BACKPACK FRAME

Abstract

A backpack frame assembly for a user during activity is described. The frame includes a substantially flat panel configured to be attached to a back area of a backpack, a vented portion configured to allow air to reach a user's back, and a plurality of spacers positioned on the panel to contact the user's back and create a gap between the user's back and the frame/backpack. Preferably, the backpack frame assembly also includes at least one air diverter attached to the panel to direct air into the gap.

Description

RELATED APPLICATION

The present application is a continuation-in-part of U.S. application Ser. No. 16/229,851, titled “Backpack Frame” and filed on Dec. 21, 2018. The '851 application is hereby incorporated by reference.

TECHNICAL FIELD OF THE INVENTION

The present invention relates to wearable personal equipment. Particularly, the invention relates to accessory items for backpacks.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

Few things can ruin an outdoor adventure (e.g., hiking, biking, etc.) faster than being caught unprepared for any of the numerous problems that thousands of people encounter on such adventures every day. From flats to falls, weather changes to food and water issues, the outdoors are unpredictable for even the most fastidious of planners.

To prepare for the unknown, many nature lovers choose to carry as much gear as reasonable by loading up a backpack with rain-gear, extra clothing, protein bars, first-aid and bike repair kits, and other items. However, many people find backpacks uncomfortable over time. Some even avoid such preparations due to the discomfort caused by carrying a pack for long periods—e.g., sweating, poking, constant point pressure, localized rubbing irritation, and the like.

Until the invention of the present application, these and other problems in the prior art went either unnoticed or unsolved by those skilled in the art. The present invention addresses these issues by providing a backpack frame which performs multiple functions without sacrificing comfort, design, style or affordability.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

There is disclosed herein a backpack frame assembly which avoids the disadvantages of prior devices while affording additional structural and operating advantages.

Generally speaking, the backpack frame assembly comprises a substantially flat panel configured to be attached to a back area of a backpack, a vented portion configured to allow air to reach a user's back, and a plurality of spacers positioned on the panel to create a gap between the user's back and the backpack.

In an embodiment, the backpack frame assembly further comprises at least one air diverter attached to the panel to divert air into the gap.

The vented panel comprises one of either a rigid plastic panel having a plurality of openings there through, or a mesh material with a rigid peripheral frame.

These and other aspects of the invention may be understood more readily from the following description and the appended drawings.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

For the purpose of facilitating an understanding of the subject matter sought to be protected, there are illustrated in the accompanying drawings, embodiments thereof, from an inspection of which, when considered in connection with the following description, the subject matter sought to be protected, its construction and operation, and many of its advantages should be readily understood and appreciated.

FIG. 1 is a side view illustrating the current prior art configuration of a bike rider with a backpack;

FIG. 2 is a perspective view of a standard backpack;

FIG. 3 is a side view illustrating a bike rider using an embodiment of the present frame assembly with a backpack;

FIG. 4A is a side view of a first embodiment of the disclosed frame assembly attached to a backpack;

FIG. 4B is a front view of an embodiment of the vented panel of the disclosed frame;

FIG. 5 is a front view of a second embodiment of the disclosed frame assembly;

FIG. 6 is a front view of the second embodiment of the vented panel and backpack frame;

FIG. 7 is a side view of the disclosed frame assembly shown in FIG. 5;

FIG. 8 is a perspective view of the disclosed frame assembly shown in FIG. 5

FIG. 9 is a side view of an optional cooling attachment shown attached to the backpack frame of an embodiment of the disclosed frame assembly; the cooling attachment being usable to direct airflow under a user's clothing to provide a cooling feature;

FIG. 10 is a perspective view of the optional cooling attachment of FIG. 9;

FIG. 11 is a rear view of the backpack frame of FIG. 6;

FIG. 12 is a front view of an elastic loop and two anchors usable with embodiments of the disclosed frame assembly to attach a backpack to the frame assembly;

FIG. 13 is a detail view of the elastic loop and anchors of FIG. 12 attached to an embodiment of the disclosed frame assembly;

FIG. 14 is a side view of an embodiment of the disclosed frame assembly attached to a backpack;

FIG. 15 is a perspective view of an alternate one-piece embodiment of the disclosed frame;

FIG. 16 is another perspective view of the alternate one-piece embodiment of the disclosed frame; and

FIG. 17 is still another perspective view of the alternate one-piece embodiment of the disclosed frame.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

While this invention is susceptible of embodiments in many different forms, there is shown in the drawings and will herein be described in detail at least one preferred embodiment of the invention with the understanding that the present disclosure is to be considered as an exemplification of the principles of the invention and is not intended to limit the broad aspect of the invention to any of the specific embodiments illustrated.

As shown in FIGS. 1 and 2, when a typical backpack 10 is worn, it directly contacts the back of a wearer. This does not allow air to flow around the backpack 10 or across the back of the wearer. Instead, the direct contact traps heat which can cause excessive sweating during, e.g., riding or other activity. At the very least, this excessive sweating can discolor clothing and cause embarrassment, though discomfort as a result of the wetness can be problematic. Further, as backpacks are typically soft-sided, any hard or irregularly shaped items in the backpack 10 may become irritants to the wearer due to rubbing and/or poking the wearer.

Referring to FIGS. 3-14, there is illustrated a first embodiment of a frame assembly, generally designated by the numeral 12. The particular illustrated frame assembly 12 is for a soft-sided backpack 10 typically worn by riders. In fact, while all the embodiments illustrated are directed to bike rider backpacks, it should be understood that the principles of the invention can be more broadly applied to any pack used by a wearer during rigorous activity, including running, cycling, boating-sports (e.g., kayaking, canoeing, etc.), and even recreational activity (e.g., motorcycling, skateboarding, hiking, etc.).

As can be seen in FIG. 3, the frame assembly 12 is designed to be positioned between a user and the backpack 10 to provide a gap for airflow into and through the frame assembly 12. The circulating air reduces heat build-up between the user and the pack 10, helping to keep the back of the user cooler and dryer, and the gap prevents potential irritating contact with backpack contents.

FIGS. 4-8 illustrate embodiments of the frame assembly 12. The assembly 12 is generally comprised of a first frame portion 14, a vented portion 16, and a spacer 18 used to create a gap 20 between the frame portion 14 and the vented portion 16.

The first frame portion 14 attaches to the backpack 10 is preferably comprised of a rigid panel 22. The panel 22 allows attachment to the backpack 10 by a number of suitable means, including detachable means, such as straps, snaps, and Velcro® material, and more permanent means, such as rivets, adhesive, or similar devices. One potential method of attaching the backpack 10 to the panel 22 is shown and described in FIGS. 11-14. The panel 22 is preferably comprised of a thermoplastic or thermoset material, but may be a metal or composite material. The panel 22 may include a plurality of holes to reduce weight without compromising structural integrity. Alternatively, the first frame portion 14 may be comprised of a metal rod-type, or bar-type frame (not shown) which attaches to the backpack 10.

In an alternate embodiment, as shown in FIGS. 6-8, an air deflector 24 may be integral to the panel 22, positioned on at least one, but preferably both outer edges. The air deflector 24 is angled toward the vented portion 16 to direct cooling air into the gap 20.

In another alternate embodiment, as shown in FIGS. 9-10, a lower deflector 26 is provided along a bottom edge of the panel 22. The lower deflector 24 is angled or curved to direct cooling air that has entered the gap 20 toward a user's back and potentially into or under a layer of clothing worn by the user.

The vented portion 16 is also preferably comprised of a semi-flexible plastic panel. However, the vented portion 16 should be contoured to fit comfortably against a wearer's back. The vented portion 16 comprises a plurality of openings 28 to allow ventilation which helps prevent excessive sweating of the user's back. The number of openings 28 used should not inhibit the structural integrity of the panel. Cut-out areas at the upper end of the vented portion 16 are intended to accommodate the user's shoulder blades, while a wider middle area effectively spreads the load across the user's back. A slight inward taper at the bottom area, proximate a user's obliques, allows for bending mobility. Top and bottom edges should curve backwards (i.e., away from the user's back) to avoid poking or pinching the user during use. Of course, all corners would be rounded for the same reason.

In an alternate embodiment (not shown), the vented portion 16 may be comprised of a peripheral frame, e.g., a rod-type or bar-type structure, spanned by a mesh or otherwise breathable material.

Finally, the spacer 18 is preferably integral to one of either the first frame portion 14 or the vented portion 16. Preferably, the spacer 18 is comprised of a plurality of leg members 30 positioned about the periphery of the two spaced components. These legs 30 may be integrally molded to at least one of the two above-described panels or completely separate from both. The legs 30 may be solid or hollow, but should provide enough support for a 30 lb backpack without deformation of any kind.

The first frame portion 14 and vented portion 16 may be sized from extra small, for children, to extra-large, for taller users. Preferably, the total length of the frame assembly 12 is within the range of 14-22 inches with a width in the range of 8-20 inches. Larger sizes can be made to accommodate even larger packs, if necessary. Each of the panels for the first frame portion 14 and vented portion 16 should have a thickness of from about 0.1 to about 0.8 inch, preferably about 0.25 inch, and the spacer 18 should be in the range of 0.5 to 2.0 inches, preferably 1.5 inches. Accordingly, the depth (i.e., front to back) of the frame assembly 12 would preferably fall in the range of from about 0.7 inch to about 3.6 inches, with 1.5 inches being most preferred.

The gap or channel 20 formed between the two panels, 14 and 16, is preferably about one inch. This feature is designed to collect air from the sides of the frame 12 and push it towards the center before exiting out the bottom. The ventilation holes 28 allow the airflow to contact the user's back removing heat and adding cooling/evaporative properties when contacting moist/perspiring surfaces. The channel 20 could be equipped with additional features for personalization or improved performance, such as trim lighting or a battery powered fan to increase airflow into the channel 20.

FIGS. 11-14 show an exemplary embodiment of a method for attaching the backpack 10 to the frame assembly 12. As shown in FIG. 11, in an embodiment of the disclosed frame assembly 12, there should be two attachment points or holes/slots 34 in the frame portion 14, to allow a strap or hook/loop to connect the frame assembly 12 to a top of backpack 10, preferably where straps are typically attached to the top section of a backpack. Likewise, there would be additional attachment points or holes/slots 36 to allow a strap or hook/loop to connect the frame assembly 12 to a bottom side of the backpack 10 where straps typically connect to the bottom of the backpack. The bottom attachment points would be placed on both the bottom and bottom corners to accommodate backpacks where the bottom of the strap may connect to the bottom of the backpack or to the sides. The purpose of these attachment points, 34 and 36, would be to hold the frame assembly 12 on the backpack 10 so it can be carried or worn as a single-piece and be removed from the user while remaining attached to the backpack 10 when the backpack 10 is taken off. The lower attachment points 36 may also be used for attachment of accessories, such as lighting or other accessories (not shown).

As shown in FIGS. 12-14, an elastic loop 40 and one or more anchors 42 are usable with the attachment points 34 and 36 to attach the backpack 10 to the disclosed frame assembly 12 without needing to detach existing straps 11 of the backpack 10. As shown for example in FIG. 13, the elastic loop 40 passes between two of the attachment points 34 securing an existing strap 11 of the backpack 10 against the frame 14. The elastic loop 40 passes through each attachment point 34 and wraps around an anchor 42. Each anchor 42 is sized to prevent the anchor 42 from passing through the attachment point 34 to secure the loop 40 in location. It should be appreciated that in various embodiments, one end of the elastic loop 40 may be permanently attached to the frame 14 such that only one attachment point 34 and one anchor 42 are needed to secure the elastic loop 40 around the existing strap 11 of the backpack 10.

It should also be appreciated that while FIG. 13 shows the attachment of one strap 11 at one corner of the frame 14, similar structures may be repeated to secure two straps of the backpack 10 at a top edge and a bottom edge of each strap. For example, as shown in FIG. 14, each strap may be attached to the frame at a top portion through one or more attachment points 34 and at a bottom portion through one or more attachment points 36.

Performance and structural integrity variations of the frame assembly 12 could be made with by changing materials or geometries of the components. The use of metals, high-density plastics or other durable synthetics could provide greater impact resistance. For example, a Kevlar (or Kevlar-like) material used for the vented portion 16 could impart some bullet-resistant properties to the frame assembly 12 for military or law enforcement applications. Another example includes the use of a deforming spacer 20 to absorb impact forces in the event a user lands on their back at high-speed.

Attachment accessories could also be added to the frame assembly 12 to direct airflow upwards, underneath clothing of the user to aid in dissipating the heat at its source, i.e., the user's back. For example, a thin, flat tube (e.g., as shown in FIGS. 9 and 10) could connect at the bottom of the frame assembly 12 within the gap and turn inward 180 degrees where a user could direct the captured air flow to a desired location, such as under a shirt to get airflow inside of their clothing.

In an alternate embodiment, a one-piece frame 212 is shown in FIGS. 15-17. The single piece design still utilizes the principles of the original two-piece design described above. As with the two-piece design, the one-piece frame 212 is used to create an air gap between a user and a backpack, or similar item, so that air may circulate and allow heat to escape.

The single-piece frame 212 includes a substantially flat panel 214 having raised spacer elements 216 and a plurality of ventilation openings 218. The spacer elements 216 can be designed in any of numerous shapes and/or dimensions, including squares, circles, cones, arcs, ridges, etc. As shown, the spacer elements 216 preferably have a curved profile to direct air across and down the user's back.

In use, the panel surface with the raised spacer elements 216 is worn facing the user's back while the opposite surface of the flat panel 214 will meet the backpack.

Preferably, the backpack frame 212 will be made from a material that can hold and return to its original shape but provides flexibility to contour to the user's back and to absorb the shock of a backpack bouncing while in motion. Many polymer and polymer blend materials known to those skilled in the art would be suitable for molding the flat panel 214.

As shown in FIG. 17, the frame 212 can be attached to a backpack via the original mounting positions along the top or side edges using a removable fastener such as Velcro or other strap designs. Alternatively, the frame 212 may be attached to a backpack using a more secure mounting method, such as using a backpack with pre-installed mounting points where a bolt/fastener can be put through the backpack frame 212 and into the mounting points.

In an alternate embodiment, the frame 212 can be integral to the backpack—i.e., permanently attached via rivets (or similar fasteners) or as part of the back panel of a backpack.

Along the sides of the frame 214, detachable air diverters (winglets) 220 help direct more air into the frame to aid in cooling. The air diverters 220 can also accommodate additional accessories such as lighting or color flourishes (not shown).

The disclosed frame 212 has additional uses as well. For example, the frame 212 could be worn under heavy outer garments to create the described cooling air gap. Some examples include use under (1) a video rig worn by a video production professional to both facilitate cooling and distribute load; (2) a protective garment such as a bullet proof vest worn by military, security and law enforcement professionals; and (3) oxygen tanks and/or other firefighting gear worn by fire professionals.

The matter set forth in the foregoing description and accompanying drawings is offered by way of illustration only and not as a limitation. While particular embodiments have been shown and described, it will be apparent to those skilled in the art that minor changes and modifications may be made without departing from the broader aspects of applicants' contribution. The actual scope of the protection sought is intended to be defined in the following claims when viewed in their proper perspective based on the prior art.

Claims

1. A frame for facilitating support of a backpack, the frame comprising:

a panel having a first surface and a second surface, wherein the first surface is configured to contact a backpack; and

a plurality of raised spacer elements positioned on the second surface of the panel and configured to contact a user's back;

wherein, in use, the frame creates a space between the user's back and the backpack.

2. The frame of claim 1, further comprising at least one ventilation opening extending through the panel.

3. The frame of claim 1, further comprising at least one air diverter attached proximate to and extending beyond an edge of the panel, wherein the at least one air diverter directs an airflow to the plurality of spacer elements.

4. The frame of claim 1, wherein the panel is comprised of a rigid plastic material.

5. The frame of claim 1, wherein the plurality of spacer elements is comprised of a flexible plastic material.

6. The frame of claim 3, wherein the plurality of spacer elements is configured to channel the airflow in a direction toward a bottom edge of the second surface of the panel.

7. The frame of claim 1, further comprising at least one fastener for attaching the panel to the backpack.

8. The frame of claim 7, wherein in the at least one fastener comprises a

9. A backpack and frame assembly comprising:

a backpack having at least one shoulder strap and a back surface;

a frame fixed to the backpack and comprising: a panel having a first surface and a second surface, wherein the first surface is configured to contact the back surface of the backpack; and a plurality of raised spacer elements positioned on the second surface of the panel and configured to contact a user's back;

wherein, in use, the plurality of raised spacer elements of the frame creates a space between the user's back and the backpack.

10. The backpack and frame assembly of claim 9, further comprising at least one ventilation opening extending through the panel.

11. The backpack and frame assembly of claim 9, further comprising at least one air diverter attached proximate to and extending beyond an edge of the panel, wherein the at least one air diverter directs an airflow to the plurality of spacer elements.

12. The backpack and frame assembly of claim 9, wherein the panel is comprised of a rigid plastic material.

13. The backpack and frame assembly of claim 9, wherein the plurality of spacer elements is comprised of a flexible plastic material.

14. The backpack and frame assembly of claim 11, wherein the plurality of spacer elements is configured to channel the airflow in a direction toward a bottom edge of the second surface of the panel.

15. The backpack and frame assembly of claim 13, wherein the plurality of spacer elements is configured to deform to absorb forces on impact.

16. The backpack and frame assembly of claim 9, wherein the frame is removable from the backpack.

17. A frame for creating space between a user's back and a device carried on the user's back, the frame comprising:

a panel having a first surface and a second surface, wherein the first surface is configured to contact a device to be carried by a user; and

a plurality of raised spacer elements positioned on the second surface of the panel and configured to contact a user's back;

wherein, in use, the frame creates a space between the user's back and the device.