Dolphin mechanism in sofas - detailed guide

What is a Dolphin?

The dolphin-type mechanism got its name due to the fact that the process of unfolding is similar to the diving of this marine mammal.

Dolphin refers to withdrawable mechanisms. In this design, the second half of the "mattress" is under the seat. And when it needs to be unfolded, the drawer slides forward, the lower section rises to the level of the upper one.

The photo shows an example of what the unfolded mechanism looks like.

Pros and cons of the mechanism

The main advantages dolphin mechanism:

• Compact. Thanks to the sliding platform, it does not take up much space, usually narrower than books or Eurobooks.

Important! Unlike the book transformation mechanisms, the dolphin moves close to the wall.

• Lasting. The robust transformation mechanism is suitable even for daily sleep.
• Comfortable. The sleeping place on straight, corner models turns out to be even.

Important! An even space for sleeping can only be guaranteed on high-quality models: otherwise the mechanism will wear out, one of the parts will sag.

• Easy to use. It doesn't take much effort to disassemble the sofa.

Dolphin sofas come in different sizes: from double straight to spacious corner sofas. Therefore, among the offers of upholstered furniture, it will be easy to find a suitable model in shape, dimensions.

Dolphin mechanisms in sofas have limitations:

• High stress on the floor. The platform slides out on wheels, which, with constant use, can damage the floor.

Important! The layout of the sofa standing on carpet, can cause difficulties: it is difficult for wheels to ride on soft pile.

• Lack of box for linen. In straight models, there are no storage boxes at all or there are small ones in the armrests. Corner ones are often equipped with boxes in an ottoman or corner module.

Controversial characteristic - seat height... Due to the peculiarities of the transformation mechanism itself, under the main seat, it does not have a laundry box, as on many other models, but the second part of the berth. Therefore, ordering the seat height at your own discretion will not work: the sofa will somehow be higher than the standard one.

On the one hand, the high seat is comfortable for people of medium to tall stature. But the appearance of the sofa is not suitable for every style of interior. If you are short or your chosen design suggests a low seat, take a closer look at others options for mechanisms.

How does it unfold?

The main question that you should answer yourself before buying is how the dolphin sofa is laid out. It is best to visit a furniture store, ask a consultant to show how it works with an example, try to expand it yourself.

The most important thing is to understand the principle of disassembly, to unfold and fold the sofa a couple of times before buying if you are going to use it for daily sleep. You must be sure that you can perform this ritual every evening, morning.

Step-by-step instruction

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To understand how the dolphin sofa is disassembled, repeat each step.

Layout

1. Grab the lower bar of the folding part, pull it towards you: the platform with the half of the mattress will come out of the frame. Make sure to roll it out completely.
2. Take the handle, pull the soft part up. Then gently pull forward, lower: the springs will lock in the upper position.

Important! If the linen drawer in your corner model is roll-out and its path intersects with the sofa layout, do not forget to remove the bed linen before starting the transformation.

Assembly

In fact, the process of returning any mechanism for transforming sofas to its original form is the reverse sequence of actions during disassembly. But just in case, we will duplicate each action.

1. Grasp the handle, pull the front of the soft part up a little, while pushing it away from you and down. When the seat rests back on the roll-out platform, release the handle.
2. Slide the assembled platform back under the seat, pushing away from you in two places so that there is no distortion when driving.

Important! Make sure that the soft handle remains outside, otherwise it will be difficult to lift the soft part from the platform to disassemble the sofa next time.

Video

To find out what a dolphin sofa looks like, just a photo. But it's better to understand its features, watch the assembly and disassembly process in the video. See the layout option for the corner model with an ottoman:

Selection recommendations

The main thing that determines the service life of the dolphin sofa is the frame. Some manufacturers, in order to save money, reduce the cost of the product, use thin steel, which will quickly fail from daily use. If the frame is solid, all structural elements are factory-made, you can be sure: the sofa will serve for many years without any complaints.

Important! Dolphin is one of the most reliable transformation options suitable for every day. But subject to the availability of a reliable frame.

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Another important nuance is filling. All sofas are divided into two types:

• Spring loaded. The right solution for daily sleep, replacing 100% of an orthopedic mattress. There are dependent and independent spring blocks. The first, like Bonnel, is cheap, low quality. The second one has a large spread in prices: more comfortable, durable.
• Springless. In this case, the entire interior space is occupied by polyurethane foam and other layers, such as coconut coir, memory foam, felt, synthetic winterizer. Polyurethane foam can compete with springs, it is also great for sleeping, but it can creep over time from constant pressure.

Many buyers prioritize the outer shell over the inner components. Of course, the appearance of upholstered furniture is also important. First, decide on upholstery fabric:

1. Rogozhka. Textured fabric, almost entirely composed of natural fibers. The mat is inexpensive, has a large color palette, but rarely is painted in bright colors. Mostly neutral light, dark or pastel shades are found. The surface is prone to pulling, so the fabric is not suitable for families with pets.
2. Velours. Soft fabric with a pleasant pile. The color scheme depends on the manufacturer, the specific line, but usually it is not difficult to find a suitable shade. Almost unaffected by puffs, but pet hair will collect on the surface: especially if the sofa is dark.
3. Chenille. Durable, low-pile fabric. More durable, more reliable than matting or velor. But at the same time, it is more expensive. The surface does not stretch, does not fade, does not wrinkle - the product will retain its original appearance for a long time.
4. Leather. Natural or artificial has both advantages and disadvantages. From the pros: leather furniture is durable, easy to care for. The disadvantages include the relative discomfort in the heat: you will sweat, stick to the sofa. In addition, sleeping on a leather surface is extremely uncomfortable.

There is also jacquard, flock, tapestry, velvet, suede, and other options for furniture fabrics. For more information about their properties, check with the consultant in the selected store.

Important! Give preference to fabrics with Easy Clean impregnation if: the sofa will stand in the studio between the kitchen and the living room, small children, animals live in the house, you need the lightest upholstery possible.

The last important point: shape. Straight lines do not take up much space, they are suitable for small apartments or rooms. The corners are more massive, but more comfortable: firstly, they are equipped with a box for linen, and secondly, they provide more seats. The corner sofa can be equipped on the side with conventional armchairs with a backrest or an ottoman with an armrest.

The dolphin mechanism is a practical option for daily sleep. Most importantly, do not forget to check the reliability of the structure: excessive savings can cause rapid wear of the mechanism.