Articulated Backpack Apparatus and System

STATEMENT REGARDING FEDERALLY SPONSORED RESEARCH OR DEVELOPMENT

Not applicable.

REFERENCE TO APPENDIX

Not applicable.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

1. Field of the Invention

The inventions disclosed and taught herein relate generally to articulated backpack apparatus and systems. In one of the aspects, the invention relates specifically to an apparatus capable of supporting a load that can be adapted to create an articulating motion based on an operator's movement. In further aspects, the invention relates to a system that can include a portable vacuum device. In this aspect, the above described articulating motion can increase an operator's range of motion while operating the vacuum device thus resulting in greater comfort and less fatigue during its operation. In further aspects, the apparatus can be used to support a load, such as portable tools, containers, equipment, or the like.

2. Description of the Related Art

Portable vacuum cleaners, such as ones mounted to a backpack or other harness-type support, are commonly used across a variety of applications and environments. These vacuum cleaners are a convenient alternative to traditional vacuum cleaners because of their increased mobility and portability. For example, backpack-style vacuum cleaners are often used in commercial environments, such as office buildings, because they allow the operator to quick move from room to room with minimal interruption. Furthermore, backpack-style vacuum cleaners can be used in cramped or crowded environments that may otherwise be difficult or impossible for traditional style vacuum cleaners to reach, such as on buses, trains, and in subways.

There are several types of backpack-style vacuum cleaners currently on the market. These vacuum cleaners typically employ some sort of harness that is secured around an operator's shoulders, hips, or both. For example, U.S. Pat. No. RE37,081 to Eriksen describes a backpack vacuum cleaner that includes a hip strap and a pair of shoulder straps for supporting a vacuum cleaner. The straps are designed to minimize any limitations on the operator's freedom of movement in the upper body when operating the vacuum cleaner. Furthermore, the backpack is designed to efficiently distribute the weight of the vacuum device because the majority of its weight is carried by a hip strap, thus leaving the operator's upper body and arms relatively unencumbered.

U.S. Pat. No. 5,267,371 to Soler, et al. describes a cyclonic back-pack vacuum cleaner that includes a back-pack type harness, an upper casing attached to the harness and a lower casing rotatably mounted on the upper casing. The vacuum cleaner is described to be ergonomically designed and light weight to minimize an operator's fatigue during extended operation.

U.S. Patent Publication No. 2005/0086762 to Paris describes a bagless portable backpack vacuum cleaner with bottom-mounted inlet hose. The portable backpack vacuum cleaner is carried on the back of an operator through the aid of shoulder and belt straps. The portable backpack includes a large back harness which is attached to the main vacuum body. The harness can be fitted around the body of an operator to further support the portable vacuum cleaner.

The problem with these solutions, however, is that operators wearing backpack-style harnesses are often limited in their range of motion by the design of the shoulder straps. More specifically, when properly worn, the shoulder straps in these earlier solutions are under constant tension which can effectively pin the operator's shoulders against the vacuum cleaning device. This tension creates resistance in the opposite direction when the operator is working with his upper extremities. This, in turn, can place an undue strain on the operator, thus resulting in fatigue and discomfort.

What is required, therefore, is a back-pack style harness that provides an operator with the freedom to rotate and flex naturally while minimizing the strains and stresses on the operator's body. Furthermore, a back-pack style harness solution is required to allow the attached load to remain as close as possible to the operator's center of gravity irrespective of her movements throughout the operation of the vacuum device in order to improve the operator's overall balance while minimizing fatigue.

Accordingly, the inventions disclosed and taught herein are directed to a load-bearing support apparatus and system that overcomes the problems set forth above.

BRIEF SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

Described is a load-bearing support apparatus and system including an upper and lower support element adapted to rotate about one or more axes. The support elements can each further include support couplings. The apparatus can further include first and second support elements that can be adapted to bear the weight of a load along vertical and horizontal axes, respectively. The apparatus can include a mounting support element that can include upper and lower load connectors that can further be coupled to the load. The upper and lower load connectors can each be coupled to the upper and lower support couplings, respectively, in a ball-and-socket joint or other multi-axis joint configuration. Because the ball-and-socket joints can create an articulating motion based on an operator's movement, the support apparatus can increase an operator's range of motion resulting in greater comfort and less fatigue while supporting the load.

The disclosure also provides a load-bearing support apparatus that can include an upper support element that can be adapted to rotate about at least one axis with respect to a load and a lower support element that can be adapted to rotate about at least one axis with respect to the load. The upper support element can further include an upper support resting unit that can be adapted to contact an upper portion of an operator and a lower support element that can further include a lower support resting unit that can be adapted to contact a lower portion of an operator.

The apparatus can further include an upper support coupling such that a position of the upper support coupling can be adapted to control a distance between the upper support element and the lower support element and can further be adapted to control the rotation of the upper support element with respect to the load and a lower support coupling that can be adapted to control the rotation of the lower support element with respect to the load. The apparatus can further include a first support element that can be adapted to bear at least a portion of the weight of the load and a second support element that can be adapted to bear at least a portion of the weight of the load.

The apparatus can further include a mounting support element that can be adapted to be coupled to the load. The mounting support element can further include an upper load connector and a lower load connector. The upper load connector can be adapted to be coupled to the upper support coupling and the lower load connector can be adapted to be coupled to the lower support coupling. The upper load connector and the upper support coupling can be adapted to form a multi-axis joint, such as a ball-and-socket joint. The lower load connector and the lower support coupling can be adapted to form a multi-axis joint.

The apparatus can further include a center support element that can be adapted to provide support to the first support element. The apparatus can further include a support connector that can be adapted to couple the upper support element to the lower support element. The apparatus can further include a side support element that can be adapted to provide support to the second support element. The apparatus can further be adapted to support the weight of a portable vacuum device, a portable tool, portable equipment, or the like.

The disclosure also provides a load-bearing support apparatus that can include an upper support element that can be adapted to rotate about at least one axis with respect to a load and a first support element that can be adapted to bear at least a portion of the weight of the load. The apparatus can further include a first support element extension that can be adapted to provide support to the first support element and a second support element that can be adapted to bear at least a portion of the weight of the load. The first support element extension can be adapted to bear the weight of at least a portion of the load.

The apparatus can further include a support element fastener that can be adapted to receive the first support element extension and a mounting support element that can be adapted to be coupled to a load. The support element fastener can be adapted to secure the first support element extension thereby creating tension in the first support element.

The disclosure also provides a load-bearing support system that can include a load and a load-bearing support apparatus. The system's apparatus can include an upper support element that can be adapted to rotate about at least one axis with respect to the load and a lower support element that can be adapted to rotate about at least one axis with respect to the load. The system's apparatus can further include a first support element that can be adapted to bear at least a portion of the weight of the load, a second support element that can be adapted to bear at least a portion of the weight of the load, and a mounting support element that can be adapted to be coupled to the load. The load can include a portable vacuum device, a portable tool, portable equipment, or the like.

The mounting support element can further include an upper load connector and a lower load connector. The upper load connector can be adapted to be coupled to an upper support coupling and the lower load connector can be adapted to be coupled to a lower support coupling. The lower load connector can further include at least two load connectors. The upper load connector and the upper support coupling can be adapted to form a multi-axis joint, such as a ball-and-socket joint. The lower load connector and the lower support coupling can be adapted to form a multi-axis joint.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE SEVERAL VIEWS OF THE DRAWINGS

The following figures form part of the present specification and are included to further demonstrate certain aspects of the present invention. The invention may be better understood by reference to one or more of these figures in combination with the detailed description of specific embodiments presented herein.

FIG. 1 illustrates an isometric side view of a first embodiment of a load-bearing support apparatus.

FIG. 2 illustrates an isometric back view of a first embodiment of the load-bearing support apparatus.

FIG. 3 illustrates a side view of a second embodiment of the load-bearing support apparatus.

FIG. 4 illustrates an isometric side view of a first embodiment of a load-bearing support system.

FIG. 5A illustrates a detailed side view of an upper portion of the load-bearing support apparatus illustrated in FIG. 1.

FIG. 5B illustrates a detailed front view of an upper portion of the load-bearing support apparatus illustrated in FIG. 1.

FIG. 5C illustrates a detailed top view of an upper portion of the load-bearing support apparatus illustrated in FIG. 1.

FIG. 6A illustrates an isometric front view of a third embodiment of the load-bearing support apparatus.

FIG. 6B illustrates a back view of the third embodiment of the load-bearing support apparatus of FIG. 6A including a load.

FIG. 7A illustrates an isometric back view of a lower portion of the load bearing support apparatus illustrated in FIG. 6A.

FIG. 7B illustrates a front view of the lower portion of the load bearing support apparatus illustrated in FIG. 7A.

FIG. 8A illustrates an isometric front view of the upper support element illustrated in FIG. 6A.

FIG. 8B illustrates a back view of the upper support element illustrated in FIG. 6A.

FIG. 8C illustrates a top view of the upper support element illustrated in FIG. 6A.

FIG. 8D illustrates a cross-sectional view of the upper support element illustrated in FIG. 6A taken along section line A-A of FIG. 8D.

While the inventions disclosed herein are susceptible to various modifications and alternative forms, only a few specific embodiments have been shown by way of example in the drawings and are described in detail below. The figures and detailed descriptions of these specific embodiments are not intended to limit the breadth or scope of the inventive concepts or the appended claims in any manner. Rather, the figures and detailed written descriptions are provided to illustrate the inventive concepts to a person of ordinary skill in the art and to enable such person to make and use the inventive concepts.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

The figures described above and the written description of specific structures and functions below are not presented to limit the scope of what Applicants have invented or the scope of the appended claims. Rather, the figures and written description are provided to teach any person skilled in the art to make and use the inventions for which patent protection is sought. Those skilled in the art will appreciate that not all features of a commercial embodiment of the inventions are described or shown for the sake of clarity and understanding. Persons of skill in this art will also appreciate that the development of an actual commercial embodiment incorporating aspects of the present inventions will require numerous implementation-specific decisions to achieve the developer's ultimate goal for the commercial embodiment. Such implementation-specific decisions may include, and likely are not limited to, compliance with system-related, business-related, government-related and other constraints, which may vary by specific implementation, location and from time to time. While a developer's efforts might be complex and time-consuming in an absolute sense, such efforts would be, nevertheless, a routine undertaking for those of skill in this art having benefit of this disclosure.

It must be understood that the inventions disclosed and taught herein are susceptible to numerous and various modifications and alternative forms. Lastly, the use of a singular term, such as, but not limited to, “a,” is not intended as limiting of the number of items. Also, the use of relational terms, such as, but not limited to, “top,” “bottom,” “left,” “right,” “upper,” “lower,” “down,” “up,” “side,” and the like are used in the written description for clarity in specific reference to the Figures and are not intended to limit the scope of the invention or the appended claims.

Applicants have created a load-bearing support apparatus and system including an upper and lower support element adapted to rotate about one or more axes. The support elements can each further include support couplings. The apparatus can further include first and second support elements that can be adapted to bear the weight of a load along vertical and horizontal axes, respectively. The apparatus can include a mounting support element that can include upper and lower load connectors that can further be coupled to the load. The upper and lower load connectors can each be coupled to the upper and lower support couplings, respectively, in a ball-and-socket joint configuration. Because the ball-and-socket joints can create an articulating motion based on an operator's movement, the support apparatus can increase an operator's range of motion resulting in greater comfort and less fatigue while supporting the load.

In another embodiment, the apparatus can include an upper support element that can be adapted to rotate about at least one axis with respect to a load and a lower support element that can be adapted to rotate about at least one axis with respect to the load. The apparatus can further include a first support element that can be adapted to bear at least a portion of the weight of the load and a second support element that can be adapted to bear at least a portion the weight of the load. Furthermore, the apparatus can include a mounting support element that can be adapted to be coupled to the load.

In a further embodiment, the apparatus can include an upper support element that can include an upper support element adapted to rotate about at least one axis with respect to a load and a first support element that can be adapted to bear at least a portion of the weight of the load. The apparatus can further include a first support element extension that can be adapted to provide support to the first support element and a second support element that can be adapted to bear at least a portion of the weight of the load. The apparatus can further include a support element fastener that can be adapted to receive the first support element extension and a mounting support element that can be adapted to be coupled to a load.

In yet another embodiment, the system can include a load and a load-bearing support apparatus, the apparatus can include an upper support element that can be adapted to rotate about at least one axis with respect to the load and a lower support element that can be adapted to rotate about at least one axis with respect to the load. The system's apparatus can further include a first support element that can be adapted to bear at least a portion of the weight of the load, a second support element that can be adapted to bear at least a portion of the weight of the load, and a mounting support element that can be adapted to be coupled to the load. The load can include a portable vacuum device or assembly, a portable tool, portable equipment, or the like.

Turning now to the figures, FIG. 1 illustrates an isometric side view of a first embodiment of a load-bearing support apparatus 2. FIG. 2 illustrates an isometric back view of a first embodiment of the load-bearing support apparatus 2. FIG. 4 illustrates a side-view of the embodiment shown in FIGS. 1 and 2. These figures will be described in conjunction with one another.

The apparatus 2 can include an upper support element 4 that can be adapted to rotate about at least one axis with respect to a load 42 (as shown in FIG. 4), and an upper support coupling 6 that can be adapted to control the rotation of the upper support element 4 with respect to the load 42. The upper support element 4 can further include an upper support resting unit 8 that can be adapted to contact an upper portion of an operator 43 (FIG. 4).

The apparatus 2 can further include a first support element 10 that can be adapted to bear at least a portion of the weight of the load 42, a center support element 12 that can be adapted to provide support to the first support element 10, and a support connector 14 that can further be adapted to couple the upper support element 4 to a lower support element 20. The lower support element 20 can be adapted to rotate about at least one axis with respect to the load 42. The apparatus 2 can further include a second support element 16 that can be adapted to bear at least a portion of the weight of the load 42 and a side support element 18 that can be adapted to provide support to the second support element 16.

Furthermore, the apparatus 2 can include a lower support coupling 22 that can be adapted to control the rotation of the lower support element 20 with respect to the load 42. The lower support element 20 can further include a lower support resting unit 24 that can be adapted to contact a lower portion of an operator 43. The apparatus 2 can further include a mounting support element 26 that can be adapted to be coupled to the load 42. The mounting support element 26 can further include an upper load connector 27 and a lower load connector 28. The upper load connector 27 can be adapted to be coupled to the upper support coupling 6 and the lower load connector 28 can be adapted to be coupled to the lower support coupling 22.

The upper support element 4 can include any plate, support, brace, stay, or any other feature for imparting support or rigidity when the apparatus 2 is coupled to an operator 43. For example, the upper support element 4 can include a thin sheet or plate of plastic or any other synthetic or semi-synthetic organic solid or polymer. The upper support element 4 can be embodied as a support structure of varying shapes and sizes that can provide sufficient support to the operator 43 while the upper support element 4 rotates about one or more axes. For example, the upper support element 4 can include a shoulder support plate for supporting the shoulders and upper back of an operator 43.

The upper support coupling 6 can include any joint, connector, coupling, socket, hinge, pivot, or any other junction that is adapted to control the rotation about at least one axis. In an exemplary and non-limiting illustrative embodiment, the upper support coupling 6 can include a socket portion of a ball-and-socket joint. The upper support coupling 6 can be adapted to be coupled to the upper support element 4 in order to allow the upper support element 4 to rotate about at least one axis.

The upper support coupling 6 can further include a flexible material adapted to control the rotation about at least one axis. This flexible material can be used to create a joint, hinge, pivot, or other junction between the upper support element 4 and a load 42. By virtue of its relatively high degree of flexibility, this joint can create an articulating or rotating motion between the upper support element 4 and the load 42. The flexible material can include plastics, rubbers, polymers, or any other material with a relatively low modulus of elasticity capable of flexing, bending, twisting, or rotating. For example, the flexible material can have a Young's modulus within the range from about 0.01 GPa to about 2.00 GPa.

The upper support resting unit 8 can include any pad, buffer, cushion, or any other surface that can directly or indirectly contact the upper portion of the operator 43 while the apparatus 2 is coupled to the operator 43. For example, the upper support resting unit 8 can include a layer of foam, rubber, foam rubber, cloth, leather, or any other material suitable for cushioning shock or vibration, or preventing excessive pressure or chafing during use. In an exemplary and non-limiting illustrative embodiment, the upper support resting unit 8 can include a layer of cushioning, such as polyurethane foam, disposed between the operator's 43 shoulder blades and the upper support element 4.

The first support element 10 can include any strap, belt, looped band, brace, any other device for fastening, securing, or supporting the weight of the load 42. For example, the first support element 10 can include at least one shoulder strap that can be secured around one or more of the operator's 43 shoulders. The first support element 10 can be coupled to the upper support element 4, the second support element 16, the side support element 18, the lower support element 20, the mounting support element 26, or any combination thereof. Furthermore, the first support element 10 can include a vest, harness, or any other close-fitting apparatus for supporting the weight of the load 42.

In an exemplary and non-limiting illustrative embodiment, the first support element 10 can be made of cloth, nylon, ribstop, or any other pliable or malleable material for supporting at least a portion of the weight of the load 42. For example, the first support element 10 can formed of a multi-layered material (e.g., a polyethylene foam pad disposed between polyester outer shells (e.g., coated or meshed, opened weaved, etc.)). Furthermore, the length of the first support element 10 can be adjusted to accommodate multiple heights of various operators 43. For example, the first support element 10 can include adjustable straps that can employ one or more adjustable portions, such as buckles, for tightening or loosening the first support element 10.

The center support element 12 can include any strap, belt, band, brace, or any other device for further fastening, securing, or supporting the first support element 10. In an exemplary and non-limiting illustrative embodiment, the first support element 10 can include two shoulder straps and the center support element 12 can include a strap interposed between the two first support elements 10. In this example, the center support element 12 can be embodied as a sternum strap that can provide support to help evenly distribute the weight of the load 42 (FIG. 4). The length of the center support element 12 can be adjusted to accommodate operators 43 (FIG. 4) of various sizes. For example, the center support element 12 can employ one or more adjustable straps for tightening or loosening the length of the center support element 12.

The support connector 14 can include any band, cord, cable, webbing, or the like that can be adapted to couple the upper support element 4 to the lower support element 20. The support connector 14 can be employed to add rigidity, or in the alternative, flexibility, between the upper support element 4 and the lower support element 20. The support connector 14 can include any band, rubber band, cord, cable, or a series of bands cords, cables, spring, spring-type biasing device, or the like. In one embodiment, the support connector 14 can include more than one support connectors 14. For example, the apparatus 2 can include a support connector 14 for each first support element 10. Alternatively, the apparatus 2 can omit the support connector 14 altogether.

The second support element 16 can include any strap, belt, looped band, brace, or any other device for fastening, securing, or supporting the weight of the load 42. For example, the second support element 16 can include at least one hip strap that can be secured around one or more of the operator's 43 hips or waist. The second support element 16 can be coupled to the first support element 10, the side support element 18, the lower support element 20, the mounting support element 26, or any combination thereof. The second support element 16 can be made of any material previously described as a possible embodiment of the first support element 10.

Furthermore, the second support element 16 can be adjusted to accommodate multiple sizes of various operators 43. For example, the second support element 16 can include an adjustable strap that can employ one or more adjustable straps for tightening or loosening the length of the first support element 10 to accommodate different waist sizes of various operators 43. The second support element 16 can be fastened by one or more snaps, buckles, buttons, or any other fastening or coupling device for coupling two or more materials together. For example, the second support element 16 can include VELCRO® for releasably coupling two or more second support elements 16.

The side support element 18 can include any plate, support, brace, stay, or any other feature for imparting support or rigidity when the apparatus 2 is coupled to an operator 43. For example, the side support element 18 can include a thin sheet or plate of plastic or any other synthetic or semi-synthetic organic solid or polymer. The side support element 18 can be embodied as a support structure of varying shapes and sizes that can provide sufficient support to the operator 43 while the second support element 16 is coupled to an operator 43. In one embodiment, the side support element 18 can include a waist or support plate that is coupled to the second support element 16. Furthermore, the side support element 18 can be an extension of the lower support element 20 such that the side support element 18 and the lower support element 20 are made from a single, monolithic piece of material.

The lower support element 20 can include any plate, support, brace, stay, or any other feature for imparting support or rigidity when the apparatus 2 is coupled to an operator 43. For example, the lower support element 20 can include a thin sheet or plate of plastic or any other synthetic or semi-synthetic organic solid or polymer. The lower support element 20 can be embodied as a support structure of varying shapes and sizes that can provide sufficient support to the operator 43 while the lower support element 20 rotates about one or more axes. For example, the lower support element 20 can include a hip or lower back support plate for supporting the lower back and hips of the operator 43.

The lower support coupling 22 can include any joint, connector, coupling, socket, hinge, pivot, or any other junction that is adapted to control the rotation about at least one axis. In an exemplary and non-limiting illustrative embodiment, the lower support coupling 22 can include the socket portion of a ball-and-socket joint. The lower support coupling 22 can be adapted to be coupled to the lower support element 20 in order to allow the lower support element 20 to rotate about at least one axis.

The lower support coupling 22 can further include a flexible material adapted to control the rotation about at least one axis. This flexible material can be used to create a joint, hinge, pivot, or other junction between the lower support element 20 and a load 42. By virtue of its relatively high degree of flexibility, this joint can create an articulating or rotating motion between the lower support element 20 and the load 42. The flexible material can include plastics, rubbers, polymers, or any other material with a relatively low modulus of elasticity capable of flexing, bending, twisting, or rotating. For example, the flexible material can have a Young's modulus within the range of from about 0.01 GPa and about 2.00 GPa.

The lower support resting unit 24 can include any pad, buffer, cushion, or any other surface that can directly or indirectly contact the lower portion of the operator 43 (FIG. 4) while the apparatus 2 is coupled to the operator 43 (FIG. 4). For example, the lower support resting unit 24 can include a layer of foam, rubber, foam rubber, cloth, leather, or any other material suitable for cushioning shock or vibration, or preventing excessive pressure or chafing. In an exemplary and non-limiting illustrative embodiment, the lower support resting unit 24 can include a layer of cushioning, such as polyurethane foam, disposed between the operator's 43 lower back and the lower support element 20.

The mounting support element 26 can include any plate, support brace, stay, or any other feature for imparting support or rigidity when the apparatus 2 is coupled to a load 42. In an exemplary and non-limiting illustrative embodiment, the mounting support element 26 can include a plate that can be coupled to the upper load connector 27, the lower load connector 28, the lower support element 20, the upper support element 4, the load 42 or any combination thereof. The mounting support element 26 can include aluminum, carbon fiber, polypropylene, or any other lightweight metals, plastics, or polymers capable of strengthening or increasing the stability or rigidity of the apparatus 2.

The mounting support element 26 can be coupled to the load 42. Alternatively, the mounting support element 26 can be coupled to the upper support element 4 and the lower support element 20 without the need to couple the mounting support element 26 to the load 42. In this example, the apparatus 2 can be coupled to the load 42 with the upper load connector 27, the lower load connector 28, or both.

The upper load connector 27 can include any joint, arm, distal axis, or extension adapted to be coupled to the upper support coupling 6. For example, the upper load connector 27 can include the ball joint of a ball-and-socket joint. In this configuration, if the upper load connector 27 is coupled to the upper support coupling 6, the upper support coupling 6 (and the elements coupled thereto) are capable of rotating up to and including 360 degrees about multiple axes. This rotation is described in greater detail in conjunction with FIGS. 5A, 5B, and 5C.

The position of the upper load connector 27 can be adjusted to various heights to accommodate the heights of different operators (not shown). For example, upper load connector 27 can be coupled to the load 42 (as shown in FIG. 4) such that its height with respect to the lower load connecter 28 can be quickly adjusted. In an exemplary and non-limiting illustrative embodiment, the upper load connector 27 can be slidably adjusted on a track or the like so that these vertical adjustments can be quickly and easily implemented. In other examples, various heights along the vertical axis of the load 42 (as shown in FIG. 4) can be predestinated (such as, for example, through slots, rivets, or the like) to allow the upper load connector 27 to be moved from one predestinated position to another.

Although the height of the lower load connector 28 can be rigidly fixed with respect to load 42 (as shown in FIG. 4), in the alternative, lower load connector 28 can be similarly embodied as the lower load connecter 27 so that the vertical height of both the upper load connector 27 and the lower load connector 28 can both be adjusted with respect to one another.

The lower load connector 28 can include any joint, arm, distal axis, or extension adapted to be coupled to the lower support coupling 22. For example, the lower load connector 28 can include the ball joint of a ball-and-socket joint. In this configuration, if the lower load connector 28 is coupled to the lower support coupling 22, the lower support coupling 22 (and the elements coupled thereto) are capable of rotating up to and including 360 degrees about multiple axes. This rotation is described in greater detail in conjunction with FIGS. 5A, 5B, and 5C.

The upper load connector 27, the lower load connector 28, or both connectors can further be coupled to the mounting support element 26, the load 42 (as shown in FIG. 4), or both. Further, the upper load connector 27 and the lower load connector 28 can include a flexible material adapted to control the rotation about at least one axis. This flexible material can be used to create a joint, hinge, pivot, or other junction between the upper support element 4, the lower support element 20, and the load 42. By virtue of its relatively high degree of flexibility, this joint can create an articulating or rotating motion between the upper support element 4 and the load 42. The flexible material can include plastics, rubbers, polymers, or any other material with a relatively low modulus of elasticity capable of flexing, bending, twisting, or rotating. For example, the flexible material can have a Young's modulus within the range from about 0.01 GPa to about 2.00 GPa.

FIG. 3 illustrates a side view of a second embodiment of the load-bearing support apparatus 30. The apparatus 30 can include an upper support element (not shown) that can be adapted to rotate about at least one axis with respect to a load 42 (as shown in FIG. 4), a first support element 32 that can be adapted to bear at least a portion of the weight of the load 42 (as shown in FIG. 4), and a second support element 34 that can be adapted to bear at least a portion of the weight of the load 42. The apparatus 30 can further include a first support element extension 35 that can be adapted to provide support to the first support element 32. The first support element extension 35 can be adapted to bear the weight of the load 42.

The apparatus 30 can further include a support element fastener 36 that can be adapted to receive the first support element extension 35 and a mounting support element 39 that can be adapted to be coupled to the load 42. The support element fastener 36 can be adapted to secure the first support element extension 35 thereby creating tension in the first support element 32. Examples of the first support element 32, the second support element 34, and the mounting support element 39 can include similar embodiments as disclosed for the first support element 10, the second support element 16, and the mounting support element 26, respectively, as described in conjunction with FIG. 1 and FIG. 2.

The first support element extension 35 can include one or more straps, belts, looped bands, braces, any other devices for further fastening, securing, or supporting the weight of the load 42 or providing additional support to the first support element 32. For example, the first support element extension 35 can a include strap that can extend from a terminating edge of each of the first support elements 32. In this example, the first support element 32 can include two first support elements 32 that each include a first support element extension 35. The first support element extensions 35 can further be adapted to cross at approximately ninety degree angles in order maintain constant tension in the first support elements 32. The first support element extensions 35 can be adapted to cross one another at angles other than ninety degrees as well.

The support element fastener 36 can include any guide, fastener, channel, loop, hook, or other device for catching, receiving, channeling, guiding, pulling, or holding the first support element extension 35. In an exemplary and non-limiting illustrative embodiment, the support element fastener 36 can include a structure that extends outwardly from the mounting support element 39 or the load 42 in order to create a cavity or conduit for which the first support element extension 35 can be fed through. The support element fastener 36 can be used to adjust the tension on the first support element extension 35 so that constant pressure is maintained throughout the first support element 32 when the apparatus 30 is coupled to an operator 43.

FIG. 4 illustrates an isometric side view of a first embodiment of a load-bearing support system 40. The system can include a load-bearing support apparatus 41, a load 42, and an operator 43. The system 40 can further include an upper load connector 44 and a lower load connector 46. The upper load connector 44 can be adapted to be coupled to an upper support coupling 45 and the lower load connector 46 can be adapted to be coupled to a lower support coupling 47.

The load-bearing apparatus 41 can include any harness, backpack, vest, or any other device for coupling a load 42 to an operator 43. For example, the load-bearing apparatus 41 can include the apparatus 2 (as shown in FIG. 1) or the apparatus 30 (as shown in FIG. 3). The load 42 can include a portable vacuum device (such as a vacuum cleaner), a portable tool, portable equipment, or the like. Furthermore, the load 42 can include any load capable of being carried on the back of an operator 43. For example, the load can include portable tools (such as leaf blowers, power washers or the like), containers of compressed gases or fluids (such as pesticides, herbicides, or liquid fertilizer compositions), generators, power supplies, fuel supplies, or other tools or equipment. In an example where the load 42 is a portable vacuum device, the upper support resting unit 8 and the lower support resting unit 24 can be formed such that the materials do not cover portions of the vacuum's filters (not shown) or impede the flow from or to the vacuum's outlets and inlets (not shown), respectively.

The upper load connector 44 can include any joint, arm, distal axis, or extension adapted to be coupled to the upper support coupling 45. The lower load connector 46 can include any joint, arm, distal axis, or extension adapted to be coupled to the lower support coupling 47. The lower load connector 46 can further include at least two load connectors. The upper load connector 44 and the upper support coupling 45 can be adapted to form a multi-axis joint, such as a ball-and-socket joint. The lower load connector 46 and the lower support coupling 47 can also be adapted to form a ball-and-socket joint. Examples of the upper load connector 44 and the lower load connector 46 can include similar embodiments as the upper load connector 27 and the lower load connector 28, respectively, as described in conjunction with FIG. 1 and FIG. 2.

The upper support coupling 45 and the lower support coupling 47 can include any joint, connector, coupling, socket, hinge, pivot, or any other junction that is adapted to control the rotation about at least one axis. In an exemplary and non-limiting illustrative embodiment, the upper support coupling 45 and the lower support coupling 47 can each include the socket portion of a ball-and-socket joint. The upper support coupling 45 can be adapted to be coupled to the upper support element (not shown) to allow the upper support element to rotate about at least one axis and the lower support coupling 47 can be adapted to be coupled to the lower support element (not shown) to allow the lower support element to rotate about at least one axis.

Because the upper support element 48 can rotate through an almost infinite number of configurations among at least three axes (as described in greater detail below in conjunction with FIGS. 5A, 5B, and 5C), the apparatus 41 can allow operators 43 to naturally rotate or flex their bodies while maintaining the center of gravity of the load 42 coupled to the apparatus 41. For example, if the lower load connector 46 is embodied as two load connectors, the lower support element (not shown) can rotate through a central axis so that when one side of the lower support element (not shown) raises, the other lowers, and vise-versa.

Likewise, when the upper support element 48 is coupled to a ball-and-socket joint, the upper and lower ball-and-socket joints can work in concert to further maximize the operator's 43 comfort and minimize fatigue during operation. This can be accomplished by allowing the upper support element 48 to rotate about a central axis while maintaining constant tension within the first support element (not shown). In other words, the upper support element 48 and the lower support element (not shown) can rotate in parallel vis-à-vis the other in order to minimize the stresses and uneven load balances on the operator 43.

FIG. 5A illustrates a detailed side view of an upper portion of the load-bearing support apparatus illustrated in FIG. 1. FIG. 5B illustrates a detailed front view of an upper portion of the load-bearing support apparatus illustrated in FIG. 1. FIG. 5C illustrates a detailed top view of an upper portion of the load-bearing support apparatus illustrated in FIG. 1. These figures will be described in conjunction with one another.

In each of these figures, the upper support element 4 can have a top portion 4T, a bottom portion 4B, a front portion 4F, a rear portion 4R, a right side 4RS, and a left side 4LS. The upper support resting unit 8 can be coupled to the front portion 4F. Furthermore, the upper support element 4 can be coupled to the upper support coupling 6. The upper support coupling 6 can be coupled to the upper load connector 27 to form a multi-axis joint 29.

The multi-axis joint 29 can include any flexible joint that can create an articulating or rotating motion between the two or more elements of the apparatus 2 (as shown in FIG. 4) (e.g., upper support element 4 and the load 42). The flexible material can include plastics, rubbers, polymers, or any other material with a relatively low modulus of elasticity capable of flexing, bending, twisting, or rotating. For example, the flexible material can have a Young's modulus within the range from about 0.01 GPa to about 2.00 GPa. Further, the multi-axis joint 29 can take the form of various shapes and sizes that are suitable for rotation. For example, the multi-axis joint 29 can include a cylindrically-shaped piece of rubber or other flexible material. Other shapes and sizes for the multi-axis joint 29 are contemplated as well. In a further examples, the multi-axis joint 29 can include a universal joint, gooseneck connector (e.g., coupled or clamped to various components on the apparatus 2 (as shown in FIG. 1), or the like.

Each of the respective two-axes depicted in these figures (as shown in dashed lines) form, in the aggregate, a standard three-dimensional Cartesian coordinate system to further illustrate the rotational aspects of the multi-axis joint 29. In this illustration, the Z-axis can represent the vertical axis, the Y-axis can represent the axis running parallel with the upper support coupling 6, and the X-axis can represent the axis running perpendicular to both the upper support coupling 6 and the Z-axis.

The upper support element 4, when coupled to the multi-axis joint 29, can rotate about at least three axes. For example, referring to FIG. 5A, the upper support element 4 can rotate so that the top portion 4T can pitch towards the front portion 4F or the top portion 4T can pitch toward the rear portion 4R. In other words, from this perspective, the upper support element 4 can rotate clockwise or counterclockwise through the X-Y and X-Z planes.

Additionally, referring to FIG. 5B, the upper support element 4 can rotate so that the right side 4RS can pitch towards the top portion 4T or the left side 4LS can rotate towards the top portion 4T. In other words, from this perspective, the upper support element 4 can rotate clockwise or counterclockwise through the X-Y and Y-Z planes.

Referring to FIG. 5C, the upper support element 4 can rotate so that the right side 4RS can rotate toward the rear portion 4R or the left portion 4LS can rotate toward the rear portion 4R. In other words, from this perspective, the upper support element 4 can rotate clockwise or counterclockwise through the X-Z and Y-Z planes.

In this configuration, the upper support element 4 can freely rotate through nearly an infinite number of orientations along the X, Y and Z axes. By doing so, the apparatus (not shown) can allow operators (not shown) to naturally rotate or flex their bodies while maintaining the center of gravity of the load (not shown) coupled to the apparatus (not shown).

For FIGS. 6-8, many, but not all, of the illustrated features of the described inventions share features with the features described in FIGS. 1-5 above. For example, referring specifically to FIG. 6A, the load bearing apparatus 102 illustrated in this figure shares many common elements with the load bearing support apparatus 2 illustrated in FIGS. 1 and 2, (e.g., upper support element 4, first support element 10, lower support resting unit 24, etc.). Moreover, the features illustrated in FIGS. 6-8 that correspond to a features illustrated in FIG. 1-5 are identified in FIGS. 6-8 with labels that are offset by 100 from their FIGS. 1-5 counterparts (e.g., element 4 of FIG. 1 corresponds to element 104 of FIG. 6A; element 10 of FIG. 1 corresponds to element 110 of FIG. 6A, and so on). All of these corresponding features are described in detail with reference to FIGS. 1-5 and thus, in the interest of clarity and brevity, will not be repeated for the description for FIGS. 6-8. Accordingly, elements illustrated in FIGS. 6-8 that correspond to elements labeled in FIGS. 1-5 can be similarly embodied, where appropriate, as those elements described in reference to FIGS. 1-5, and thus the examples, references to, and description of those elements illustrated in FIGS. 1-5, are equally applicable to their corresponding elements in FIGS. 6-8.

FIG. 6A illustrates an isometric front view of a third embodiment of the load-bearing support apparatus. FIG. 6B illustrates a back view of the third embodiment of the load-bearing support apparatus of FIG. 6A including a load. These Figures will be described in conjunction with one another.

The apparatus 102 can include an upper support element 104 that can be adapted to rotate about at least one axis with respect to a load 142. The apparatus 102 can further include a first support element 110 that can be adapted to bear at least a portion of the weight of the load 142, a center support element 112 that can be adapted to provide support to the first support element 110, and a lower support element 120. The lower support element 120 can be adapted to rotate about at least one axis with respect to the load 142. The apparatus 102 can further include a support connector 114, a lower support resting unit 124, a mounting support element 126, and a second support element 116 that can be adapted to bear at least a portion of the weight of the load 142 and a side support element 118 that can be adapted to provide support to the second support element 116.

Additionally, the apparatus 102 can include a support coupler 152, a tension adjuster 154, and a fastener 156. The support coupler 152 can include any fastening or coupling device for coupling the second support element 116 with the side support element 118, the lower support element 120, or both. For example, the support coupler 152 can include both the male and female connectors to a buckle-type strap connector. In other examples, the support coupler 152 can include one or more snaps, buttons, or the like for releasably coupling and decoupling the second support element 116 to or from one or more support elements of the apparatus 102. Although not explicitly illustrated in all of the figures, the support coupler 152 can be incorporated on other various support elements of the apparatus 102 as well, including but not limited to, the first support element 110, the center support element 112, etc.

The tension adjuster 154 can include a strap, leash, tie, or the like coupled to a quick-release mechanism for adjusting the length and/or position of an electrical cord (not shown) of an electrically powered device (such as, for example, if the load 142 is a vacuum or other powered appliance). This feature can be employed by the operator (not shown), for example, to quickly release a portion of the cord or to adjust its position.

The support adjuster 158 can include a guide, grip, loop, cinch, or the like for adjusting the length of support connector 114 when it is coupled to the upper support element 104. Although not explicitly shown in the figures, additional support adjusters may be incorporated into other support elements of apparatus 102 for adjusting the length (and thus, the tension) in those supports. In one example, the tension adjuster 154 can include a guide in which the varying length of material forming the support connector 114 can be inserted or incorporated within to increase and decrease the length of material between the lower support element 120 and the upper support element 104. For example, as the height of the upper support element 104 is adjusted (as described in greater detail above), the length of the support connector 114 can be adjusted accordingly with the aid of the support adjusters 158. Further, the apparatus 102 can include a support adjuster 152, a support switch 154, an accessory support 156, and one or more support guides 164, as described in greater detail below in conjunctions with FIGS. 7 and 8.

FIG. 7A illustrates an isometric back view of a lower portion of the load bearing support apparatus. FIG. 7B illustrates a front view of the lower portion of the load bearing support apparatus illustrated in FIG. 7A. These Figures will be described in conjunction with one another.

In addition to the lower support element 120, the lower support resting unit 124, the mounting support element 126, the support coupler 152, and the tension adjuster 154 as described above, the lower portion of the apparatus 102 (as shown in FIG. 6A) can include one or more fasteners 156, a support switch 160, and one or more accessory supports 162.

The one or more fasteners 156 can include one or more buttons, hooks, snaps, buckles, adhesives, or any other fastening or coupling device for coupling two or more materials together. For example, the one or more fasteners 156 can include VELCRO® for releasably coupling two or more features of the inventions. In another example, the one or more fasteners 156 can include rivets for affixing and/or coupling two or more materials together. In this example, the material used to form the lower support resting unit 124 can be affixed to the lower support element 120 with one or more of these rivets. This material, for example, can include foam, rubber, foam rubber, cloth, leather, or any other material suitable for cushioning shock or vibration, or preventing excessive pressure or chafing during use. Further, the one or more fasteners 156 can be employed in other features of the apparatus 102 as well (for example, in one or more locations disposed on the upper support resting unit 104 as illustrated in FIG. 8A).

The support switch 160 can include a loop or other fixture coupled to a lower portion of the apparatus 102, such as the lower support resting unit 124 for coupling a switch (not shown, such as a power switch for operating the power of a powered appliance, for example, if the load 142 is a vacuum cleaner (not shown)). The one or more accessory supports 162 can include one or more grips, clasps, or other support fixtures for mounting and/or supporting tools or accessories (such as tools specifically related to the load 142 (as shown in FIG. 6B) and its application). For example, the one or more accessory supports 162 can include a series of loops coupled with, or part of, second support element 116 for holding instruments such as hand tools, vacuum cleaner tools (e.g., crevice tools, brushes, and the like). In another example, these accessory supports 162 can include pockets or other storage units for storing these types of accessories.

FIG. 8A illustrates an isometric front view of the upper support element illustrated in FIG. 6A. FIG. 8B illustrates a back view of the upper support element illustrated in FIG. 6A. FIG. 8C illustrates a top view of the upper support element illustrated in FIG. 6A. FIG. 8D illustrates a cross-sectional view of the upper support element illustrated in FIG. 6A taken along section line A-A of FIG. 8D. These Figures will be described in conjunction with one another.

The upper support element 104 can include an upper support coupling 106, a lower support coupling 122, a multi-axis joint 129, one or more support guides 164, and a grommet 166. The grommet can be used in conjunction with the one or more fasteners 154 for coupling to the upper support element 104. For example, the grommet 166 can include a eyelet or other opening for receiving a coupling device (not shown) such as a screw, bolt, or the like, for securing the upper support resting unit 108 (as shown in FIG. 6A) to the upper support element 104.

The one or more support guides 164 can include loops, guides, or other fixtures either formed as part of, or coupled to, the upper support element 104. For example, the support guides 164 can include a series of eyelet openings in a portion of the upper support element 104 coupling the first support element 110 (as shown in FIG. 6A) to the upper support element 104 and coupling the support connector 114 (as shown in FIG. 6A) to the upper support element 104. In this example, the first support element 110 and the support connector 114 (both shown in FIG. 6A) can include one or more straps, such as elastic or nylon straps, etc., that are guided through each of the support guides 164.

In a further example, the one or more support guides 164 can include rings or loops that are coupled to the upper support element 104 (such as through sewing, adhesive, or through the use of a fastener device). Additionally, a support guide 164 can be employed as a handle or carry for the first support apparatus 102 (as shown in FIG. 6A). An example of this embodiment is specifically shown in FIG. 8A. In this example, the support guide 164 can include a larger opening (although not necessarily though) than the other support guides used to couple the upper support element 104 to the first support element 110 and the support connector 114 (both shown in FIG. 6A). In addition to being employed as a handle or a carry, this support guide 164 can be additionally used as a guide for the first support elements 110 (as shown in FIG. 6A) to provide additional support for the operator (not shown).

The detailed features set forth in FIG. 8D illustrate an embodiment of the upper support element 104 where the multi-axis joint 129 is a ball-and-socket joint. In this example, the multi-axis joint 129 can be coupled to the upper support coupling 106 and the lower support coupling 122, in which the latter can be coupled to the lower load connector 28 (for example, shown in FIG. 1). In this configuration, the multi-axis joint 129 can rotate about three axes (as further illustrated and described above in conjunction with FIGS. 5A-5C).

Throughout the disclosure, various elements are described as being adapted to bear at least a portion of the load 42 (as shown in FIG. 4 for example). The portions of the load 42 supported as described above can be divided into weight components along both the horizontal and vertical axes for each of the load-bearing support elements described above. Referring specifically to FIG. 1, and in an exemplary and non-limiting illustrative embodiment, the lower support element 20 can support the majority of the weight along the vertical axis and a minority of the weight (or, none of the weight) along the horizontal axis while the first support element 10 can bear the minority of the weight (or none of the weight) along the vertical axis and a majority of the weight along the horizontal axis.

Other combinations of weight distribution through the load's 42 (as shown in FIG. 4) weight force vectors' horizontal and vertical components are contemplated as well for each of the support elements described above. Furthermore, the vertical axis can be broadly interpreted to include the Z-axis, and the horizontal axis can be broadly interpreted to include the X- and/or Y-axes, as illustrated in FIGS. 5A-5C above.

The term “coupled,” “coupling,” “coupler,” and like terms are used broadly herein and can include any method or device for securing, binding, bonding, fastening, attaching, joining, inserting therein, forming thereon or therein, or otherwise associating, for example, mechanically, magnetically, electrically, chemically, operably, directly or indirectly with intermediate elements, one or more pieces of members together and can further include without limitation integrally forming one functional member with another in a unitary fashion. The coupling can occur in any direction, including rotationally.

The order of steps can occur in a variety of sequences unless otherwise specifically limited. The various steps described herein can be combined with other steps, interlineated with the stated steps, and/or split into multiple steps. Similarly, elements have been described functionally and can be embodied as separate components or can be combined into components having multiple functions.

In some alternate implementations, the embodiments noted in the figures can occur out of the order noted in the illustrations. For example, two or more embodiments or aspects of the various embodiments may be combined in a manner to provide an apparatus not specifically illustrated in the Figures or detailed in the description. Therefore, though not explicitly illustrated in the figures, any and all combinations or sub-combinations of aspects illustrated in the Figures or described in the detailed description provided herein, can be performed in any order, with or without regard for performing the other recited steps.

Those of skill in the art should, in light of the present disclosure, appreciate that many changes can be made in the specific embodiments which are disclosed and still obtain a like or similar result without departing from the scope of the invention.

The inventions have been described in the context of preferred and other embodiments and not every embodiment of the invention has been described. Obvious modifications and alterations to the described embodiments are available to those of ordinary skill in the art. The disclosed and undisclosed embodiments are not intended to limit or restrict the scope or applicability of the invention conceived of by the Applicants, but rather, in conformity with the patent laws, Applicants intend to fully protect all such modifications and improvements that come within the scope or range of equivalent of the following claims.

Articulated Backpack Apparatus and System

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CPC

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Abstract

Description

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CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

Provisional Applications (1)