Let's consider what a gas lift is, the advantages and disadvantages of beds with this mechanism. Let's get acquainted with the device, operating principle and technical characteristics. We will also consider the correct selection, features and rules for self-repair.
A bed is not only a frame, but also additional storage space.
What is a gas lift for a bed?
Many bed models have a gas lift for the bed. This is a special mechanism that is used to lift surfaces attached to it. It greatly simplifies and facilitates the procedure of raising the bed. Two types of gas elevators are used. Automatic devices do not require human effort and control and friction, which are used relatively rarely.
Accessing the pallet is quite difficult as there is a lot of weight to lift. You can simplify this procedure by using a gas lift for the bed.
Advantages and disadvantages of beds with gas lift
The gas lift bed has the main advantages:
- Variety of bed designs. They are rectangular in shape, with a round bed;
- Practicality. Availability of a convenient storage area for blankets, bed linen, and seasonal clothing;
- Durability and reliability of the mechanism;
- Ease of handling. The top of the bed reclines quickly, without much physical effort. No special lifting skills required;
- Economical. The space under the bed can be used instead of a closet and store even fragile things;
- Space saving. Unlike pull-out drawers, no space is required in front of the bed;
- Durability. Can last up to 10 years.
The main disadvantages of beds with gas lift:
- Price. The price of beds is slightly higher than the usual types;
- Possible dust collection;
- Some inconvenience. Access to things under the berth can be problematic (two partners use the berth).
A gas elevator is a special mechanism that is used to lift surfaces attached to it.
Types of bed base lifting mechanisms
Each bed with a lifting base has distinctive features that affect the operation process. Transformation mechanisms are classified according to the type of lift installed. The bases can be tilted up or to the side (in a vertical or horizontal plane). The cover can be removed if desired, but in most cases it is fixed in a slightly raised position, forming an angle of 45 degrees at the junction with the frame.
Types of lifting mechanisms:
- Coil springs. This method of transforming a bed is easy to use and in demand due to its low cost. Its main drawback lies in the rapid wear of the springs, so the warranty period for furniture maintenance does not exceed 5 years. During the active use stage, the springs pop out, stretch and creak. In case of significant wear, a complete replacement of the worn mechanism is required.
- Gas shock absorbers. A high-quality double bed with lift mechanism is often equipped with a gas lift. To move the base from a closed to an open position, even the slightest effort is not required. The shock-absorbing properties of the gas system allow the berth to move smoothly and silently, opening access to the storage compartment. The warranty for gas lift is on average 10 years. The gas shock absorber can be selected taking into account the size and weight of the bed. The mechanism is adapted for lifting heavy springless mattresses from new generation double beds.
- Hinges (manual lift). The lack of auxiliary parts complicates the process of moving the bed base, but significantly increases strength. A mechanism without springs or a smooth lifting system is inexpensive, but you will have to remove the mattress to get to the linen drawer. A transformer with hinges is not suitable for children's furniture.
All mechanisms are reliable and durable. Even a spring system can last for decades if you don’t use it every day. A double bed base with a gas lift mechanism is suitable for placing heavy mattresses. A manual mechanism should be used in single bed designs. The lighter the base, the easier it will be to move.
Recommendations for choosing a lifting mechanism:
- The height of the bed should not prevent the base from moving.
- For a small apartment, you should purchase a compact ottoman that does not take up much free space. For example, a single-bed lifting system with a vertical lifting method.
- In a spacious bedroom or children's room, you should install a double bed with reliable gas shock absorbers.
- At the stage of choosing accessories, you should be guided only by real reviews about manufacturers.
- Furniture makers custom make a lifting base for a bed of non-standard shape or size.
- Opening mechanisms are installed on the sides, at the foot or head. The side of the frame is selected depending on the wishes of the buyer and ease of use.
- The presence of amplifiers and blockers allows you to protect yourself from serious injuries that can occur while moving the base. Additional components eliminate the possibility of the double bed closing spontaneously.
- It is recommended to divide the box under the berth into several compartments. This will reduce the risk of the box deforming as a result of increased load.
- To increase the comfort of the sleeping place, orthopedic bases and mattresses should be used.
Specialists involved in the production, sale and assembly of furniture will explain how to choose a bed with a lifting mechanism, taking into account the dimensions of the room and operating requirements. Errors in the process of installing components responsible for the operation of the structure lead to significant problems, so furniture makers usually advise entrusting the assembly to qualified craftsmen.
Operating principle and technical characteristics
When the bed is raised, the gas expands and presses on the piston. It pushes the bed up, reducing the person's effort. The use of an oil gasket in the housing allows for smooth operation. Due to the absence of a damper when installing the friction mechanism, you can stop the movement of the device at any time.
Externally, the design has the shape of a small cylinder with several clamps and a moving arm.
The cylinder, rod, piston and support tips are made of steel.
Main technical characteristics:
- ability to work in the temperature range -30 - +80 degrees;
- maximum rod speed - up to 300 mm/s;
- pressure inside the cylinder no more than 160 bar;
- The thickness of the cylinder wall is at least 1 mm.
It should be noted that the mixture inside is under very high pressure, so it is not recommended to disassemble gas lifts yourself.
Gas bed lift does not work: device, causes of failure and repair
Modern double beds are most often equipped with a lifting mechanism.
This system is called a gas lift; it ensures a smooth lifting of the bed along with the mattress into a vertical position. This feature of the beds makes it possible to remove them if necessary, which significantly saves space during the day. If the bed is in the bedroom, then with the help of such a mechanism access to the linen drawer is provided.
How does a gas lift work?
All gas lifting mechanisms consist of the following parts:
- metal plates made by stamping;
- metal axles;
- gas lift.
The principle of operation of such a mechanism is simple. Metal plates are attached to the bed and closet. When the berth is raised using a lift, the load is distributed around the metal axis. Thanks to this, no serious effort is required. Just a little pressure is enough to put the bed in the closet.
Causes of failure
Often the cause of failure of these mechanisms is poor-quality parts. Therefore, when purchasing it, you should carefully choose the manufacturer. Manufacturers from Germany or mechanisms of German-Russian production are considered the best.
The cause of the malfunction may also be an incorrectly selected type of device. All gas lifts have parameters at which they are able to withstand a certain weight
When choosing them, you need to pay attention to this indicator
If the lift is installed incorrectly, it will not be able to perform its functions fully. There will be no smooth movement, and you will have to make an effort to assemble the bed. If the fittings or parts of this mechanism break down, it will have to be completely replaced. The bed lift at pro100mebli.com.ua/product/gazovyy-podemni can be selected with any necessary parameters.
How to replace a lift
First of all, you need to choose a high-quality gas lift for the bed. Once it is selected, you can begin installing it:
- It is necessary to dismantle the old equipment. To do this, you need to unscrew all the nuts and install new gas shock absorbers in the vacant space. The position should be cylinder up.
- Installation must be done with the frame in the open position. First, attach the part that is to be installed on the bed frame, and then attach the mechanism to the frame.
- It is necessary to ensure that all parts are securely screwed to the body.
- After installing the mechanism, you need to check the smoothness of its operation.
To avoid problems with such a mechanism in the future, it is necessary to take into account its characteristics and the quality of the fittings. Then it will last a long time and will not cause any trouble.
How to choose the right one
When choosing a mechanism, you must consider:
- The force that the system can produce taking into account the angle of inclination. For a large bed, the force should be in the range of 200-300 N;
- Number of installed gas elevators. The compression force depends on their number. They prefer to install no more than two products;
- Device length. The angle of elevation of the bed depends on the parameter;
- Manufacturer. The best option is to choose products from German companies. Domestic-made mechanisms are also deservedly popular, judging by the reviews.
Gas lifts are unique mechanisms that are used in various fields. Almost all types of systems work on the same principle.
Instructions for installing and adjusting a gas lift for a bed
Its service life depends on the correct installation of the gas lift.
Installation of a bed lift using gas lifts should be strictly carried out according to the manufacturer's instructions.
The systems can operate at temperatures from -30 to +80 degrees. But this characteristic affects the power of the device.
In order to assemble a bed with a gas lift, you need to complete the following basic steps:
- Assemble the bed frame according to the manufacturer's instructions;
- Install gas lifts. The structure is fixed using pins or special screws (usually included in the kit). The mechanism is attached to the bed frame using gas lift eyes. Some designs have a specific design and are one-sided. In this case, it is important to install them on the correct side (pay attention to the configuration of the cylinders);
- Assemble the folding orthopedic bed frame. The lattice frame can have different configurations. It usually has an all-metal construction. Sometimes it is made from lamellas of wood or other material (follow manufacturer's instructions);
- Attach the gas lift to the upper folding element of the bed. The device is attached to the bottom of the bed when the folding part is open. It is better to install the mechanisms on the bed together. One should hold the top folding grille, and the other should install the fixtures. It is important to install with the rod down (cylinder on top). Installing a gas lift with the rod up is the most common mistake and can lead to structural failure. If the rod is installed upward, then the mounting pin and mounting lugs work to break. When fastening, it is important to fix the nuts without overtightening. Otherwise, the mechanism will not move freely, and the thread may break. Devices with a stem at the top are very rare and this must be reflected in the manufacturer’s passport;
- Run the system several times to check its functionality after assembling the entire structure.
The operation of the gas lift should not include its movement to top dead center. This can quickly damage the system.
If the system does not work properly, the accessories should be reinstalled.
If inaccurate movements are detected, it is important to correct the problem immediately. It will be necessary to adjust or reinstall the mechanism again. Otherwise, they will quickly fail when used. To adjust the fixtures, you can adjust the tilt angles. The gas lift cylinder has a thread on the inner surface. By turning the mechanism, you can lengthen or shorten it a little. You can also make markings on the base of the bed to install the mechanism in another place.
How to properly install a gas lift on a kitchen cabinet?
At the beginning of work, you need to select a tool and make markings, purchase gas lifts and components. Gas lifts are characterized by different parameters and the force at which the spring is compressed. The device must match the size of the furniture. Typically, the dimensions of furniture are standard and there are three main options for gas lifts in size. You need to know the maximum extension of the rod and the length of the folded mechanism.
The compression force is needed when calculating the design for doors of different weights, taking into account the entire coating and fittings. The amount of compression of the spring is standardized and indicated in the technical data sheet of the mechanism, measured in newtons and can be 60, 80, 100 and up to 140 N. Based on the weight of the door, the gas lift is calculated based on a kilogram of door mass per 10 newtons of compression force.
There are many ways to attach. Flat platforms are often used, mounted on the sides of the cabinet with screws and self-tapping screws. Screw-in holders are used for wooden furniture.
What tools will be needed during installation?
You need a set of tools - one is not enough. If you want to install it yourself, you will need:
- Meter, ruler or tape measure.
- Hammer and pliers.
- Drill (preferably electric).
- Screwdriver or screwdriver (the latter is preferable).
Step 1. Marking before installation
Before installing the device, markings are made in the cabinet niche and calculations necessary for installation are made. The centers of the mounting points are also marked on both sides of the niche and on the door.
Step 2. Installation work
Installing a gas lift on a kitchen cabinet is carried out as follows:
1. First, the bases are fixed to the sides of the cabinet in the places marked earlier.
2. Plates and brackets with springs are installed. The bracket is screwed in and the gas lift head snaps directly onto it.
3. The center of the fastening must coincide with the marked one; the base is fastened in different versions with 3 or 4 screws or self-tapping screws. The head of the structure is fixed in the holes.
4. The same steps are taken to secure it to the furniture door. The hinge angle should be 8 degrees.
Gas lift installation diagram
5 installation tips
In connection with mounting the device yourself, we can provide some useful tips:
- The mechanism must be fixed to the sides of the niche - otherwise the fastening will be skewed.
- The door in the cabinet must be firmly secured with two additional furniture hinges.
- It is better to choose elevators with a force of up to 80 Newtons; doors of greater mass are not available in practice.
- Door fittings must be installed before gas lifts are installed.
- When installing a kitchen cabinet, it should not hang on the wall.
The upper cabinets are equipped with a gas lift.
Gas lifts are very convenient and expand the functionality of cabinets and other furniture. The low price and the ability to buy and install them yourself from the facade give them advantages over other structures. The disadvantage of the device is the inability to repair an already installed gas lift for the kitchen. There are many videos on the Internet and complete instructions on how to attach the device. You can place it on a cabinet made of any material.
How to repair it yourself
The elevator mechanism can only be removed for repair if it is not in a compressed state and the cylinder is not damaged. To repair a gas lift, you must first of all know its design and find out the reasons for the malfunction or breakdown of the device.
The rod can move at a maximum speed of up to 300 mm/s. In this case, the pressure inside the cylinder does not exceed 160 bar.
It is necessary to pay attention to the following points:
- The lifting mechanism must be installed only in the open position of the gas lift;
- The mounting points of the device must be well secured in the lugs using mounting pins and bolts. The fastening must be done so that the device moves freely when raising and lowering the top of the bed. Studs and bolts should not be overtightened;
- Dismantling is carried out in the open position of the gas lift, you need to start by unscrewing the fasteners.
Gas lifts not only reduce the load on a person, but also protect the bed frame from rapid destruction.
The main causes of malfunctions or breakdowns:
- Ingress of dust, chemical reagents, mechanical damage. This can lead to damage to the mechanism seals, significantly reducing its service life. During operation, the gas lift should be protected;
- Oil leaking or gas escaping from the device. You can fill the cylinder with lubricant. Under no circumstances should you try to open the gas lift, as there is high pressure inside the cylinder;
- Incorrect selection of gas lift force from the very beginning. They are approximately selected at the rate of 10 N per 1 kg of load. If the bed base with mattress weighs about 30 kg, then each device must be designed for 300 N. If there is an error in the calculation, the device must be replaced.
If you install powerful gas lifts on furniture, it will not always be practical. In this case, it will be difficult to lower or raise the frame.
In case of serious damage, the device must be replaced. In case of minor problems in operation, you can simply make additional adjustments.
How to install a door closer yourself
Installation of complex, expensive shock absorption systems such as electric lifts should be done by professionals. Any home craftsman can handle the installation of simpler and more common structures.
The easiest way is to attach special loop closers to furniture hinges.
The arm or bowl of the hinge must have special grooves, the closer is placed on top and snaps into place.
If the hinges are not suitable for fastening shock-absorbing devices, use cabinet or mortise closers.
Installation of a cabinet closer
The cabinet closer is installed in close proximity to the furniture hinge. Placement in the middle, between the loops, is allowed.
How to install:
- For convenience, remove wall cabinets from the wall. Place the piece of furniture on the floor or table.
- Mark where the device will be fixed, put dots in the places of the proposed holes.
- Drill holes for the mounting bolts. For self-tapping screws, puncture the surface with an awl.
- Screw the base of the closer with self-tapping screws or bolts.
- Check if there is any interference when opening and closing the doors.
- Hang the cabinet in place.
Surface-mounted body closers can be equipped with a limiter. It is applied to the edge of the part and the device is immediately secured with self-tapping screws without preliminary marking.
Mortise devices
Mortise closers are mounted at the end of the side part of the cabinet opposite the door. For wall cabinets, choose the top or middle part of the part, for floor cabinets - the bottom.
- Mark the installation point of the closer at the end of the part. Make a small hole with an awl.
- Using a drill corresponding to the length and thickness of the closer rod, drill a hole to the appropriate depth.
- Insert the mechanism into the hole.
It is better not to use glue or sealant for fixation. They will create difficulties during dismantling in case of breakdown. The closer will not move or fall out without additional means of fastening.
Gas lift installation
Operating procedure:
- Mark with a pencil the installation locations for equipment fastenings.
- Pre-drill holes for mounting bolts. If you use self-tapping screws, you don't need to do this.
- Having attached the fasteners to the intended places, secure them with screws or bolts.
- Insert the closer mechanism into the fastening holes and click into place.
In what cases is specialist help needed?
Installing gas lifts has many nuances. If you have little understanding of the mechanisms and the reason for the failure is unclear to you, you are not confident that you can perform the installation efficiently, you should entrust it to an experienced specialist. The best option is to order furniture assembly or repair to specialists. They will select the style, size and design of the piece of furniture. The optimal characteristics of the lifting mechanism will also be determined.
The optimal fittings are considered to be products from German companies. However, many domestically produced products also have good user reviews.
How to properly install a gas lift on a kitchen cabinet?
At the beginning of work, you need to select a tool and make markings, purchase gas lifts and components. Gas lifts are characterized by different parameters and the force at which the spring is compressed. The device must match the size of the furniture. Typically, the dimensions of furniture are standard and there are three main options for gas lifts in size. You need to know the maximum extension of the rod and the length of the folded mechanism.
The compression force is needed when calculating the design for doors of different weights, taking into account the entire coating and fittings. The amount of compression of the spring is standardized and indicated in the technical data sheet of the mechanism, measured in newtons and can be 60, 80, 100 and up to 140 N. Based on the weight of the door, the gas lift is calculated based on a kilogram of door mass per 10 newtons of compression force.
There are many ways to attach. Flat platforms are often used, mounted on the sides of the cabinet with screws and self-tapping screws. Screw-in holders are used for wooden furniture.
What tools will be needed during installation?
You need a set of tools - one is not enough. If you want to install it yourself, you will need:
- Meter, ruler or tape measure.
- Hammer and pliers.
- Drill (preferably electric).
- Screwdriver or screwdriver (the latter is preferable).
Step 1. Marking before installation
Before installing the device, markings are made in the cabinet niche and calculations necessary for installation are made. The centers of the mounting points are also marked on both sides of the niche and on the door.
Step 2. Installation work
Installing a gas lift on a kitchen cabinet is carried out as follows:
1. First, the bases are fixed to the sides of the cabinet in the places marked earlier.
2. Plates and brackets with springs are installed. The bracket is screwed in and the gas lift head snaps directly onto it.
3. The center of the fastening must coincide with the marked one; the base is fastened in different versions with 3 or 4 screws or self-tapping screws. The head of the structure is fixed in the holes.
4. The same steps are taken to secure it to the furniture door. The hinge angle should be 8 degrees.
Gas lift installation diagram
Recommendations and tips
It is important to know that gas lifts differ in size, metal thickness, and load withstand.
The gas lift length is the distance between the two end mounting lugs of the mechanism. Inside the cylinder there is a lubricant, which flows down during operation and lubricates the mechanism. Thanks to a properly installed gas lift, the base of the bed rises easily.
After securing the devices, be sure to check all lifting angles.
If the gas lift was stored for a long time before installation, then at first it can work with considerable force.
You should not save on these products, since the maintenance of furniture and its durability depend on their quality.
The functionality of the devices should be checked on a bed with a mattress. Without its load, the frame may not remain in the closed position and will rise.
There is no point in checking the operation of the gas lift with your hands, since a working device should not be compressed. And if it shrinks from the force of the hands, then it means it is broken. A gas spring of 300N cannot simply move under the influence of hand force.
The mechanism should not be impacted, cut or the cylinder should not be heated - there is high pressure inside and this can be hazardous to health.
During operation, you should also avoid bending or distorting the mechanism.
If you correctly develop an installation strategy and also follow the manufacturer’s instructions, then the design will turn out no worse than the factory one.
Load calculation example
Your bed weighs 80 kg together. This means that for lifting you will need two furniture gas lifts for a bed marked from 800N. Theoretically, a system of this volume can lift a weight of up to 160 kg, but in practice this does not happen due to the fact that the forces are distributed at an angle.
Do not forget that over time the forces of the devices weaken, so it is permissible to take the model one step larger than the weight of your structure. Just do not buy a gas lift that is too powerful, otherwise it will be difficult to raise and lower the bed frame due to insufficient weight and too high gas pressure in the cylinder.
As you can see, even when choosing a gas lift for a folding bed you should be extremely careful. Taking into account all the described rules and recommendations, you will be able to choose a product that matches the characteristics of your bed. And the long service life of the structure depends on the right choice.
Source
Characteristics of a gas lift for a bed, rules for self-installation
Reading time: 7 minutes. .8k.
Gas elevators are widely used in various spheres of life, including devices of this type that are actively used in the furniture industry. Unlike conventional springs, taking into account the power, such a device has a wide range of possible forces. In addition, the gas lift for the bed allows you to quickly and easily find things located in the box under the bed, since lifting it will not cause any difficulties. Designs equipped with such a device will be indispensable for people living in small apartments, since during the day such a sleeping place can be easily hidden in a closet.
What is
A gas lift for a bed is a device that makes it easier to lift the upper part of the structure without extra effort. The operating principle of this small device is similar to that of a car shock absorber. The main components of the product are:
- Cylinder with gas (nitrogen is almost always used). It must be taken into account that there is high pressure inside the cylinder, so it is not worth repairing or disassembling it yourself.
- Piston with rod - this part helps transmit the force generated during operation of the product.
- Oil muffler (can also be made of rubber). A gasket whose main task is to stop vibrations that occur during the operation of a gas lift.
- Retainers. Plates made of durable steel, with which the gas lift is fixed to the bed frame.
Many companies equip their furniture with gas lifts not only to make it convenient for the owner to store and search for various things. Beds supplemented with a similar device ensure an anatomically correct position of the spine during rest. They also do not have joints and seams, which often cause discomfort. Other advantages of the product include:
- Simplicity of design.
- Since the lift is assembled from just a few elements and operates using pressure, it is affordable.
- Easy installation.
- Reliable and durable - each product is designed to last approximately 20,000 lifts.
- No noise during operation.
- The device is completely safe for health.
As for the weaknesses of beds equipped with a gas lift, there are only 2 of them. If you purchase a bed with springs in the upper block, it will take a lot of effort to lift the element. The second disadvantage is that gas lifts that can withstand heavy loads are expensive.
Basic Concepts
Diagram of a gas shock absorber.
In essence, a gas lift is a device for raising a bed using a gas shock absorber. It was invented by the German company Häfele in the 70s of the last century. The mechanism is a hollow cylinder with 4–6 fastenings and a running arm.
The device consists of the following main parts:
Most often this is compressed nitrogen.
Gas is pumped into the mechanism cylinder under high pressure. Based on this, it is extremely undesirable to disassemble the device on your own.
These are stamped steel plates.
The elements are connected to each other by an axis of rotation.
Operating principle and advantages of the mechanism
There are two types of gas lifts, the operating principle of which is practically the same:
The difference is in the design of automatic and friction gas lift.
- Automatic gas shock absorber . In such a device, when the bed is raised, the nitrogen in the cylinder expands. At the same time, he presses on the piston. A rod connected to it pushes the stock upward.
To slow down the speed, a stop damper is used - an oil plug. It makes it possible to make the movement of the bed at the end of its trajectory smooth.
The bed on the friction shock absorber can be stopped at any angle.
- Friction device . This type of gas lift does not have a damper. The nitrogen pressure in this device is slightly less. This makes it possible to brake the bed in any convenient position. This feature increases the comfort of using gas lift.
The lifting mechanism is reliable and injury-proof.
Advantages of both types of mechanism:
- simple kinematics of work;
- low price;
- easy assembly;
- strength and reliability;
- the device operates almost silently;
- the compressed nitrogen used in gas lift does not have a negative effect on the metal and rubber of the gaskets;
- the device is safe for health, its casing blocks access to the internal elements of the shock absorber, so the user is protected from injury;
- durability of operation - gas lifts are designed for 20 thousand ascents/lowers, so they can operate for 55 years.
Varieties
Each manufacturer complements its products with different types of lifting mechanisms, which differ in design, cost and operating period. Also, each device differs in power. Taking into account how a gas elevator works, elevators are divided into the following groups:
- Manual mechanism. This type of gas lift is the simplest and most affordable. Despite the fact that a device of this type will function for a long time and properly, today they are rarely used to equip beds. This is due to the fact that great physical effort is required to lift the upper element. In addition, such products can cause damage to the bed frame.
- Spring type lift. A simple system that is very easy to use. It doesn't take much force to lift the bed frame. The disadvantage of this design is that its service life does not exceed 5 years, since after this time the springs stretch, causing the device to stop functioning.
- A mechanism based on a gas shock absorber. The design operates smoothly, does not emit extraneous noise, and is reliable. If you correctly calculate the load and use the device carefully, it will last more than ten years.
Of all types of devices, the most durable is considered to be a product that contains gas shock absorbers. Compared to other types, such a lift is more expensive. But the high cost is justified by comfort and safety.
Gas elevators themselves are automatic - their operation does not require physical effort or human attention. Or friction ones - the pressure in such cylinders is much less, which allows the structure to be stopped in any position.
Manual mechanism
Spring
Gas lift
Procedure
Precise adherence to the procedure is the basis for proper installation. By following these steps step by step, you will be able to avoid common mistakes that can lead to damage to the product and shorten its service life.
Preparation and assembly of MDF parts
A large number of bed parts are made of MDF. When starting installation, all elements are freed from the packaging film and inspected for damage. If at least one element has defects, replacement is required. A damaged bed frame will not be secure. The parts are laid out at the installation site so that the side with holes for fasteners is on top.
Installation of box and base
The main parts of the bed are the box and the base. First, the perimeter of the structure is assembled, which consists of three walls and a head back. To do this you need:
- connect the walls and the head back to each other using fixing elements;
- a base is placed on the constructed frame, which is usually made using wood and a metal frame;
- To securely fix all components, tighten the screws with a screwdriver.
In some types of beds, longitudinal strength elements may be provided. In particular, solid longitudinal ties, brackets and corners, fixed to the structure with screws, are common
This feature is important to take into account during the work process.
Installing Corner Ties
The purpose of corner ties is to impart reliability to the assembled structure. The screed consists of several elements:
- a corner in the form of a metal plate bent in the central part at a right angle;
- bolts for fixing the plate to the frame;
- threaded bushings.
To connect the two walls of the bed with a corner tie, the plate is placed on the inside at their junction. Then the bushings are inserted and the bolts are tightened first on one wall, and then the connections are aligned and the fasteners are fixed on the adjacent wall. If desired, it is possible to replace the standard model of corner tie with a modern version, for example, confirmat or minifix, which are distinguished by more compact dimensions.
How to install the lifting mechanism
When installing the lifting structure and determining its sides, it is important to avoid mistakes, as this will lead to improper functioning of the mechanism. The installation process requires the following steps:
- Secure the furniture frame to the lifting mechanism. It is recommended to use screws for this. Before final fixation of the fasteners, it is necessary to level the gaps between the base and the frame.
- Determine the appropriate level of force to operate the mechanism. As a rule, this information is indicated in the attached documentation.
- Install the structure into the lifting mechanism with the cylinder facing up, using nuts with a locking ring and fluoroplastic washers.
- Tighten the fixing nuts to the limit, then loosen the fastening slightly, leaving minimal play. After this, you should check the functioning of the lifting mechanism by lowering and raising the structure several times.
Installation of the traverse
The traverse is a special element that performs the function of a screed. Using a traverse, the lower part of the bed frame is fixed. The element is placed along the structure parallel to the longitudinal tension parts. The use of a traverse helps strengthen the structure, ensures stability and durability, and also makes it possible to securely fasten small side elements that most often fail.
Installation of frame and mattress holders
Handles for controlling the lifting mechanism and a mattress limiter that are convenient for everyday use are mounted on the furniture frame. If the bottom of the bed consists of slats, the number of which varies between 15-25, then they are hammered into special holders. Each lamella is secured on both sides, so this step will take a lot of time. The process is completed by installing the bottom of the bed and tightening the cover.
Specifications
If the bed is equipped with a gas lift, the surface of the product can be easily raised and returned to its original position. Everything will go smoothly and without unnecessary noise. The main characteristics of such lifts are:
- The main substance that ensures the functionality of the structure is inert gas (most often the cylinders are filled with nitrogen).
- The chamber, rod and support tips are made of steel.
- The minimum thickness of the walls of the cylinder, which is filled with gas, must be 1 mm, otherwise it will be unsafe to use the structure.
- Any gas elevator can be compressed by applying force.
- For the device to function properly, the room temperature must vary between -30/+70 degrees.
It must be taken into account that the pressure in the cylinder is very high. That is why, if an element is deformed or another malfunction is discovered, it is strictly not recommended to disassemble it and try to repair it yourself. Below is a table showing the calculation of forces for vertical beds.
Structure weight, kg | Lift force, N | Bed dimensions, cm |
50 | 800 | 90x200 |
60 | 1000 | 100x200 |
70 | 1400 | 120x200 |
80 | 1800 | 140x200 |
90 | 2000 | 160x200 |
100 | 2200 | 180x200 |
If you purchased a horizontal type bed, the power of the lift should be different. This is due to the fact that the load in this case is distributed differently. For horizontal beds, you can use less powerful gas elevators.
Structure weight, kg | Lift force, N | Bed dimensions, cm |
40 | 400 | 600-800 |
50 | 500 | 600-800 |
60 | 600 | 800-900 |
70 | 700 | 800-900 |
80 | 800 | 900-1500 |
If a person does not know how much a bed weighs, one can be guided by average values. A single design weighs about 30 kg. The weight of an orthopedic mattress varies from 30 to 40 kg. Therefore, a single bed weighs on average about 60 kg.
Criterias of choice
Specialized stores offer a wide range of gas elevators. In order not to be disappointed in the purchase, you first need to figure out what recommendations to take into account when choosing. Experts advise following these rules:
- The first thing to do is to calculate approximately what the product’s load capacity should be. To do this, you need to know the dimensions of the bed, as well as its weight.
- Taking into account the obtained parameters, select the necessary device.
- How easily and quickly the frame will rise depends on the number of shock absorbers installed. It is advisable that the bed be equipped with two mechanisms on the sides.
- The length of the gas shock absorber is of no small importance. This parameter directly determines the height to which the body will rise.
- Preference should be given to fittings manufactured by German or German-Russian enterprises. The elements produced by such companies are of high quality and have proven themselves better than others.
If you install too powerful a pneumatic mechanism on the bed, this can lead to certain difficulties. In this case, raising or lowering the bed can be quite difficult.
The device is selected taking into account the required load capacity
For easier lifting, the bed should be equipped with two shock absorbers on the sides
The length of the gas lift determines how high the bed base will rise.
German gas elevators are considered to be of the highest quality.
What to consider when choosing
Since there are many types of gas elevators on the market today, it is worth understanding what to look for when choosing:
- it is necessary to calculate the required load-carrying capacity of the device. To do this, you will need to know the mass of the bed, its height;
- depending on the obtained load capacity indicator, select the right one;
- When choosing, you also need to pay attention to the mounting diameter of the hole.
When purchasing a gas elevator, you cannot save money, since the quality of the product directly depends on the cost. A cheap mechanism will not last long.
Installation Tips
In most cases, the installation of a gas lift on a bed is carried out at the production stage, at the enterprise itself. But if you wish, you can do the installation yourself. To carry out the work you will need a basic set of tools: a hammer, a saw, a drill with different drills, metal corners, several self-tapping screws. And, of course, you need to purchase a suitable gas lift in advance. For everything to work properly, it is recommended to install the product according to the following algorithm:
- The first step is to assemble the bed frame. In this case, metal corners are used, which will securely fix all the elements and make the structure strong.
- Next, you need to install the gas lift using special screws and bolts.
- Afterwards, the folding frame is assembled and the gas lift is fixed to it. The product must be previously installed in the open position.
- Finally, it remains to check how well the installed lifting mechanism works. To do this, you need to squeeze and unclench it several times. The design should operate smoothly and silently.
Self-installation of a gas lift will not cause difficulties and will not take much time. However, if there is uncertainty that everything will be done correctly, it is better not to take risks and seek help from a professional who will do the work. As an alternative, you can immediately choose a bed that already has a powerful gas lift installed. In this case, preference should be given to well-known and trusted companies.
Making a lifting frame
Assembling a lifting frame with your own hands consists of two main stages, these are carpentry and carpentry work and the processing process.
Carpentry work:
assembly begins with the preparation of parts for the frame, according to the drawing, which indicates all dimensions; Next, the base of the frame is assembled, this is a box of calibrated boards. The process must be carried out on the floor to avoid distortions. To align the corners, you must use a construction square; The structure is tied using metal corners, and for strength, the joints are glued with wood glue
They are needed to attach lamellas to them. The size of the slats should be within 20 by 80 mm; The same slats act as slats, only their length will correspond to the width of the bed. They are fastened to support rails along the frame, in increments of no more than 15 cm. Plywood is also suitable for slats, but in this case the installation of a central partition is required; At this point the carpentry process is completed and the lifting frame is ready.
Frame processing:
- this process involves refining wooden parts with sandpaper or a special sanding machine and coating them with varnish;
- One of the nuances of preparing the frame is a plywood sheet, which lies on the lamellas to evenly distribute the load. Or you can lay the lamellas with a step frequency of 8–10 cm.