models

1:10 scale

Exploring a fundamental construction through rectilinear forms.

Next piece

http://www.freepatentsonline.com/1505661.pdf-

Testing out the first packboard

USER

Although my inspiration stems from a hiking and mountaineering seed, I want my packboard to be brought to a new context, where its use is less specific.

Packboard prototype made from chair back, cordura, old belts, and cord.

AMC Hut Crew Packboards

Found these rads people using packboards to haul provisions to their cabin. Packboards are in essence a platform for one's back, allowing them to carry a heavy load of any unusual shape. These are fundamental in their design, using right angles, a simple construction, and a clever solution dealing with the ergonomics of the back.

Trying on some of the prototype gear. Curious about the fundamental elements of the design (frame, strap, hip support, possible second function). Check back soon.

3D exploration

A few sketches to jumpstart the design process.

 

 

Ideas about the back and lumbar support, connection and form, and function.

harvesting rice, China 

tradition trekking baskets, Nepal

loading child, Vietnam

tea harvesting, India

bringing up lumber, Mt. Everest

I was able to see a broad selection of activities dealing with the back and carrying objects. However, I am now curious to see different traditions involving other carrying aside from Ecuador.

From all of the trips, I became most interested in the relationship we had with the heavy loads on our backs, the objects themselves and the physical act of carrying them. This thought remained with me throughout the entire trip and appeared in many forms.

El Altar 5319m (17,451ft)

holy cow

A two nighter muddy trek to the glacial lake Altar.

Cotopaxi 5,897m (19,347ft)

Brutal hike starting at 1am. It was super rad!

Illiniza Norte 5,126m (16,817ft)

Solid climb through all elements.

Pasochoa 4,200m (13,780ft)

First hike on a cloudy day.