Abstract: A spacer device with a modular, truss-like structure for creating airflow between a user and a wearable bag may include a first panel having a first substantially planar web-like body, a second panel spaced from the first panel, the second panel having a second substantially planar web-like body, a plurality of modular supports extending between the first panel and the second panel, such that a distance between the first panel and the second panel is substantially uniform and adjustable, and a plurality of extension loops extending from an outer surface of the spacer device, the plurality of extension loops each being sized to accommodate placement of a strap therethrough.

Abstract: A bag provided with an expansion member, including: a bag body having a storage space formed therein; a cushion pocket forming a predetermined space inside the storage space of the bag body; and an expansion member which is accommodated in the cushion pocket, and of which the total volume is variable when air is injected or discharged through an injection portion.

Abstract: A backpack designed to reduce forward head posture is disclosed herein. Such a backpack may include: one or more shoulder straps, where each of the shoulder straps includes a sternal pad in contact with a wearer's sternum and upper anterior ribs when worn; a wedge-shaped sacral pad spanning a bottom of the backpack, the upper edge of which contacting a user's thoracolumbar junction when worn; one or more dorsal pads in contact with a wearer's spine and shoulder blade when worn; and wherein the sternal pad, wedge shaped sacral pad, and one of the one or more dorsal pads when in contact with a wearer's anatomy are arranged in a triangular configuration when viewed from a side perspective of a wearer.

Abstract: A board sport equipment carrier and method of use as a safety device wherein the equipment carrier can be configured in a carrier/backpack configuration for conveniently carrying the equipment of a board sport, or the carrier can be configured in a stowable configuration for storage between uses, or easy transportation, and finally in a folded wearable configuration where the device can be worn to protect the upper and middle spine, or the lower spine and coccyx of the wearer during board sport participation.

Abstract: A crossbow case comprises a T-shaped body forming a T-shaped internal cavity to receive a crossbow and a pair of shoulder straps attached to and extending from an upper horizontal portion of the body. Each of the straps has an end releasably connected to a lower vertical portion of the body.

Abstract: A backpack includes a stabilizing and ventilating side bolsters coupled to a frame. The side bolsters are secured to the frame by being received in sleeves or by straps having clips disposed through slots in the side bolsters. A particular side bolster includes at least one channel to allow air flow away from the back side of the wearer. The side bolster is comprised of high-density foam to stabilize the backpack under load while providing improved ventilation. The side bolsters have a center axis that is spatially separated in a forward direction from a surface of the frame to allow the side bolsters to contour around the back side of the wearer. The side bolsters may be formed for a particular environment, body type, or loads to be carried in the backpack by changing the stiffness, density, material, dimensions or other aspects of the side bolsters.

Abstract: Systems and methods for carrying a load on the back of a user and backpacks having a convex back panel are described. The convex back panel of the backpack may curve outward from the center of a wearer's back to minimize contact between the backpack and the wearer's back The backpack may also have a center-support panel for contacting the spinal region of the back of the wearer of the backpack. The center-support panel may have grooves for distributing a load along a wearer's back.

Abstract: An apparatus includes a bag to carry one or more objects on the back of a person, and a cushion for connection to a surface of the bag. The cushion is used for making substantially continuous contact with the back when the bag is carried on the back. The apparatus may be a backpack or any other type of bag.

Abstract: A backpack providing ergonomic support for the back and neck of the wearer. The backpack provides continuous, fully ergonomic cushioning support to provide optimal comfort to the wearer.

Abstract: A backpack includes a stabilizing and ventilating side bolsters coupled to a frame. The side bolsters are secured to the frame by being received in sleeves or by straps having clips disposed through slots in the side bolsters. A particular side bolster includes at least one channel to allow air flow away from the back side of the wearer. The side bolster is comprised of high-density foam to stabilize the backpack under load while providing improved ventilation. The side bolsters have a center axis that is spatially separated in a forward direction from a surface of the frame to allow the side bolsters to contour around the back side of the wearer. The side bolsters may be formed for a particular environment, body type, or loads to be carried in the backpack by changing the stiffness, density, material, dimensions or other aspects of the side bolsters.

Abstract: A backpack is provided with at least one cushioning bladder, the lower part of which extends across and beneath the bottom of the backpack, and an upper part extending part-way upwardly along the forward panel that generally conforms to the shape of the curvature of the thoracic region of the spine. The bladder may be filled with padding material such as a gel, foam, rubber, or fluid. The backpack has a content section, and a bladder section, and wherein the bladder section accommodates at least one bladder. The backpack may be provided with a pumping mechanism to fill the bladder with fluid, such as, air. The backpack may be provided with one or more internal or external pocket.

Abstract: The present invention relates to the field of backpack technology, and more particularly to a backpack with an intelligent automatic adjusting inflation aircushion and a pneumatic shock absorber system, which comprising: a backpack main body and a shoulder strap and back cushion; the backside of said backpack main body is installed with a back frame; said shoulder strap and back cushion is provided with said adjustable inflation aircushion; the backside of said shoulder strap and back cushion is provided with said pneumatic shock absorber system; said pneumatic shock absorber system can be movably connected with said back frame.

Abstract: A backpack has a pocket and at least one shoulder strap for supporting the backpack on a shoulder of a user. A generally rigid plate and a flexible inflatable bladder are in the pocket with a load bearing bag connected to the pocket for holding a load. A tubular extension extends from the bladder and into the shoulder strap for inflating and deflating the bladder and a mouth-inflatable check valve is connected to the tubular extension at a location spaced from the bladder and positioned so as to be accessible to the user for inflating the bladder by blowing into the check valve. A curved semirigid liner inside the material of the shoulder strap near the bladder forms a semirigid channel for receiving the tubular extension.

Abstract: A backpack includes a stabilizing and ventilating side bolster assembly coupled to a frame. The side bolster assembly includes breathable side bolsters received in breathable sleeves that cooperate with the frame to stabilize the backpack under load while providing improved ventilation between the backpack and a back side of a wearer of the backpack. The side bolsters may be customized for a particular environment, for a particular body type, or for particular loads to be carried in the backpack by changing the stiffness, density, material, dimensions or other aspects of the side bolsters.

Abstract: A backpack for relieving stress, weight and pressure from a user's back comprises: a carrying pack for storing items, with top, forward panel to face the user's back with an upper and lower portion, sides, and, bottom; adjustable shoulder straps connected to the carrying pack, for placement of the straps over a user's shoulders and positioning the backpack behind the user's back; a pleated pouch pocket covering the lower portion of the forward panel and extending beneath the bottom of the carrying pack and having a forward surface facing the user's back; an inflatable bladder enclosed within the pouch pocket having a lower part extending across and beneath the bottom of the pack and an upper part extending part-way upwardly along the forward panel; a board enclosed and secured within the pouch pocket for preventing, expansion of the bladder into the carrying pack and puncturing of the bladder; valve means for the bladder accessible through the pouch pocket for permitting inflating and deflating the bladder; a

Abstract: A backpack has a front pocket containing a plate and a pair of shoulder straps for holding the plate against the back of a user. A pressurizable, flexible and elastic bladder covers the plate and has inside surfaces with an embossed pattern for preventing sticking together of facing walls of the bladder to facilitating an initial inflation of the bladder. A pair of tubular extensions extend from the bladder and into the shoulder straps, one of the tubular extensions being for inflating and deflating the bladder. A mouth-inflatable check valve connected to extension is location so as to be accessible to the user for inflating the bladder and a valve cover is detachably connected over the entire mouth engageable perimeter of the check valve for keeping it clear. Semi-rigid liners in the shoulder straps near the bladder form channels for facilitating inflating and deflating of the bladder.

Abstract: The present invention relates to the field of backpack technology, and more particularly to a backpack with an intelligent automatic adjusting inflation aircushion and a pneumatic shock absorber system, which comprising: a backpack main body and a shoulder strap and back cushion; the backside of said backpack main body is installed with a back frame; said shoulder strap and back cushion is provided with said adjustable inflation aircushion; the backside of said shoulder strap and back cushion is provided with said pneumatic shock absorber system; said pneumatic shock absorber system can be movably connected with said back frame.

Abstract: A backpack has a pocket and at least one shoulder strap for supporting the backpack on a shoulder of a user. A generally rigid plate and a flexible inflatable bladder are in the pocket with a load bearing bag connected to the pocket for holding a load. A tubular extension extends from the bladder and into the shoulder strap for inflating and deflating the bladder and a mouth-inflatable check valve is connected to the tubular extension at a location spaced from the bladder and positioned so as to be accessible to the user for inflating the bladder by blowing into the check valve. A curved semirigid liner inside the material of the shoulder strap near the bladder forms a semirigid channel for receiving the tubular extension.

Abstract: Three dimensional fabric matrices are provided for insertion into compartments of or attachment to wearable items and padded items, referred to as contact articles. The matrix includes a core that maintains an air space between inner and outer layers to facilitate heat transfer by convection and evaporation, when the enclosure is breathable. When the enclosure restricts air permeation, the air space provides insulation. Embodiments reconfigurable from insulating to breathable include adjustable impermeable sections that releasably cover permeable sections. The matrix also absorbs shocks and distributes stresses to provide padding and cushioning, including reduction of backface signature in ballistic applications. Wearable items containing one or more matrices offer enhanced thermal regulation and shock absorption.

Abstract: A backpack has a generally rigid support having a front face and a back face, shoulder straps attached to the support for holding same against a back of a user, and structure on the back face for holding an object. A pressurizable and flexible bladder covers generally all of the front face of the support and has a closable fill opening. This bladder is secured to the front face of the support with the fill opening accessible.

Abstract: A backpack provided with a cushioning bladder, the lower part of which extends across and beneath the bottom of the pack and an upper part extending part-way upwardly along the forward panel that generally conforms to the shape of the curvature of the thoracic region of the spine. The bladder may be filled with padding material such as a gel, foam, rubber or fluid.

Abstract: A backpack is provided with a cushioning, inflatable bladder, the lower part of which extends across the bottom and an upwardly extending part so as when inflated, it generally conforms to the shape of the curvature of the thoracic region of the spine. The bladder is enclosed within a zippered bag wrapped around it that is joined to the outer surface of the backpack. A pump is provided for inflating the bladder. The pump is hand operated with a bulb-shaped configuration and connected to the bladder by means of a tube. An air valve connected to the tube controls the amount of air flow into the bladder and maintains the bladder in inflated position after air has been pumped in, and also permits deflation of the bladder. The pump and valve may be stored in a side pocket of the backpack provided for that purpose. Optionally, the pump could be battery operated.

Abstract: A backpack combination comprising a storage compartment having a front wall, a rear wall, a bottom wall, first and second side walls, and a top wall; shoulder straps affixed to the rear wall at upper and lower portions thereof; a first and second zipper means extending along the periphery of the rear wall from lower to upper portions thereof; a padded back panel congruent with the rear wall and having third and fourth zipper means along peripheral portions thereof adapted for selective connection to the first and second zipper means; a trolley having a support panel congruent with the rear wall and having fifth and sixth zipper means along peripheral portions thereof adapted for selective connection to the first and second zipper means.

Abstract: A backpack 1 having a semi-rigid container 2 capable of being molded in the shape of a user's back, an angled floor 3, a contacting side 4, an aft side 5, a first lateral side 6, a second lateral side 7, crisscrossing front shoulder straps 9, 10, a lumbar support 13, lateral supports 14, 15 having vertical support notches 16, 17 therein, and a waist belt 18 having a buckle 19. To use, a person first positions the container 2 on his/her back so as the lumbar support 13 is located against the lumbar region of the user's back and positions the lateral supports 14, 15 about his/her waist and pelvis pressing the vertical support notches 16, 17 against the ilium. Then, the user secures the waist belt 18 about his/her waist and pelvis by buckling the buckle 19, thereby holding the lateral supports 14, 15 against the sides of the user.

Abstract: The pad is made of a soft and flexible foam material and has an ergonomic design with a upper pad member and a lower pad member, both bulging towards the user's back. Both the upper and lower pad members contain a number of linear channels running straight across the pad members. When the user carries the backpack on the back, the pad members are expanded and compressed as the backpack rises and falls as the user walks or moves. As such, the backpack functions like a pump that continuously drives out humid air from the sweat of the user's back and draws in dry air, both through the linear channels.

Abstract: A backpack includes a backpack body having a body side. A pair of shoulder straps is connected at each end thereof to the backpack body. A semi-rigid support plate is positioned proximate the body side, and a strap is connected to the support plate such that a lower portion of the support plate can be curved while an upper portion of the support plate remains substantially flat.

Abstract: A specialized backpack including a backpack body with a storage compartment having an openable region and a back panel including a headgear mounting flap with a cuff forming an opening through which a dome a hard-shell head gear with a rim may be passed through to retain the rim against the back panel.

Abstract: A shoulder carrier having at least one shoulder strap connected to a container. A lumbar support attached to the container bears on a wearer's hip or lumbar spine to transfer weight of the shoulder carrier to the hip or lumbar spine and away from the wearer's shoulder. The shoulder strap can include a shoulder pad, and both the shoulder pad and lumbar support can be or include a fluid-filled bladder. The shoulder pad can be slidably attached to the shoulder strap to prevent abrasion of the wearer's shoulder. At least one end of the shoulder strap can be attached to the container by passing the strap through a guide attached to the container and attaching the shoulder strap end to the container at a position below the guide.

Abstract: A padding element for the dorsal side of a diver's bottle-supporting backpack. The padding element comprises a padded cushion capable of being fitted against the back part of the backpack and having at its lower edge a padded cushion part hinged to it and capable of being either folded upwards, in order to increase the total thickness, and hence the padding action of the cushion over the diver's sacrococcygeal region, or unfolded downwards to give the diver extended protection beyond the lower edge of the bottle or bottles attached to the backpack.

Abstract: A back support apparatus having a pair of elongated, inflatable bladders which are spaced parallel to each other. The pair of bladders are vertically attached to a front panel of a backpack such that when the bladders are inflated by a pump, the user may experience cushioned back support on opposite sides of the user's spinal column, especially along the thoracic region.

Abstract: A shoulder carrier having at least one shoulder strap connected to a container. A connection point between the shoulder strap and the container may be moved laterally without disconnecting the strap from the container.

Abstract: Cushion members for a back support are provided on various articles such as a rucksack and a chair to better ventilate between a user's back and the back support, so that the perspiration and heat generation by the user can considerably be reduced. The cushion member for a back support includes a base made from hard plastic material; and a plurality of cushioning elements provided on one side of the base where the user's back contacts, wherein each of the cushioning elements includes a plurality of ribs forming an internal space therein and a plurality of holes formed by the neighboring ribs and communicated with the internal space.

Abstract: An infant carrier configured to be worn by a wearer is disclosed. The infant carrier includes a seat support configured to support an infant's bottom, a back support, which is integral with the seat support, a head support which is integral with the back support and a strap support system which is worn around the wearer's torso to support the infant in the infant carrier. The seat support is diaper-like in shape with a front notch to prevent chafing the infant. Preferably, the strap support system is made up of a single pair of straps. Preferably, there is a separation (e.g., a seam) between the back support and the head support which allows the head support to be folded down when not being used to support the infant's head.

Abstract: A system to elevate the backpack, hydration pack, fanny pack, or the like off the wearer's skin. The system has a pliable support structure that provides for pressure relief and good ventilation between a wearer's back and a conventional pack and an attachment support to for attachment to a conventional pack.

Abstract: The present invention is to provide a backpack including a backpack body defining a storage chamber for holding things, shoulder strap means provided on the outside of the backpack body for carrying on the user's shoulders, and a support member fixedly located on the backpack body at the back and adapted to support the backpack body on the small of a user's back. The support member includes a supporting face with longitudinally extended convex portion and transversely extended concave portion fitting the curvature of the small of the user's back and two side guards with longitudinally extended convex portion and transversely extended concave portion located on at two opposite lateral sides of the supporting face.

Abstract: A kayak portage harness includes: a draw cord in a hem of the harness that is used to secure the hem of the harness under the lip of a kayak cockpit coaming and a pair of opposed hooks that are also secured to the lip of the kayak cockpit coaming at the front and rear of the coaming. In addition, the harness may include a pair of hull straps that extend from the harness about the hull of the kayak and carry paddle clips for securing a paddle to a side of the kayak. The harness is secured to the back of the kayaker in a substantially vertical position for portaging by shoulder straps and an equipment gear bag of the harness fits down through the kayak cockpit into the hull.

Abstract: A unique multi-use carrying case that can be used as motorcycle luggage or a backpack because of a dual-strapping system is described. The motorcycle case and backpack involves a horizontal strapping system for use with a motorcycles backrest and a vertical strapping system for use as a backpack. A system of panels prevents the two sets of straps from interfering with one another and provides for the comfort of the wearer of the backpack. An internal padding structure makes possible the safe transportation of a laptop computer on a daily basis by motorcycle or by person. The case is also capable of carrying clothes that are hung in one of its compartments.

Abstract: A massaging backpack having at least one shoulder strap for massaging an individual which includes at least one massaging unit carried by the shoulder strap, at least one power supply carried by the backpack and connected to the massaging unit, and at least one actuating member carried by the backpack being connected to the massaging unit for actuating the massaging unit when the backpack is worn by the individual so that a massaging sensation is applied to selected areas of the individual.

Abstract: A backpack load transfer and stabilization system includes a roll control rod coupled to a hip belt for a backpack. The control rod is contained entirely within the hip belt and extends across the width of the hip belt. The control rod is coupled, in turn, to semi-rigid extension members which serve as the interface between the hip belt and the main backpack. The extension members transfer the load to locations on the hip belt corresponding to hip locations of the person wearing the backpack. The extension members are rotatably coupled to the main backpack and rigidly coupled to the roll control rod, such that when a person wearing the backpack hikes, and the person's hips move up and down, the combination of the roll control rod and interconnected extension sections compensate for the up-and-down movement of the hips to stabilize the load and prevent side-to-side swaying.

Abstract: A load-carrying system for a backpack, and a backpack including such load-carrying system. The load-carrying system includes an improved structure, particularly for use during the practice of various sports, more particularly for gliding sports, such as snowboarding, skiing, and in-line skating. The invention includes an improved backpack and load-carrying system adapted to be held in place in order to prevent any interference with the user's ride.

Abstract: A case for musical instruments and including a shell for receiving a musical instrument and having at least one shoulder strap attachable from outside to the shell at upper and lower attachment points provided of the shell, a connection element provided at an end of the shoulder strap adjacent to the upper attachment point for releasably securing the shoulder strap to the shell, and an upholstery cover provided on the shell or the shoulder strap for covering at least a portion of the connection elements.

Abstract: An infant carrier configured to be worn by a wearer is disclosed. The infant carrier includes a seat support configured to support an infant's bottom, a back support, which is integral with the seat support, a head support which is integral with the back support and a strap support system which is worn around the wearer's torso to support the infant in the infant carrier. The seat support is diaper-like in shape with a front notch to prevent chafing the infant. Preferably, the strap support system is made up of a single pair of straps. Preferably, there is a separation (e.g., a seam) between the back support and the head support which allows the head support to be folded down when not being used to support the infant's head.

Abstract: A back support apparatus having a pair of elongated, inflatable bladders which are spaced parallel to each other. The pair of bladders are vertically attached to a front panel of a backpack such that when the bladders are inflated by a pump, the user may experience cushioned back support on opposite sides of the user's spinal column, especially along the thoracic region.

Abstract: A shoulder carrier having at least one shoulder strap connected to a container. A lumbar support attached to the container bears on a wearer's hip or lumbar spine to transfer weight of the shoulder carrier to the hip or lumbar spine and away from the wearer's shoulder. The shoulder strap can include a shoulder pad, and both the shoulder pad and lumbar support can be or include a fluid-filled bladder. The shoulder pad can be slidably attached to the shoulder strap to prevent abrasion of the wearer's shoulder. At least one end of the shoulder strap can be attached to the container by passing the strap through a guide attached to the container and attaching the shoulder strap end to the container at a position below the guide.

Abstract: An ergonomic bookpack having an automatic suspension system is disclosed. A series of top straps, side straps, bottom straps and optional support members serve to move the bookpack center of gravity higher in the bookpack and closer to the wearer's body, significantly redistributing the load borne by the wearer's shoulders along a longer portion of the body and back. The body of the bookpack can be made so that the interior compartment of the bookpack body is transparent and the contents of the bookpack are visible to the human eye. The invention also comprises an optional yoke and lumbar pad. This bookpack of allows the wearer to bear heavier loads for a longer period of time with less fatigue, thus reducing the possibility of debilitating musculoskeletal difficulties.

Abstract: The back section (1) of a backpack is as formed as an inflatable back support pad (3).

Abstract: A golf bag incorporating an integrated back pad and dual straps is described. The back pad comprises two elements: an upper back pad member and a lower back pad member. The lower back pad member acts as an intermediate between the back of the golfer and the surface of the golf bag when being carried. The upper back pad member extends away from the golf bag body and provides additional back support to the golfer. Both dual straps are attached to the upper back pad member at one end and to either the golf bag body or the lower back pad member at the other end. Because the straps attach to the upper back pad member and are typically spaced from each other, the golfer can more intuitively determine both which shoulder strap to place over his shoulder first and which end of the shoulder strap corresponds to the portion of the shoulder strap that will rest on the golfer's shoulder.

Abstract: An ergonomically enhanced backpack comprises a frame having a semi-rigid dorsal plate contoured to the shape of the lumbar region. The dorsal plate is secured to the body by a combination of shoulder straps and waist belt. An expandable cargo compartment is behind the dorsal mounted plate and sandwiched between the dorsal plate and a panel or netting. Drawstrings combined with the belt allow the user to pull the panel or netting toward the dorsal plate, and thus compress the load against the lumbar area closer to the body's center of gravity. In the first embodiment, that panel has a hinged door giving access to the cargo compartment. A detachable, soft shell bag is mounted over the cargo compartment.

Abstract: A helmet backpack is provided to carry a helmet. A helmet enclosure combined with strapping form the helmet backpack. A helmet is inserted through an opening of the enclosure and secured with a zipper assembly, buttons and buttonholes, hook-and-loop fasteners, such as VELCRO strips, a drawstring assembly and/or other closure. The strapping is used by a wearer to position and hold the enclosure on his or her back. The strapping may be adjustable in length for greater user comfort. Detachable straps are also allowed for, whereby the helmet backpack strap or straps may be removed or strapped in typical backpack style or worn across the wearer's chest in a bandoleer style. Certain models include pouches which may be located either internal or external to the helmet or to the enclosure. Padding is utilized to increase protection to the helmet and to reduce discomfort to the user.

Abstract: A backpack with inflatable pockets for reducing shoulder and back fatigue when carrying a load. The backpack with inflatable pockets includes a housing with front and back portions, a pair of side portions, top and bottom portions, and an interior that is defined by the portions. The housing has an opening into the interior of the housing. A pair of elongate carrying straps each have opposite first and second ends. The first end of each of the carrying straps is coupled to the back portion of the housing towards the top portion of the housing. The second ends of the carrying straps are coupled to the back portion of the housing. An inflatable air pillow is coupled to the back portion of the housing towards the bottom portion of the housing. Each of the carrying straps may also have an inflatable cavity disposed therein.