The frame is wood 2x2's with a perimeter and cross braces that align with the back and middle two hinges when in couch position. The main goal is reduce some weight of the panels to make is easier to go from bed to couch modes. Since the bed/couch is a full 48'' wide the panels are heavy and...
Do you mean one solid layer on the bottom with the panels sitting on top that? That is a really great idea and I wish I had thought of it (or thought to ask) before putting a bunch of time and money into this thing.
I have a 48x80 convertible couch/bed in my minivan conversion and I am looking to reduce some of the weight of the platform. The platform is 3/4 inch plywood, 4 equal size panels (20x48) held together by piano hinges.
My first thought is to drill holes in the platform in a swiss cheese...