Backpack having framesheet assembly

Abstract

A backpack is provided incorporating a framesheet and having superior torsional flexibility and load support. The backpack includes a sack configured to be disposed on a user's back and having a first side adjacent to the user's back, when worn. The framesheet is attached to the first side of the sack, generally with the spine of the user. A surface contour is provided to the framesheet that facilitates load support and inhibits barreling. The framesheet has a first width in the upper region and a second width less than the first width, the second width residing in the intermediate between the scapulas and the hip bones of the user. Optionally, a stay can also be provided to the backside of the framesheet, preferably along the centerline thereof.

Description

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATION [0001] This application claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Application No. 60 / 494,423, filed Aug. 12, 2003.BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION [0002] The present invention relates generally to backpacks and, more particularly, to a backpack having a framesheet. [0003] Backpacks having a frame support have long been used for carrying heavy, bulky loads. In the past, backpacks were commonly configured to have an external frame that supported a sack. The external frame typically included interconnected metal bars, forming a relatively rigid structure. Shoulder straps and often a hip belt were connected to the frame to distribute the load relatively evenly onto the user. Sacks, typically of nylon or canvas, were secured generally within the confines of the frame and, as such, the sack was relatively spaced apart from the back of the user. Such backpacks could support relatively heavy loads. However, due in part to frame rigidity and load positioning, s...

AI Technical Summary

Benefits of technology

[0013] For purposes of summarizing the invention and the advantages achieved over the prior art, certain advantages of the invention have been described herein above. Of course, it is to be understood that not necessarily all such advantages may be achieved in accordance with any particular embodiment

Problems solved by technology

Such backpacks could support relatively heavy loads.

However, due in part to frame rigidity and load positioning, such backpacks could be relatively awkward, particularly in technically challenging terrain, such as, steep inclines and uneven hiking paths.

As a hiker traversed tough terrain, the load tended to shift, which, combined with the spaced location of the load, would to challenge the hiker's balance.

Moreover, such metal-frame backpacks are impractical for use in extreme sports.

Such internal frame backpacks tend to rely upon the sack to provide sufficient tor

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