Elastomeric Strap Frame for Load Distribution
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing backpack designs fail to effectively distribute the weight of heavy loads, leading to discomfort and stress on the shoulders and collarbones, especially when carrying loads exceeding 10 kg, and are not well-suited for single-strap bags.
Innovation Solution
A bag with stiffening frames on the carrying straps that have elastic properties, forming a horseshoe shape to distribute the weight across multiple support zones on the torso, including ventral and dorsal regions, allowing for increased load capacity with equivalent comfort and suitability for single-strap configurations.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If traditional shoulder straps are used to carry the bag, then the bag can be worn on the shoulders, but the weight is concentrated on the shoulders and collarbones causing discomfort and stress
Solution Approach 1:
The frame is divided into multiple segments including a curved upper portion, front longitudinal portion, and rear longitudinal portion, each pressing against different regions of the torso to distribute the load across multiple support zones rather than concentrating it on the shoulders
Solution Approach 2:
The frame extends the load distribution from the vertical shoulder area to horizontal regions across the torso, including the front, back, and sides, effectively moving the support zones to a different spatial dimension
2Ease of operation
If a stiffening frame is added to distribute the load, then the load distribution improves, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The frame is constructed from an elastomeric material that provides both structural support and flexibility, allowing it to conform to the wearer's torso while maintaining its load-distributing function, thus reducing complexity compared to rigid multi-component structures
Solution Approach 2:
The frame uses an elastomeric material that combines the properties of both rigidity (to maintain frame shape and distribute load) and flexibility (to conform to the body), creating a composite structure that achieves multiple functions with a single element
3Stress or pressure
If the frame presses against multiple regions of the torso, then the load distribution improves, but the frame design becomes more complex
Solution Approach 1:
Multiple frame portions (curved upper portion, front longitudinal portion, rear longitudinal portion) are merged into a single integrated elastomeric frame structure that simultaneously contacts multiple torso regions, simplifying the design compared to separate 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 solution provides improved comfort and load distribution, allowing for a 30% to 50% increase in carried load without significant perceived weight, reducing strain on shoulders and collarbones, and is applicable to both dual-strap and single-strap bags.
Implementation Method 1
a stiffening frame equips said carrying strap, which frame has elastic properties so that it deforms elastically with a spring effect when said strap equipped with said frame is installed on a shoulder of the wearer
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2a
Figure 2b
AI summary
The invention relates to a bag comprising a carrying strap, wherein: - the strap is provided with a frame (2), which frame has elastic properties, - the frame (2) has a curved upper portion (20) located, when in use, on the shoulder on which the strap is fitted, - the curved upper portion (20) is extended towards the bottom by a front longitudinal portion (21) shaped such that, when in use, it is pressed against a first region of the torso of the wearer other than the shoulder on which the carrying strap is fitted, - the curved upper portion (20) is also extended by a rear longitudinal portion (22) shaped such that, when in use, it is pressed against a second region of the torso of the wearer other than the shoulder, which second region is distinct from the first region.