Structural suitability of oak and spruce in highly loaded bed design

This study investigates the feasibility of using spruce and oak for a bed frame designed for all users, including those with higher body mass. Based on Slovak anthropometric data, optimal bed dimensions were established (2,400 mm L × 1,410 mm W × 660 mm H) for a design load of 250 kg. The structural performance of the side frame components was assessed using finite element analysis (FEA). Components made of spruce (C30) and oak (D50), with a cross-section of 200 mm × 20 mm, were subjected to the specified load. Simulation results were evaluated against a maximum permissible deflection of 7.2 mm. The oak component exhibited a maximum stress of 18.5 MPa and a deflection of 7.2 mm, satisfying both strength and deflection requirements. In contrast, while meeting the stress requirement with a maximum stress of 11.7 MPa, the spruce component exhibited a deflection of 8.4 mm, exceeding the limit. Therefore, only oak was deemed suitable for the bed frame’s structural components. This research validates oak’s potential as a sustainable alternative to metal in general-purpose furniture.