Backpack Utility Bucket Cover with Lateral Strap Positioning
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Solution Overview
Problem
Traditional utility bucket covers lack improved weight distribution, leading to discomfort and instability when worn as a backpack, with excessive vertical and horizontal movement causing pressure on the lower back and potential injury.
Innovation Solution
A backpack-style utility bucket cover with ergonomically positioned padded shoulder straps spaced at an angle of 80 degrees relative to the midline, and a chest strap for improved weight distribution and stability, featuring a cylindrical body with pockets and non-slip bottom for secure seating.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Device complexity
If shoulder straps are positioned close to the centerline of the cover, then the device complexity is reduced, but the bucket experiences excessive vertical and horizontal movement causing discomfort and potential injury
Solution Approach 1:
The patent positions the shoulder straps more laterally (outboard) rather than centrally, utilizing the lateral dimension to improve weight distribution. This dimensional change in strap positioning creates a wider base of support, reducing the bucket's tendency to pivot and move excessively during walking or running, thereby resolving the contradiction between simple configuration and movement stability.
2Adaptability or versatility
If the bucket is inverted for seating purposes, then the dual purpose of carrying equipment and providing a seat is achieved, but the contents of the pockets will fall out
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the pocket design by positioning pockets on the lateral sides of the cover rather than on the top surface. This segmentation allows the pocket openings to face sideways rather than upward, so when the bucket is inverted for seating, gravity does not cause contents to fall out. This maintains the dual-purpose functionality while preventing content loss.
3Ease of manufacture
If traditional utility bucket covers are used, then manufacturing simplicity is maintained, but there is no padding or protection when the bucket is used as a seat
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies a foam padding layer to the exterior surface of the cover, creating a composite structure that combines the rigid plastic bucket with a soft cushioning material. This composite approach provides comfortable seating and protects the user's back when the bucket is inverted, while adding minimal manufacturing complexity since the foam can be attached as a separate layer.
4Ease of operation
If the handle is used for carrying the bucket, then the traditional carrying method is maintained, but hand and arm fatigue occurs during extended trips
Solution Approach 1:
The patent incorporates shoulder straps into the cover design, copying the load-bearing function from the user's hands to the shoulders. This allows the bucket to be carried in a backpack-style manner, distributing the weight across the shoulders and upper back, thereby eliminating hand and arm fatigue during extended trips while maintaining secure carrying capability.
Data Source
AI summary
A backpack for a cylindrical shaped object, such as a utility bucket, is disclosed and includes a generally cylindrical shaped body portion with an open top and a bottom and a pair of a pair of shoulder straps attached to the top and bottom of the body portion, the attachment points for the straps at the top are spaced apart by at least a hundred and sixty degrees (160°) and eighty degrees (80°) from a lateral center line of the body portion relative to one another. A plurality of pockets may be disposed about the perimeter of the body portion and the backpack may also include a grab handle and chest strap.