Backpack Serpentine Closure Side Access

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing backpack designs often make it difficult to access the inner cavity, especially when stored in narrow spaces or stacked with other components, due to limited access points.

Innovation Solution

A backpack with a serpentine-shaped releasable closure that provides side access by forming an 'S'-shaped pattern, allowing for partial or full opening to create a side flap for easier access to the storage compartment, in addition to traditional top access.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Ease of operation

If traditional top-only access design is used, then the backpack structure is simple, but the accessibility to inner cavity is poor when stored in narrow spaces or stacked

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveaccessibility to inner cavityVSAvoidclosure structure complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The closure structure is segmented into multiple independent sections: a top closure and serpentine closures on opposite sides. Each closure can be opened independently, allowing users to access the inner cavity from the top or from the sides depending on the storage situation, thereby improving accessibility without requiring complete structural redesign

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The patent transitions from a single top-access design to multi-dimensional access by adding serpentine closures on the sides. This enables access from horizontal dimensions in addition to the vertical top access, solving the problem of difficult access when the backpack is stored in narrow spaces or stacked with other items

Inventive Principle:
Principle #17Another dimension (Dimensionality change)

2Volume of stationary object

If the backpack is stored in narrow dimensions or stacked, then space utilization is improved, but the ability to access the top/front of the backpack deteriorates

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvestorage space efficiencyVSAvoidaccess to top/front of backpack
Core Design Contradiction:
Volume of stationary objectVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The closure system is divided into independent top and side sections, allowing selective opening. When the backpack is stored in narrow spaces or stacked, users can open only the serpentine side closures to access the inner cavity, eliminating the need to manipulate the entire top closure and improving ease of operation in constrained environments

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

By adding side access closures, the patent provides alternative access paths that bypass the top/front of the backpack. This enables users to access the inner cavity from the sides even when the top is blocked by stacking or narrow storage dimensions, maintaining accessibility while preserving efficient space utilization

Inventive Principle:
Principle #17Another dimension (Dimensionality change)

Data Source

PatentUS8910844B2Backpack with side access
Publication Date: 2014.12.16 ACCO BRANDS CORP
  • US8910844B2 patent drawing
  • US8910844B2 patent drawing
  • US8910844B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A backpack for providing improved user access points. In particular a backpack providing for side entry into the contents. The backpack may utilize an S-shape zipper to improve access. The backpack may have multiple ways to access the inner pocket, including top access and dual side access.