Backpack Frame Structure for Lumbar Load Transfer and Ventilation

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing hiking backpacks lack improved carrying comfort, load transfer to the lumbar region, and effective back ventilation, leading to fatigue and discomfort during prolonged use.

Innovation Solution

A backpack frame that creates a ventilation space between the back and the back pocket, with an extension providing localized support to the lumbar region, featuring a frame with a structural portion and an extension that redistributes load to the hips via the iliac bones, using a shaped cylindrical metal bar or other materials for rigidity and elasticity.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Object-affected harmful factors

If a frame is added to shape the back panel and create ventilation space, then back ventilation is improved, but device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveback ventilationVSAvoidframe structure
Core Design Contradiction:
Object-affected harmful factorsVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The frame is nested within the back pocket structure, with the back panel forming an outer shell and the frame embedded inside it. This nesting approach allows the frame to create ventilation space and provide structural support without adding external complexity to the backpack's overall structure.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #7Nested doll (Nesting)

Solution Approach 2:

The frame is divided into multiple segments including a lower part, upper part, and connecting portion. This segmentation allows each part to perform specific functions (load transfer, ventilation, shaping) while keeping the overall structure manageable and integrable into the backpack design.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

2Strength

If the frame is made rigid to provide structural support, then load transfer capability is improved, but adaptability to back movements decreases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveload transferVSAvoidback movement adaptation
Core Design Contradiction:
StrengthVSAdaptability or versatility

Solution Approach 1:

Different parts of the frame have different rigidity characteristics. The lower part and upper part are designed with specific rigidity for optimal load transfer to the iliac bones, while the connecting portion has adjusted rigidity to accommodate back movements. This local differentiation of mechanical properties allows the frame to simultaneously provide structural support and adapt to dynamic conditions.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #3Local quality

3Ease of operation

If the frame extends to the lumbar region to provide localized support, then carrying comfort is improved, but device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvecarrying comfortVSAvoidframe configuration
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The frame extension serves multiple functions simultaneously: it provides localized support to the lumbar region for improved carrying comfort, maintains structural integrity for load transfer, and adapts to back movements through its elastic properties. This multi-functionality reduces the need for additional separate components, thereby limiting the increase in device complexity.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

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

Enhances carrying comfort by reducing fatigue-related pain through improved load transfer and ventilation, allowing the frame to absorb movements and apply pressure to the lumbar area effectively.

Implementation Method 1

the frame creates a ventilation space between the back and the back panel

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectVentilation: Convection

Implementation Method 2

The extension also provides elasticity to the frame, allowing it to absorb the backpack's movements

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectElasticity: Elasticity

Implementation Method 3

allows for load transfer to the lumbar region, a support area that improves carrying comfort

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectLoad transfer: Mechanical Force

Data Source

PatentEP4527247B1Backpack frame
Publication Date: 2026.04.01 SALOMON SA
  • EP4527247B1 patent drawingFigure 1
  • EP4527247B1 patent drawingFigure 2
  • EP4527247B1 patent drawingFigure 3

AI summary

A backpack comprising: a pocket delimited by a back panel facing the user's back when the backpack is worn; a frame partially fixed to the back panel, the frame including a structural portion for shaping the back panel. The frame includes an extension, connected to the structural portion, extending towards the user's back from the structural portion, the extension being designed and arranged to define a support section located in the user's lumbar region when the backpack is worn. The structural portion of the frame forms a curve such that a middle portion of the structural portion is further away from the user's back than its upper and lower ends.