Backpack Frame with Flexible Support and Adjustable Tensioners
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Solution Overview
Problem
Traditional backpack frames are rigid, uncomfortable, and difficult to store or transport due to their complex structure and permanent material connections, which restrict airflow and cause pressure on the wearer's back.
Innovation Solution
A lightweight, adjustable backpack frame using flexible support members with tensioners that can be easily assembled and disassembled, allowing the frame to be flattened for storage and transport, and distributing the pack's weight away from the back through arcuate shaping when tensioned.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Strength
If traditional rigid backpack frames are used, then structural strength is maintained, but comfort deteriorates due to direct contact with the back
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies flexible support members instead of rigid frames. These flexible members can bend and conform to the wearer's back shape, eliminating direct pressure points while still providing structural support. The flexibility allows the frame to adapt to body contours, maintaining strength where needed while comfort where contact occurs.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces dynamic elements through adjustable tensioners and flexible members that can change their configuration. The frame transitions from a static rigid structure to a dynamic system that can adapt its shape and stiffness based on loading conditions and wearer anatomy, optimizing both strength and comfort.
2Force
If traditional rigid backpack frames are used, then load distribution is achieved, but airflow circulation deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The flexible support members create gaps and airflow channels between the pack and the wearer's back. Instead of a solid rigid frame that blocks air circulation, the flexible members allow air to flow through, maintaining thermal regulation while still distributing load through the flexible support structure.
3Stability of the object's composition
If traditional backpack frames with permanent material connections are used, then structural stability is maintained, but ease of storage and transport deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the frame into separable components with removable connections. The flexible support members can be detached from the pack, allowing the frame to be stored separately or collapsed. This segmentation enables compact storage and easy transport while maintaining structural stability when assembled and in use.
Solution Approach 2:
The frame transitions from a permanent fixed structure to a dynamic assembly that can be configured for use and collapsed for storage. The adjustable tensioners and removable connections allow the frame to change its state between operational and storage configurations, providing both stability during use and ease of storage.
4Force
If traditional complex backpack frame structures are used, then load bearing capacity is achieved, but manufacturing complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The frame is segmented into simple, standardized components that can be manufactured independently and assembled easily. This segmentation simplifies the manufacturing process compared to monolithic rigid frames, reducing production complexity and cost while maintaining load bearing capacity through the distributed flexible support structure.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent uses parameter changes in material properties - selecting flexible materials that provide sufficient strength when needed but can be easily manipulated during assembly. This approach simplifies manufacturing by allowing flexible assembly processes rather than requiring precision machining and permanent joining of rigid components.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
The flexible frame provides comfort by avoiding direct contact with the back, allows for efficient weight distribution to the hips, and simplifies storage and transport through easy assembly and disassembly without special tools.
Implementation Method 1
the flexible support members may be constructed of a lightweight material that resiliently flexes when exposed to stress. When these forces are removed, the flexible support member may return to its original, essentially planar shape.
Implementation Method 2
A tensioner may connect to two tensioner attachment points. The tensioner may be a rope-like structure constructed from a synthetic material that resists elongation when subject to tensile stress.
Data Source
AI summary
A backpack frame comprising a plurality of flexible support members wherein each of the plurality of flexible support members further comprise a top end and a bottom end, a pack further comprising a first tensioner attachment point and a second tensioner attachment point, and a plurality of tensioners wherein each of the plurality of tensioners further comprises a tension length. One of the plurality of tensioners is attached to the first tensioner attachment point and also attached to the second tensioner attachment point. One of the plurality of flexible support members extends substantially between the first tensioner attachment point and the second tensioner attachment point. The tension length of one of the plurality of tensioners is located between the first tensioner attachment point and the second tensioner attachment point. The tension length may be adjusted.