Topic: New backpack design

[Nemesis]

Link to full article

A backpack that reduces the forces on your body when carrying heavy loads could help prevent injury, allow soldiers to carry more equipment and even speed up the response time of emergency services, its designer claims.

When people walk, they tend to raise and lower their bodies by between 5 centimetres and 7 cm with each step. If they are carrying a backpack, the extra load must also be raised by the same amount and this puts extra strain on the body.

“By suspending the load, you knock out 86% of this extra force, making it comfortable to run with a heavy load,” says Rome, who has published his results in the journal Nature. The principle is similar to that used by traditional Asian merchants who carry their wares using flexible bamboo poles.

Others agree that the work will have a significant benefit. Rodger Kram, a specialist in body movement at the University of Colorado in Boulder, US, says: “The biggest advantage will be for people who need to run with heavy loads, such as marines and fire fighters. It can be much more comfortable and less injurious. I would buy one.”

[jualdeaux]

I am wondering if somehow using hydrolic principles in the vertical rods instead of rubber bungees would be even better for something like this.

[Commander Maxillius]

Probably, but a hydraulic system would add too much weight, thus negating any advantage over the stock backpack.

It looks like it's waaay to bulky for everyday use though.

[Nemesis]

Remember that is a prototype and can probably be improved upon for a production model.

[Nemesis]

Link to site

They have production models.

[Tus-XC]

i want for my next hikin pack lol... mainly cause it can charge my devices lol

[TarMinyatur]

Neat backpack. I'd try one out. But I'm guessing they aren't $80.

[Brush Wolf]

Neat backpack. I'd try one out. But I'm guessing they aren't $80.

I doubt they are even $180.