Backpack frame system

摘要

The present invention involves the provision of a backpack frame assembly and associated load carrying devices. The backpack frame includes a plurality of stays having flexible joints therebetween. A membrane is secured to certain of the stays and helps resist flexing of joints between adjacent stay end portions. Load carrying devices may be provided and are releasably mounted to the frame assembly. The distance between the assembly's shoulder straps and hip belt can be adjusted to accommodate user's having different torso lengths by using an adjuster sheet to separate hook and look members attaching a shoulder strap assembly to a frame assembly. The adjuster sheet can operate as a support element when not operating as an adjuster. The adjuster sheet can be constructed of a laminated composite material and include reinforcing ribs formed therein.

主权项

1. A backpack comprising:
a frame assembly including a front side, a back side, and a hip belt secured to a lower portion thereof; a shoulder strap assembly including shoulder straps and a yoke, said yoke having a front side and a back side, said shoulder strap assembly being selectively movable longitudinally relative to the frame assembly; a hook and loop fastener having a hook member and a loop member, one of said hook member and loop member being attached to the front side of said frame assembly and the other of said hook member and loop member being attached the back side of said yoke; an adjustment sheet configured to be selectively insertable between said hook member and loop member to effect separation thereof and to permit said shoulder straps to move longitudinally relative to said hip belt, wherein said adjustment sheet includes a T-shaped support structure comprising an elongated horizontally-oriented support member proximate a top of said adjustment sheet and elongated vertically-oriented support member proximate a center of said adjustment sheet, and wherein a bottom end of said adjustment sheet is free of reinforcing members such that said adjustment sheet may be inserted between said hook and loop members to interrupt a connection therebetween.