Folding framework for folding furniture

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing folding frameworks for sofa beds require substantial vertical space for folding and unfolding, and often suffer from inefficient unfolding mechanisms and uncomfortable user experiences due to protruding couplings.

Innovation Solution

A compact folding framework for sofa beds that allows for easy and efficient folding and unfolding, featuring a synchronization coupling system that enables the framework to unfold automatically with minimal user effort, and a design that maintains a comfortable seat height.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Device complexity

If the framework uses vertically spaced connections to base beams, then the coupling structure is simplified, but the vertical space required for folding and unfolding increases substantially

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvecoupling structureVSAvoidvertical space
Core Design Contradiction:
Device complexityVSLength of moving object

Solution Approach 1:

The patent transitions from vertical spacing to horizontal alignment by repositioning the connection points. The first and second couplings are now connected to the base beams at the same longitudinal position rather than being vertically spaced, effectively changing the spatial dimension of the connection from vertical to horizontal plane.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #17Another dimension (Dimensionality change)

2Device complexity

If the framework uses traditionally shaped couplings, then the structure is straightforward, but the unfolding process becomes difficult and requires multiple separate actions

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvecoupling shapeVSAvoidunfolding process
Core Design Contradiction:
Device complexityVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The patent introduces dynamic coordination between couplings through the synchronization mechanism. The fourth coupling acts as a synchronization element that dynamically coordinates the movement of the first and second couplings, enabling them to unfold in a coordinated manner rather than as separate static components.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The fourth coupling serves as an intermediary element that mediates between the first and second couplings. It transmits and coordinates the unfolding motion, allowing the two couplings to work together harmoniously rather than independently.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

3Strength

If additional support components are added during unfolding, then the support reinforcement is improved, but the number of separate unfolding actions required increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvesupport reinforcementVSAvoidnumber of unfolding actions
Core Design Contradiction:
StrengthVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The patent merges the support reinforcement function with the existing coupling mechanism. The fourth coupling integrates the support reinforcement role into the synchronization system, eliminating the need for separate support components that would require independent manipulation.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Solution Approach 2:

The synchronization coupling system performs self-service by automatically coordinating the unfolding of all components. When one coupling begins to unfold, the synchronization mechanism automatically guides the others to follow, making the system self-regulating without external intervention for each component.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

Data Source

PatentEP4566486A1Folding framework for folding furniture
Publication Date: 2025.06.11 SEDAC MECOBEL
  • EP4566486A1 patent drawingFigure 1
  • EP4566486A1 patent drawingFigure 2
  • EP4566486A1 patent drawingFigure 3

AI summary

The invention relates to a folding framework for an item of folding furniture such as a sofa bed, as well as an item of folding furniture comprising this framework.