For my final aesthetics project, I am continuing a bedframe design for my shuttle bus. I want to keep a minimalist aesthetic but add functionality to my current bed frame. The idea is to have a telescoping component for spaced wooden slats to slide into each other, effectively making the bedframe compactable to 1/2 its space when not in use. See the below image for my current bed frame and the space I am working with in my shuttle bus.

Image 1: Current bedframe in my shuttle bus

So far, I am confident about how the wooden slats can fit into each other using staggered LOROY slats from IKEA. However, I am still exploring ideas on how to create a sliding rail system that is structurally sound and fits my space requirements. An additional component of this design is that I want to include dressers under the bed that become accessible when the bed telescopes in. These dressers will take the place of some of the 2×2 wood legs that I have in my current bedframe and bear a supportive load. I need to have my sliding rails sit on top of these up against the walls so that I can properly tack them down. I have a preliminary sketch of this spatial concept below.

Image 2: Current sketch schematic

I know for sure that I will be using aluminum 80/20 solution for my runners at the head and foot of the bed, as well as for the 4 beams that will be hanging across between the runners. 80/20 is a very versatile aluminum extrusion to work with, and there are a lot of modular mechanisms that can interface with it. I also know that it will provide the structural integrity that I need for the most important structural parts of this build.

80/20 Extrusion Fixtures | Aluminum Extruded | Air Inc

Image 3: Example of 8020 framing from Vention

My biggest challenge right now is finding a way to integrate a sliding mechanism among the 80/20 and fit on top of the dresser. The beams need to have space to move, but the solution also needs to be rated to at least 75 lbs per slider (600 lbs total). At first, I explored using v-wheel bearings with a mounting plate that slides along the t-slots. This, however, is challenging because it overhangs the 80/20, which is problematic when mounting it flush to the wall and the dresser top in the corner.

Plastic Wheel POM 625ZZ V-slot Bearing 5mm Bore in Pakistan

Image 4: V-wheel bearing slider from Electrobes

My other option was to use a simple nylon t-slot slider to mount the hanging beams. This solution would be cheap, easy to install, and low profile. However, it would have more friction than the bearing solution and I have not seen anything that states it meets my load requirements.

Image 5: Nylon T-slot from McMaster-Carr

Finally, I saw a solution for a linear guide rail. This solution would sit on top of the 80/20 runner and give a nice sliding capability while also allowing the 8020 to be fixed into the corner. This seems like a good solution, and the only downside is that it will stick up more than the other options (leaving unused space between the bed and cabinets when not in use). This solution has the load rating I need though, and might be my best bet. I still am feeling a little lost with this so any suggestions for sliding mechanisms would be greatly appreciated.

Image 6: Linear guide rail from Vevor

 

4 Comments. Leave new

  • The bus is looking great! As far as the dressers go what is your plan for those? Are they expected to only be exposed when the bed is retracted? or could they possibly just fit under the exisiting frame.

    • Cooper Kramis
      March 11, 2025 7:54 pm

      Hi Brian, thank you! I still haven’t picked out a specific dresser, but—yes—they will go under the frame. The idea is you will still be able to access the bottom drawers when the bed is fully extended. When the bed collapses, you will have more open space and can go through the drawers without having to crouch. I am thinking of converting the top drawers into cubbies for access even when the bed is extended.

  • Shreya Pradeep Sekar
    March 8, 2025 6:29 pm

    This bedframe design is seriously impressive! The telescoping mechanism and dresser combo are such a smart space-saving idea. The sliding system challenge is real, but the linear guide rail seems like a solid bet.Can’t wait to see how it turns out!

    • Cooper Kramis
      March 11, 2025 7:56 pm

      Hi Shreya, thanks for the feedback! I agree that the space functionality of this project will (hopefully) turn out well. This is definitely the main design consideration with this bedframe. I am excited to see what solution comes out with the linear guide rail.

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