Comparison of Backpacks with Air Mesh Back Panels and Curved Boards in Standing Position

Abstract

We designed a prototype backpack to reduce the physical load on students. The main features of the prototype structure were a three-dimensional pad back panel and a curved board. The prototype has a curved surface board inside the padded back panel. This increases the contact area between the backpack and the student's back. To verify the effectiveness of the prototype fit, we compared the prototype to a conventional backpack. Twelve participants were recruited from elementary school students and preschool students. There were significant differences in neck and hip angles when compared to the prototype. Postural measurements showed that carrying a conventional backpack resulted in tilting posture. Stabilometry was measured and found to be more unstable in the conventional backpack. Body pressure distribution measurements showed that the prototype distributed body pressure better. Compared to the prototype, the lower edge of the conventional backpack locally touched the lower back. On the other hand, the padded air mesh back panel of the prototype had a large area of contact with the lumbar region. The results of the comparison between the prototype and the conventional backpack showed that the children's posture changed. This indicated that the prototype was effective in reducing the load on the children.