Exo Backpack
2024

Waterproof cordura, rip-stop, padded mesh, and neoprene external with blue plastic molded zippers.  Grey nylon interior with black zippers and elastic bands. The front panel is adjusted with a dark blue plastic buckle and nylon woven strap. 

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The Exo Backpack is an experiment in manufacturing and functionality. I viewed the function of a backpack as a sort of open-ended question, with a diverse user group and a wide array of needs. Backpacks are essentially a structure to hold objects onto the human body, so my approach was to create a base structure that could be transformed to accommodate a wide variety of specific use cases. There is internal storage for the more common items, including a padded laptop pocket and built in pencil case. The external neoprene front panel allows for flexibility and adjustability, capable of securing large and odd-shaped objects such as tennis-rackets, shoes, and rulers. Finally, the circular front pocket is detachable and transforms into a small side bag, holding smaller items with the main backpack as a home base. Materiality plays a part in each area of the bag, with a sturdy waterproof cordura shell, an anti-tear rip-stop front and stretchy but durable neoprene exo-skeleton.