Expandable Mesh Retainer for Backpacks
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing carrying bags, such as gym bags and backpacks, struggle to securely carry large objects like basketballs or soccer balls without putting strain on the wearer's back, as previous designs either strain the back with the weight or allow objects to fall out due to inadequate retention mechanisms.
Innovation Solution
A nylon mesh expansion retainer is integrated into the bag, which can be unfolded and secured with a drawstring and clip system to hang off the side, preventing objects from falling and distributing the weight more evenly.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If large objects are carried within the carrying bag, then the objects are contained, but the bag takes up a lot of room and puts strain on the wearer's back
Solution Approach 1:
The expandable retainer allows objects to be carried in an external dimension rather than inside the bag, moving the load from the bag's interior space to an exterior hanging configuration that distributes weight away from the back
2Ease of operation
If an expandable pocket is used to retain objects outside the bag, then room is saved, but objects can fall out due to inadequate retention
Solution Approach 1:
The retainer incorporates a drawstring closure mechanism at the specific location of the pocket opening, providing localized retention capability exactly where objects are most likely to fall out, while the rest of the pocket remains open and accessible
Solution Approach 2:
The retainer is pre-configured with a drawstring closure system that can be activated before movement or jostling occurs, ensuring objects are secured in advance rather than relying on passive containment that fails when the bag is turned or moved
3Temperature
If a mesh pocket is used for ventilation, then drying is improved, but objects can easily fall out when the pack is jostled
Solution Approach 1:
The solution merges the mesh material's ventilation advantage with an active drawstring closure system, combining the benefits of air flow for drying with positive mechanical retention that prevents objects from falling out during movement
Data Source
AI summary
The present invention is a carrying bag such as a gym bag or backpack which includes at least a pocket formed on the outside of the bag or backpack which contains a nylon mesh or other expansion type retainer sewn into the interior of the pocket which is closed by closing means such as a zipper. When the pocket is opened, the expansion retainer means can be unfolded and a large object such as a basketball, football, or objects such as wet clothes can be placed in the expansion retainer. The object within the expansion retainer is securely retained by a drawstring with a locking retainer to be sure the expansion retainer is closed and thereafter a clip or D-ring connects the top of the expansion retainer to a portion of the gym bag or backpack so that it is securely retained to assure that the objects will not fall out and will hang off the side of the gym bag or backpack so as not to put a strain on the carrier's back.