Patent Application
20160174691
This application is based upon French Patent Application No. FR 14/02976, filed Dec. 23, 2014, the disclosure of which is hereby incorporated by reference thereto in its entirety, and the priority of which is claimed under 35 U.S.C. §119.
1. Field of the Invention
The present invention relates to a backpack, in particular a backpack for sporting activities such as hiking or running, especially on mountainous terrain. This backpack is intended in particular for athletes, such as hikers, runners, mountaineers, or orienteering and rock-climbing enthusiasts.
2. Background Information
Backpacks have been developed in a number of forms for carrying loads on the back of a user. These packs are used for example when walking, traveling, hiking, climbing, mountaineering, and cycling.
Conventionally, a backpack comprises a main pack including panels made of soft material, appended to a dorsal portion made of a rigid or semi-rigid material or incorporating a support vest providing rigidity. This rigidity ensures stability of the backpack, especially when not worn. The main pack is provided for receiving a load and is held by two carrying straps attached to the dorsal portion.
The patent document US 2010/0237110-A1 discloses a backpack comprising a back panel equipped with carrying straps. The back panel is provided to support various storage pockets of different volumes, these pockets being removable. A support vest provided with two T-shaped bars provides a continuous connection between the pocket and the back panel, thereby preventing air from circulating between the pack and the carrying straps, and does not promote the removal of sweat. In addition, the T-shaped bars are rigid and penalize the comfort of the user. The construction is not provided to allow relative movement between the pack and the back panel, once the backpack is assembled.
The patent document US 2010/0308086-A1 discloses a backpack provided with a pocket, whose back panel, interfacing with the user's back, is soft. The carrying straps are directly attached to the back panel of the pocket. The pocket is not movable in relation to the user's back when the backpack is worn.
All of these packs have a certain amount of rigidity when worn, which causes discomfort for not conforming well to the morphology of the back of the user, on the one hand, and for impeding movement during rotations of the chest, on the other hand.
The invention solves one or more of the above disadvantages.
To this end, the invention provides an improved backpack offering carrying comfort.
In particular, the invention improves the freedom of movement for the user wearing such a backpack.
The invention also improves the interface with the back, so that it is most adapted to the morphology of the back of the user, when the user is moving.
Further, the invention provides a movable pack whose positioning is adjustable when the user is moving.
Still further, the invention improves the ventilation for the back.
The invention provides a backpack that includes:
Due to the invention, the pack is movable in relation to the support vest, thereby providing good freedom of movement for the user. In addition, the softness of the back of the backpack enables the backpack to follow the movements of the user, thereby improving comfort.
According to advantageous but non-essential aspects of the invention, such a backpack can incorporate one or more of the following features, taken in any technically permissible combination:
The invention will be better understood and other advantages thereof will be more apparent in light of the following description of a backpack according to the invention, given only by way of example, with reference to the annexed drawings, in which:
In the following description, the terms “top”, “bottom”, “upper”, “lower”, “left”, “right”, “horizontal”, “vertical”, “front” and “rear” are defined from the point of view of a user standing on level ground and wearing the backpack 1 on his back. Notable is a “vertical” geometric axis X, parallel to the Earth's gravity field. In the reference position, the backpack 1 extends along the axis X.
Notable is a horizontal geometric axis Y, perpendicular to the axis X, which extends from left to right. The axis Y defines a “lateral” or “transverse” direction.
The backpack 1 comprises a storage pack 2 attached to a carrying device, referred to as the support vest 4 in the following description, the support vest comprising two shoulder straps 41 and 42 located on respective sides of the axis X.
The storage pack 2 is centered along the axis X, in a neutral configuration, and demarcates a closed inner volume for receiving a load, for example foodstuffs, a water container, sports equipment, and/or clothing. The pack 2 extends vertically between a lower end 21 and an upper end 22. The pack can optionally comprise a plurality of inner compartments, as well as outer pockets.
The volume of the pack 2 is demarcated by a dorsal wall 23, a rear wall 24, a right lateral wall 25, and a left lateral wall 26. The rear wall 24 may be an outer wall, as shown here, or an inner wall of the pack, an intermediate wall between the rear wall and an outer wall. The dorsal wall 23, or front wall, is positioned on the side of the back of the user, and it faces the rear wall 24, which is positioned opposite the back of the user with respect to the contents of the pack. The walls 23 and 24 are connected on both sides by the right 25 and left 26 lateral walls, which are opposite one another.
Right B231 and left B232 lateral edges of the front wall 23 of the pack 2 define the separation between the front wall 23 and the lateral walls 25 and 26, respectively. An upper edge B233 of the front wall 23 abuts the rear wall 24, on the side of the upper end 21 of the pack 2. On the side of the lower end 22 of the pack 2, a lower edge B234 separates the front wall 23 from the rear wall 24. Thus, the periphery of the front wall 23 is demarcated by the edges B231-B234.
In this example, the front wall 23 is connected to the support vest 4 only in the area of the edges B231-B234 of the front wall 23.
The outer wall 24 comprises an opening 241 for access to the inner volume of the pack 2. The opening 241 here is rectilinear and extends lengthwise along a vertical direction, parallel to the axis X and to the spine of the user. The opening 241 comprises a closure, for example a slide fastener with two pull tabs 242 and 243, connected to respective sliders, which facilitates separate access to the various portions of the pack. One can then alternatively access only the lower, central, or upper portion of the pack. The opening 241 is substantially horizontal when the backpack 1 is positioned on the ground, on a horizontal flat surface. Thus, the lateral walls make it possible to prevent the contents of the pack from falling out. Moreover, this construction also has the advantage of having a large zone of access to the inner volume of the pack 2. This allows easy access to the items stored in the bottom of the pack 2, unlike a backpack of the prior art, which is generally provided with a single opening at the top of the pack.
In the example shown in the drawing figures, the walls 23-26 are panels made of soft fabric, manufactured separately and then assembled to one another, for example by stitching and/or by using an adhesive.
Alternatively, the walls 23-26 may be in one piece, or in two or three pieces. For example, the lateral walls 25 and 26 and the outer wall 24 may be formed from a single piece of fabric.
The front wall 23 is made of a soft material enabling the front wall 23 to deform to adapt to the morphology of the back of the user 10, whether the user is stationary or moving. Such a material can be deformed at least in a direction normal to the wall without exerting substantial force. A wall made of such a material, including an elastically compressible material, can thus be deformed, without force, so as to conform to the shape that it covers. This material can be a fabric, a knit, a textile, a membrane, a cloth, a very soft foam, or any of equivalent materials. The wall can also comprise more rigid portions but, in this case, such portions must be connected by soft linkages to obtain the desired overall flexibility. For a wall made of foam, the thickness of such a wall can be less than 1.0 cm. The wall made of foam can comprise foam elements of greater thickness, connected to one another by very soft elements which are deformable so as to enable the foam elements to move in relation to one another.
For example, the front wall 23 can be made of polyamide (PA), such as Nylon®. This can be a minimum 70-denier ripstop nylon. The lateral 25, 26 and rear 24 walls may be made of the same material. Alternatively, the lateral walls are made of composites comprising a blend of polyamide and elastane, in proportions on the order of ¾ polyamide and ¼ elastane. Elastane provides elasticity that makes it possible to press the load better against the user's back.
Each shoulder strap 41, 42 comprises a front portion 411, 412 configured to cover the front of a shoulder and one side of the chest of the user 10. Each shoulder strap 41, 42 also comprises a rear portion 431, 432 configured to extend laterally behind one of the shoulders of the user 10. The carrying straps 41 and 42 are transversely connected to one another by a connecting-piece or connecting-element or piece 433, in the area of the user's back. As can be seen in
In the example shown in the drawing figures, the rear portion of each carrying strap 41, 42 is formed by a lateral strip 431, 432 of the rear portion 43 of the vest 4. Each front portion 411, 412 is connected to the corresponding rear portion 431, 432 so as to form a loop configured for passage of an arm of the user. This loop is permanently closed and not adjustable, as shown in the drawing figures.
Alternatively, the loops are open, the carrying straps 41 and 42 being provided with closures, or connectors, such as straps, loops, hooks and/or buckles, in order to adjust the length of the shoulder straps 41 and 42 to adapt to the morphology of the user 10.
The front and rear portions of the carrying straps 41, 42 can be made of the same material, that is, a common material, thus forming a continuous panel. Alternatively, it may be an assembly of different panels of the same material or of different materials.
The lateral strips 431 and 432 are connected to one another by a central portion 433 to form a continuous panel corresponding substantially to the rear portion 43 of the support vest. The central portion 433 constitutes an element for connecting the rear portions 431 and 432 of the carrying straps 41 and 42, in the area of the back of the user 10. The connecting element 433 may be fixed or removable. As shown, a panel or a mesh can connect the rear portions 431 and 432 of the carrying straps 41 and 42 to one another permanently, that is, with no possibility of being disassembled or, at least, easily disassembled, such as being stitched together and/or adhesively connected, or otherwise. The support vest then forms a unitary element comprised of the shoulder straps 41, 42 and the connecting element 433. Alternatively, the connecting element is removable, that is, capable of being disassembled. For example, it may be a lace or an attached panel. The connecting element can also be formed by a row of transverse strips. The rear portion 43 can therefore be locally recessed.
The support vest 4 is then in the form of a vest or a sleeveless jacket. It is made of a soft and lightweight material, such as a thickness-wise elastically compressible soft material.
The rear portion 43 is made of a material having softness that enables the front wall 23 to deform to adapt to the morphology of the back of the user 10, whether the user is stationary or moving. As mentioned above, such a material can be deformed at least in a direction normal to the wall without exerting substantial force. A wall made of such a material can thus be deformed, without force, so as to conform to the shape that it covers. This material can be a fabric, a knit, a textile, a very soft foam, for example. The wall can also comprise more rigid portions but, in this case, they must be connected by soft linkages to obtain the desired overall flexibility and/or elastic compressibility. For example, such a linkage can be flexible, such as bendable, as well as thickness-wise compressible.
For example, the rear portion 43 of the vest is made of a knit of polyester (PE) or polyamide (PA) yarns. The wall can advantageously form a mesh to improve the ventilation of the back of the user. To further improve ventilation, the knit structure can be a three-dimensional material, or “3-D”, that is, with a thickness of several millimeters. These knits are categorized under the term “spacer”, and often designated by the term “3-D mesh”. It is characterized by a density on the order of 300 to 400 g/m2. The connecting element 433 may be a simple mesh comprised of polyamide or polyester yarns, having a density of approximately 200 g/m2.
The support vest 4 is provided with an arrangement for transversely bringing the front portions 411 and 412 of the shoulder straps 41 and 42 closer together, referred to, for example, as a transverse tensioner or a transverse tightening tensioner, making it possible to adjust and maintain the spacing of the shoulder straps 41 and 42. For example, the tightening tensioner can comprise a linkage 441 of adjustable length, which connects the front portions 411 and 412 of the shoulder straps 41 and 42. Adjusting the length of the linkage 441 makes it possible to adapt the backpack 1 to the corpulence of the user 10. The position of the linkage 441 is adjustable in height due to the front portions 411 and 412 of the shoulder straps 41 and 42, which are each equipped with a row of right 442 or left 443 keepers distributed along the front portions 411 and 421. The user 10 can select the keepers 442 and 443 to which the linkage 441 is attached, in order to configure the backpack 1 to his/her corpulence.
Notable are an upper end 4A and a lower end 4B of the support vest 4. More specifically, these ends 4A, 4B demarcate the top and bottom portions, respectively, of the rear portion 43 of the vest. The upper end 4A is close to the upper junction between the front portion 411 and 412 and the rear portion 431 and 432 of a shoulder strap 41 or 42. The lower end 4B is close to the lower junction between the front portion 411 and 412 and the rear portion 431 and 432 of a shoulder strap 41 or 42. When the support vest 4 is positioned on a flat surface, the ends 4A and 4B are substantially coplanar with that surface.
In this example, the pack 2 is permanently attached to the support vest 4 by connecting arrangements, also referred to as pack-to-vest connectors or connections, that cannot be separated, that is, that are not intended to be separated or at least not easily separated, for example linkages, such as cords or straps sewn to both the support vest 4 and the pack 2. Alternatively, the connectors are formed by permanent stitches connecting the support vest 4 directly to the pack 2.
In the example of
The connections in the illustrated embodiment comprise right 61 and left 62 upper loops, arranged symmetrically with respect to the axis X, substantially in the area of the junction between the neck and shoulders. Each upper loop 61, 62 is fixed in the area of the upper edge B233 the pack 2, on the one hand, and in the area of the upper end 4A of the support vest 4, on the other hand. The loops 61 and 62 are made from strap sections.
The connections also comprise right 63 and left 64 lower loops, arranged symmetrically with respect to the axis X, substantially in the area of the lateral lower portion of the back. Each lower loop 63, 64 is fixed in the area of a lateral edge B231, B232 of the pack 2, on the one hand, and in the area of a rear portion 431 and 432 of shoulder strap 41 or 42 or, in other words, a lower lateral rear portion of the support vest 4, on the other hand. The loops 63 and 64 are made from strap sections.
The first connections comprise two right 65 and left 66 intermediate loops, arranged between a lower loop 63, 64 and an upper loop 61, 62. Each intermediate loop 65, 66 is fixed in the area of a lateral edge B231, B232, in the median portion of the pack 2, on the one hand, and in the area of a rear portion 431 and 432 of a shoulder strap 41 or 42 or, in other words, a median lateral rear portion of the support vest 4, on the other hand. The loops 65 and 66 are made from strap sections.
According to one embodiment, a distance D1, measured vertically between an intermediate loop 65, 66 and a corresponding upper loop 61, 62, is greater than 10 cm. Alternatively, the distance D1 is greater than 15% of the total height H23 of the front wall 23. Similarly, a distance D2, measured vertically between an intermediate loop 65, 66 and a corresponding lower loop 63, 64, is greater than 10 cm. Alternatively, the distance D2 is greater than 15% of the total height H23 of the front wall 23.
Alternatively, the backpack can comprise more intermediate loops. In this case, the distance D measured vertically between two vertically adjacent loops is greater than 10 cm. Alternatively, this distance D is greater than 15% of the total height H23 of the front wall 23. In this example, the height H23 is substantially equal to 40 cm.
The fastening of the pack 2 on the support vest 4, at isolated points 61-66 on the periphery of the front wall 23 of the pack 2, makes it possible to provide a space between the rear portion 43 of the carrying device 4 and the pack 22, and thereby promote air circulation and limit moisture due to perspiration.
There are no other connections between two loops or fastening points 61-66. The absence of connections creates openings or passages allowing air to flow between the rear portion 43 of the support vest 4 and the front wall 23 of the pack 2. This improves the ventilation of the back of the user.
In our example, an upper passage P1, between the pack 2 and the support vest 4, is provided between the upper connections 61 and 62, or fasteners, and the intermediate connections 65 and 66 or fasteners. A lower passage P2 is provided between the lower connections 63 and 64, or fasteners, and the intermediate connections 65 and 66 or fasteners. The passages P1 and P2 are free; they do not comprise connections between the pack 2 and the support vest 4.
Due to the absence of other connections, the relative movements between the support vest 4 and the pack 2 are preserved between the fastening points 61-66, thereby promoting freedom of movement for the user. The passages P1 and P2 therefore also have as a function to allow the vertical M1 and/or lateral M2 relative movements between the pack 2 and the support vest 4.
In other words, a lateral edge B231, B232 of the front wall 43 is discontinuously connected to the support vest 4 so as to form at least one lateral zone P1, P2 with no connection between the lateral edge and the support vest over a minimal free height D.
A covering zone Zr corresponding to an overlap zone is defined between the front wall 23 of the pack 2 and the rear portion 43 of the support vest 4. By definition, the connections 61-66 are located outside of the overlap zone Zr. In the example of
This construction therefore allows for vertical M1 and/or horizontal M2 relative movements between the pack 2 and the support vest 4, in the overlap zone Zr, in one direction and in the opposite direction, that is, to the right and left for the horizontal movement M2, and up and down for the vertical movement M1. Both movements are possible, that is, movements both horizontally and vertically. These relative movements M1 and/or M2 are the result of the spacing between the connections or fasteners 61-66. Other factors facilitate these relative movements, such as the length of the loops 61-66, the stitches between the pack 2 and the support vest 4, or the softness of the front wall 23 and of the rear portion 43 of the support vest.
The lower and intermediate connections 63-66 are optional. In a variant, the pack 2 is only fastened to the support vest 4 by the upper connections 61 and 62.
Other types of connections or fasteners 61-66 are within the scope of the invention. For example, direct stitching between the walls, a simple piece of strap, or a cord can be employed.
In this embodiment, the backpack 1 is equipped with a lower compression system, which enables the load contained in the pack 2 to be pressed against the back of the user 10. This system includes right 9A and left 9B lower tightening arrangements, including right 91 and left 92 keepers affixed to the pack 2. The keepers form a passage sheath for a right 93 or left 94 linkage, for example a cord, a lace, or a strap. In the example shown in the drawing figures, the keepers 91, 92 are located in areas of the junctures between the lateral walls 25 and 26 and the lower portions of the rear wall 24 of the pack 2. The keepers 91, 92 are thus connected to the rear wall 24 of the pack 2. Here, the keepers 91 and 92 are arcuate sheaths, whose center of radius of curvature is at the front of the outer wall 24 and above the lower end 21 of the pack. The keepers 91, 92 have a length L91, L92 greater than 10 cm in an exemplary embodiment. Each keeper includes an upper end 911, 921 and a lower end 912, 922.
In an alternative embodiment, the keepers 91, 92 are connected to a rear wall of the pack 2 which is not an outer wall, that is, a wall that is included in the volume of the pack 2, for example an inner intermediate wall separating the volume of the pack 2 into compartments. It may also be a pocket appended to the rear wall. This rear wall is located rearward or at the rear in relation to the front wall 23.
The linkages 93, 94 are each fastened to the front portion 411, 412 of the corresponding shoulder strap 41, 42, in the lower portion, by first lower adjusters comprising right 95 and left 96 hooks, affixed to the linkages, cooperating with second lower adjusters, for example right 97 and left 98 loops, affixed to the shoulder strap 41, 42. A plurality of loops 97, 98 can be distributed along the shoulder straps 41, 42, under the armpits, at different heights, to enable the user to select the fastening height of the linkages 93, 94 on the support vest 4. The second lower adjusters 97, 98 are located laterally in the areas of the sides of the user 10, or on the front portions 411, 412 of the shoulder straps 41, 42. Thus, the position for fastening the hooks 95, 96 to the shoulder strap 41, 42 is adjustable in height, in order to adapt to the size and the morphology of the user 10. This also makes it possible to adapt the tightening as a function of the load being carried. If the load is small, the first adjusters 95, 96 can be raised in order for the load to be pressed higher. Repositioning the load upward improves the balance of the backpack. The center of gravity is better positioned during movements of the user. If the load is heavier, the hooks 95, 96 can be lowered to increase the carrying volume. The load is then supported in a zone closer to the lumbar.
Each hook 95, 96 is affixed to a linkage 93, 94. Each first lower adjuster then comprises a blocker for receiving an end of a corresponding linkage 93, 94.
In this example, the linkage 93, 94 passes a first time through the blocker 95, 96, and then connects the blocker to a lower end 912, 922 of the associated keeper 91, 92, thus forming the lower strand 932, 942; it is then inserted in the keeper, and then connects an upper end 911, 921 of the associated keeper to the blocker, thus forming the lower strand 931, 941; and it then passes a second time through the blocker. Thus, the two free ends of the linkage 93, 94 exit the blocker 95, 96. By pulling the two free ends of a linkage 93, 94, the strands 931, 932, 941, 942 are tensioned, thereby reducing the length of the strands 931, 932, 941, 942. Consequently, by acting on the two linkages 93, 94 in this manner, the lower portion of the rear wall 24, to which the keepers 91, 92 are fixed, is brought closer to the rear portion 43 of the support vest 4.
In other words, to press the load contained in the pack 2 against his/her back, the user fastens the hooks 95 and 96 on keepers 97 and 98, and then pulls on the free ends of the linkages 93 and 94 extending through the associated blocker 95, 96. This action has the effect of bringing the ends 911, 912, 921, 922 of the keepers 91 and 92 and the outer wall 24 of the pack 2 closer to the support vest 4, in the manner of lines acting on a paraglider canopy. By tensioning the linkages 93 and 94, the user 10 accentuates the curvature of the keepers 91, 92, which makes it possible to bring the load toward the center of the back and, here, to raise the load upward. The more the load is raised, the easier the movements of the user become, because the center of gravity is also raised. This first lower compression system contributes to the stability of the load.
Alternatively, the lower compression system is configured so that a single strand 931, 932, 941 or 942 of each linkage 93, 94 passes in each blocker 95, 96. In this case, a first end of the linkage 93, 94 is fixed to the front portion 411, 412 of the shoulder strap 41, 42 in a zone close to the second lower adjuster, and a second end of the linkage 93, 94 passes through the blocker 95, 96. Pulling on this second end causes tension on the strands 931, 932, 941 or 942, which results in a tightening of the load similar to that described above.
This compression system incorporating keepers 91, 92 is advantageous because it makes it possible to distribute the compressive force over the entire length of the keeper. The load is therefore more evenly compressed. In addition, the linkage can slide in the keeper, thereby enabling self-balancing of the tension in the linkage. The tension may be identical in the upper strand 941 and in the lower strand 942.
Alternatively, the lower compression system does not include keepers 91, 92. In this case, the ends of each linkage 93, 94 are directly fixed to the lateral edge of the rear wall 24, at the junction with a lateral wall 25, 26. To obtain the desired compression effect, the lower end of the linkage 93, 94 is attached to the lower portion of the rear wall 24, substantially at a level similar to the lower end 912, 922 of the keeper 91, 92. Similarly, the upper end of the linkage 93, 94 is attached to the upper portion of the rear wall 24, substantially at a level similar to the upper end 911, 921 of the keeper 91, 92. The distance between the two attachment points of the ends of the linkage along a lateral edge of the rear wall 24 can be greater than 10 cm. This alternative design has a compression that is slightly less balanced than the compression system described above. However, it enables a variable tension between the strands of the linkage; a tension differential can then be adjusted to adapt the tightening of the load.
Anchoring points can be defined for this lower compression system. Each anchoring point corresponds to a connection between a linkage 93, 94 and an element of the rear wall 24. Therefore, an anchoring point can be an end 911, 921, 912, 922 of a keeper 91, 92, as illustrated in the drawing figures. An anchoring point may also be an attachment point of a linkage on the edge of the rear wall 24, as described in the alternative solution. The distance between two anchoring points of the same linkage, along a lateral edge of the rear wall 24, can be greater than 10 cm. This distance corresponds to the linear distance between the two anchoring points when the rear wall 24 is flattened.
The lower compression system is included in a lower zone Zci characterized by a height Hci, extending upward from the lower end 21 of the pack 2. The height Hci can greater than 10 cm. Advantageously, the height Hci is greater than 15% of the total height H23 of the front wall 23. In this example, the height H23 is substantially equal to 40 cm.
The heights Hci and H23 are measured vertically, when the pack 2 is pressed against a vertical flat surface.
The lower keepers 91 and 92 extend over a minimal engagement height corresponding substantially to the height Hci of the lower zone Zci. The engagement height Hci is the height of the portion of the keepers 91 and 92 that is connected to the rear wall 24. In the example of the drawing figures, the entire height of the keepers 91 and 92 is connected to the rear wall 24.
The attachment of the lower end 21 of the pack 2 to the support vest may be provided only by the lower compression system. In this case, the backpack 1 does not comprise the lower loops 63 and 64.
In this embodiment, the backpack 1 is equipped with a second upper compression system that presses the load contained in the pack 2 against the back of the user 10. This optional second compression system has a construction similar to the first lower compression system.
This second system includes right 8A and left 8B upper tightening arrangements, including right 81 and left 82 keepers affixed to the pack 2. The keepers form a passage sleeve or sheath for a right 83 or left 84 linkage, for example a cord, a lace, or a strap. In the example shown in the drawing figures, the keepers 81 and 82 are located in the area of the junctures between the lateral walls 25 and 26 and the upper portion of the outer wall 24 of the pack 2. The keepers 81 and 82 are thus connected to the outer wall 24 of the pack 2. Here, the keepers 81 and 82 are arcuate sheaths, whose center of radius of curvature is at the front of the outer wall 24 and below the upper end 21 of the pocket. The keepers 81, 82 can have a length L81, L82 greater than 15 cm. Each keeper comprises an upper end 811, 821 and a lower end 812, 822.
In an alternative embodiment, the keepers 81 and 82 are connected to a rear wall of the pack 2 which is not an outer wall.
The linkages 83 and 84 are each fastened on the front portion 411 or 412 of the corresponding shoulder strap 41 or 42, at the upper portion, by the first upper adjuster comprising right 85 and left 86 blockers, which cooperate with second upper adjusters, for example right 87 and left 88 keepers retaining the blockers 85 and 86. In this example, the keepers 87 and 88 form a strip sewn transversely onto the front portion 411 or 412 of the shoulder straps 41 and 42. The first adjusters 85 and 86 can be blockers, as illustrated in the drawing figures, a push-button, or any other adjuster for varying the length of the linkages 83, 84 between the first adjuster and the rear wall 24.
First and second upper adjusters 85-88 are arranged on each of the shoulder straps 41, 42, respectively, in the area of the shoulder of the user 10 or, alternatively, on the front portion 411, 412 of the shoulder strap 41, 42.
In this example, the linkage 83, 84 passes a first time through the blocker 85, 86, and then connects the blocker to the lower end of the associated keeper 81, 82, thus forming the lower strand 832, 842; it is then inserted into the keeper, and then connects the upper end of the associated keeper to the blocker, thus forming the upper strand 831, 841, and then passes a second time through the blocker. Thus, the two free ends of the linkage 83, 84 exit the blocker 85, 86. Here, the two free ends are connected by a knot. By pulling the two free ends of a linkage 83, 84 the blocker 85, 86 is spaced from the keepers 81, 82, and the strands 831, 832, 841, 842 are tensioned simultaneously. To maintain this tension, it then suffices to move the blocker 85, 86 toward the corresponding keeper 81, 82. This tension also reduces the length of the strands 831, 832, 841, 842. Consequently, by acting on the two linkages 83, 84 in this manner, the upper portion of the rear wall 24, to which the keepers 81, 82 are fixed, is brought closer to the rear portion 43 of the support vest 4.
In other words, to press the load contained in the pack 2 against his/her back, the user pulls on the ends of the linkages 83, 84 and then raises the blockers 85, 86 toward the keepers 8788. This action has the effect of bringing the ends 811, 812, 821, 822 of the keepers 81, 82, and therefore the outer wall 24 of the pack 2, towards to the support vest 4, in the manner of lines acting on a paraglider canopy. By tensioning the linkages 83 and 84, the user 10 increases the curvature of the keepers 81 and 82, which makes it possible to bring the load towards the center of the back. Here, this makes it possible to reduce the upper volume extending upwardly. This reduction is important in balancing the load because it limits the tossing of the upper portion of the pocket, which is a source of imbalance. This second upper compression system also contributes to the stability of the load.
Alternatively, the upper compression system is configured so that a single strand 831, 832, 841 or 842 of each linkage 83, 84 passes in each blocker 85, 86. In this case, a first end of the linkage 83, 84 is attached to the front portion 411, 412 of the shoulder strap 41, 42, in a zone close to the second upper adjuster, and a second end of the linkage 83, 84 passes through the blocker 85, 86. Pulling on this second end and raising the blocker 85, 86 towards the keeper 81, 82 causes tension on the strands 831, 832, 841 or 842, resulting in a tightening of the load similar to that described above.
This compression system incorporating keepers 81, 82 is advantageous because it makes it possible to distribute the compressive force over the entire length of the keeper. The load is therefore more evenly compressed. In addition, the linkage can slide in the keeper, which enables self-balancing of the tension in the linkage. The tension may be identical in the upper strand 841 and in the lower strand 842.
As for the lower compression system, the upper compression system may not have keepers 81, 82, in which case the ends of the linkages are attached directly to a lateral edge of the rear wall 24.
Anchoring points can be defined for this upper compression system. Each anchoring point corresponds to a connection between a linkage 83, 84 and an element of the rear wall 24. An anchoring point may therefore be an end 811, 821, 812, 822 of a keeper 81, 82, as illustrated in the drawing figures. An anchoring point may also be the attachment point of a linkage on the edge of the rear wall 24, as described in the alternative solution. The distance between two anchoring points of the same linkage, along a lateral edge of the rear wall 24, can be greater than 10 cm. This distance corresponds to the linear distance between two anchoring points when the rear wall 24 is flattened.
The upper compression system is included in an upper zone Zcs characterized by a height Hcs, extending downward from the upper end 22 of the pack 2. The height Hcs can be greater than 10 cm. Advantageously, the height Hcs is greater than 15% of the total height H23 of the front wall 23. In this example, the height H23 is substantially equal to 40 cm.
The heights Hcs and H23 are measured vertically, when the pack 2 is pressed against a vertical flat surface.
The upper keepers 81 and 82 extend over a minimal engagement height corresponding substantially to the height Hcs of the upper zone Zcs. The engagement height Hcs is the height of the portion of the keepers 81 and 82 which is connected to the rear wall 24. In the example of the figures of drawings, the entire height of the keepers 81 and 82 is connected to the rear wall 24.
Each comfort element 40A and 40B comprises a right 45A or left 45B distributing plate arranged below the linkages 83 and 84. This is for example a rectangular plate having cutouts 45 oriented along an axis transverse to the shoulder straps 41 and 42, a direction substantially parallel to the axis Y, to form a zigzagging coil. Thus, the distributing plate 45A, 45B here is made of carbon and has substantial flexional flexibility about a direction transverse to the shoulder strap. Other forms of cutouts can be considered to provide this flexibility. Each distributing plate 45A and 45B can then be deformed to adapt to the morphology and movements of the shoulder of the user 10. This construction of the plate provides a flexural rigidity about a longitudinal direction of the shoulder strap. This allows for better distribution of the pressure generated by the tension of the linkages 83, 84. The user is protected from the pressure and friction from the linkages 83 and 84 against the shoulder. Furthermore, due to its cutouts, the distributing plate allows for better ventilation in the area of the supports on the shoulders.
The distributing plates 45A and 45B are arranged above the right 47A or left 47B damping plates made, for example, of foam. The distributing plates 45A and 45B are more rigid than the damping plates 47A and 47B, that is, their bending strength is greater.
In an alternative embodiment, a distributing plate 45A, 45B and a damping plate 47A, 47B are housed in a envelope attached to the shoulder strap. This envelope is provided with slits to allow passage of the linkages 83, 84. This envelope makes it possible to create a unitary, easily interchangeable comfort element 40A, 40B. The dimensions and damping characteristics of the comfort element can thus be modified as a function of the user.
The comfort elements 40A, 40B are not specific to this backpack design and are also applicable to other, more conventional types of backpacks. These comfort elements thus provide an additional benefit to more traditional backpacks.
The plates 45A and 45B are protected and retained by a right panel 461 and a left panel 462 made of fabric, which comprises openings for passage of the linkages 83 and 84. A portion of the linkages 83 and 84 passes between the distributing plate 45A or 45B and the panel 461 or 462.
According to one embodiment, the backpack includes other comfort elements, positioned between each first upper adjuster and the associated shoulder strap 41, 42. An additional comfort element is thus interposed between a blocker 85, 86 and a shoulder strap 41, 42. Advantageously, the additional comfort element has a structure similar to that of the comfort elements 40A, 40B described above. These additional comfort elements make it possible to improve the wearing comfort, in particular by reducing the contact pressure exerted on the torso, in the area of the first adjuster. This advantage is even more pronounced when the shoulder strap is made of a soft material.
The lower and upper compression systems make it possible to improve the stability of the backpack 1 and, therefore, the balance of the user. The user can adjust the position of the load in the pack 2 and re-center it on the portion of the back located between the shoulder blades and the upper lumbar. Thus, it enables the load to be pressed against a portion of the back adapted to support the load. This rear portion includes the ribs covered with muscles such as a portion of the trapezius muscle and latissimus dorsi muscle, to avoid pressure on the lumbar zone. In traditional large-volume backpacks, greater than 40 liters, support in the area of the lower back is preferred. This support is suitable for walking or hiking when carrying heavy loads. The invention is more suited for backpacks designed to carry lighter loads, less than 35 liters, and more particularly for quick displacements such as mountain running, for example. Pressing the load in the previously defined zone improves the user's freedom of movement and performance during displacements. The lower compression system has the effect of raising the center of gravity of the backpack 1. The upper compression system has the effect of reducing the volume extending upward to reduce the unbalance effect. The compression systems act independently of one another. Each compression system helps to improve the stability of the backpack, especially for low- or medium-volume backpacks, up to 35 liters.
The lower and upper compression systems are not specific to this backpack design and are also applicable to other, more conventional types of backpacks. The lower compression system and/or upper compression system thus provide an additional benefit to more traditional backpacks.
In this example, the backpack 1 is equipped with two lateral systems of compression of the pack 2, each system being arranged on one side of the pack. Each system comprises a linkage 51, 55, for example a cord, a string, or a strap, which passes through keepers 52, 53, 56, 57. First keepers 53, 57 are positioned in the area of the junction between a lateral wall 25, 26 and the rear wall 24. Second keepers 52, 56 are positioned in the area of the junction between a lateral wall 25, 26 and the front wall 27. The first and second keepers associated with a lateral wall are arranged so that the linkage 51, 55 engaged in these lateral keepers defines a zigzagging path. A first end of a linkage 51, 55 is attached to the keeper closest to the upper end 22 of the pack. A second end of a linkage 51, 55 is attached to the keeper closest to the lower end 21 of the pack. In the central portion of the lateral wall 25, 26, the system comprises a linkage tightener. In the example illustrated, the tightener comprises a blocker 54, 58 through which a linkage 51, 55 passes, the blocker being interposed between two first keepers. Each linkage 51, 55 passes twice in the associated blocker 54, 58 so as to form a free loop on one side of the blocker. Thus, when the free loop is pulled and the blocker is displaced to increase the length of the free loop, a tension is generated in the linkage 51, 55. The distance between the first and second keepers decreases, which results in a compression of the load, thereby reducing the inner volume of the pack. The tightener, or tightening device, in particular the blocker, serves to maintain the linkage 51 or 55 in tension.
The lateral system of compression of the pack 2 makes it possible to avoid movements of the load within the pack 2 and does not interfere with the opening 241 of the pack 2.
In the example of the backpack 1 of
According to an alternative embodiment, the backpack 1 comprises a removable comfort wall 3, provided to be interposed between the pack 2 and the support vest 4. This comfort wall 3 is optional. The comfort wall 3 comes into contact with the front wall 23 of the pack 2 and the rear portion 43 of the support vest 4. For example, the comfort wall 3 is formed by a foam board, provided with vent holes 32 to facilitate ventilation of the pack. In this example, the comfort wall is a foam made of ethylene-vinyl acetate (EVA). Optionally, the foam board is enveloped by a cover made of fabric or mesh. The comfort wall 3 can be attached to the pack 2 or the support vest 4, for example by means of hooks or other structure. The comfort wall 3 improves comfort for the user 10 by providing an additional thickness between the back of the user 10 and the load carried in the backpack 1. The removable wall 3 can also serve as a pillow or a mat.
The location of the first connections 261-266 in the area of the front wall 23 of the pack 2 is similar to the location of the connections 61-66 described with reference to the front wall 23. The first connections 261-266 can be, or include, buckles or straps, for example.
The second connections include right 271 and left 272 upper hooks, attached in the area of the user's shoulders, in the upper portion of the rear portion 431 or 432 of the shoulder straps 41 or 42, respectively.
They also include right 273 and left 274 lower hooks, attached in the lower portion of the rear portion 431 or 432 of the shoulder straps 41 or 42, respectively.
They further include right 275 and left 276 intermediate hooks, attached on opposite sides of the rear portion 43 of the carrying device 4, in the median portion of the rear portion 431 or 432 of the shoulder straps 41 or 42. Alternatively, the invention encompasses the addition of intermediate hooks, also the addition of complementary buckles on the front wall 23 of the pocket.
The vertical distance D1, D2 between two first connections or between two second connections, vertically adjacent, is greater than 10 cm. The distance D1, D2 is greater than 15% of the total height H23 of the front wall 23.
In the example of
The support vest 4 can be equipped with load storage structures, such as elastic pouches or straps for storing foodstuffs in particular, or for receiving a water bladder, a bottle, or a flask. Thus, the backpack 1 can be used only with the support vest 4, without the pack 2, when the user has a small number or items or a small amount of material to carry. The support vest 4 can also be equipped with loops or buckles connected to the lower portion of a shoulder strap to engage snap-hooks.
When using the backpack 1, the user can initially position the pack 2 on the support vest 4 so as to carry a garment or sports equipment, for example. Then, when the user 10 moves to a more sustained sporting activity, for example running or climbing, he/she separates the pack 2 from the support vest 4 to keep only the support vest 4 on his/her back. Thus, the user can benefit from a lightweight and soft backpack to carry loads of basic necessities, such as a water bladder, or energy bars or gels.
In the invention, the elements referred to as “soft”, including the pack 2, the support vest 4, and the wall 3, are designed to be deformable so as to adapt the element to the morphology of the back of the user 10, whether the user is stationary or moving. Thus, a soft element bends when the user 10 undertakes a lateral torsion of the torso to the right or left, or when leaning forward or backward. The soft element adapts to the movements and morphology of the back of the user, that is, it follows the curvature of the spine and remains substantially pressed against the back of the user 10 during his movements.
The vertical relative movement M1 between the pack 2 and the support vest 4 allows forward or backward bending of the chest of the user. The horizontal relative movement M2 allows torsion of the torso, that is, the rotation around the waist. During sporting activity, the user is frequently required to perform in a combination of these two movements.
The flexibility of the front wall 23 of the pack 2 and the rear portion 43 of the support vest 4 prevents rigidity when carrying the backpack, which penalizes comfort and freedom of movement. A number of backpacks of the prior art comprise a rigid back required for the strength of the backpack, to keep it from collapsing. A rigid backpack has the disadvantage of not being able to follow the movements and deformations of the back of the user, and for not being able to adapt to its morphology. The comfort and freedom of movement are penalized.
The softness of the backpack 1 or 201 of the invention does not cause undesired movements of the backpack in relation to the back of the user 10, due to the compression systems, particularly the lower system. Good stability is thus achieved only with the lower compression system. The invention provides a good compromise between the possibility of freedom of movement for the user 10, due to the softness of the pocket, and good retention of the backpack 1 or 201 against the back of the user, due to the compression systems 8A, 8B, 9A, and 9B.
The invention is not limited to these embodiments. In the context of the invention, different alternatives can be combined with one another, at least partially.
The invention also extends to all of the embodiments covered by the appended claims.
Further, at least because the invention is disclosed herein in a manner that enables one to make and use it, by virtue of the disclosure of particular exemplary embodiments, such as for simplicity or efficiency, for example, the invention can be practiced in the absence of any additional element or additional structure that is not specifically disclosed herein.
| Number | Date | Country | Kind |
|---|---|---|---|
| 14/02976 | Dec 2014 | FR | national |
