What is
Furniture equipped with a transformation mechanism appeared in the 17th century in France. Two centuries later, new designs of universal interior models began to be produced. But multifunctional solutions reached their real peak in the 20th century - it was at this time that the Belgian company Sedac proposed an alternative to the withdrawable system that was widespread at that time. It became a two-fold sedaflex mechanism (after the brand name), or otherwise an “American clamshell”. It, unlike the French model taken as a basis, includes two parts, the third element is represented by the headrest. The mechanism quickly gained popularity due to several improvements:
- the sleeping place has become more comfortable;
- an orthopedic base appeared;
- the sofa frame has become more stable;
- there is no need to unfasten the pillows before unfolding;
- the transformation process has been greatly facilitated.
The sleeping surface is folded in half and placed inside. To unfold the sedaflex sofa, simply remove and then unfold the frame and mattress.
Dimensions
Folding mechanism
The maximum load of the products is as follows: a single model can withstand up to 100 kg, a double model – about 220 kg. The dimensions are determined by the series of the sofa transformation mechanism used. There are three of them in total:
- Sedafclex 10 M. Great for everyday use. The strength of the structure is ensured by a 30 mm pipe and stiffeners. The width of the bed varies from 100 to 160 cm, and the length is 187 cm (sometimes this parameter increases to 192 cm). The standard thickness of the mattress is 100 mm, but an accessory with a parameter of 90 mm is possible.
- Sedaflex Alto. Can also be used every day. It is based on Sedaflex 10 M. The series has all the advantages of its predecessor. The main distinguishing feature: during the transformation, there is no need to remove the pillows that were previously sat on; they are securely fixed and after unfolding the furniture they remain in the same place. Sofas with the Sedaflex Alto mechanism are available in two bed widths - 100 and 140 cm. The thickness of the mattress is the same as in the previous series.
- Sedaflex 12 M. An improved series that ensures comfortable use of the sofa not only at night, but also during the day. Belgian designers used a mattress with greater length and thickness. For ease of unfolding, manufacturers offer to supplement the sofa with a mechanism for folding pillows. Bed parameters: width - from 100 to 160 cm, and length 195 cm. At the base there are either wooden armor or metal mesh. The sofas are equipped with a 120 mm thick mattress, but a 110 mm option is also available.
A special mechanism securely fixes the sofa structure. For greater stability, metal legs are provided. The sleeping surface is solid, without seams.
Sedaflex 10 M
Sedaflex Alto
Sedaflex 12 M
Advantages and disadvantages
Sedaflex sofas are very popular. They can be found quite often on the upholstered furniture market. This is facilitated by a large number of undeniable advantages:
- No noise: when unfolding and folding, the mechanism does not make any extraneous sounds.
- The sleeping surface is smooth, without creases or bumps.
- Stability – if you purchase a high-quality model, when unfolded the sofa can withstand a very heavy load.
- The mattress does not sag and there are no signs of compression due to the presence of elastic elements.
The support feet do not leave marks on most floor coverings. Exceptions are linoleum (which is rarely used in residential premises) and carpet.
No noise when unfolding
Flat sleeping surface
Sustainability
The mattress does not sag
Some users note that due to the small thickness of the mattress, they will not be able to get a good night's sleep. Other negative points include the following:
- low strength of load-bearing elements (this applies to “budget” options);
- relative unreliability of transformation mechanisms;
- low quality mattress;
- With the exception of some models, there is no space for storing small items and bed linen.
Most of the disadvantages claimed by consumers, with the exception of the lack of a niche, are relative. As a rule, sofas with a sedaflex mechanism of the highest category, which are distinguished by a high price, do not have the listed disadvantages.
Low strength of load-bearing elements in budget models
Unreliability of the transformation mechanism
Low quality mattresses in budget models
No storage space
The procedure for transforming into the “bed” position
The Sedaflex system works according to the familiar clamshell principle.
- A sofa with a sedaflex mechanism when assembled does not require any additional manipulations before unfolding.
- In this case, the pillows are removed. In some models, they are rigidly attached to the upper part and during transformation they turn over, ending up under the feet of a lying person.
- The hidden part of the “clamshell” must be lifted up and pulled towards you using a special loop or handle. As a rule, even a fragile girl can easily cope with this.
- Further unfolding is carried out by unfolding the structure. But here you should be careful: in order not to get your hands pinched, you should keep them away from the mechanism.
- A sofa laid out in the middle of the room does not look very aesthetically pleasing, but at night this is not significant. Folding the “folding bed” is also not very difficult and is done in the reverse order: the structure is folded, the folded mechanism is lowered into the niche of the sofa.
Schematically, the disassembly and assembly of a transformer with an “American” mechanism is as follows.
Video: how a sofa with the Sedaflex mechanism unfolds
Varieties
On the market, sofas with the sedaflex system are presented in two design options - straight or wall-mounted, and corner. The first option is suitable for children's rooms, as they are relatively small in size. Although there are not only two-seater, but also three-seater models. Corner ones are an excellent choice for living rooms.
On the Russian furniture market, the Sedaflex sofa transformation mechanism is presented in several versions, and each differs in parameters depending on its purpose. Some options:
- Dionysus. Quite simple but reliable design. It is equipped with a spring mattress 12 cm thick. An ideal solution for children's rooms. Bed dimensions: width from 67 to 147 cm, standard length - 180 cm. These dimensions allow you to comfortably accommodate a child over 3 years old and a teenager. Sofas with this variation of the folding mechanism have small dimensions when assembled: width - from 82 to 162, and depth - 78 cm.
- Tornado. Ideal choice for teenagers and adults. The size of the bed is 140 x 190 cm. The 14 cm thick mattress ensures a comfortable sleep. The small dimensions when assembled - from 80 to 180 cm in width and 82 cm in depth - make sofas with this option ideal for miniature rooms.
- 2 ST RICH. In these models, the thickness of the mattress ranges from 12 to 14 cm. It is distinguished by the presence of a supporting stand for attaching armrests, backrests, and other elements. Considering that the width of the bed ranges from 75 to 140 cm, and the length reaches 190 cm, these models are recommended for teenagers.
Some models are equipped with a frame for attaching pillows. This mechanism in sofas allows you to lay out furniture without removing bedding.
Dionysus
Tornado
Straight
Corner sofa
Manufacturing materials
For a sofa with a sedaflex mechanism, different materials are used depending on the model. As a rule, their body consists of steel pipes, the sliding mechanism is made of metal. Various materials can be used for upholstery: leather, its substitute, different types of textiles. The choice of a specific option depends on the place where the sofa will be installed.
Leather
Leatherette
Textile
Review of several popular sofas:
- Othello. Equipped with a front leg made of embossed metal sheet, which gives the structure increased strength. The sofa itself is made of high quality tubular profile, its diameter is 30 mm, and the wall thickness of the pipes used is 2 mm. For the lever system, thick tape is used.
- Luca H10. It has an electric welded mesh at the base of the mechanism. A tubular profile with a diameter of 25 mm and a wall thickness of 1.5 mm was used for the frame. The top of the entire structure is painted with epoxy powder. To give it special strength, it undergoes heat treatment in a special oven.
- New Roller. The structure is made of steel pipe, which makes it very durable. Additionally, it is painted with thermoepoxy paint. A steel grate is used for the sleeping area.
- Tornado. The base is a high-strength steel frame coated with thermal paint. An electric welded grille was used for the sleeping area.
All sofas with the sedaflex system have an orthopedic base. Additionally, you can order a mattress with the same characteristics. This option is most often used in furniture purchased for children.
Otello from tubular profile
Luca H10 with electric welded mesh
New Roller made of steel pipe
Tornado with high-strength steel frame
How to choose a sofa?
Keep in mind that inexpensive models are not necessarily of poor quality! Many factors that do not affect the performance and durability of the structure help reduce the price: upholstery material. Sofas from which you need to remove the cushions before unfolding are sometimes cheaper, while those with non-removable parts or a lowering headrest are always more expensive. To ensure that your purchase lasts a long time and meets your expectations, you need to consider:
- who will sleep on the sofa and how often. For thin people or as a guest place, you can purchase a bed with wire mesh. But this option is not suitable for overweight and elderly people: over time, the mesh stretches, and the sleepers “slide into the hole”;
- Don't take risks if you have a bad back! No matter how good a sedaflex mattress is, it will not replace a real orthopedic mattress;
- You shouldn't buy it for the nursery. Kids love to jump on the bed, but too often they step on the headrest area, sit down and stand on it, the longitudinal and lateral arms are deformed.
Sedaflex orthopedic mechanism for a sofa (video):
Well, if you didn’t guess the model correctly or you were deceived by the low price, type “Sedaflex mechanism: reviews” in a search engine and you will find out how to deal with the problems that arise. On the Internet you can find furniture companies that replace failed parts or make orthopedic mattresses for such sofas.
Criterias of choice
When purchasing upholstered furniture, it is important to first answer several questions. The first is how often you plan to lay out the sofa. The second is who will sleep on upholstered furniture. The following points must be taken into account:
- The sleeping surface can be made of high-strength fabric - suitable if you do not plan to use the furniture often. Metal mesh, arched plates made of durable thin wood are the choice for sofas on which you are supposed to sleep all the time.
- The color of the upholstery should fit organically into the overall design of the room. The material used for sewing it should be durable and easy to clean (especially if the sofa is installed in a nursery).
- It is necessary to carefully inspect the seams on the upholstery. Any tension or distortions indicate errors in cutting; such a cover will not last long.
- It is recommended to unfold and fold the mechanism several times. It is better to refuse the selected model if you hear any extraneous sounds.
- The sofa should be comfortable, it’s nice if you have the opportunity to check it (sit down, lie down).
- It is necessary to select suitable dimensions, depending on the size of the person who will use the product (age is also taken into account).
- The brand and price of the model are important. You should choose well-known manufacturers with a good reputation and do not skimp on quality: the stingy pays twice.
Sofas with a sedaflex transformation mechanism are an ideal solution for small spaces that perform several functions simultaneously. Manufacturers offer many models, differing in size and design.
Extra Durable Mattress Material
Compliance with the overall design of the room
High quality seams
Transformation mechanism without extraneous sounds
Convenience and comfort
Suitable dimensions
Advantages of the Sedaflex mechanism
The main advantages of the “American clamshell” mechanism are:
- Simplicity and noiselessness during transformation.
- The mattress has orthopedic properties, without seams in the joints between its parts, which allows for a more comfortable sleeping place.
- The load on the structure is up to 300 kg.
The disadvantages that buyers indicate in their reviews relate more to the sofa than to the Sedaflex transformation mechanism. For example, the use of thin steel to make metal tubes makes the frame of the structure unreliable; thin mattress, as a result of lack of comfortable sleep; The linen drawer is present only in corner models.
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