Sofa mechanisms: how to choose a reliable and comfortable one and then not regret choosing

It is impossible to imagine a cozy bedroom or living room without a comfortable sofa. This piece of furniture is not only able to compactly fit in the apartment, but also provides a convenient additional place to relax. You can install a sofa bed in any room and even in the kitchen. To ensure comfortable operation, manufacturers have developed various sofa mechanisms, differing in the way of operation and designed for use in any area.

When choosing the type of mechanism, you should take into account the parameters of the room in which you plan to install the sofa

The main types of sofa transformation mechanisms

The choice of types of sofas and mechanisms for their transformation should be approached carefully, because this piece of furniture is chosen for more than one year. Therefore, here you should not argue the choice with a low price, but you need to carefully study the advantages and disadvantages of all options. It is recommended to inquire in advance about the reliability of sofa mechanisms and the convenience of their operation.

All types of nesting mechanisms sofas have advantages and disadvantages

Important! When choosing, you should take into account the parameters of the room in which you plan to install the furniture. There should be enough space so that you can move freely around the unfolded sofa.

Modern sofa layouts are represented by a large number of models, each of which has its own characteristics. For convenience, different names are used for sofas that have a certain transformation method, the main ones of which are:

• turning one part back to back;
• forward-facing design;
• sofas equipped with pendulum or walking blocks that unfold forward;
• systems with a telescope-style sliding mechanism;
• blocks that open like a book.

All these types of sofa layout mechanisms have both disadvantages and advantages.A characteristic feature of all transformation methods is the presence of a sufficient amount of free space in front of the sofa or to the side of it. For L- and U-shaped models, free space is required inside the furniture parts. When choosing a folding mechanism for a sofa, one should focus on the dimensions of the unfolded product, because all ratings are subjective and are unlikely to help in choosing. The main thing is to be sure that it will be convenient to use the product in the conditions of a certain apartment.

When choosing a folding mechanism, one should be guided by the dimensions of the product when unfolded

Sofa mechanisms: highlights to consider when choosing

It is important to take into account the features of the floor covering in the place where the product is planned to be installed. If an expensive parquet is laid in the room, then the roll-out mechanism of the sofa will leave characteristic marks on the floor during prolonged use, and over time, deep cuts will form altogether.

If the sofa is purchased for a married couple who has a large total weight, then you should not stop your choice on the option in which the berth rests on small and thin legs, since they may not withstand the load and break. The same principle is advised to adhere to when choosing a sofa for a nursery, because children love to use the product as a trampoline, especially when adults do not see it. In this case, the extra strength will increase the life of the furniture.

In a small apartment, where it is required to correctly use all the available space, you should make sure that the sofa has an additional compartment in which you can store bedding or winter clothes. For these purposes, it is recommended to purchase a sofa with a swivel transformation mechanism, or you should pay attention to the Eurobook sofa mechanism.

If the sofa is planned to be used for daily sleep, then it is better to choose spacious options that form a full sleeping place. In this case, the leaders are "Eurobook" and the straight sofa "Dolphin", which are easy and convenient to unfold, and when folded have compact dimensions. Depending on the configuration of the room, you can also choose the corner option.

It is important that the product has a certificate not only of quality, but also of environmental friendliness.

Helpful advice! If you purchase a folding sofa for a teenager or child, you need to be able to unfold and fold it on his own without the help of adults. The same principle should be followed when choosing a product for the elderly.

When buying a product, you need to pay attention not only to the type of mechanism, but also to other parameters, such as:

• frame type;
• filler;
• upholstery quality;
• manufacturer;
• cost.

It is better to purchase the product in a time-tested official store so that in the event of a breakdown it is easy to find spare parts for sofas. And you also need to take into account that when buying a product from the manufacturer, at least a year of warranty is given, which also applies to transformation mechanisms. It is important that the product has a certificate not only of quality, but also of environmental friendliness, which confirms the fact that no toxic substances were used in the manufacture.

Experts do not advise choosing and buying a sofa on Internet sites, since it is virtually impossible to check the workmanship, the filler of the berth, and it is also impossible to inspect the product for defects. Therefore, if it was decided to buy a sofa with delivery, before signing the receipt of the goods, you need to unfold the sofa, carefully examine the case, fold and unfold the product several times. This is the only way to avoid the quick disappointment of buying low-quality furniture.

When buying a sofa, you need to pay attention not only to the type of mechanism, but also to the type of frame, filler and upholstery

Features of mechanisms "Eurobook" and sofa-books: the main differences and characteristics

The mechanisms of the sofa-book and Eurobooks were among the first to be developed. They gained their popularity due to the simplicity of their design. If you look at the photo of the sofa-book, you will notice that the main difference from the Eurobook is the absence of a fixed rear wall. The sofa-book cannot be placed close to the wall, because for unfolding an additional gap is required between the wall and the product. The model is easy to operate, comfortable to sit on.

The mechanism of transformation of sofas "Eurobook" is considered more modern and durable. If in the sofa-book there is a hall, formed as a result of the adhesion of two planes, then the "Eurobook" in unfolded form has elements that are laid separately on the base. This mechanism ensures more correct positioning of the parts and creates a level sleeping area. Other advantages of using Eurobook:

• minimum occupied usable area in the room;
• folded installation close to the wall;
• large berth unfolded;
• convenient and simple mechanism that even a child can handle;
• the presence of a volumetric storage box at the bottom of the sofa;
• large seat folded;
• selection of various fillers and frame upholstery;
• wide range of prices.

Diagram of the mechanism for transforming a sofa like "Eurobook"

Mechanism "Eurobook" in sofas: how it looks and works

You can often find another product name in shopping centers - "Eurosofa". This type of sofa received the prefix "euro" due to its origin, because for the first time the product was invented in Germany and has become a modern improved model of a sofa-book. Despite the fact that the product appeared a long time ago, the mechanism itself practically remained the same. However, the quality of the parts and materials used in the manufacture has been improved. To know how the Eurobook sofa unfolds, you need to familiarize yourself with the main stages of transformation:

1. First, you need to pull on the base of the structure, which serves as a sitting place.
2. The presence of special guides will allow the lower part to be pulled out, after which the niche built into the bottom will open.
3. After the structure is pulled back, it is required to lower the back of the sofa, which will fill the formed niche and create a single surface that serves as a sleeping place.

It is interesting! In fact, "Eurobook" does not have any special mechanism, and the folding takes place due to the peculiarities of the structure. The main condition when choosing a sofa is to take into account the quality of the guides, which are made of metal or hardwood.

Due to the simplicity of the Eurobook design, there is virtually nothing to break in such a sofa. Problems usually fix themselves. Most often, the repair consists in tightening the fasteners and lubricating the mechanism. If the product is made with high quality, then the difference between the two parts should not be felt, you should pay attention to this even before buying. Below you can watch a video of the Eurosofa layout mechanism, which additionally shows the main nuances of using the sofa.

Due to the fact that the structure of the Eurobook is simple, there is virtually nothing to break in such a sofa

Another disadvantage of using "Eurobook" is the mechanical effect on the floor covering, especially if you plan to fold and unfold the product every day. Therefore, if there is parquet or laminate on the floor, then it is better that wheels are installed instead of legs. If a dense carpet has been laid, then you can purchase a product with ordinary legs, but you need to be prepared for the fact that over time, dents form in the places where they rest against the surface.

Looking through the photos of Eurobook sofas, you can pay attention to the fact that there is a large selection of models. So, for small apartments, it is recommended to buy finished products without armrests, which take up a minimum of space. The sofa with two armrests has an increased length (approximately 0.5 meters), but this model provides additional support for the cushions both when unfolded and folded. An intermediate option between the two types of products is "Eurobook" with one armrest, suitable for any premises.

Mechanisms for sofas "Click-Klyak": features and benefits

Choosing a sofa folding mechanism, I want to purchase a multifunctional convenient option. Thus, the "Click-Klyak" sofa can be used not only as an armchair, but also as a bed, as well as a place for storing bedding.

Sofas with the "Click-Klyak" mechanism have long appeared on the market and are popular due to the original appearance and ease of use of the product. This type of sofas has several transformation options, since the features of the mechanism allow you to choose several backrest positions.

Diagram of the mechanism for transforming a sofa by the "Click-gag" type

Depending on the method of operation, the furniture can be turned into a full-fledged sleeping place, or you can not recline the back all the way - and in this case, you will get a comfortable place, reminiscent of a chaise longue, in which you can comfortably sit for reading or knitting. The second transformation option allows you to transform the product into a chair with comfortable armrests. Other benefits of using this type of sofa mechanism include:

1. Beautiful design. Thanks to their unusual appearance, finished products will be an excellent addition to modern interiors.
2. Reliability and durability. The elements of the frame and parts of the mechanism are made of durable materials, more often for this, strong steel is used that can withstand heavy loads.
3. Comfortable sleeping place. When unfolded, the sleeping surface does not form bumps, pits or protrusions that can interfere with comfortable rest.
4. High-quality content. In the construction of the sofa, the filling is usually made on the basis of polyurethane foam - a material that does not deform and does not sag. The rigidity of the base remains even after a long service life.
5. Compact parameters. Thanks to the small sized sofa can be positioned in confined spaces.
6. The presence of additional storage compartments.

Depending on the method of operation, the furniture can be turned into a full-fledged sleeping place, or you can not recline the back all the way

Helpful advice! When installing this type of sofa, you need to leave enough space between the wall and the back, which is necessary in order to expand the product. If you do not take this moment into account, then each time, before expanding the device, it will be necessary to move it to the required distance.

The principle of operation of the "Click-gag" construction can be compared to the mechanism of "Eurobooks", when you first need to slightly raise and pull the seat up. After completing this action, a characteristic click will sound, after which the seat of the product, which pulls the back of the sofa behind it, is lowered and laid in a horizontal position, creating a sleeping place. If desired, the backrest is located at an intermediate level and forms an angle of 45 degrees.

Another use case involves the adjustment of the armrests, in which it is assumed that the berth is extended in length. At the same time, the armrests can be fully raised or lowered, while creating a comfortable place to relax.

The mechanism of the sofa "Accordion": principle of operation, features of operation

The accordion mechanism for the sofa is comfortable and durable, as well as easy to operate. In retail outlets, there is a large selection of models, which are often equipped with orthopedic mattresses that promote good sleep and rest. The use of this type of sofa is distinguished by the presence of both positive and negative aspects. The positive characteristics of the product include:

Diagram of the mechanism for transforming a sofa like "Accordion"

1. A large number of different sizes of models available. In shopping malls, adult options and models designed specifically for children are available for purchase.
2. Simplicity of design, because even a child is capable of assembling the Accordion sofa.
3. Variety of designs of produced models. It is easy to choose a color that will fit into the interior style of the room.
4. Possibility to purchase a sofa equipped not only with a mechanical, but also with an automatic way of adjusting positions.

Another advantage of this piece of furniture is the fact that when folded it does not take up much space in the room. Depending on the area of ​​the room, you can choose options for sofas that are equipped with armrests or come complete with an ottoman, the so-called ottoman. And also the sofa does not require additional space, it can be placed close to the wall.

Related article:

Sofa for the kitchen: practical and comfortable upholstered furniture

Types of sofas: corner, straight, folding and others. Furniture for small kitchens. Upholstery options. Choosing a place to install the sofa. Drawer constructions.

If we talk about the disadvantages of using the product, then they include the fact that there must be a sufficient amount of free space in front of the sofa. This must be taken into account before installing this piece of furniture, so that after unfolding it in the room it is convenient to move around. It should be borne in mind that even if the sofa is equipped with a compartment for linen, it will not differ in significant dimensions, therefore, it is unlikely that it will be possible to place large pillows or voluminous blankets there.

The accordion mechanism for the sofa is comfortable and durable, as well as easy to operate.

Important! The mechanism of the "Accordion" sofa is distinguished by the presence of special rubber rollers, which can leave marks on the coating during prolonged use.

The design of the Accordion sofa: how to fold and unfold the product

The design consists of several elements, with the first part being the seat, which is always in a horizontal position, and the other two are always vertical. All elements of the sofa touch each other. When unfolded, the product forms a flat surface where all parts are horizontal. This piece of furniture most often consists of a solid mattress, therefore, in the unfolded state, no indentations form on the surface, and there are no other inconveniences that affect the quality of sleep. The principle of the mechanism:

• it is necessary to raise and slightly pull the seat towards you;
• pull the seat until all parts of the sofa are horizontal.

If you choose a product that is equipped with a box for linen, then to gain access to it, you need to raise the seat until it clicks. Before folding the Accordion sofa, you need to make sure that there are no bedding items left on it, and then lift it by the edge and push it forward. Then again you will have to raise the frame a little, but thanks to the design features, this will be easy. And you can also order an automated version of the sofa, which can be folded using the control panel. The folded sofa takes up little space, it is convenient to sit on it for relaxation and reading.

The design consists of several elements: a seat that is in a horizontal position and two vertical parts

The main types of sofas by type of transformation and installation include:

1. Straight design. A simple version, which is installed along one wall and, when unfolded, "slides" forward.
2. Corner construction. Takes up more space when folded and fits where two walls meet. Such models consist of angular and straight parts. The side of the sofa is usually longer than the other, depending on the design.

Other forward-folding sofas: features of the Dolphin mechanism

The mechanism of the Dolphin sofa is of a lever type and opens very easily. A distinctive feature of the product is that when opened, a mattress block is visible inside, which is subsequently placed on the pull-out part. To ensure ease of assembly, the sofa was equipped with special hinges. The main advantages of the Dolphin mechanism in sofas include:

The mechanism of the Dolphin sofa is of a lever type and opens very simply

1. Ease of use. To assemble and unfold the product, no significant physical effort is required, since it is quite easy to use the structure with the handle.
2. Convenient dimensions. A corner sofa with a Dolphin mechanism is considered the best option for installing in a small room.
3. Construction reliability. Even with prolonged use, the product retains its attractive appearance.
4. Large berth size. The most popular dimensions of the unfolded sofa are 160x200 cm, which makes it an excellent alternative to a double bed.
5. Affordable cost. In retail outlets, you can choose an option that has the best cost, which will be affordable for most consumers.
6. The presence of a roomy box. In the corner model, the drawer takes up the entire space of one side of the sofa, set against the wall. In the direct version, the size of the box will be slightly smaller.

When choosing a Dolphin mechanism for a sofa, you should not save. If the product is of poor quality, then the sofa may be skewed in the unfolded state, when one part is located above the other, which will have an extremely negative effect on the quality of sleep. Another disadvantage can be considered the low height of the product, which is important when choosing a berth for people with musculoskeletal problems and for older people who may have difficulty getting up from a berth. If the structure is pulled out incorrectly, the floor covering can be damaged.

Diagram of the mechanism for transforming a sofa like "Dolphin"

Dolphin mechanism in sofas: how it works, the main types of products

To unfold a forward-pulling sofa with a Dolphin mechanism, you need to find handles or straps to help move the structural elements. Depending on the type of sofa, this can be either a single handle or multiple straps that need to be pulled forward. As a result of this action, the lower part of the structure will begin to move. This must be done until the part moves as far forward as possible. Then you should slightly raise the element and rest against the opposite part, which has remained motionless.

The smooth surface, obtained as a result of such simple manipulations, forms a comfortable and spacious place to sleep. At the same time, both the corner and the straight sofa options are disassembled and assembled in the same way. To fold the sofa, you need to pull the handles up again and raise the part until it stops resting against the opposite side. Then it is simply lowered and pushed into its original position until it stops.

Varieties of the Dolphin design differ not only in the materials and sizes of the finished product, but also in other parameters.The dimensions of this piece of furniture depend on the presence or absence of a storage box.

You can often find a model characterized by the presence of additional armrests in which there are hidden niches for storing the necessary things. Moreover, the armrest does not always have a rectangular shape. Depending on the wishes of the customer, it can be made round or triangular. Sometimes, instead of a standard armrest, a special tabletop is installed with various decorative elements and compartments.

Varieties of the Dolphin design differ not only in the materials and sizes of the finished product, but also in other parameters.

To use the cavity of the box, it is usually necessary to raise the side seat, and sometimes it is enough to raise only a part of the compartment. In some models, the drawer can only be reached when the product is unfolded. Other popular elements that complement the sofa design:

1. Small built-in coffee table, which greatly increases the comfort of the product.
2. A backrest that can be firm or consist of a series of soft cushions. To add originality to the sofa, choose curved backrest options.

Puma Sofa Mechanism Type: Characteristics

This type of product is most often found in modern interiors of living rooms or bedrooms, since when folded they do not take up much space, but they look unusual and elegant. At the same time, the main advantage is the reliability of the opening mechanism, which, due to its features, does not spoil the floor covering. This is due to the fact that instead of a roller base, a hinged structure is used, forming an ideal place to sleep. The extension is effortless, but the size of the sofa increases significantly.

The downside can be considered a rather complicated mechanism for transforming the sofa, which must be used carefully, because it consists of a large number of individual elements. In order to unfold the sofa, you need to raise the seating position and get a separate retractable part located below.

Diagram of the mechanism for transforming a couch like "Puma"

You need to pull the retractable part until it stops, after which the retractable seat is pulled out. For this, loops are used, placed along the edges of the product. The hinges must be pulled first up and then in the opposite direction until the special stops work. In the last step, the main seating unit is lowered into place.

It is interesting! After the mechanism "Puma" in sofas unfolds, the product increases several times, so it is convenient to use it as a sleeping place.

When folded, this version of the sofa takes up a minimum of space, unlike other types of folding sofas. "Puma" can be placed both along the wall and in the corner space, but a significant amount of space must be left in front of the product, which will be occupied by an already unfolded sofa.

The main disadvantage is the lack of a laundry box, which is often used only in corner models. The second disadvantage is the rather high cost of the finished product.

When folded, the Puma sofa takes up a minimum of space, unlike other types of folding products

What is a French folding bed sofa

When opened, the "French clamshell" is very similar to an ordinary clamshell, but in terms of technical parameters it differs in a three-stage folding frame. In order to unfold this type of sofa, first you need to take out and put aside the base, which is a sitting place. To do this, you need to take the product from the front side. As a result, access to the interior equipment of the sofa opens, then the sliding block itself is pulled out using the handle.To make the block stand parallel to the floor, you need to pull the handle up and towards you.

The structure needs to be turned two times: during the first turn, the main large part of the clamshell, equipped with a mount on legs, opens; during the second turn, the rest of the block is installed. The result is a complete sleeping place. When unfolding the main part, you need to make sure that the legs stand up straight and do not scratch the floor.

Folded "French clamshell" is compact. It is permissible to install it not only along the wall, but also in the central part of the room. When opened, enough space is formed to accommodate two people.

The key disadvantage is the fact that the features of the folding mechanism do not allow equipping the sofa with a box or some other cavities for things. While the structure is unfolded, the removable part of the sofa will take up additional space in the room. To make it easier to sleep, it is recommended to additionally purchase a thin mattress and lay it on the surface.

Diagram of the mechanism for transforming a sofa like "French folding bed"

What is "Pantograph", or the mechanism of sofas "Tick-tock": how it works

The transformation mechanism "Pantograph" resembles the principle of the "Eurobook". The main distinguishing feature is the lack of a roller system in the Pantograph sofa, which is opened by a hinged device. Thanks to this feature, the sofa with the Pantograph mechanism does not spoil the floor covering. Another name for the product, which can often be found, is "Tik-Tak".

In general, the sofa looks like a walking structure, because to unfold the product, you need to slightly raise the frame, which is then revealed step by step. The main stages of the transformation of the Pantograph sofa mechanism:

• remove pillows from the surface;
• lift up and extend the seat;
• holding the front part, pull it forward;
• place the seat on the floor.

It is interesting! A comfortable and even sleeping place is formed due to the fact that the back of the product is lowered when opening. The maximum weight for which the furniture is designed is 240 kg, which allows several people to be accommodated here.

The transformation mechanism "Pantograph" resembles the principle of the "Eurobook"

The presence of a spring element facilitates the task of assembling the structure, which makes it possible to easily raise the seat and move it to the desired position. Thanks to this feature, even a child will be able to use the Pantograph mechanism. The versatility of this product is provided by the spacious laundry box, which is equipped with most models. The design features allow you to use the sofa for daily sleep, because it is based on an orthopedic mattress that provides a comfortable rest.

When buying, you need to take into account that the sofa of the Pantograph mechanism is most often a large-sized product designed for use in spacious apartments or houses. Even if you do not fold out the sofa, then by removing the pillows, you can get a significant amount of space where it will be convenient to accommodate one person.

To add attractiveness and make the sofa original, leather is often used for upholstery, and the product itself is equipped with carved wooden armrests, which allows the model to fit optimally into the classic interior. Designers advise complementing the product with a large number of pillows and bolsters that will decorate the folded sofa. The main disadvantage of this type of furniture is its high cost.

Diagram of the mechanism for transforming a sofa by the "Tick-tock" type

To understand which sofa mechanism is better, you need to look and study the features of each product.Be sure to take into account the type of floor covering when choosing, because many models move forward and can damage it.

It is very important to take into account not only the dimensions of the room where the product is planned to be delivered, but also the features of the operation of this piece of furniture. If the sofa is used for daily sleep, choose a base with an orthopedic mattress. Therefore, you should not rush to choose a mechanism - it is better to visit shopping centers and study the features of each type so that you do not have to regret the purchase soon.