Description:FIELD OF THE INVENTION
[0001] The present invention relates to the field of medical science, and more particularly, the present invention relates to an ergonomic adjustable load carriage system (EALCS) for head-supported carriers in difficult terrain.
BACKGROUND FOR THE INVENTION:
[0002] The following discussion of the background to the invention is intended to facilitate an understanding of the present invention. However, it should be appreciated that the discussion is not an acknowledgment or admission that any of the material referred to was published, known, or part of the common general knowledge in any jurisdiction as of the priority date of the application. The details provided herein the background if belongs to any publication is taken only as a reference for describing the problems, in general terminologies or principles or both of science and technology in the associated prior art.
[0003] The ergonomically designed adjustable load carriage system is designed to assist personnel in carrying head-supported loads to remote areas. The overhead support is ropes with hip belt, shoulder straps, solar-powered light, and collapsible wheels to facilitate physical effort, evenly distribute the load, and ensure maximum comfort and safety while climbing or descending. The invention addresses a couple of very critical, long-time problems of head-supported load transport over rough terrain, especially among the poor in hilly or mountainous terrain. Below is a description of the particular problems it addresses:
[0004] Cervical Spine Strain during Uphill Movement: Old pack type or head-support causes forward leaning on upward climb, flexing the cervical and upper thoracic spines into over-torsion. Overhead support rods with two ropes for climbing according to this invention allows the user to pull upon them on upward climb, which takes the weight away from the spine to the upper limb, reducing the spine's compression and reducing the degree of fatigue.
[0005] Musculoskeletal Fatigue and Risk of Injury: Shoulder, knee, and back cumulative loading may result in chronic pain, spinal deformity, and joint injury, especially on uneven ground. Terrain-adaptive load redistribution through adaptive shoulder and hip cushions dynamically redistributes the load as a function of slope (downhill or uphill) and minimizes joint strain—especially of the lumbar spine and knees on downhill travel.
[0006] Inflexibility in Load Mode: The loads have to be transferred hand carried or on trolleys—but not both—and mode changing is equipment changing or stopping motion. Dynamic mode changing between rolling and carrying is enabled by a retractable wheel assembly, apart from relief in the form of terrain or fatigue, and reducing dependency on constant hand-carried load transport.
[0007] Inadequate Ventilation and Spinal Support: Existing systems are unsupported for the lumbar area or inflexible, causing overheating and discomfort while walking long distances in hot or humid conditions. Flexible, ventilated spine support adapts to the shape of the wearer's back to give ergonomic support to the spine and allow airflow, avoiding spinal misalignment and sweating.
[0008] Lack of Adequate Visibility in Remote or Dark Environments: Trekkers tend to have black nights or morning treks and get subjected to accidents and the harshest natural conditions. The device is founded on the use of sunlight, bringing in electricity and power usage without them—a characteristic of extra safety and an aim of sustainability.
[0009] Lack of Accessible Contextual Solutions: Ergonomic load systems are generally too costly and outside the trooper's or trekker's purse in more affluent societies. Low-income societies cannot afford them. The system uses inexpensive materials like Aluminum alloy that is built on an economy of cost and toughness to withstand extended exposure under adversarial, unmapped environments.
[0010] Inadequate Adjustment to Adversarial, Unmapped Territory: New load carrying systems do not care about rough, sloping, and unexplored country terrain without formal building. The slope-adaptive function of the invention, i.e., dynamic load redistribution and wheel deployment, are automatic responses to slope, terrain, and fatigue, and hence a clever load helper to unforeseen terrain.
[0011] In light of the foregoing, there is a need for the Ergonomic adjustable load carriage system (EALCS) for head-supported carriers in difficult terrain that overcomes problems prevalent in the prior art.
[0012] The invention solution solves biomechanical, environmental, economic, and safety problems by integrating functional, ergonomic, and technology solutions into a combined simple system—something not yet offered by products in general.
OBJECTS OF THE INVENTION:
[0013] Some of the objects of the present disclosure, which at least one embodiment herein satisfies, are as follows.
[0014] The principal object of the present invention is to overcome the disadvantages of the prior art by providing the Ergonomic adjustable load carriage system (EALCS) for head-supported carriers in difficult terrain.
[0015] Another object of the present invention is to provide the Ergonomic adjustable load carriage system (EALCS) for head-supported carriers in difficult terrain that incorporates load sensors for real-time monitoring of carried weight and posture-correction alerts to prevent musculoskeletal injuries during extended use.
[0016] Another object of the present invention is to provide the Ergonomic adjustable load carriage system (EALCS) for head-supported carriers in difficult terrain that can be expanded to support modular attachments, enabling users to carry specialized loads such as agricultural produce, water containers, emergency supplies, or technical equipment securely and efficiently.
[0017] Another object of the present invention is to provide the Ergonomic adjustable load carriage system (EALCS) for head-supported carriers in difficult terrain wherein the dynamic suspension could be upgraded with adjustable damping controls to adapt to varied terrains such as rocky paths, muddy trails, or steep inclines, improving shock absorption and stability.
[0018] Another object of the present invention is to provide the Ergonomic adjustable load carriage system (EALCS) for head-supported carriers in difficult terrain wherein the kinetic energy harvesting technologies may be integrated, allowing the conversion of mechanical movement into electrical energy for charging mobile devices, GPS units, and other portable electronics.
[0019] Another object of the present invention is to provide the Ergonomic adjustable load carriage system (EALCS) for head-supported carriers in difficult terrain that can be developed to suit the needs of different user groups, including agricultural workers, military personnel, emergency responders, and adventure trekkers, through modifications in frame strength, capacity, and ergonomic features.
[0020] Another object of the present invention is to provide the Ergonomic adjustable load carriage system (EALCS) for head-supported carriers in difficult terrain that utilizes ultra-lightweight composite materials such as carbon fiber-reinforced polymers to reduce system weight while maintaining structural integrity and durability.
[0021] Another object of the present invention is to provide the Ergonomic adjustable load carriage system (EALCS) for head-supported carriers in difficult terrain wherein that includes waterproof covers, thermal insulation for cold climates, and UV-resistant materials for regions with high sun exposure, ensuring reliability across diverse environmental conditions.
[0022] Another object of the present invention is to provide the Ergonomic adjustable load carriage system (EALCS) for head-supported carriers in difficult terrain that is paired with wearable AI technologies to provide route optimization based on terrain difficulty, user fatigue levels, and weather conditions, significantly enhancing safety and efficiency during transport.
[0023] Other objects and advantages of the present disclosure will be more apparent from the following description, which is not intended to limit the scope of the present disclosure.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION:
[0024] The present invention provides Ergonomic adjustable load carriage system (EALCS) for head-supported carriers in difficult terrain.
[0025] Higher rates of orthopedic disorders, particularly spinal strain from mountainous or uneven long-load carrying, have channeled considerable focus towards ergonomics modifications. Head-supported loads and conventional load-carrying practices are conventionally associated with musculoskeletal disorders owing to torque and loading that they put on the spine. To mitigate this issue, an Ergonomic Adjustable Load Carriage System (EALCS) has been created and designed with the goal of maximizing load-carrying effectiveness and reducing orthopedic risk to a significantly smaller extent. The EALCS is interactively and holistically designed which is more advanced in nature compared to conventional systems since it is directed toward biomechanical optimization and user adaptability. It possesses a chain of innovations: double rope overhead support for ascending inclines, descending support system by way of an adjustable hip belt, articulated padded shoulder straps, and a durable but light aluminum alloy frame.
[0026] An additional solar-powered lighting system to be used late evening and foldable wheel assembly to assist improved weight distribution are also important innovations. These innovations attempt to minimize spinal torque and transfer loads more effectively to other areas of the body, thereby minimizing the risk of injury. Literature continues to document failures of conventional load carriage systems, including over-activation of muscle groups, postural compromise of alignment, and adverse impact on gait biomechanics.
[0027] Conventional designs have been field-tested mostly as individual component pieces; however EALCS stands out in its ability to bring these attributes into single, cohesive systems, which have been engineered specifically for demanding terrains and heavy loads. There are additional significant findings presented in recent studies further validating EALCS design principles. Once more, breakthroughs using light materials like high-strength aluminum alloys, such as addressed by Chen and others, make the use of such materials in ergonomic framing feasible. Solar-powered wearable energy harvesting electronics will make the ergonomic systems more convenient to utilize in remote or dimly lit locations. Lastly, the EALCS is an adaptive, integrated, and ergonomic system through synergistic integration of advanced materials, biomechanical science, and energy-saving technologies; it fills a critical gap in the design of efficient and safe load carriage systems.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS:
[0028] Reference will be made to embodiments of the invention, examples of which may be illustrated in accompanying figures. These figures are intended to be illustrative, not limiting. Although the invention is generally described in the context of these embodiments, it should be understood that it is not intended to limit the scope of the invention to these particular embodiments.
[0029] Fig 1: Perspective view in dynamic condition (when the person is carrying the load);
[0030] Fig 2: Perspective view in static condition (when the person is not carrying the load); and
[0031] Fig 3: Side View of Proposed Design with dummy human.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS:
[0032] While the present invention is described herein by way of example using embodiments and illustrative drawings, those skilled in the art will recognize that the invention is not limited to the embodiments of drawing or drawings described and are not intended to represent the scale of the various components. Further, some components that may form a part of the invention may not be illustrated in certain figures, for ease of illustration, and such omissions do not limit the embodiments outlined in any way. It should be understood that the drawings and the detailed description thereto are not intended to limit the invention to the particular form disclosed, but on the contrary, the invention is to cover all modifications, equivalents, and alternatives falling within the scope of the present invention as defined by the appended claim.
[0033] As used throughout this description, the word "may" is used in a permissive sense (i.e. meaning having the potential to), rather than the mandatory sense, (i.e. meaning must). Further, the words "a" or "an" mean "at least one” and the word “plurality” means “one or more” unless otherwise mentioned. Furthermore, the terminology and phraseology used herein are solely used for descriptive purposes and should not be construed as limiting in scope. Language such as "including," "comprising," "having," "containing," or "involving," and variations thereof, is intended to be broad and encompass the subject matter listed thereafter, equivalents, and additional subject matter not recited, and is not intended to exclude other additives, components, integers, or steps. Likewise, the term "comprising" is considered synonymous with the terms "including" or "containing" for applicable legal purposes. Any discussion of documents, acts, materials, devices, articles, and the like are included in the specification solely for the purpose of providing a context for the present invention. It is not suggested or represented that any or all these matters form part of the prior art base or were common general knowledge in the field relevant to the present invention.
[0034] In this disclosure, whenever a composition or an element or a group of elements is preceded with the transitional phrase “comprising”, it is understood that we also contemplate the same composition, element, or group of elements with transitional phrases “consisting of”, “consisting”, “selected from the group of consisting of, “including”, or “is” preceding the recitation of the composition, element or group of elements and vice versa.
[0035] The present invention is described hereinafter by various embodiments with reference to the accompanying drawing, wherein reference numerals used in the accompanying drawing correspond to the like elements throughout the description. This invention may, however, be embodied in many different forms and should not be construed as limited to the embodiment set forth herein. Rather, the embodiment is provided so that this disclosure will be thorough and complete and will fully convey the scope of the invention to those skilled in the art. In the following detailed description, numeric values and ranges are provided for various aspects of the implementations described. These values and ranges are to be treated as examples only and are not intended to limit the scope of the claims. In addition, several materials are identified as suitable for various facets of the implementations. These materials are to be treated as exemplary and are not intended to limit the scope of the invention.
[0036] The present invention provides Ergonomic adjustable load carriage system (EALCS) for head-supported carriers in difficult terrain.
[0037] Field workers, agricultural labourers, delivery personnel, and individuals operating in remote or mountainous regions often encounter significant physical strain when transporting loads over uneven or inclined surfaces. Traditional backpacks or manual carriage systems lack the ergonomic support and terrain adaptability required in such environments, leading to increased fatigue and potential musculoskeletal injuries.
[0038] Conventional solutions fail to address the need for dynamic adjustment, impact mitigation, and efficient load distribution while navigating hilly terrains. Furthermore, these systems do not typically include integrated utility features such as lighting or modular adjustments for variable load sizes.
[0039] Figure 1 illustrates a perspective view in dynamic condition (when the person is carrying the load) of the Adjustable Load Carriage System. The skeletal frame (3) is composed of twelve modular, interlocking frame members connected through eight structural joints (4), enabling both rigidity and collapsibility of the system. A breathable fabric sheet (5) encloses the frame, forming a container that is both flexible and durable. The padded shoulder strap assembly (8) is ergonomically designed and mounted on the upper section of the frame, allowing weight distribution across the shoulders. The waist belt (10) is equipped with a locking mechanism to stabilize the load during movement. A solar-powered lighting module (6) is mounted on the exterior surface to aid in visibility under low-light conditions.
[0040] Figure 2 also shows the perspective view but in static condition (when the person is not carrying the load) of the load carriage system, further detailing the shock-absorbing backrest (7) that aligns with the user’s back, reducing musculoskeletal strain. Below the container, a dual-wheel assembly (1) is integrated into the base. The wheels are coupled with a dynamic suspension system that includes a built-in shock absorber to manage vibrations and impacts during transit on uneven terrains. The retractable support legs (2) are shown in the extended position, allowing the unit to remain upright when stationary. An adjustable height mechanism is embedded within the lower frame assembly, enabling the user to align the carriage system according to their height or terrain requirements.
[0041] Figure 3 presents a side view of the device with dummy human, showing the reinforced rope attachments (9) looped through anchoring points for additional load stabilization. The frame joints (4) are clearly marked, demonstrating the modularity and collapsibility of the unit for compact storage. The solar lighting unit (6) is seen integrated seamlessly into the outer fabric wall. The shoulder straps (8) and waist belt (10) are padded and adjustable, providing comfort and securing the unit firmly to the user's body. The back panel includes airflow channels and extra cushioning to prevent sweat buildup and increase comfort during prolonged use.
[0042] Structural and Functional Components:
- Wheel Assembly (1): It is a pair of wheels attached at the bottom rear of the carriage structure, allows rolling support, reducing the direct burden on the human body. These wheels are aligned with the centre of gravity of the system for smooth mobility and load balance.
- Support Structure for Stability (While Carrying and Stationary) (2): Adjustable and retractable legs or support extensions provide stability during stationary phases or while loading/unloading. These supports can be deployed to prevent the carriage from tipping when not worn.
- Frame (3): The main load-carrying structure is built using 12 frame elements joined together using 8 frame joints. This skeletal frame forms a cuboidal container to house the belongings or load securely. It is designed to be lightweight yet strong enough to bear high loads.
- Frame Joints (4): Eight robust joints connect the frame elements, allowing for possible folding or adjusting mechanisms. These may include hinges or angle-lock mechanisms depending on the customization required.
- Covering Sheet (5): A perforated or mesh-type covering encloses the frame. This allows breathability and visibility while also reducing weight. It may be made of polymer, fabric, or light metal mesh.
- Solar-Charged Light (6): A solar-powered lighting unit is mounted at the top to illuminate the path or surrounding area in low-light conditions. It enhances night-time safety and visibility.
- Padding (7): Padding is provided on the section that makes contact with the user’s back to ensure comfort and reduce strain. It is ergonomically contoured to the human back profile and made of soft, durable material.
- Shoulder Straps (8): Adjustable padded shoulder straps, similar to those on trekking bags, help secure the system onto the user’s shoulders, distributing weight effectively.
- Ropes (9): Reinforced ropes are included for additional support and anchoring. These may be used for binding the load or for adjusting the tension between the body and the frame.
- Waist Belt Strap with Lock (10): A waist belt secures the system around the user’s torso, minimizing sway and increasing load stability. It includes a buckle/lock for quick release.
- Shock Absorber (11): The frame includes an integrated shock absorber mechanism (spring-damper system), especially near the wheel assembly. This component reduces the impact on uneven terrain, improving comfort and safety.
- Suspension System: An internal suspension system connects the lower frame to the wheel assembly and support structures. It works in conjunction with the shock absorber to handle sudden jerks and dynamic loads during movement.
- Carrying Load Area: The internal hollow region of the frame is intended for placing and securing various loads. It can accommodate different types of baggage, agricultural goods, or tools.
[0043] Figure 3 shows a dummy human wearing the load carriage system. The load rests on the back, stabilized by the waist belt and shoulder straps, while the wheel assembly supports most of the load’s weight. This ergonomically distributes the effort, thereby preventing common musculoskeletal strain. This system offers a robust, customizable, and ergonomic solution for users in hilly regions, enhancing mobility, safety, and efficiency in challenging operational scenarios.
[0044] Such is the aforementioned EALCS a fundamental achievement in load carriage ergonomics. With an entire array of features such as an overhead support with two adjustable ropes for ascents, an ergonomically shaped hip belt for stabilization on descents, adjustable shoulder straps with compressible padded back support, a modular light Aluminum alloy structure, solar-powered light source, and an extendable/retractable wheel assembly for load leveling, the EALCS serves to solve the biomechanics issues of the conventional systems.
[0045] The overhead support system decreases muscle tension upwards with angled climbing through loading a proportion of the load, as indicated by declining EMG levels of back musculature.
- The adaptive hip belt redistributes load towards the user's center of gravity, lowering lumbar pressure and constraining spinal stress.
- The padded backrest support and adjustable shoulder strap assembly permit equalized weight distribution in the interests of general postural balance and user accommodation.
- Application of light-weight aluminum alloy frame adds strength along with a weight reduction element, allowing the prolonged function in extreme environments.
- Integration of a solar-powered light module adds safety in night time operations through continuous, energy-efficient lighting.
- Expandable and foldable wheel set allows for the easier facilitation of dynamic load distribution on smooth surfaces in an attempt to prevent repetitive strain.
[0046] This is the widest-ranging end-to-end solution, written in EALCS, which can solve heavy load carrying problems in extreme environments. It focuses on minimizing the incidence of musculoskeletal disorders through efficient reduction of spinal loading with maximum load carrying capacity and general user protection. The integration of ergonomic design, lightweight materials, and adaptive control is a revolution in wearable load carriage technology. This innovation not only bridges the gaps created in the previous load carriage research but also creates a trend-setting benchmark for any subsequent innovations in this category based on the principle that users not only get the maximum level of comfort but also increased levels of safety even under the most extreme working conditions. The invention thus demonstrates a novel ergonomic adjustable load carrying system with partial support elements to alleviate musculoskeletal stress and increase carrying efficiency in troops carrying head-supported loads over challenging terrain. The system comprises overhead support, collapsible wheel assembly, hip belt, shoulder straps, solar powered luminescence, and light structure. The system dynamically responds to uphill and downhill grade terrain in order to provide augmented posture support and prevention of chronic injury risk.
[0047] The primary benefits of the current invention an Adaptive Ergonomic Load Carriage System for Head-Supported Loads—are superior to currently available technology and routine carry procedure as described below:
[0048] Terrain-Responsive Design: The invention is dependent on terrain, unlike traditional load systems or backpacks that are non-variable in shape. Climber's ropes and overhead support assist the wearer by redistributing weight from the neck and spine and providing arm support to aid movement. Weight is redistributed to the pelvic region through the hip belt, taking pressure off the spine and stabilizing. Head-load systems and conventional backpacks lack slope support for the ground, and the users experience muscle strain and spinal deformity.
[0049] Hybrid Carriage with Retractable Wheels: The incorporation of retractable wheels offers a two-mode operation as it can roll on even terrain for less physical effort and retract on unequal or staircases-based terrain. Although wheeled bag or rolling backpack is not ideal on variable terrain, while the regular carry systems offer load-shifting to the floor potential.
[0050] Spine and Neck Ergonomic Support: The system has a back support panel with a compliant pad to fit the curve of the wearer's spine, offering much lower risks of spinal kyphosis and lordosis and of chronic backache. Load-supported head systems load the cervical spine and have long-term effects.
[0051] Biomechanical Load Distribution: The system dynamically re-allocates load among the shoulder, pelvic, and arm systems to minimize musculoskeletal damage and cost of energy. Present systems are not loading body segments intelligently or allowing users to re-design support in slope or fatigue.
[0052] Integrated Solar-Powered Lighting: Complemented with an LED lamp which is rechargeable using sunlight to offer illumination at night, ensuring safety during late night journeys or early morning work. This is even more important in rural areas where there is no electricity. No load system has no built-in power solutions or light but requires people to use individual torches or headlamps.
[0053] Cost-Effective and Sustainable: It was constructed of affordable, corrosion-free, lightweight metal alloys to fall within the hands of low-priced consumers and to be durable.
[0054] Contrary to high-cost military - or business-type systems which would not prove cost-effective to mass use within economically under-developed situations.
[0055] Culturally Relevant, Globally Scalable: Engineered for populations who use head-supported load carrying, which is common in some regions of Asia, Africa, and Latin America but scalable worldwide by rescue workers, laborers, and trekkers. Ergonomic designs are for recreation consumerism in industrial nations and do not know about developing world requirement.
[0056] Enhances Long-Term Health Outcomes: With reduced cumulative strain, the invention reduces orthopedic injury, promotes posture, and reduces cost of long-term disability to society. Where high rate of incidence of spinal degeneration compared to standard techniques, rapidity particularly amongst female rural laborers.
[0057] The disclosure has been described with reference to the accompanying embodiments herein and the various features and advantageous details thereof are explained with reference to the non-limiting embodiments in the following description. Descriptions of well-known components and processing techniques are omitted so as to not unnecessarily obscure the embodiments herein.
[0058] The foregoing description of the specific embodiments so fully revealed the general nature of the embodiments herein that others can, by applying current knowledge, readily modify and/or adapt for various applications such specific embodiments without departing from the generic concept, and, therefore, such adaptations and modifications should and are intended to be comprehended within the meaning and range of equivalents of the disclosed embodiments. It is to be understood that the phraseology or terminology employed herein is for the purpose of description and not of limitation. Therefore, while the embodiments herein have been described in terms of preferred embodiments, those skilled in the art will recognize that the embodiments herein can be practiced with modification within the scope of the embodiments as described herein.
, Claims:We Claim:
1) An adjustable load carriage system for head-supported manual load transportation in difficult terrain, the carriage system comprising:
a head rest and upper load platform assembly (HULPA) adapted to receive and support a load;
a neck support assembly (NSA) operatively connected to the HULPA; and
a load stabilization harness assembly (LSHA) configured to secure the system to a user’s upper body;
wherein the system is modular and provides adjustable ergonomic support to distribute load forces across the head, neck, and upper torso.
2) The carriage system as claimed in claim 1, wherein the head rest and upper load platform assembly comprises:
a contoured head cradle formed of cushioning material;
a rigid or semi-rigid load platform integrally or detachably connected to the head cradle; and
peripheral load guides or flanges adapted to prevent lateral displacement of the load.
3) The carriage system as claimed in claim 2, wherein the load platform comprises a plurality of modular attachment points for securing straps or cords for load fastening.
4) The carriage system as claimed in claim 1, wherein the neck support assembly comprises:
a semi-rigid neck collar adjustable in height and circumference;
a hinged or telescopic connector linking the collar to the head platform assembly; and
lateral winglets or panels configured to distribute lateral loads to the shoulder region.
5) The carriage system as claimed in claim 4, wherein the neck support assembly further comprises at least one sensor configured to detect postural deviation or excessive cervical loading.
6) The carriage system as claimed in claim 1, wherein the load stabilization harness assembly comprises:
a pair of shoulder straps;
a sternum connector;
a dorsal crossbar; and
tensioning straps having adjustable or elastic members to stabilize the load during user movement.
7) The carriage system as claimed in claim 6, wherein the harness assembly further comprises a recoil absorption module selected from a group consisting of elastic frames, spring struts, and damping inserts.