Backpack Support Device

Backpacks have become an essential part of everyday life for students of all ages. These indispensable pieces of technology, however, consist of implications that hinder daily life too. For starters, researchers from The New York Times have found that 60% of people surveyed carried backpacks weighing 30% of their body weight, even though the recommended amount is 10%.As a backpack's weight increases the force of it also increases causing arched backs that lead to back vertebrae applying pressuring onto spinal discs. The exertion on these discs squeezes blood vessels, constricting blood flow and allowing toxins to build up, which causes cells to die. This stress can eventually lead to scoliosis and persistent back pain.While people attempt to consolidate the articles they carry there seems to be no repose from the force of heavy backpacks. Although there’s little hope in reducing the mass of backpacks by increasing the area that a backpack’s weight exerts on, which is inversely related to force, these complications can be reduced and alleviated. Furthermore, through the addition of semi-malleable padding created through Poly Jet 3D printing the experience of carrying a backpack can become less painful and more personal making the daily life of students more agreeable. Instructor: Jeremy Case School: Grand Haven High School