Honda Element Sleeping Platform

Features

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Modular

The sleeping platform can be set up with the back seats removed, and also with all four seats remaining in the Element.

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Spacious

With dimensions of 80 inches long by 42 inches wide, the sleeping platform is comfortable for two with the back seats out, and cozy for two with the back seats in. In addition, the 13.5 inch raised platform provides ample room for storage underneath while also allowing for good headroom.

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Portable

The sleeping platform components remain in the Honda Element at all times, taking up minimal space while also providing storage.

Sleeping Platform Showcase

Sleeping Platform Setup:

Start by taking everything out of the Honda Element. If the rear seats are still in place, fold them to the sides of the vehicle. Then slide the sleeping platform out most of the way. Place the front box in place, and also fold the front seats flat. Next, lift the front of the platform onto the front box, and then lift the back of the platform up and slide the back box underneath.

The Building Process:

Two 4 foot x 8 foot sheets of 3/4 inch plywood were used for the sleeping platform. One sheet was cut down to 80 inches long by 42 inches wide, and then the piece was cut into a piece of 62 inches and an additional 18 inches, which is where the piano hinge was installed. This allows the platform to span the expanse of floor space in the Element, and also gives an extra 18 inches of sleeping platform length folded under to maximize the size of the platform while it is set up.

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Then cuts were made in the sides of the sleeping platform to accommodate where the side paneling on the floor of the Element curves inward. In addition, holes were cut into the sleeping platform so it can remain flush on the floor of the Element whilst still allowing the back seats to be folded down and connected to their latches in the floor. Once everything was cut, the edges were sanded, the bottom edges were rounded, and the platform was sealed with spar urethane. Then a piano hinge was attached to connect both pieces of the platform.

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The rest of the plywood was used to create the boxes that the sleeping platform sits on. The boxes utilize a dado joint construction with the faces for strength, while also providing a lip for the top of the box to secure onto. Wood glue was used in the joints to keep the boxes together.

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Both boxes are 42 inches long by 12 inches wide, and 13.5 inches tall. This allows the boxes to fit behind the back seats when all four seats are in use, provides a sturdy base for the platform, and the height allows the playform to be set up with the two rear seats folded up, while also providing ample height for storage underneath. To finish the boxes, holes were drilled in the front and back so rope handles could be installed, allowing for either one person or two person side by side carrying configurations. The boxes were sanded and then sealed with spar urethane. Vinyl flooring was adhered to the lid of each box to prevent scratching, and also placed inside the box. Slippery foam feet were added to the bottoms of each box to make sliding the boxes along the floor of the Element easier.

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All Pictures Taken by Austin Zuehlke Unless Otherwise Mentioned

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