Convertible backpack frame

Solution Overview

Problem

Conventional cots are heavy and bulky, making them unsuitable for backpacking due to the need for compact and lightweight gear.

Innovation Solution

A convertible backpack frame that can transform from a frame position to a cot position, utilizing hingably connected U-shaped and intermediate members to create a compact configuration for carrying and then expanding into a resting surface with optional canopies.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Ease of operation

If a conventional cot is used for backpacking, then the backpacker can sleep off the ground, but the cot is heavy and bulky

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvesleeping comfortVSAvoidcot weight

Core Design Contradiction:

Ease of operationVSWeight of moving object

Solution Approach 1:

The patent applies multi-functionality by designing a backpack frame that can serve dual purposes: functioning as a standard backpack frame during hiking and transforming into a cot for sleeping. The frame includes convertible members that can be reconfigured from a compact backpack support structure to an extended cot structure with headrest and footrest portions, eliminating the need to carry separate cot equipment

Inventive Principle:

Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

Solution Approach 2:

The patent applies dynamics through the use of hingable connections that allow the frame members to be reconfigured between two states: a compact configuration for backpacking and an extended configuration for cot use. The hingable connections enable smooth transformation of the frame geometry, allowing the same structure to adapt to different functional requirements without adding weight

Inventive Principle:

Principle #15Dynamics

2Ease of operation

If a conventional cot is used for backpacking, then the backpacker can sleep off the ground, but the cot is bulky

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvesleeping comfortVSAvoidcot volume

Core Design Contradiction:

Ease of operationVSVolume of moving object

Solution Approach 1:

The patent applies multi-functionality by designing a backpack frame that can serve dual purposes: functioning as a standard backpack frame during hiking and transforming into a cot for sleeping. The frame includes convertible members that can be reconfigured from a compact backpack support structure to an extended cot structure with headrest and footrest portions, eliminating the need to carry separate cot equipment

Inventive Principle:

Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

Solution Approach 2:

The patent applies nesting by designing the frame members to collapse into a compact configuration where the intermediate members nest within the U-shaped members. This nested configuration minimizes volume when carried as a backpack while still providing full cot functionality when deployed, allowing the structure to occupy minimal space during transport and expand to provide adequate sleeping space when needed

Inventive Principle:

Principle #7Nested doll (Nesting)

Data Source

PatentUS9675164B2Convertible backpack frame

Publication Date: 2017.06.13 MCDUFFEE MICHAEL E

AI summary

A backpack frame is convertible from a frame position to a cot position. The backpack frame includes: a first U-shaped member having a closed end and an open end, a first intermediate member having a distal end and a proximal end, the proximal end is hingably connected to the open end of the first U-shaped member, a second intermediate member having a distal end and a proximal end, the distal end of the first intermediate member is hingably connected to the distal end of the second intermediate member, a second U-shaped member having a closed end and an open end, the proximal end of the second intermediate member is hingably connected to the open end of the second U-shaped member. In the frame position, the first U-shaped member, the first intermediate member, the second intermediate member, and the second U-shaped member lie in a single plane.