Container for the transport of objects, such as a backpack, equipped with an apparatus for adjusting the shoulder belts or straps
The internal adjustment apparatus with elastic elements addresses the issues of existing backpack strap systems by enabling quick, easy, and simultaneous adjustment, enhancing comfort and usability while reducing bulk and risk of entanglement.
Patent Information
- Application Number
- EP2025167892
- Authority / Receiving Office
- EP · EP
- Patent Type
- Applications
- Current Assignee / Owner
- Priority Date
- 2024-04-08
- Filing Date
- 2025-04-02
- Publication Date
- 2025-10-15
AI Technical Summary
Existing backpack adjustment systems are cumbersome, prone to breakage, require separate adjustment of each strap, lack elasticity, and protrude, increasing bulk and risk of entanglement, while being time-consuming to adjust.
An internal adjustment apparatus with elastic elements and guiding means that allows simultaneous adjustment of both shoulder straps, hidden from view, providing flexibility and adhesion to the backpack, reducing bulk and risk of damage.
Enables quick, easy, and simultaneous adjustment of shoulder straps, enhancing comfort and usability, reducing bulk and risk of entanglement, while maintaining aesthetics and functionality.
Smart Images

Figure IMGAF001_ABST
Abstract
Description
[0001] The present invention relates to a container for the transport of objects, such as a backpack, equipped with an extremely practical and fast shoulder strap adjustment apparatus.Field of the invention
[0002] The invention is in the technical field of containers and devices for transporting objects, in particular in the technical field of containers for objects, such as backpacks, bags, pouches, etc., equipped with shoulder straps and apparatus for adjusting the shoulder belts, straps or shoulder straps.Prior art
[0003] There is a wide variety of devices on the market for containing and carrying objects, such as backpacks, bags or duffels, pouches, fanny packs and other similar devices.
[0004] These devices or containers all have elements that allow a user to wear or hold them for comfortable transport.
[0005] By way of example, in the case of a backpack, the backpack may have shoulder sbelts, straps or shoulder straps that allow the user to wear it, and one or more handles that allow the user to hold it for manual transport.
[0006] In particular, the shoulder straps allow the backpack to be stabilised by keeping it at least partially adherent to the user's back and by adjusting the load on the shoulders.
[0007] These features therefore allow a more comfortable transport of the objects contained inside, as well as not occupying the user's hands.
[0008] The different types of shoulder straps depend on numerous factors such as aesthetics, the overall shape of the backpack or the use for which it is purchased. In fact, the shoulder straps of a backpack for trekking have a different shape and characteristics than the shoulder straps of a small backpack used, for example, for carrying a few personal items.
[0009] Depending on the type of backpacks, bags, duffel bags or similar devices, the shoulder straps used for transport may provide special features designed for the particular type of use.
[0010] By way of example, there may be elements or devices to increase comfort during shoulder transport, elements to extend the mode of use and to improve load distribution, as well as additional elements to adjust the extension of the shoulder straps and thus improve the total ergonomics of the container during transport.
[0011] In particular, it is traditionally known that it is possible to increase or shorten the length of the shoulder belts or straps of a backpack by means of additional straps or other adjustment systems, for example including buckles.
[0012] This makes it possible, by modifying the length of the shoulder belts, straps or shoulder straps, to adjust the adherence of the backpack to the user's back according to the load, the physical characteristics of the user wearing it, and the use made of it.
[0013] However, the aforementioned apparatus or adjustment systems are traditionally incorporated into the backpack straps making them more uncomfortable for a user and more prone to breakage or damage.
[0014] In addition, known adjustment apparatuses or systems may involve parts of the shoulder harness, buckle or other material being loose or protruding with the risk, particularly for sports backpacks, that they may get in the way of the user or get caught in branches or other things.
[0015] Another disadvantage is that in order to adjust the length of the shoulder straps, it is necessary to adjust each one separately, which can take the user a considerable amount of time to get both straps to the same length.
[0016] A further disadvantage is also the fact that current adjustment devices or systems are rigidly fixed to the back of the backpack without allowing any elasticity or flexibility.
[0017] Finally, the shoulder straps of the backpacks known and present on the market are not adhered to the back of the backpack itself, but are protruding, thus increasing the bulk and the risk of the backpack itself getting stuck during transport.Field of the invention
[0018] It is therefore an aim of the present invention to provide a container equipped with an adjustment apparatus capable of solving the above-mentioned drawbacks and criticalities.
[0019] It is a further aim of the present invention to provide an adjusting apparatus which makes backpacks and other devices for containing and transporting objects simpler, with fewer components and less prone to breakage or damage.
[0020] A further aim of the present invention is to provide backpacks and other devices for carrying objects that are more comfortable and easier to use.
[0021] A further aim of the present invention is to provide an adjustment apparatus which makes the shoulder straps of backpacks and other devices for carrying objects easily and quickly adjustable.
[0022] A further aim of the present invention is to increase the flexibility and elasticity of backpacks and other devices for carrying objects.
[0023] Another aim of the present invention is to realise an adjusting apparatus that can be removed and positioned on different devices.
[0024] A further aim of the present invention is to provide an adjusting apparatus for backpacks or similar devices which reduces the complexity, bulk and elements of conventional shoulder straps.
[0025] A further aim of the present invention is to provide backpacks and other devices in which the shoulder straps are adhered to the backpack or device for containing and carrying objects.
[0026] A further aim of the present invention is to provide an adjusting apparatus which increases the usability of the device on which it is fitted.
[0027] These and other aims are achieved by a container for transporting objects according to the attached independent claim.
[0028] Further detailed technical features are provided in the attached dependent claims.Brief description of the figures
[0029] The present invention will now be described, by way of example but not limitation, according to some preferred embodiments thereof, and with the aid of the attached figures, in which: figure 1 is a side view of a device for containing objects, to which the adjustment apparatus according to the present invention is applied, in a retracted configuration; figure 2 is a side view of a device for containing objects and, in particular, a backpack, on which the adjustment apparatus according to the invention is applied, in extended configuration; figure 3 is a view of the front of a portion of the adjustment apparatus according to the present invention; figure 4 is a view of the rear of the portion referred to in figure 3 according to the present invention. Detailed descritpion
[0030] Referring to the above-mentioned figures, there is represented a preferred embodiment of a container for transporting objects, such as a backpack 1, according to the invention.
[0031] Referring to the above-mentioned figures, the container comprises an adjustment apparatus 100, which allows adjustment of at least one movable or adjustable end of one or more shoulder belts, straps or shoulder straps 2 of the backpack 1.
[0032] More in detail, the adjustment apparatus 100 can be applied or inserted into the backpack 1 in such a way that it is not visible from the outside and does not affect the aesthetics of the backpack 1 itself.
[0033] In particular, the adjustment apparatus 100 can be fixed in a stable and / or reversible manner to the inner wall of the backrest of the backpack 1.
[0034] Alternatively, the adjustment apparatus 100 can also be fixed to the outer wall of the backrest of the backpack 1 and possibly covered with a suitable covering element.
[0035] In particular, the adjustment apparatus 100 may have attachment elements to the outer wall of the backpack or may be stored in special pockets or storage areas. Advantageously, the adjustment apparatus 100 is configured not to compromise the functionality and features of the backpack 1, for example by maintaining an adequate volume for storing objects and not reducing its comfort and functionality. In a particular embodiment of the present invention, the adjustment apparatus 100 is positioned internally within the backpack 1 close to and / or attached to the backrest.
[0036] In other embodiments, the adjustment apparatus 100 can be inserted into special pockets provided within the same backpack 1.
[0037] Again with reference to figure 1, the adjustment apparatus 100 is connected to one or more shoulder belts, straps or shoulder straps 2 of the backpack 1 by means of suitable connecting means.
[0038] Advantageously, said connection means may connect the adjustment apparatus 100 to the shoulder straps 2 in a fixed and irreversible manner or in a reversible manner, for example in the event that the adjustment apparatus 100 is to be moved and used on a different backpack 1 or in the event that one of the shoulder straps 2 is to be replaced.
[0039] The adjustment apparatus 100 can change its configuration from a first retracted or resting position, in which the shoulder straps 2 are in a non-use configuration (figure 2), to a second extended or working position (figure 1), in which the shoulder straps 2 are in a use configuration.
[0040] In the retracted or rest configuration of the adjustment apparatus 100, the ends of the shoulder straps 2 are in close proximity to or in contact with the backpack 1, for example in contact with the backrest.
[0041] In the extended or working configuration of the adjustment apparatus 100, one of the ends of the shoulder straps 2 moves away from the backpack 1 so as to allow adjustment of the shoulder straps 2 when the backpack 1 is worn or carried by a user.
[0042] Referring to figure 3, the adjustment apparatus 100 comprises a base 11 and at least one elastic element 13.
[0043] In particular embodiments, the base 11 may be any stiffening element that ensures proper functioning of the adjustment apparatus 100.
[0044] In a particular embodiment of the invention in which the base 11 is not present, the elastic element can be directly connected to elements of the backpack 1.
[0045] Advantageously, the base 11 can be replaced with an equivalent stiffening means.
[0046] The base 11 can be shaped to assume the desired shape depending on the container where it is to be positioned.
[0047] Advantageously, base 11 may have a reduced footprint, for example it may have a substantially laminar shape - that is, the development along one dimension (the thickness) may be much less than the development along the other two.
[0048] In the case where the base 11 assumes a shape in which the development along one dimension is less than the development along the other two, the base 11 has a first front side and a second rear side.
[0049] Advantageously, the base 11 has one or more guiding means configured to connect the elastic element 13 with the base 11 and / or make it extend and retract near said base 11 so as to allow adjustment of the distance of at least one end of a strap from the backpack 1.
[0050] The guiding means may also be configured to allow the elastic element 13 to slide.
[0051] The guiding means may comprise a lane 17 in which the at least one elastic element 13 is positioned and moved. The lane 17 allows for housing and protection of the elastic element 13.
[0052] Advantageously, the lane 17 is suitably shaped for guiding the extension and retraction of the elastic element 13 in the transition of the adjustment apparatus 100 from the retracted configuration to the extended configuration and vice versa.
[0053] In particular, the lane 17 may be configured to keep the elastic element 13 in contact with or close to the base 11.
[0054] Preferably, the lane 17 is formed in the front face of the base 11.
[0055] In more detail, the lane 17 allows extension and retraction of the elastic element 13 without increasing the overall size of the adjustment apparatus 100.
[0056] In a preferred embodiment, the elastic element 13 can extend up to at least twice its resting dimension and more preferably up to three times its resting dimension.
[0057] Again advantageously, the lane 17 has the function of increasing the available space in which the elastic element 13 can stretch and retract so that the elastic elements within it can have an optimal elastic force.
[0058] In a preferred embodiment of the present invention, as visible in the figures, the lane 17 has a trapezoidal shape but it is understood that it may also take other different shapes without departing from the inventive concept of the present invention.
[0059] Advantageously, the base 11 can be made of a rigid or semi-rigid material to maintain its shape during use of the adjustment apparatus 100 and to prevent the backpack 1 from bending.
[0060] In further embodiments, the base 11 comprises more stiffening webbing.
[0061] Still advantageously, the base 11 may feature attachment systems for connection to the backpack 1 or to an internal and / or external pocket or component thereof.
[0062] Still advantageously, the base 11 has through holes 14 which allow the elastic element 13 and, in more complex embodiments, other elements of the apparatus 100, to pass through the same base 11.
[0063] Advantageously, the through holes 14 may be present within the lane 17 and may be protected by suitable protective means not visible in the figures.
[0064] The means of protection can be used to prevent excessive enlargement of the holes and wear of the base 11 due to continuous use of the adjustment apparatus 100.
[0065] In embodiments in which the adjustment apparatus 100 is positioned internally in the backpack 1, the through holes 14 allow the elastic element 13 to exit the backpack 1 and connect to the adjustable ends of the shoulder straps 2.
[0066] In the remainder of the discussion, reference will be made to a single elastic element 3. However, it is possible that there are several elastic elements connected to each other or connected to the base 11 and, in the event that there are several elastic elements 3, preferably each individual elastic element 13 is connected to a shoulder strap 2 of the backpack 1.
[0067] Advantageously, the guiding means may also comprise one or more sliding elements 15 which allow the elastic element 13 to extend and retract while remaining close to, without moving away from, the base 11.
[0068] The sliding elements 15 also allow the elastic element 13 to connect with the base 11.
[0069] In particular, the sliding elements 15 can be fixed to the base 11.
[0070] With reference to the embodiment visible in the figures, the elastic element 13 is retained and within the lane 17 of the base 11 by means of the sliding elements 15.
[0071] In particular, the sliding elements 15 are fixed to the base 11 and, in particular, to the front face of the base 11.
[0072] More in detail, the sliding elements 15 keep the elastic element 3 in position during its elongation and retraction allowing it to remain within the lane 17.
[0073] Furthermore, the sliding elements 15 allow the elastic element 13 to elongate and retract, also changing direction, without any form of friction. This aspect may prevent the elastic element 13 from breaking if the straps 2 are pulled excessively.
[0074] In order to increase the fixing strength of the sliding elements 15 to the base 11, each sliding element 15 is firmly anchored to the base 11 by means of a respective rivet 25.
[0075] In a preferred embodiment, rivets 25 are provided in the rear face of the base 11, which are connected via the base 11 to the sliding elements 15.
[0076] In preferred embodiments of the present invention, the sliding elements 15 are pulleys or similar.
[0077] Advantageously, the sliding elements 15 are positioned in the proximity of the corners of the lane 17 so that the elastic element 13 cannot escape from the lane 17 itself.
[0078] Advantageously, as visible in figure 3, one or more transfer elements 12 are interposed between the ends of the elastic element 13 and the adjustable and movable ends of the straps 2.
[0079] In particular, the transfer elements 12 are connected, at a first end thereof, to a movable end of the shoulder straps 2 of the backpack 1 by means of suitable connecting means and, at a second end thereof, to an end of the elastic element 13.
[0080] Advantageously, the connection between the ends of the elastic element 13 and the ends of the transfer elements 12 is made by means of an appropriate connecting means or knot.
[0081] The connecting means or knot creates a blocking element or cap 16 configured to not allow the elastic elements 13 to escape from the through holes 14.
[0082] As an example, in order to prevent the elastic elements 13 from escaping from the through holes 14, the blocking elements or plugs 16 are larger than the through holes 14 so that they cannot pass through them.
[0083] In the case where the connection is made via a node, the size of this node must be greater than that of the through hole 14 which it must not pass through.
[0084] If the connection is made by means of a knot, this knot may be glued or cast.
[0085] Advantageously, the fact that the elastic elements cannot pass through the through holes 14 prevents the backpack 1 from folding in on itself or the adjustment apparatus 100 from being removed or damaged.
[0086] In preferred embodiments, the transfer elements 12 are not elastic and cannot stretch or shrink.
[0087] When the adjustment apparatus 100 is positioned internally within the backpack 1, the transfer elements 12 are configured to exit a through hole 14 in the transition from the non-use configuration to the use configuration of the shoulder straps 2 and re-enter within the same through hole 14 otherwise.
[0088] Advantageously, when switching from the use configuration to the non-use configuration of the shoulder straps 2, the transfer elements 12 are positioned within the backpack 1 and, in particular, within the lane 17.
[0089] Equally advantageously, when the adjustment apparatus 100 is positioned inside the backpack 1, the elastic element 13 never protrudes from the backpack 1 due to the larger size of the blocking element 16 compared to the through holes 14.
[0090] In a preferred embodiment of the present invention, the transfer means 12 are strings or strings.
[0091] In preferred embodiments of the present invention, as seen in figure 4, the base 11 may comprise reinforcing means 21 suitable for increasing its stability, rigidity and strength.
[0092] Such reinforcing means 21 are preferably present on the face of the base 11 in which the lane 17 is not present.
[0093] Advantageously, the reinforcing means 21 are present on the rear façade of the base 11.
[0094] The reinforcing means 21 may be present along the entire surface of the base 11 or, as visible in figure 1, only in certain portions thereof.
[0095] Preferably, the reinforcing means 21 may be present on the corners of the base 11 and / or in the vicinity of the through holes 14 and rivets 25.
[0096] The reinforcing means 21 may also be present on both sides of the base 11.
[0097] In further embodiments of the present invention, the adjustment apparatus 100 presents locking means for the elastic element 13 so that once it has come out of the holes 14, it can be locked and held in a certain position without tending to retract.
[0098] Such locking means may comprise, for example, wire retainers, wire retainer brackets, wire clamps or other similar elements.
[0099] Advantageously, the locking means prevent the elastic element 13 from retracting and retracting into the holes 14. In this way, it is also possible to lock the elastic element so as to adjust a position and length of the straps 2 and the elastic element 13 according to the choice of the user.
[0100] Such adjustment can be made, for example, by manually changing the inclination of the straps 2 and / or the elastic element 13.
[0101] In the remainder of the discussion, reference will be made in the description of the functioning of the adjustment apparatus 100 with reference to the embodiment visible in the attached figures.
[0102] The backpack 1 presents straps 2 having a fixed end fixed to the backpack 1 and a movable end that can move away from or closer to the backpack 1, thanks to the adjustment apparatus 100, so as to allow adjustment of the straps 2.
[0103] Operationally, when the shoulder straps 2 are in the non-use configuration, both ends of the shoulder straps 2 are in contact with and / or otherwise at and / or closer to the backpack 1 and the elements of the adjustment apparatus 100 are substantially completely within the same backpack 1 and not visible from the outside.
[0104] When the shoulder straps 2 are in a use configuration, for example because the backpack 1 is worn or carried by a user by means of the same shoulder straps 2, one end of the shoulder straps 2, in particular the movable end, moves away from the backpack 1 by pulling the transfer elements 12 protruding from the backpack 1.
[0105] The transfer elements 12, not having a variable length, elongate the elastic element 13, which remains however not visible from the outside.
[0106] The elongation of the elastic element 13 allows the movable end of the shoulder straps 2 to be removed from the backpack 1 and adjusted.
[0107] Advantageously, in the transition from the non-use configuration to the use configuration of the shoulder straps 2, the elastic element 13 can be lengthened up to three times its length in the rest position.
[0108] In this situation, it is possible to adjust the shoulder straps 2 of the backpack 1 according to the user's characteristics or needs.
[0109] Once the shoulder straps 2 have been released, in the transition from the use condition to the non-use condition, the elastic element 13 returns to its initial position, by pulling the transfer elements 12 inside the backpack 1 and bringing the mobile end of the shoulder straps 2 closer to the backpack 1 itself.
[0110] When the shoulder straps 2 have returned to the non-use configuration, the transfer elements 12 will be fully retracted into the backpack 1, in particular into the lane 17, and both ends of the shoulder straps 2 will be in contact with the backpack 1.
[0111] It should be understood that, although the description makes particular reference to a backpack 1, the adjustment apparatus 100 can also be incorporated into other devices for containing and transporting objects, such as bags, duffels, etc., without departing from the inventive concept of the present invention.
[0112] Furthermore, the adjustment apparatus 100 can be applied to a variable number of shoulder straps, handles or equivalent depending on the shape and use of the device for containing and transporting objects.
[0113] Advantageously, the adjustment apparatus 100 makes it possible to greatly increase the convenience of adjusting the straps, simplifying the elements and keeping production costs low.
[0114] It is clear from the description made that the characteristics of the adjustment apparatus 100 and the container of objects equipped with the adjustment apparatus 100, which are the subject matter of the invention, are clear, as are their advantages.
[0115] Finally, it is clear that numerous other variations may be made to the container and the adjustment apparatus in question, without departing from the principles of novelty inherent in the inventive idea, just as it is clear that, in the practical implementation of the invention, the materials, shapes and sizes of the illustrated details may be any as required and the same may be replaced with equivalent ones.
[0116] Where the features and techniques mentioned in any of the claims are followed by reference marks, those reference marks have been included for the sole purpose of increasing the intelligibility of the claims and, accordingly, those reference marks have no limiting effect on the interpretation of each element identified by way of example by those reference marks.
Examples
Embodiment Construction
[0030]Referring to the above-mentioned figures, there is represented a preferred embodiment of a container for transporting objects, such as a backpack 1, according to the invention.
[0031]Referring to the above-mentioned figures, the container comprises an adjustment apparatus 100, which allows adjustment of at least one movable or adjustable end of one or more shoulder belts, straps or shoulder straps 2 of the backpack 1.
[0032]More in detail, the adjustment apparatus 100 can be applied or inserted into the backpack 1 in such a way that it is not visible from the outside and does not affect the aesthetics of the backpack 1 itself.
[0033]In particular, the adjustment apparatus 100 can be fixed in a stable and / or reversible manner to the inner wall of the backrest of the backpack 1.
[0034]Alternatively, the adjustment apparatus 100 can also be fixed to the outer wall of the backrest of the backpack 1 and possibly covered with a suitable covering element.
[0035]In particular, the adjustme...
Claims
1. A container for transporting objects, such as a backpack (1), comprising one or more shoulder straps (2) and an adjustment apparatus (100) of said one or more shoulder straps (2) of said container, characterised in that said adjustment apparatus (100) comprises - a base (11) connected to said container, - at least one elastic element (13) connected to at least one movable end of said one or more straps (2), - one or more guiding means configured to connect said at least one elastic element (13) with said base (11) and / or to make it extend and retract near said base (11) so as to allow adjustment of the distance of said at least one movable end from said container.
2. Container for transporting objects according to claim 1, characterised in that said one or more guiding means comprise a lane (17) for housing, protecting and handling said at least one elastic element (13).
3. Container for transporting objects according to claim 1, characterised by the fact that said one or more guiding means comprise one or more sliding elements (15), such as one or more pulleys.
4. Container for transporting objects according to claim 2, characterised by the fact that each of said one or more sliding elements (15) is firmly anchored to said base (11) by means of a respective rivet (25).
5. Container for transporting objects according to one or more of the preceding claims, characterised by the fact that said base (11) is made of a rigid or semi-rigid material.
6. Container for transporting objects according to one or more of the preceding claims, characterised by the fact that one or more transfer elements (12) are interposed between said movable end of said one or more shoulder straps (2) and said elastic element (13).
7. Container for transporting objects according to claim 6, characterised in that said at least one elastic element (13) and said at least one or more transfer elements (12) are connected together to form a blocking element (16).
8. Container for transporting objects according to claim 7, characterised in that said base (11) has one or more through holes (14) for allowing said at least one elastic element (3) or said at least one or more transfer elements (12) to pass through said base (11).
9. Container for transporting objects according to claim 8, characterised by the fact that said blocking element (16) is larger than said one or more through holes (14).
10. Container for transporting objects according to one or more of the preceding claims, characterised by the fact that on one or more surfaces of said base (11) is present one or more reinforcing means (21).
Citation Information
Patent Citations
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Carrying bag
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Retractable shoulder strap backpack
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