POC Aegis Commuter Pack
The POC Aegis Commuter Pack was my capstone for DAAP in 2015. The pack is for the urban commuter cyclist. With its shock-absorbing technology and LED blinker system, it not only provides protection for the rider, but what's inside their bag as well.
WHAT'S THE PROBLEM?
Bicycle safety is a major issue. In the United States alone, on average, 19,000 cyclists are involved in accidents a year. Most riders are commuters that carry their gear in bags that offer little or no protection for gear and rider if in an accident.
"It is not if you crash, It's when."
- Dr. Harold Schwartz, New York Times
MEET LUCAS
This urban commuter wants a daypack that can protect his electronics and accommodate his commuter lifestyle. Lucas is a full time designer and an urban photographer who loves riding his bicycle. He wants a durable and functional backpack that will protect his belongings and himself from being in an accident.
WHAT DOES LUCAS NEED?
1. Size of the bag must fit the commuters basic survival kit (sneakers, sunglasses, jacket, laptop & phone, camera, note book & pens). The items are more important then the volume in liters. Some items, like a helmet, may be carried outside of the bag.
2. Final product must be rain resistant to a high enough degree to insure safety of valuable electronics. Zoning testing should determine risk areas for extra reinforcement. Product must aim for one of these standards.
3. LED lighting and blinker system for cycling in a street environment. Let people around the cyclist know intended actions of rider. Explore cycling viability issues and how lighting could help solve them.
4. Bag must have secret stash to let the commuter protect his critical or at risk items. Should be accessible quickly but only by the owner of the bag.
5. Aesthetic considerations and visual language must be derived from the POC brand.
INSPIRATION IMAGES
CONCEPT SKETCHES
PROTOTYPING
Created multiple volume studies using paper and tape.
Assembeled a codura prototype so I could get a feel for the desired material.
Sewed a muslin bag to finalize a comfortable wearing size.
Developed custom hardware for the bag.
Developed a pattern that maximized pattern efficiency.
Built electronic lighting system for the backpack.
Worked with a seamstress (my mother) to gain proper sewing skills.
Completed backpack that is fully functional. I use it everyday on my bike rides!
HOW DOES IT WORK?
The POC Aegis Commuter Pack has a built in blinker system that allows the cyclist to signal their desired direction of movement.
