FRAMELESS BACKPACK WITH ELONGATE SUPPORT MEMBER

Description

FIELD

The described embodiments relate generally to a frameless backpack.

BACKGROUND

Backpacks are commonly carried by users to transport objects. Some backpacks (e.g., full suspension packs) can include hip belts to help carry the payload. To do so, such backpacks typically implement frames that can disperse a load across the user's back and/or help transfer weight from the shoulders to the hips of the user. Frames, despite their variety, can limit air ventilation to the user's back and lend to increased temperatures and (in turn) user perspiration at the back region.

Other existing backpacks, including existing frameless backpacks, are not well equipped for user comfort. In most cases, the backpack is suspended from the user's shoulders, which almost exclusively bear the weight of the backpack (and its contents). Some frameless backpacks can implement a hip belt (or other torso-type connection), but without a frame, these backpacks are limited in their effectiveness of shifting weight off the user's shoulders.

In a particular example of frameless backpacks, some vests (e.g., upland game vests) are equipped with a pouch for placing harvested game. The pouch—or bird bag—is typically positioned on the backside of the vest in the mid-back to lower-back region. The shoulders of a user, therefore, carry the weight of the game positioned in the vest pouch. Even for vests with hip belts, these vests (like other frameless backpacks) fail to adequately offload weight from a user's shoulders because they ineffectively transfer load bearing from the shoulders to the hips of the user. Accordingly, vests (particularly upland game vests filled with harvested game) can become tiresome and uncomfortable to wear over extended durations and/or extended distances of travel. Certain vests which include bird boxes (or pouches) can also be difficult to store and/or uncomfortable to wear (especially when laying backwards in a layout blind) due to bulkiness of size and/or rigidity of the bird box.

The subject matter claimed herein is not limited to embodiments that solve any disadvantages or that operate only in environments such as those described above. Rather, this background is only provided to illustrate one example technology area where some embodiments described herein may be practiced.

SUMMARY

An aspect of the present disclosure relates to a frameless backpack. The frameless backpack can include a shoulder strap and bag walls defining an at least partially enclosed volume. The back walls can include a back wall including: an upper wall portion connectable to the shoulder strap; a lower wall portion opposite the upper wall portion; and a central wall portion positioned between the upper wall portion and the lower wall portion, the central wall portion including at least one of a breathable fabric or an air vent. The frameless backpack can additionally include: a waist connector coupled to one or more of the bag walls; and a support member including a first point of attachment to the back wall at the upper wall portion and a second point of attachment to the back wall at the lower wall portion, the support member being unattached to the back wall along the central wall portion between the first point of attachment and the second point of attachment.

In some examples, the support member is removable. In one or more examples, the support member includes a first support member and a second support member adjacent to the first support member. In particular examples, at least a portion of the support member is positioned inside the at least partially enclosed volume. In at least one example, the back wall includes a user-facing side configured to be positioned against a user, and the support member is positioned on a side of the back wall opposite the user-facing side. In certain examples, the breathable fabric includes a mesh fabric. In some examples, the at least partially enclosed volume includes a game bag configured to receive a payload, such as harvested game.

Another aspect of the present disclosure relates to a frameless backpack that includes: a shoulder strap; a bag portion connectable to the shoulder strap and including a back wall; a waist connector coupled to the bag portion adjacent to at least a lower back wall portion of the back wall; and an elongate support positionable along the back wall and extending centrally between the lower back wall portion and an upper back wall portion opposite the lower back wall portion.

In some examples, the elongate support includes a first elongate support member stacked against a second elongate support member. In one or more examples, the first elongate support member includes a first set of material properties, and the second elongate support member includes a second set of material properties that differ from the first set of material properties. In certain examples, the first elongate support member is more rigid than the second elongate support member. In specific implementations, at least one of the first elongate support member or the second elongate support member is removable from the back wall. In at least one example, the elongate support is configured to be load bearing. In some examples, at least part of the back wall includes a mesh fabric unattached to the elongate support.

Yet another aspect of the present disclosure relates to a frameless backpack that includes a game bag including: a back wall including a shoulder strap connection area and an elongate sheath, the elongate sheath extending vertically along the back wall; movable swing arms connected to the back wall, wherein the game bag includes a collapsed configuration when the movable swing arms are collapsed and a deployed configuration when the movable swing arms are deployed; a waist connector coupled to the game bag adjacent to a bottom portion of the back wall opposite the shoulder strap connection area; a pair of shoulder straps removably connected to the shoulder strap connection area; and a support member positioned inside the elongate sheath.

In some examples, the pair of shoulder straps includes an attachment interface including a friction engagement surface, the shoulder strap connection area being positionable in intimate contact with the friction engagement surface to join the pair of shoulder straps and the back wall. In certain examples, the pair of shoulder straps includes an attachment interface including dual friction engagement surfaces, the shoulder strap connection area being positionable between the dual friction engagement surfaces to join the pair of shoulder straps and the back wall. In at least one example, the waist connector includes respective tracks along which each shoulder strap of the pair of shoulder straps is configured to move. In particular examples, each shoulder strap of the pair of shoulder straps is configured to slide forwards and backwards along the tracks to adjust an angle between the shoulder strap and the waist connector. In one example, the sheath defines an opening and the support member is insertable into and removable from the sheath through the opening.

The subject matter claimed herein is not limited to the examples of embodiments recited above. Rather, this summary is only provided to provide an overview of various potential embodiments of this disclosure.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

The disclosure will be readily understood by the following detailed description in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, wherein like reference numerals designate like structural elements, and in which:

FIG. 1 illustrates a schematic side view of a frameless backpack in accordance with one or more examples of the present disclosure;

FIG. 2 illustrates a partial schematic side view of a frameless backpack in accordance with one or more examples of the present disclosure;

FIG. 3 illustrates a schematic plan view of an example of a back wall in accordance with one or more examples of the present disclosure;

FIG. 4 illustrates a schematic plan view of another example of a back wall in accordance with one or more examples of the present disclosure;

FIG. 5 illustrates a schematic plan view of yet another example of a back wall in accordance with one or more examples of the present disclosure;

FIG. 6 illustrates a plan view of an example of the back wall in accordance with one or more examples of the present disclosure;

FIG. 7 illustrates an exploded view of an example support member and associated sheath in accordance with one or more examples of the present disclosure;

FIG. 8 illustrates a top-front perspective view of a frameless backpack in accordance with one or more examples of the present disclosure;

FIG. 9 illustrates a partial side view of a frameless backpack in accordance with one or more examples of the present disclosure;

FIG. 10A illustrates a side perspective view of movable swing arms in a first configuration in accordance with one or more examples of the present disclosure;

FIG. 10B illustrates a side perspective view of movable swing arms in a second configuration in accordance with one or more examples of the present disclosure;

FIG. 11 illustrates a partial side view of a frameless backpack in accordance with one or more examples of the present disclosure;

FIG. 12A illustrates a first example implementation of a shoulder strap connected to a track in accordance with one or more examples of the present disclosure; and

FIG. 12B illustrates a second example implementation of a shoulder strap connected to a track in accordance with one or more examples of the present disclosure.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

Reference will now be made in detail to representative embodiments illustrated in the accompanying drawings. It should be understood that the following descriptions are not intended to limit the embodiments to one preferred embodiment. To the contrary, it is intended to cover alternatives, modifications, and equivalents as can be included within the spirit and scope of the described embodiments as defined by the appended claims.

The following disclosure relates to a frameless backpack comprising a support element, such as an elongate support element connecting an upper portion and a lower portion of the backpack. For example, the elongate support element can extend from the shoulder region to the hip region of the frameless backpack. The elongate support element can help distribute a payload from being born by the user's shoulders to at least partially being carried by a user's hips. The elongate support element can also be unattached to the back wall of the frameless backpack at a midsection, allowing the midsection of the frameless backpack to have an airy, breathable material (and/or a vented material). In some examples, the elongate support element can be removable from the back wall, interchangeable, or combinable with one or more additional elongate support elements. The elongate support element can thus be highly configurable while also allowing at least a portion of the back wall to be more breathable and lightweight.

The present disclosure also discusses how a bag portion is adjustable between a collapsed configuration and a deployed configuration. For example, a frameless backpack as discussed herein can include arms (e.g., hinged mouth stiffeners) that, when deployed, cause the bag portion to expand and the front and back walls of the bag portion to space apart. The arms, in some examples, can at least partially support an upper perimeter of the bag portion (e.g., to more easily maintain the mouth opening into the interior volume of the bag portion in an open configuration). Then, when collapsed (or alternatively, removed), the bag portion can be compacted, collapsed, or flattened.

The present disclosure further discusses an adjustable shoulder strap attachment. The adjustable shoulder strap attachment can be raised and lowered to a desired height for positioning shoulder straps of the frameless backpack. In some examples, the adjustable shoulder strap attachment can include a clam-shell attachment interface (e.g., in which dual engagement surfaces can engage corresponding surfaces of the back wall of the frameless backpack). For example, the adjustable shoulder strap attachment can sandwich the upper portion of the back wall at a desired position.

The present disclosure also discusses a movable connector that tethers a shoulder strap to the waist connector (or hip belt) of the frameless backpack. The movable connector allows for flexibility in how the frameless backpack is worn on the user. Specifically, the movable connector can move along a track interface positioned on the waist connector to adjust an angle of the shoulder straps relative to the waist connector. In this manner, the user can conveniently adjust where the shoulder straps lay across the torso and/or how (e.g., at what angle) the waist connector rides the waist area.

These and other embodiments are discussed below with reference to FIG. 1-12B. However, those skilled in the art, having the benefit of this disclosure, will readily appreciate that the detailed description given herein with respect to these figures is for explanatory purposes only and should not be construed as limiting. Furthermore, as used herein, a system, a method, an article, a component, a feature, or a sub-feature including at least one of a first option, a second option, or a third option should be understood as referring to a system, a method, an article, a component, a feature, or a sub-feature that can include one of each listed option (e.g., only one of the first option, only one of the second option, or only one of the third option), multiple of a single listed option (e.g., two or more of the first option), two options simultaneously (e.g., one of the first option and one of the second option), or combination thereof (e.g., two of the first option and one of the second option).

FIG. 1 illustrates a schematic side view of a frameless backpack 100 in accordance with one or more examples of the present disclosure. As used herein, the term “frameless backpack” can refer to a bag, pack, pouch, sling, or vest made for carrying objects supported by a user's body (e.g., upper body). Frameless backpacks in particular can be devoid of a rigid frame, skeleton, backing, panel, or shell having a fixed (or substantially immovable) shape. Frameless backpacks, instead, can include a user-facing back wall (abuttable against a user's back) that is at least partially pliant, bendable, flexible, shape-conforming, elastic, etc. Foams, fabrics, and other soft goods can be integrated with frameless backpacks.

In one or more examples, the frameless backpack 100 can include a bag portion 102 having an interior volume 104. In some examples, the interior volume 104 is partially enclosed (e.g., partially covered, semi-open, exposed in part to the ambient external environment, etc.). In other examples, the interior volume 104 can be fully enclosed (e.g., sealed, closed, zipped, folded shut, tied, etc.). The bag portion 102 can include a variety of shapes and sizes. In certain examples, the bag portion 102 can include a game bag configured to receive harvested game, such as wild fowl (e.g., ducks, geese, swans, pheasant, grouse, quail, chukar, etc.). For example, the interior volume 104 of the bag portion 102 can be sized and shaped to receive and temporarily store the carcass of the harvested game once retrieved, allowing the user to carry the harvested game in a hands-free manner. Additionally or alternatively, the bag portion 102 can carry other objects such as gear, decoys, clothing, water, food, weapons, ammunition, supplies, and/or accessory devices. In these or other examples, the bag portion 102 can include various compartments, pouches, pockets, etc. for carrying a variety of animate and/or inanimate objects.

The interior volume 104 can be defined by one or more bag walls of the bag portion 102. For example, the interior volume 104 can be defined, at least in part, by a back wall 106 and a front wall 108 opposite the back wall 106. The back wall 106 can be positionable against a user's back, and the front wall 108 can be positioned away from a user's back (or at least relatively farther from a user's back than the back wall 106). In these or other examples, the back wall 106 and the front wall 108 can (in combination) form a deployed configuration 110 of the bag portion 102 in which the front wall 108 and the back wall 106 are separated from one another (i.e., drawn apart from each other, expanded, forming a predetermined shape, creating a bag opening or access into the interior volume 104, etc.) along direction 114. The back wall 106 and the front wall 108 can also form a collapsed configuration 112 of the bag portion 102 in which the front wall 108 and the back wall 106 are collapsed toward each other along the direction 114 (e.g., sandwiched together, flattened, compressed, contracted inward, etc.). Thus, in some embodiments, the bag portion 102 can advantageously change between the deployed configuration 110 and the collapsed configuration 112, as will be discussed further below. For instance, in the deployed configuration 110, the interior volume 104 can be readily used (e.g., harvested game placed therein). Conversely, in the collapsed configuration 112, the frameless backpack 100 can be more easily stored, transported, and/or comfortably laid on (or leaned against) in comparison to the frameless backpack 100 when in the deployed configuration 110.

In one or more examples, the back wall 106 can include various portions. For instance, the back wall 106 can include an upper wall portion 116 connectable to shoulder straps 126 at a shoulder strap connection 124. The back wall 106 can also include a lower wall portion 118 opposite the upper wall portion 116. The back wall 106 can additionally include a central wall portion 120 positioned between the upper wall portion 116 and the lower wall portion 118. The specific portions of the back wall 106 are discussed in further detail below in relation to subsequent figures, particularly in relation to a support member.

The frameless backpack 100 can include a support member 122 positionable along the back wall 106. As used herein, the terms “support member,” “elongate support member,” or “elongate support” can refer to an elongate loading element that extends between portions of the back wall 106. That is, in some examples, a support member can be load bearing—meaning that the support member can support a force load or otherwise help transfer weight from the shoulders of a user to the hips of the user. A support member can therefore improve user comfort when carrying a load using the frameless backpack 100.

A support member can include a stay element, stiffener, beam, shim, wing, wedge, elongated panel, bracket, beam, rod, pole, rail, bar, etc. A support member can include a variety of materials, material properties, shapes, and cross-sections (discussed further below in relation to FIG. 7. In some examples, a support member does not span an entire width of the back wall 106 (or even a majority of the back wall 106), unlike typical pack frames. Rather (and as seen in FIGS. 3-6 and 8), a support member can be relatively thin compared to the width of the back wall 106. For example, a support member can range from about 1% to about 45% of the width of the back wall 106, about 5% to about 40% of the width of the back wall 106, about 10% to about 30% of the width of the back wall 106, or about 15% to about 25% of the width of the back wall 106. In specific implementations, a support member ranges from about 0.25 inches to about 7 inches, about 0.5 inches to about 4 inches, about 0.75 inches to about 3 inches, or about 1 inch to about 2 inches in width.

The support member 122 can be relatively thin for a variety of reasons. In one example, the support member 122 can advantageously allow a variety of different materials to be implemented at the back wall 106. In another example, the support member 122 can increase a cooling effect by increasing air flow—including by passively allowing air flow—through the back wall 106 (front to back and vice-versa) and/or laterally (side to side and around the support member 122).

The support member 122 can include a variety of different configurations (positional and structural). In some examples, the support member 122 can span between the upper wall portion 116 and the lower wall portion 118 (e.g., to offload a load born via the shoulder straps 126 to the waist connector 130). Thus, in some embodiments, the support member 122 can extend at least partially into the interior volume 104 (e.g., adjacent to the waist connector 130) to mechanically bridge the upper wall portion 116 and the lower wall portion 118—thereby enabling weight offloading, but without covering the entire surface of the back wall 106. These and other examples of the support member 122 are discussed further below in relation to subsequent figures.

The frameless backpack 100 can include one or more shoulder straps 126 for carrying the frameless backpack 100. The shoulder straps 126 can connect to the bag portion 102 (e.g., via at least one of the back wall 106 or the front wall 108) at the shoulder strap connection 124. In some examples, the shoulder strap connection 124 can move up and down along directions 128 (e.g., to adjust the frameless backpack 100 for various heights or torso lengths of users).

In one or more examples, the frameless backpack 100 can include a waist connector 130 (e.g., a hip belt) coupled to one or more bag walls of the bag portion 102 (e.g., the lower wall portion 118 and/or a side wall adjacent to the lower wall portion 118) for securing the frameless backpack 100 against the hips or torso of a user. In one or more examples, the waist connector 130 can support a load transferred from the upper wall portion 116 via the support member 122 (e.g., for improved user comfort and/or efficiency of load carry) . The waist connector 130 can include a number of pouches, clips, accessory device holders, hydration holders, connectors, mounting features, etc. In particular examples, the waist connector 130 can include adjustable connections to the shoulder straps 126 that allow the shoulder straps 126 to move relative to the waist connector 130 in directions 132 along the waist connector 130.

Alternative embodiments of the frameless backpack 100 are herein contemplated. Indeed, the frameless backpack 100 as shown can be modified in a myriad number of different ways to suit a particular application (e.g., hunting versus hiking). For example, the frameless backpack 100 can include a variety of different configurations and structural arrangements than schematically depicted in FIG. 1. To illustrate, the shoulder straps 126 can attach directly to the front wall 108, instead of the back wall 106. As another example, a chest connector—not shown—can connect or otherwise tether the shoulder straps 126 in addition to or alternatively to the waist connector 130.

Any of the features, components, and/or parts, including the arrangements and configurations thereof shown in FIG. 1 can be included, either alone or in any combination, in any of the other examples of devices, features, components, and parts shown in the other figures described herein. Likewise, any of the features, components, and/or parts, including the arrangements and configurations thereof shown and described with reference to the other figures can be included, either alone or in any combination, in the example of the devices, features, components, and parts shown in FIG. 1.

FIG. 2 illustrates a partial schematic side view of the frameless backpack 100 in accordance with one or more examples of the present disclosure. As shown (and discussed above), the frameless backpack 100 can include the support member 122. A variety of positional and structural implementations for the support member 122 are contemplated. In some examples, the support member 122 can span between the upper wall portion 116 and the lower wall portion 118. In at least one example, however, the support member 122 is not positioned immediately adjacent to a user's back. Rather, the support member 122 can be positioned on a side of the back wall 106 opposite a user-facing side of the back wall 106 (which is configured to abut or be positioned adjacent to the user's back). Thus, in some embodiments, the back wall 106 is positioned between the support member 122 and a user. In other examples, the support member 122 is on the user-facing side of the back wall 106. For instance, the support member 122 can at least interface with, contact, and/or conform to a user's back.

In specific implementations, the support member 122 can include a first point of attachment 200 to the back wall 106 at the upper wall portion 116 and a second point of attachment 202 to the back wall 106 at the lower wall portion 118. At least these points of attachment can, for example, allow the support member 122 to efficiently offload weight carried by the user's shoulders (e.g., via shoulder straps not shown coupled to the upper wall portion 116) to the user's hips (e.g., via a waist connector not shown coupled to the lower wall portion 118).

In one or more examples, the support member 122 can be unattached to the back wall 106 along the central wall portion 120 between the first point of attachment 200 and the second point of attachment 202. In this configuration, the support member 122 is partially independent of the back wall 106. For instance, a middle portion of the support member 122 adjacent to the central wall portion 120 can be free to flex or otherwise move without the back wall 106. In some examples, this can allow the support member 122 to be loaded (not only to transfer weight to the user's hips, but to store a load in the support member 122 itself) between the first point of attachment 200 and the second point of attachment 202. For example, the support member 122 can (when under loading) bow or flex to resiliently carry a load. In some examples, the support member 122 can additionally or alternatively provide a reaction force (e.g., a normal force or contact force) at one or both of the first point of attachment 200 or the second point of attachment 202 that at least partially counters or offsets the payload of the frameless backpack 100 in the bag portion 102.

In some examples, the unattached mid-section of the support member 122 can allow a variety of material implementations and/or air vent configurations of the back wall 106 (as will be discussed in relation to subsequent figures). For example, at least part of the back wall 106 can include a breathable fabric where the back wall 106 is unattached to the support member 122. As used herein, the term “breathable fabric” refers to any fabric through which air can pass (e.g., unforced air). Examples of a breathable fabric can include mesh fabric, cotton, nylon, polyester, rayon, viscose, lycocell, chambray, linen, silk, merino wool, micromodal fabric, etc. Additionally or alternatively, at least part of the back wall 106 can include a moisture-wicking fabric where the back wall 106 is unattached to the support member 122. A moisture-wicking fabric can include any fabric configured to wick moisture (e.g., sweat from a user) and readily evaporate the moisture. These and other fabrics can also be modified and/or tuned to have a yarn size, weave count (or looser weave), etc. that is conducive to breathability.

In one or more examples, the central wall portion 120 carries little or no load due to being unattached to the support member 122. Accordingly, in some examples, the central wall portion 120 is not additionally tensioned when weight is added to the bag portion 102. The first point of attachment 200 and the second point of attachment 202 to the support member 122 can limit (or entirely prevent) tensile loading of the central wall portion 120 because the support member 122 has a fixed (or substantially fixed) length. Thus, the distance between the first point of attachment 200 and the second point of attachment 202 can be approximately constant to reduce or prevent additional tensile loading of the central wall portion 120.

In some examples, the central wall portion 120 can therefore include materials that provide breathability rather than strength. For example, although mesh is comparatively weaker than a ripstop fabric, mesh is far more breathable and can thus be readily implemented at the central wall portion 120 for its breathable attributes. In certain implementations, at least a majority of the central wall portion 120 includes a breathable fabric. In some examples, an entirety of the central wall portion 120 includes a breathable fabric. Therefore, the central wall portion 120 can include a substantial amount of breathable fabric (which increases an amount of airflow in and around a user's back) because the central wall portion 120 is unattached to the support member 122 and not subject to tensile loading from a payload.

Any of the features, components, and/or parts, including the arrangements and configurations thereof shown in FIG. 2 can be included, either alone or in any combination, in any of the other examples of devices, features, components, and parts shown in the other figures described herein. Likewise, any of the features, components, and/or parts, including the arrangements and configurations thereof shown and described with reference to the other figures can be included, either alone or in any combination, in the example of the devices, features, components, and parts shown in FIG. 2.

FIG. 3 illustrates a schematic plan view of an example of the back wall 106 in accordance with one or more examples of the present disclosure. As shown, the back wall 106 can include the support member 122 extending centrally between the lower wall portion 118 and an upper wall portion 116 opposite the lower wall portion 118. In one or more examples, the support member 122 extends along (e.g., is aligned with) a central longitudinal axis 300 that is substantially centered left and right from lateral sides of the back wall 106.

Additionally, and as discussed above, the central wall portion 120 positioned between the upper wall portion 116 and the lower wall portion 118 can include at least one of a breathable fabric (e.g., a mesh fabric) or an air vent. For example, in addition to or alternatively to a breathable fabric, the central wall portion 120 can define an air vent 302. As used herein, the term “air vent” refers to through hole defined in the central wall portion 120 allowing for the passage of air (e.g., passive air flow). In these or other examples, the air vent 302 can provide additional or alternative air flow in and around the user's back when the frameless backpack 100 is donned. The air vent 302, in some examples, can also increase airflow around the support member 122.

As discussed above, the central wall portion 120 may not be subject to tensile loading. The air vent 302, in turn, may be implemented in a wide variety of shapes, sizes, and positional configurations due to a lack of (or lower amount of) stress concentrations in the central wall portion 120. The air vent 302 can therefore encompass large ratios of the central wall portion 120 (in some cases exceeding 50% of the central wall portion 120). In one or more examples, the air vent 302 can include an oval shape, circular shape, rectangular shape, or other suitable polygonal shape positioned along the central longitudinal axis 300. Alternatively, the air vent 302 can be positioned offset relative to the central longitudinal axis 300.

Any of the features, components, and/or parts, including the arrangements and configurations thereof shown in FIG. 3 can be included, either alone or in any combination, in any of the other examples of devices, features, components, and parts shown in the other figures described herein. Likewise, any of the features, components, and/or parts, including the arrangements and configurations thereof shown and described with reference to the other figures can be included, either alone or in any combination, in the example of the devices, features, components, and parts shown in FIG. 3.

FIG. 4 illustrates a schematic plan view of another example of the back wall 106 in accordance with one or more examples of the present disclosure. As shown, the back wall 106 can include multiple support members. For example, the back wall 106 can include multiple support members positioned adjacent to each other. In certain examples, the back wall 106 includes a first support member 400 extending centrally along the central longitudinal axis 300 between the upper wall portion 116 and the lower wall portion 118. In addition, the back wall 106 can include a pair of support members positioned on adjacent sides of the central longitudinal axis 300, including a second support member 402 and a third support member 404. In one or more examples, additional support members can provide additional load carrying (and load transferring) capabilities.

Further shown in FIG. 4, the back wall 106 can include one or more air vents, including an air vent 406. The air vent 406 can, for instance, include an oval-shaped air vent with a major axis extending substantially perpendicular to the central longitudinal axis 300. However, myriad other implementations of the air vent 406 are herein contemplated.

Any of the features, components, and/or parts, including the arrangements and configurations thereof shown in FIG. 4 can be included, either alone or in any combination, in any of the other examples of devices, features, components, and parts shown in the other figures described herein. Likewise, any of the features, components, and/or parts, including the arrangements and configurations thereof shown and described with reference to the other figures can be included, either alone or in any combination, in the example of the devices, features, components, and parts shown in FIG. 4.

FIG. 5 illustrates a schematic plan view of yet another example of the back wall 106 in accordance with one or more examples of the present disclosure. As shown, the back wall 106 can include multiple support members. In this example of FIG. 5, the back wall 106 can include multiple support members positioned on opposite sides of the central longitudinal axis 300 and no support member positioned along the central longitudinal axis 300. For instance, the back wall 106 can include a first support member 500 extending between the upper wall portion 116 and the lower wall portion 118 on a left side of the central longitudinal axis 300. In addition, the back wall 106 can a second support member 502 extending between the upper wall portion 116 and the lower wall portion 118 on a right side of the central longitudinal axis 300. In one or more examples, additional support members can provide additional load carrying (and load transferring) capabilities.

Further shown, the back wall 106 can include one or more air vents, including one or more of air vent 504, air vent 506, and/or air vent 508. In some examples, the first support member 500 and the second support member 502 straddle the air vent 504 to allow unimpeded airflow through the back wall 106, and specifically through the air vent 504. In these or other examples, the air vent 504 can include a central air vent, and the air vents 506, 508 can include lateral air vents positioned lateral to the air vent 504. However, myriad other implementations of the air vents 504-508 are herein contemplated.

Any of the features, components, and/or parts, including the arrangements and configurations thereof shown in FIG. 5 can be included, either alone or in any combination, in any of the other examples of devices, features, components, and parts shown in the other figures described herein. Likewise, any of the features, components, and/or parts, including the arrangements and configurations thereof shown and described with reference to the other figures can be included, either alone or in any combination, in the example of the devices, features, components, and parts shown in FIG. 5.

FIG. 6 illustrates a plan view of an example of the back wall 106 in accordance with one or more examples of the present disclosure. As shown, the back wall 106 can include an elongate sheath 600 extending vertically along the back wall 106 (e.g., centrally along axis 300) between the upper wall portion 116 and the lower wall portion 118. The sheath 600 can include a cover, casing, sleeve, envelope, wrapper etc. that at least partially encompasses the support member 122. In certain implementations, the sheath 600 extends into the upper wall portion 116, but sub-surface (e.g., to leave a shoulder strap connection area 610 unobscured). For instance, the sheath 600 can extend into an opening 608 defined by a surface of the upper wall portion 116 and can extend further upward along the axis 300 (e.g., until reaching an upper most part of the upper wall portion 116). In some examples, the sheath 600 extends a full length or a full distance from top to bottom between the upper wall portion 116 and the lower wall portion 118 of the back wall 106 (e.g., to increase an amount of load transfer from shoulders to hips).

In one or more examples, the support member 122 can be positioned inside the sheath 600, as just mentioned. In certain examples, the support member 122 is secured inside the sheath 600 (whether permanently or as needed). For instance, the sheath 600 can define a sheath opening 602. The sheath opening 602 can be closed shut, sealed, or fastened. For instance, flap 604 can extend over the sheath opening 602. In one or more examples, the flap 604 can be held in place via retainer 606 (e.g., a loop, VELCRO® fastener, button snap, etc.).

In at least some examples, the support member 122 is removable from the back wall 106. For example, the support member 122 can be withdrawn from the sheath 600 through the sheath opening 602 (e.g., upon removal or displacement of the flap 604 from the retainer 606). In addition, the support member 122 can be reinserted into the sheath 600 through the sheath opening 602 and again secured in place within the sheath 600.

In one or more examples, the removability of the support member 122 can provide one or more example advantages. For instance, the support member 122 can be removed to conveniently pack, fold, roll, or otherwise store the frameless backpack 100. Additionally, and as will be discussed below, multiple support members can be implemented inside the sheath 600. Thus, in some embodiments, a user can remove (or add) one or more support members from the sheath 600 to adjust an amount of rigidity of the support member 122 and/or an amount of desired load transfer.

Further shown in FIG. 6, the support member 122 can be unattached to the back wall 106 at the central wall portion 120 (as indicated by the cross-arrows underneath (or behind) the sheath 600. An example breathable fabric for the central wall portion 120 is also depicted.

FIG. 6 also shows that the back wall 106 can include a shoulder strap connection area 610. The shoulder strap connection area 610 can include one or more friction engagement portions (e.g., VELCRO® or DURAGRIP® patches, fastening dots or strips, etc.) that can stick, adhere, engage, grab, or lock onto another friction engagement surface of the shoulder straps. In some examples, an entire surface of the shoulder strap connection area 610 can include a friction engagement portion. In at least one example, a back surface (not shown) and a front surface both include a friction engagement portion. In these or other examples, the shoulder strap connection area 610 can be sized and shaped to provide an amount of surface area in contact with a shoulder strap connection that securely maintains the shoulder straps at a desired position relative to the shoulder strap connection area 610.

Additionally or alternatively, the shoulder strap connection area 610 can include one or more of a variety of fasteners (e.g., hook and loop fasteners, button snaps, ties, magnets, clips, pins, etc.). Still, in other examples, the shoulder strap connection area 610 can include one or more apertures for receiving shoulder straps and/or associated connectors. Thus, the shoulder strap connection area 610 can secure the shoulder straps to the back wall 106 in a variety of different ways.

Any of the features, components, and/or parts, including the arrangements and configurations thereof shown in FIG. 6 can be included, either alone or in any combination, in any of the other examples of devices, features, components, and parts shown in the other figures described herein. Likewise, any of the features, components, and/or parts, including the arrangements and configurations thereof shown and described with reference to the other figures can be included, either alone or in any combination, in the example of the devices, features, components, and parts shown in FIG. 6.

FIG. 7 illustrates an exploded view of an example support member and associated sheath in accordance with one or more examples of the present disclosure. As shown, the support member 122 can be positioned (e.g., removably positioned) between a first sheath webbing 700 and a second sheath webbing 706 opposing the first sheath webbing 700, together composing the sheath 600 discussed above. In some examples, the first sheath webbing 700 and the second sheath webbing 706 can be integrally formed together during manufacturing or joined at least partially together via one or more processing methods, such as stitching (e.g., insertion stitching), heat sealing, gluing, welding, fusing, fusible interfacing, melting thermoplastic materials, tying, pinning, basting, etc. In these or other examples, the first sheath webbing 700 and the second sheath webbing 706 can be joined together at a perimeter region, thereby defining an interior volume for receiving the support member 122.

Additionally shown, and as mentioned above, the support member 122 can include multiple discrete support members. For example, the support member 122 can include a first elongate support member 702 and a second elongate support member 704. In such an example, the support member 122 can include the first elongate support member 702 stacked against the second elongate support member 704 when positioned inside the sheath 600.

In some examples, the first elongate support member 702 can include a first set of material properties, and the second elongate support member 704 can include a second set of material properties. In some examples, the first set of material properties and the second set of material properties are the same (e.g., the materials for the first elongate support member 702 and the second elongate support member 704 are the same). In other examples, the first set of material properties and the second set of material properties are different (e.g., the materials for the first elongate support member 702 and the second elongate support member 704 are different and/or comprise different thicknesses, lengths, or other dimensions, etc.). Material properties can include hardness, elasticity, strength, plasticity, ductility, shear modulus, stiffness, density, tensile strength, malleability, toughness, fatigue, brittleness, weight, durability, etc.

In certain examples, the first elongate support member 702 can be more rigid than the second elongate support member 704. To illustrate, the first elongate support member 702 can include a metal member (e.g., aluminum, steel, iron, brass, etc.), and the second elongate support member 704 can include a plastic member (e.g., a polyethylene plastic, a thermoset, or a thermoplastic), wooden or plant-based member, or composite member (e.g., a metal matrix composite, ceramic matrix composite, polymer matrix composite, fiberglass, carbon fiber, wood-plastic composite, etc.).

In some examples, having multiple support members with different material properties (e.g., rigidity) can allow for a higher degree of customization for user comfort, load carrying (or load transfer) attributes, and/or weight adjustment. For instance, at least one of the first elongate support member 702 or the second elongate support member 704 can be removed from between the first sheath webbing 700 and the first elongate support member 702, and thereby removed from the back wall 106. In another example, additional support members can be added with the first elongate support member 702 and the second elongate support member 704 for additional support (or alternatively, interchanged for a different pair of the first elongate support member 702 and the second elongate support member 704, such as two extra-dense/stiff support members for better supporting heavier payloads or two extra-light support members for decreased weight on longer hikes). Still further, in some examples, both the first elongate support member 702 and the second elongate support member 704 can be removed to allow for convenient storage (e.g., folding, packing, rolling) of the frameless backpack 100.

Although the first elongate support member 702 and the second elongate support member 704 are shown as straight or linear, other examples of the first elongate support member 702 and/or the second elongate support member 704 can include non-straight and/or non-linear portions. For example, at least one of the first elongate support member 702 or the second elongate support member 704 can be bowed (e.g., preloaded or pretensioned), arched, curved, etc. Additionally or alternatively, at least one of the first elongate support member 702 or the second elongate support member 704 can be serpentine shaped, S-shaped, J-shaped, O-shaped, etc. In some examples, the first elongate support member 702 and the second elongate support member 704 can cross one another (e.g., in an X-shape) or intersect one another (e.g., in a T-shape). Thus, a variety of different configurations of the first elongate support member 702 and the second elongate support member 704 are herein contemplated. One or more of the foregoing examples, however, can be more efficient in transferring load from the shoulders of the user to the hips of the user. For example, a straight and/or linear implementation of the first elongate support member 702 and the second elongate support member 704 can provide increased load transfer efficiencies in at least some use cases.

Any of the features, components, and/or parts, including the arrangements and configurations thereof shown in FIG. 7 can be included, either alone or in any combination, in any of the other examples of devices, features, components, and parts shown in the other figures described herein. Likewise, any of the features, components, and/or parts, including the arrangements and configurations thereof shown and described with reference to the other figures can be included, either alone or in any combination, in the example of the devices, features, components, and parts shown in FIG. 7.

FIG. 8 illustrates a top-front perspective view of the frameless backpack 100 in accordance with one or more examples of the present disclosure. As shown, the frameless backpack 100 can include an attachment interface 800 for attaching the shoulder straps 126 to the upper wall portion 116. The attachment interface 800 can include one or more connectors and/or friction engagement portions to secure the shoulder straps 126 to the upper wall portion 116. In certain examples, the attachment interface 800 can include a clamshell attachment or dual-interface connection to the upper wall portion 116 (as will be discussed more below in relation to FIG. 11).

In addition, FIG. 8 shows the bag portion 102 including movable swing arms 802 (e.g., rods, brackets, poles, etc.). In some examples, the movable swing arms 802 are connected to the back wall 106 (e.g., at the upper wall portion 116). In other examples, the movable swing arms 802 are connected to the front wall (not shown) opposite the back wall 106. In particular examples, the movable swing arms 802 are pivotable, deployable, extendable, telescoping, ratcheting, expandable, collapsible, etc. to cause the movable swing arms 802 to move between a collapsed configuration when the movable swing arms 802 are collapsed and a deployed configuration when the movable swing arms 802 are deployed. The movable swing arms 802 can include spacer elements that are movable to desired positions. Alternatively, the movable swing arms 802 can be entirely or partially detached from the frameless backpack 100 (and then reattached to a desired position for deployment or collapsing the frameless backpack 100).

In these or other examples, the deployed configuration can provide ergonomic or convenient access into the bag portion 102. For example, the movable swing arms 802 can be positioned adjacent to an upper periphery 804 of side walls 806 (which side walls 806 are positioned between the back wall 106 and the front wall not shown). The movable swing arms 802, when deployed, can extend at least partially along the upper periphery 804 of the side walls 806 so as to spatially separate the back wall 106 and the front wall by tensioning (e.g., stretching out or extending) the side walls 806. In this deployed position, the upper periphery 804 of the side walls 806 can be stiffened or formed into a predetermined shape (thereby preventing the back wall 106 and the front wall from collapsing toward each other). Accordingly, the movable swing arms 802 can include mouth stiffeners that maintain the mouth of the bag portion 102 (i.e., the upper periphery 804) in an open state. This deployed configuration of the movable swing arms 802 can be particularly advantageous for loading objects into the bag portion 102 while the frameless backpack 100 is worn on the back of the user. That is, rather than take the frameless backpack 100 off the user's back, the user can reach behind and easily insert an object (e.g., harvested upland game) into the bag portion 102 while still wearing the frameless backpack 100. The extra wide lateral opening into the bag portion 102—which allows this on-the-go, no-backpack-removal access—can be enabled by the movable swing arms 802 in the deployed configuration.

Conversely, the movable swing arms 802 can be positioned in a collapsed configuration to allow the back wall 106 and the front wall to collapse toward each other. In the collapsed configuration, the movable swing arms 802 are dropped, released, lowered, or otherwise disengaged to allow the side walls 806 to slacken, fold, compress, etc. In the collapsed configuration, access into the bag portion 102 can be reduced or limited. However, in the collapsed configuration, the frameless backpack 100 can be easily stored in a compact or flattened state. Additionally or alternatively, in the collapsed configuration, a user can wear the frameless backpack 100 while driving, laying back in a blind, leaning backwards against a tree, etc. without the frameless backpack 100 causing the user to sit or lay in an awkward position. That is, the frameless backpack 100 can—in its collapsed configuration—be worn as a compact backpack until the above-discussed lateral access into the bag portion 102 is needed.

FIG. 8 further shows various features of the frameless backpack 100. In some examples, the frameless backpack 100 can include one or more weep holes 808 defined in a floor 810 of the bag portion 102. The weep holes 808 can allow for fluid (e.g., blood) egress out of the bag portion 102. In some examples, the weep holes 808 can prevent pooling of blood inside the bag portion 102 (e.g., from harvested upland game) by draining the blood out of the bag portion 102 through the weep holes 808.

In some examples, the frameless backpack 100 can include a connector 812. The connector 812 can connect to an upper portion of the front wall (not shown).

Any of the features, components, and/or parts, including the arrangements and configurations thereof shown in FIG. 8 can be included, either alone or in any combination, in any of the other examples of devices, features, components, and parts shown in the other figures described herein. Likewise, any of the features, components, and/or parts, including the arrangements and configurations thereof shown and described with reference to the other figures can be included, either alone or in any combination, in the example of the devices, features, components, and parts shown in FIG. 8.

FIG. 9 illustrates a partial side view of the frameless backpack 100 in accordance with one or more examples of the present disclosure. In FIG. 9, the waist connector 130 and the shoulder straps 126 are omitted for purposes of illustration. In particular, FIG. 9 illustrates the movable swing arms 802 transitioning from a collapsed configuration 900 to a deployed configuration 902. In the collapsed configuration 900, the movable swing arms 802 can hang down from connection 908 (or otherwise be lowered, pointed downward toward the floor 810, etc.). In some examples, the connection 908 can be a hinge connection (thus enabling the movable swing arms 802 to pivot relative to the connection 908). Conversely, in the deployed configuration 902, the movable swing arms 802 can rotate at the connection 908 such that the movable swing arms 802 extends along the upper periphery 804 of the side walls 806. In some examples, each of the movable swing arms 802 can move between 5 degrees and about 145 degrees from the connection 908 to transition from the collapsed configuration 900 to the deployed configuration 902, about 45 degrees to about 120 degrees, about 70 degrees to about 110 degrees, about 80 degrees to about 100 degrees, or about 85 degrees to about 95 degrees.

In the deployed configuration 902, the back wall 106 and the front wall 108 are spaced apart by approximately a distance corresponding to a length of the movable swing arms 802 (depending on the angle of the movable swing arms 802). As discussed above, in the deployed configuration 902, the interior volume 104 is easily accessible from the side of the frameless backpack 100. Then, when the movable swing arms 802 are positioned in the collapsed configuration 900, the front wall 108 and the back wall 106 can be brought toward each other (thereby collapsing the side walls 806 and the interior volume 104).

In some examples, and as shown in FIG. 9, the frameless backpack 100 can include compartment(s) 904 positioned forward of the front wall 108. The compartment(s) 904 can include any variety and number of compartments, including a hydration compartment, storage compartment, gear compartment, closeable/zippered compartment, etc. Other features of the frameless backpack 100 can include a connector 906 attached to the front wall 108 (or the compartment(s) 904) for attaching to the connector 812.

Any of the features, components, and/or parts, including the arrangements and configurations thereof shown in FIG. 9 can be included, either alone or in any combination, in any of the other examples of devices, features, components, and parts shown in the other figures described herein. Likewise, any of the features, components, and/or parts, including the arrangements and configurations thereof shown and described with reference to the other figures can be included, either alone or in any combination, in the example of the devices, features, components, and parts shown in FIG. 9.

FIGS. 10A-10B illustrate side perspective views of the movable swing arms 802 in accordance with one or more examples of the present disclosure. As shown in FIG. 10A, the movable swing arms 802 is positioned in the deployed configuration 902 (e.g., laterally along the side walls 806 adjacent to the upper periphery 804). In these or other examples, the movable swing arms 802 can be secured in the deployed configuration 902 in a variety of different ways. In some examples, the movable swing arms 802 is secured in the deployed configuration 902 via a fastener 1000 of the movable swing arms 802 fastened about a loop 1002 attached to one of the side walls 806 or the front wall 108 (or vice-versa with the loop 1002 attached to the movable swing arms 802 and the fastener 1000 attached to the side walls 806 or the back wall 106). In other examples, the movable swing arms 802 is secured in the deployed configuration 902 via only the fastener 1000 (which can be fastened to one of the side walls 806 or the front wall 108). Still, in other examples, the movable swing arms 802 is secured in the deployed configuration 902 via only the loop 1002 (e.g., by threading the movable swing arms 802 through the loop 1002 and/or sliding the loop 1002 over the movable swing arms 802). Other attachment mechanisms for securing the movable swing arms 802 in the deployed configuration 902 are also herein contemplated.

In FIG. 10B, the movable swing arms 802 is shown as transitioning from the deployed configuration 902 to the collapsed configuration 900. For example, in FIG. 10B, the fastener 1000 (e.g., a button snap, clasp, clip, pin, VELCRO® hook, etc.) of the movable swing arms 802 is released from the bag portion 102. In particular, the fastener 1000 is shown as released from the loop 1002, which previously cooperated with the fastener 1000 when fastened in the deployed configuration 902. Instead, in the collapsed configuration 900, the movable swing arms 802 is free to drop down, rotate back toward the connection 908, or fall (thereby allowing the side walls 806 to slacken and collapse as indicated by the folded portion of the upper periphery 804).

Any of the features, components, and/or parts, including the arrangements and configurations thereof shown in FIGS. 10A-10B can be included, either alone or in any combination, in any of the other examples of devices, features, components, and parts shown in the other figures described herein. Likewise, any of the features, components, and/or parts, including the arrangements and configurations thereof shown and described with reference to the other figures can be included, either alone or in any combination, in the example of the devices, features, components, and parts shown in FIGS. 10A-10B.

FIG. 11 illustrates a partial side view of the frameless backpack 100 in accordance with one or more examples of the present disclosure. As shown, and as discussed briefly above, the frameless backpack 100 can include the attachment interface 800 for removably connecting the shoulder straps 126 to the shoulder strap connection area 610. In some examples, the shoulder strap connection area 610 can include a first friction engagement surface 1100 and a second friction engagement surface 1102 opposite the first friction engagement surface 1100. The first and second friction engagement surfaces 1100, 1102 can include one or more friction engagement portions (e.g., VELCRO® or DURAGRIP® patches, fastening dots or strips, etc.) that can stick, adhere, engage, grab, or lock onto another friction engagement surface—namely a corresponding mating surface of the attachment interface 800.

For example, the attachment interface 800 can include a first friction engagement surface 1104 and a second friction engagement surface 1106 that respectively engage (e.g., are positioned in intimate contact with) friction engagement surfaces 1100, 1102 of the shoulder strap connection area 610 to join the back wall 106 and the shoulder straps 126. In one or more examples, the first friction engagement surface 1104 and the second friction engagement surface 1106 of the attachment interface 800 have a clam-shell configuration in which the first friction engagement surface 1104 and the second friction engagement surface 1106 face each other. Accordingly, the first friction engagement surface 1104 and the second friction engagement surface 1106 can sandwich the shoulder strap connection area 610 such that the first and second friction engagement surfaces 1100, 1102 of the shoulder strap connection area 610 are at least partially positioned in between the first friction engagement surface 1104 and the second friction engagement surface 1106 of the attachment interface 800. In some examples, the first friction engagement surface 1104 and the second friction engagement surface 1106 can constitute dual friction engagement surfaces to join the shoulder straps 126 and the back wall 106. In particular implementations, such dual friction engagement surfaces provide increased surface area and therefore greater resistance to positional creep (e.g., unintended adjustment).

In these or other examples, the frameless backpack 100 is height adjustable. For example, the attachment interface 800 can be inserted over the shoulder strap connection area 610 to a desired amount of insertion that corresponds to a desired height for the shoulder straps 126. For instance, the attachment interface 800 can be adjusted down—relative to the shoulder strap connection area 610—to create a lower shoulder strap height for the shoulder straps 126 (e.g., for smaller users or users with shorter torsos). Likewise, the attachment interface 800 can be adjusted up—relative to the shoulder strap connection area 610—to create a higher shoulder strap height for the shoulder straps 126 (e.g., for larger users or users with longer torsos). The indicated arrows in the up/down directions 1120 depict this example of height adjustment of the attachment interface 800.

Additionally shown in FIG. 11, the shoulder straps 126 can include a connector 1108 attached to a bottom end of the shoulder straps 126 (one connector for each shoulder strap). The connector 1108 can be movably connected to the waist connector 130 via a track 1110 positioned on the waist connector 130 (e.g., one track on each side of the waist connector 130) along which the connector 1108 can move. In particular examples, the connector 1108 can move (e.g., slide, ratchet, increment, step, zipper, etc.) in a translational manner along the track 1110, whether step-wise between positions or continuously.

In some examples, moving the connector 1108 along the track 1110 can correspondingly change an angle of the shoulder straps 126 relative to the waist connector 130. For example, moving the connector 1108 rearward along the track 1110 can position the shoulder straps 126 at a first angle 1112 relative to the waist connector 130. Conversely, moving the connector 1108 forward along the track 1110 can position the shoulder straps 126 at a second angle 1114 relative to the waist connector 130. In these or other examples, the adjustment of connector 1108 between the first angle 1112 and the second angle 1114 can adjust where at least one of the shoulder straps 126 or the waist connector 130 carry weight relative to the user's body. For example, adjustment of connector 1108 between the first angle 1112 and the second angle 1114 can adjust where at least one of the shoulder straps 126 or the waist connector 130 contact the user's body (e.g., to determine a body contact path for the shoulder straps 126 or the waist connector 130). In some examples, each side of the frameless backpack 100 is independently adjustable (e.g., a left-side connector 1108 can be positioned more forward along one of the tracks 1110 and a right-side connector 1108 can be positioned more rearward along one of the tracks 1110). In this manner, the frameless backpack 100 can be tuned to and easily customized to suit a particular body type, size, desired contact points on the user, feel or user fit, etc.

In some examples, the frameless backpack 100 can include additional or alternative features. For example, the frameless backpack 100 can include compartments 1116-1118. The compartment 1116 can be sized and shaped, for example, to receive a hydration bottle, beverage can, elongated container, spray bottle, spotting scope, etc. The compartment 1118 can include a pouch sized and shaped for additional or alternative items (e.g., ammunition, binoculars, bird calls, dog whistles, radios, etc.).

Any of the features, components, and/or parts, including the arrangements and configurations thereof shown in FIG. 11 can be included, either alone or in any combination, in any of the other examples of devices, features, components, and parts shown in the other figures described herein. Likewise, any of the features, components, and/or parts, including the arrangements and configurations thereof shown and described with reference to the other figures can be included, either alone or in any combination, in the example of the devices, features, components, and parts shown in FIG. 11.

FIGS. 12A-12B illustrate an example implementation of the track 1110 in accordance with one or more examples of the present disclosure. As shown, the track 1110 can include a cylindrical track positioned along an upper periphery 1200 of the waist connector 130. In this manner, the connector 1108 can slide forwards and backwards along the upper periphery 1200 but retain its connection to the waist connector 130. For example, the connector 1108 can be slidably clamped at least partially around a body of the track 1110 such that the connector 1108 does not pull away vertically off the track 1110. Rather, in some examples, the connector 1108 exclusively allows for sliding translation along the track 1110. See FIG. 12A in which the connector 1108 is slid to one end of the track 1110 and FIG. 12B in which the connector 1108 is slid to another end of the track 1110.

The track 1110 can also include a variety of features. In some examples, the track 1110 can include mechanical stops at the end portions of the track 1110 (e.g., to limit translation of the connector 1108 and prevent the connector 1108 from sliding off the track 1110). In one or more examples, the track 1110 can include a material that is not overly pliant (thereby allowing the track 1110 to deform and allow the connector 1108 to slip off the track 1110). In particular examples, the track 1110 can include a plastic material, metal material, rubber material, etc. In at least some examples, the track 1110 can be coated, overmolded, or include a fabric cover sleeve. The track 1110 can include certain friction properties and/or a desired fit relative to the connector 1108. For example, in certain implementations, the connector 1108 can slide along the track 1110 with intentional manipulation from the user. However, without intentional manipulation of the user, the connector 1108 may not slide to a different position along the track 1110 (e.g., once the user has achieved the desired angle between the shoulder straps 126 and the waist connector 130). In these or other examples, each track 1110 is about 2 inches to about 24 inches long, about 5 inches to about 20 inches long, or about 10 inches to about 15 inches long. In at least one example, each track 1110 spans a distance corresponding to a size of the compartment 1118.

Any of the features, components, and/or parts, including the arrangements and configurations thereof shown in FIGS. 12A-12B can be included, either alone or in any combination, in any of the other examples of devices, features, components, and parts shown in the other figures described herein. Likewise, any of the features, components, and/or parts, including the arrangements and configurations thereof shown and described with reference to the other figures can be included, either alone or in any combination, in the example of the devices, features, components, and parts shown in FIGS. 12A-12B.

The foregoing description, for purposes of explanation, used specific nomenclature to provide a thorough understanding of the described embodiments. However, it will be apparent to one skilled in the art that the specific details are not required in order to practice the described embodiments. Thus, the foregoing descriptions of the specific embodiments described herein are presented for purposes of illustration and description. They are not intended to be exhaustive or to limit the embodiments to the precise forms disclosed.

It will be apparent to one of ordinary skill in the art that many modifications and variations are possible in view of the above teachings. Indeed, various inventions have been described herein with reference to certain specific aspects and examples. However, they will be recognized by those skilled in the art that many variations are possible without departing from the scope and spirit of the inventions disclosed herein. Specifically, those inventions set forth in the claims below are intended to cover all variations and modifications of the inventions disclosed without departing from the spirit of the inventions. The terms “including” or “includes” as used in the specification shall have the same meaning as the term “comprising.” Additionally, the terms “about,” “approximately,” and “substantially” should be interpreted as +/−10 percent of a given value, unless otherwise indicated.