Backpack frame

Abstract

A backpack having a forked frame with curved flat members that are shaped to conform to the curvature of a wearer's back. The flat members are connected together torsionally by a handle portion that allows each flat member to shift relative to the other to accommodate weight shifts in the backpack load. The forked frame is a single-piece structure that is preferably made of carbon fiber. Although the frame is external relative to the pack, the flat construction of the frame allows it to mate with the pack in a way such that the frame is integrated with the inner sidewall of the pack.

Description

TECHNICAL FIELD [0001] The present invention relates to backpacks, and more particularly, to backpacks having flexible frames. BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION [0002] Conventional backpacks typically have a rigid tubular metal frame that is external of the pack or an internal frame. Either way, the frame supports the load within the pack and distributes the load across the wearer's hips, shoulders, and back. The invention disclosed here is a new frame design that provides a different way of supporting backpack contents and distributing the weight carried by the pack. SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION [0003] The invention is a backpack having a forked frame made of curved flat members that are shaped to approximately conform to and press against the curvature of a wearer's back. For the purpose of visualizing what is meant by “curved flat member,” one may liken the shape of these members somewhat to the shape of a steel leaf spring used in the automotive industry. In other words, the curved flat m...

AI Technical Summary

Benefits of technology

[0003] The invention is a backpack having a forked frame made of curved flat members that are shaped to approximately conform to and press against the curvature of a wearer's back. For the purpose of visualizing what is meant by “curved flat member,” one may liken the shape of these members somewhat to the shape of a steel leaf spring used in the automotive industry. In other words, the curved flat members used in the present invention are dimensionally long and wide, relative to their thickness, and can elastically bend or flex because of their relatively thin thickness. A handle portion of the frame connects the flat members together at the frame's top. The handle portion, as a connecting piece, enables the flat members to be torsionally flexible relative to each other. This flexibility accommodates weight shifts in the load carried by the backpack. The handle portion also allows the backpack to be carried like a suitcase when it is not being worn.

[0004] The handle portion and the flat members are integrally formed together from a single piece of material—preferably, carbon fiber. The lower portions of the flat members flare outwardly with respect to the portions of the flat members that are connected to the handle portion for providing support in the lumbar region of the back. There is a scapular pad connected to the flat members, near the handle portion, and a pair of lumbar pads connected, one each, to the outwardly flared portions of the flat members for cushioning effect.

[0007] The handle portion of the frame extends above the pack sack and curves aft relative to the wearer. This feature makes it easy to handle the backpack in certain situations when it isn't worn because it allows the backpack to be carried like a suitcase or briefcase.

Problems solved by technology

However, its flat construction also “flatly” integrates the frame with the inside surface of the pack or packsack, i.e., the surface that rides on or against the wearer's back.

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