A Rugged Backpack Designed for Rock Climbers
Problem
Create a durable backpack to meet the tough
demands of a rock climber.
Solution
The Acadia Backpack, a rugged backpack with
flexible storage options for rock climbers.
Design Constraints
To be useful for a rock climber, a bad needs to be able to comfortably carry whatever gear is needed for the climb. From days where only shoes and a chalk bag are needed to days where multiple ropes, carabiners, and other tools that are needed to climb up a cliff, all types of scenarios need to be accounted for. This requires a level of flexibility in how the backpack can be used.
Designing for Daily Life
While it was important to consider the extremes of climbing when designing the bag, the vast majority of the lifespan of the bag will be spent away from rock climbing. The asymmetrical styling of the bag is visually interesting and differentiates itself from the competition by being unique while retaining function. The MOLLE, modular lightweight load-carrying equipment, system is comprised of rows of PALS, pouch attachment ladder systems, made of white nylon webbing. This system allows for the attachment of everything from a water bottle to additional bags full of climbing gear. By having a modular and flexible design, the Acadia Backpack is suitable for daily use without being overly bulky and is reasonable to carry around.
Theoretical Daily Carry
The daily carry scenario is based on the day in the life of a college student who enjoys rock climbing as a form of exercise. In their backpack they need all the essentials for class, all the various cables and accessories for their devices, and their climbing shoes to squeeze in a quick workout after class.
Material Selection
To survive the rigors of rock climbing as well as the wear and tear of everyday use, the materials for the Acadia Backpack need to be able to hold up in the long term. With this in mind, it is reasonable to choose tough materials like ripstop nylon and a rubberized coating for the main body of the bag as well as various widths of nylon webbing for the MOLLE system. Choosing these tough materials ensure that the bag can not only hold up to it's intended use of carrying gear for rock climbing, but also to the rigors of daily use.
