Ultralight hydration pack

Abstract

This application describes a hydration pack suitable for use while engaging in a prolonged physical activity such as running. The hydration pack is configured to sit on the upper back of a user and includes an adjustable-height hydration vessel receptacle.

Description

CROSS REFERENCES TO RELATED APPLICATIONS[0001]The present application is a non-provisional application claiming the benefit of priority under 35 U.S.C. §119(e) from commonly owned and co-pending U.S. Provisional Application Ser. No. 61 / 701,821 filed on Sep. 17, 2012 and entitled “Hydration Pack,” the entire contents of which are hereby incorporated by reference into this disclosure as if set forth fully herein.FIELD[0002]This application relates to a backpack and in particular a hydration pack suitable to be worn on the upper back of a user.BACKGROUND[0003]It is commonly known that people who engage in prolonged exercise activity need to keep themselves hydrated with water or other suitable hydration beverages. Certain activities, such as running, hiking, and biking, require participants to bring their own hydration supply with them. This can be a challenge as hydration supplies and the equipment necessary to transport it can be heavy, bulky, and uncomfortable for the user. This is ...

AI Technical Summary

Benefits of technology

The hydration pack described in this patent is designed to improve the experience of running with a hydration supply. It is designed to mount the hydration vessel on the back of a user, reducing movement and discomfort. Compared to traditional waist packs, the hydration pack has less heat buildup, less movement, and doesn't feel uncomfortable during running. It also eliminates side-to-side sloshing and provides a secure storage area for personal items. The hydration vessel retention system is easy to insert and remove, allowing for quick replacement during use. The pack also includes pads for a snug fit and improved breathability. Overall, the hydration pack improves the experience of running with a hydration supply.

Problems solved by technology

This can be a challenge as hydration supplies and the equipment necessary to transport it can be heavy, bulky, and uncomfortable for the user.

This is especially true for runners, as they have to wear the hydration supply at all times while engaging in an activity that causes substantial movement of any packs they may be wearing.

This configuration has drawbacks, however, in that substantial jostling of the pack and hydration supply occurs due to the movement associated with running.

This can cause discomfort for the user in terms of chafing and uneven weight distribution.

Furthermore, heat buildup can be a problem with hydration supplies that are positioned at the waist or lower back.

On the other hand, they are also bulky and rigid, which can be uncomfortable when worn.

In either case, however, bottles and pouches worn at the hip or lower back will experience substantial jostling while the user is running.

Even contents in a traditional backpack will experience significant side-to-side sway during use.

Another drawback with the traditional bottle-based packs is that the bottles are typically difficult to remove from and replace into the bottle holders.

Because of the placement on the body and the aforementioned jostling of the bottles, the tension required to keep the bottle stable within the bottle holders during use is significant.

This makes it more difficult for the user to access the bottle while running, and especially challenging to replace the bottle while running.

However, less tension might allow the bottles to fall out of the holders while the runner is running.

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