Project Overview
The client needed a functional case to house their sensitive network testing tablet. They wanted a backpack that employees could use in the field that would transport and protect all the accessories and cables needed for network testing.
Specs:
Thermoformed foam EVA backpack with 2 compartments, mesh pockets, hidden zipper pull, and padded pockets.
Challenge
An enterprise network solutions firm contacted us with a need for an EVA hard-shell backpack to house an advanced network testing tablet and some cable accessories. The tablet itself was quite large, and had some large rubber handles built-in to either side of the screen. The main challenge here was to create a protective case that wasn’t too bulky, but also sturdy enough to stand up to a tough working environment without damaging the sensitive equipment. We also had to integrate multiple pouches and zipped compartments to house the cables, meters, and attachments for the tablet. Lastly, they wanted the backpack to be ergonomically beneficial and have plenty of padding so that the end user could wear the pack during an entire 8 hour work day and not be uncomfortable or perspire excessively.
Solution
Our design team created a cad file to pinpoint the exact dimensions of the tablet. Once completed, we designed a special EVA tool for the hard shell facing away from the back of the wearer. The pack itself had 2 main compartments: The outermost compartment contained the formed foam EVA shell, which houses the tablet device, as well as some components for testing. The zipper pull is hidden in a seam, giving the case a more streamlined look. Inside the front compartment is also a mesh pocket, and multiple sleeves for various cables and accessories. The back compartment contains mesh pockets and a padded sleeve for a laptop or the tablet if the other pocket is full. The back of the backpack is equipped with a mesh foam padding to allow breathability and the straps clip together to distribute the weight on the hips instead of only on the shoulders.
Results
The case was a success and workers in the field absolutely loved the comfort and storage capabilities the backpack provided. The hard shell EVA gave them peace of mind when traveling from jobsite to jobsite because they didn’t need to worry about damaging their instruments in transit. We were able to design a custom backpack that was not only aesthetically pleasing, but also highly functional and provided our client’s employees with a field-ready backpack that made them more efficient and protected their sensitive equipment.