn it into a cozy and spacious sleeping place. Due to the fact that it can be modified, you will significantly save space in your house or apartment, and sleep will be much more comfortable than on a bed. Designers offer many ideas. And in furniture stores, potential buyers are offered a large assortment of sofas of various colors and shapes, folding and regular. Moreover, the folding mechanism can be different and has its own name.
Variety of sofas for the living room
Which sofa mechanism is better, how to choose an easy-to-use design? Which sofa to choose for regular sleep, what furniture to choose for the living room? For the decision to be correct, it is necessary to have an idea, if not about all types of mechanisms, then at least about most of them.
Mechanisms for transforming sofas