Patent Publication Number: US-8991671-B2

Title: Load carrier device

Description:
CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS 
     This application is a National Phase Application of PCT International Application No. PCT/IL2011/000945, International Filing Date Dec. 15, 2011, claiming priority of Israeli Patent Application No. 210054, filed Dec. 16, 2010, which is hereby incorporated by reference. 
     FIELD OF THE INVENTION 
     The present invention relates to a load carrier device. 
     BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION 
     Personnel moving on foot are often required to carry a large amount of equipment. Such personnel may include firefighters, infantry soldiers, law enforcement personnel, hikers, and forest rangers. For example, an infantry soldier, depending on the nature of a particular task or mission, may be required to carry weapons, ammunition, water, food, body armor, tools, communication equipment, and reconnaissance equipment. The weight of this equipment may be substantial (e.g. similar to the weight of the body of the person carrying the load). 
     Since the items carried by users of a load bearing system typically vary from user to user, and from occasion to occasion, many such systems include interchangeable components. A typical system may be designed with various interchangeable front and back panels. For example, different types of panels may be provided with different distributions of pockets and equipment carriers. As another example, a panel may be provided with a pocket or other arrangement enabling insertion of a plate of body armor. The type and thickness of the armor plate may be selected in accordance with an anticipated need for the purpose of a particular task or mission. For example, a load bearing system with interchangeable panels has been described by Tishler et al. in U.S. Pat. No. 5,644,792. 
     In many carrier systems designed to carry such equipment, the weight of such equipment is borne only by the shoulders of the person carrying the load. The result may be excessive force on the person&#39;s shoulder and back. In addition to causing discomfort to the person carrying the equipment, the excessive force could lead to back pain or injury. 
     In order to reduce excessive forces on the shoulders and back, load bearing systems have been designed that include a belt or band. The belt or band may be placed around the person&#39;s waist. In this manner, the belt or band may at least partially support the load. Thus, at least part of the load may be supported by the person&#39;s waist or pelvic area. For example, a load bearing system that includes a waist belt has been described by Twito et al. in US publication 2008/0010730. 
     However, even when the weight load is shared by the shoulders and the waist, the distribution of the weight may not be optimal or comfortable. In addition, while carrying a load, the optimal distribution of the weight may change. For example, as a part of the body that is bearing most of the weight load becomes fatigued, it may be more comfortable to redistribute the weight load. In addition, a load that is connected to both shoulder straps and a waist belt may restrict movement of the body. For example, a person carrying such a load may have difficultly bending the upper part of the body. 
     It is an object of the present invention to provide a load carrier device that enables a person to comfortably and effectively carry a load. 
     Other aims and advantages of the present invention will become apparent after reading the present invention and reviewing the accompanying drawings. 
     SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION 
     There is thus provided, in accordance with some embodiments of the present invention, a load carrier device for enabling a user to carry a load includes a belt for fastening about a waist of the user and an element of substantial vertical rigidity configured to exert a lifting force on the load when the load is attached to shoulder straps on shoulders of the user. The device further includes an adjustable elastic connection attached to the belt for supporting a lower end of the element of substantial vertical rigidity such that adjusting the adjustable elastic connection changes a distribution of a weight of the load between the shoulders and the waist of the user. 
     Furthermore, in accordance with some embodiments of the present invention, the element of substantial vertical rigidity includes one or more connectors for connecting to the load or to a harness that includes the shoulder straps. 
     Furthermore, in accordance with some embodiments of the present invention, the elastic connection includes a sheath elastically connected to the belt for supporting a lower end of the element of substantial vertical rigidity. 
     Furthermore, in accordance with some embodiments of the present invention, the device includes a strap attached to the elastic connection for adjusting the lifting force whereby applying tension to the strap increases a tension of the elastic connection. 
     Furthermore, in accordance with some embodiments of the present invention, the strap includes a stop arrangement for maintaining the applied tension. 
     Furthermore, in accordance with some embodiments of the present invention, the elastic connection includes a silicone band. 
     Furthermore, in accordance with some embodiments of the present invention, the device includes the shoulder straps. 
     Furthermore, in accordance with some embodiments of the present invention, the shoulder straps are part of a harness. 
     Furthermore, in accordance with some embodiments of the present invention, the harness includes webbing. 
     Furthermore, in accordance with some embodiments of the present invention, the element of substantial vertical rigidity includes one or more connectors for connecting to the webbing. 
     Furthermore, in accordance with some embodiments of the present invention, the harness includes abdomen flaps for fastening about the torso of the user. 
     Furthermore, in accordance with some embodiments of the present invention, the harness includes an attachment element for attaching a load-carrying accessory. 
     Furthermore, in accordance with some embodiments of the present invention, the attachment element is selected from a group of attachment elements consisting of: a surface of hook-and-loop fastener material, a buckle, a strap, and a tab pocket. 
     Furthermore, in accordance with some embodiments of the present invention, the harness includes a lower torso harness that includes abdomen flaps for fastening around a lower torso of the user, and a shoulder harness that includes the shoulder straps, the lower torso harness and the shoulder harness being separately attachable to the element of substantial vertical rigidity. 
     Furthermore, in accordance with some embodiments of the present invention, the harness includes an integrated soft ballistic panel. 
    
    
     
       BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS 
       In order to better understand the present invention, and appreciate its practical applications, the following Figures are provided and referenced hereafter. It should be noted that the Figures are given as examples only and in no way limit the scope of the invention. Like components are denoted by like reference numerals. 
         FIG. 1  shows a load carrier device in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention. 
         FIG. 2A  illustrates attachment of a lower torso harness to a spine bar of the load carrier device shown in  FIG. 1 . 
         FIG. 2B  illustrates attachment of a shoulder harness to a spine bar of the load carrier device shown in  FIG. 1 . 
         FIG. 3A  illustrates application of upward force by a load carrier device in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention. 
         FIG. 3B  is another view of application of upward force by a load carrier device. 
         FIG. 4  shows an example of a backpack designed to be carried by a load carrier device in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention. 
         FIG. 5  illustrates attachment of an example of a front carrier panel to a load carrier device in accordance with some embodiments of the present invention. 
         FIG. 6  shows a load carrier device in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention, including a backpack and front panel. 
     
    
    
     DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF EMBODIMENTS 
     In the following detailed description, numerous specific details are set forth in order to provide a thorough understanding of the invention. However, it will be understood by those of ordinary skill in the art that the invention may be practiced without these specific details. In other instances, well-known methods, procedures, components, modules, units and/or circuits have not been described in detail so as not to obscure the invention. 
     A load carrier device, in accordance with embodiments of the present invention, includes a waist belt for fastening about a waist of the user. An element of substantial vertical rigidity is configured to exert a lifting force on the load when the load is attached to shoulder straps on shoulders of the user. An adjustable elastic connection is attached to the belt for supporting a lower end of the element of substantial vertical rigidity. Adjusting the adjustable elastic connection changes a distribution of a weight of the load between the shoulders and the waist of the user. 
     The shoulder straps may be included as part of a harness. The harness may be configured to carry the load. For example, one or more load carrying accessories (e.g. backpack or equipment carrier panel) may be attached to the harness. A “shoulder strap” in the context of the present specification is understood to include any supporting arrangement that is designed to be placed over a shoulder of the user so as to allow the user to conveniently carry a load that is attached to the shoulder straps, where the shoulders support all or part of the load. For example, shoulder straps may include straps or pads. 
     The harness includes one or more rigid elements. For example, the harness may include a substantially rigid plastic panel. The harness may also include the element of substantial vertical rigidity such that the element of substantial vertical rigidity extends vertically within the harness. For example, the element of substantial vertical rigidity may include an insertable spine bar at the back of the harness (as typically worn by the user). 
     The vertical rigid element may attach to the waist belt via the connection. The connection may be adjustable so as to adjust a lifting force exerted on the element of substantial vertical rigidity. For example, the connection may include an element (e.g. a motorized, elastic, or hydraulic actuator) that may be controlled so as to adjust the lifting force. Typically, the connection may enable relative freedom of movement and rotation between the vertical rigid element and the waist belt. For example, the connection may enable freedom of movement in several or all directions, and freedom of rotation about several or all axes. 
     The connection may be an elastic connection. An elastic connection may enable at least limited flexibility between the vertical rigid element and the waist belt in every direction and about every axis. For example, the elastic connection may include one or more elastic bands. The tension of the elastic connection may be adjustable by the user when wearing the load carrier device. For example, the elastic connection may be provided with one or more (typically two) straps. The user may pull on the straps to increase the tension of the elastic connection, or release the straps to decrease the tension. The elastic connection may be configured to increase a lifting force on the vertical rigid element when the tension of the elastic connection is increased. Increasing the tension and the lifting force may transfer a portion of the weight of the load carried by the harness from the shoulder straps to the waist belt. On the other hand, decreasing the tension may transfer a portion of the weight of the load from the waist belt back to the shoulder straps. Thus, a user wearing the load carrier device may conveniently, and typically without interrupting other activities such as walking, shift a load at back and forth between the user&#39;s waist and the user&#39;s shoulders. For example, the user may shift the load in accordance so as to maintain or increase the user&#39;s comfort, or to avoid strain or fatigue. 
     The harness may include other features, such as a closable abdomen strap, for maintaining the load close to the user&#39;s center of gravity, and thus maintaining the stability of the load and the user carrying the load. 
     A load carrier device, in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention, includes a waist belt, a spine bar, and a torso harness. 
     The waist belt is configured to be fastened about the waist of a user who is wearing the load carrier device. The waist belt may be fastened about the user&#39;s waist, typically in front of the user, by using buckles or other fasteners (e.g. hooks, latches, or hook-and-loop fasteners). 
     The waist belt includes two straps. An end of each strap (typically the end that is positioned behind a user who is wearing the load carrier device) is connected to an elastic (herein understood to refer to being both flexible and resilient) band or other flexible and elastic connecting strip or band. The elastic band holds the end to a spine bar sheath and to the corresponding end of the other strap. The spine bar sheath is configured to support the lower end of the spine bar. Pulling the straps away from one another may stretch the elastic band attaching each strap to the spine bar sheath, thus apply a lifting force to the spine bar sheath and the spine bar. Typically, the straps are provided with a mechanism (e.g. a buckle) that may restrain the straps in a pulled position, thus maintaining tension on the elastic band. Releasing the straps enable the elastic tension to relax, pulling the straps rearward. 
     The components of the torso harness may attach to the spine bar. Typically, the torso harness includes a lower torso harness and a shoulder harness. The torso harness may be configured to support a variety of loads. Typically, a front panel may be attached to a front side (when worn by a user) of the torso harness, and a backpack or other equipment carrier may be attached to the rear side. 
     In accordance with some embodiments of the present invention, the lower torso harness and the shoulder harness are detachable from one another. When assembled into a torso harness, the lower torso harness and the shoulder harness are capable of a limited amount of independent movement. The capability for independent movement may enable greater freedom of movement for a user that is wearing the torso harness. Typically, both the lower torso harness and the shoulder harness include appropriate attachment connectors, supports, or panels for supporting a load that is carried in front of, or behind a user wearing the torso harness. 
     In accordance with embodiments of the present invention, a rear side of the lower torso harness includes one or more approximately vertical sleeves (or horizontal loops). When assembling the load carrier for use, the spine bar may be made to pass vertically through the sleeves. A top end of the spine bar may support a bracket on the torso harness. Typically, the bracket may be in the form of a socket, such as a pocket of the lower torso harness. The spine bar pocket opens at the bottom to enable insertion of the end of the spine bar, and is closed at the top. Thus, pushing upward on the spine bar may cause the spine bar to push upward on the spine bar pocket, and thus on the lower torso harness. A portion of the spine bar remains outside the sleeves and the spine bar pocket for attachment of the shoulder harness. 
     The lower torso harness includes two straps that end in abdomen flaps. The abdomen flaps are configured to close over and securely attach to one another in front of the user. For example, regions of facing surfaces of the abdomen flaps may be covered with mating surfaces of a hook-and-loop fastener material. Securely closing the abdomen flaps may retain the spine bar close to the user&#39;s back. 
     The shoulder harness includes shoulder straps that are attached to the rear of the shoulder harness (when worn by a user). The shoulder straps are configured to fit over the shoulders of a user, and to attach to an attachment point that is typically on the lower torso harness. The shoulder harness may include a connector for connecting to a load that is carried either in front of or behind the user. Thus, the shoulder straps may at least partially support the load. 
     The shoulder harness includes a sleeve or loop for a section of the spine bar (typically a section that is not covered by a sleeve or spine bar pocket of the lower torso harness) to pass through. The dimensions of the opening of the loop or sleeve are typically slightly larger than the width and thickness of the spine bar. Thus, the shoulder harness may be held against the spine bar. However, the shoulder harness may move (to a limited extent) independently of the lower torso harness. The independent motion may allow a user of the load carrier device more freedom of motion than would be allowed if the shoulder harness were firmly attached to the lower torso harness. 
     When an upward force is applied upward on the spine bar such that the spine bar exerts an upward force on the lower torso harness, the lower torso harness may exert an upward force on the shoulder harness. Thus, the weight of a load that is supported by the shoulder harness may be shifted such that it is at least partially supported by the spine bar sheath and the waist belt. Thus, a user may pull forward or release straps of the waist belt to simply, conveniently, and dynamically shift the weight of a load between the shoulder straps and the waist belt. 
       FIG. 1  shows a load carrier device in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention. Load carrier device  10  is shown as opened, and is viewed from the rear (as typically worn by a user). Load carrier device  10  includes waist belt  12  and torso harness  28 . Torso harness  28  includes lower torso harness  27 , and shoulder harness  29 . Spine bar  14  extends upward from spine bar sheath  18  of waist belt  12 , and through lower torso harness  27  to shoulder harness  29  of torso harness  28 . Alternatively, a torso harness may be a single unit including features of both a lower torso harness and a shoulder harness. 
     Waist belt  12  may be secured to the waist of a user by a closing device  13 . Typically, closing device  13  may include a quick release buckle. Alternatively, closing device  13  may include a buckle, latch, hook, a surface of hook-and-loop fastener material, or any other belt closure known in the art. 
     Spine bar  14  is typically contoured so as to approximately match the form of a typical user&#39;s spine (as shown in  FIG. 3B ). A spine bar may be selected or adjusted so as to more closely match the shape or size of the back of a specific user or class of users. 
     The length of spine bar  14  may be typically adjusted or selected so as to match the distance between the waist and shoulders of a specific user. For example, spine bar  14  may include two sections configured such that an end of one section may be inserted into an opening of the other section in telescoping fashion. The length that is inserted may be increased or decreased so as to adjust the length of spine bar  14  to fit a specific user. 
     Such a telescoping spine bar may be provided with appropriately spaced stops so as to fix the length of the spine bar at a selected length. For example, one of the telescoping sections may be provide with one or more extendable pins, while the other section may be provided with a plurality of corresponding openings or slots along its length. By extending the pin (either manually or by means of a spring) so as to insert the pin into one of the openings, the length of the spine bar may be fixed. Alternatively, both telescoping sections may be provided with a plurality of holes. When a hole of one section aligns with a hole of the other section, a pin, rivet, bolt, or screw may be inserted through the aligned holes so as to fix the length of the spine bar. 
     Alternatively to a telescoping spine bar, two or more sections of a spine bar may be connected to one another externally in a variable manner to form a spine bar of a desired length. For example, one section may be provided with a set of holes, while another section may be provided with a corresponding set of pins. Insertion of the pins of section into the holes of the other section may enable the sections to be joined to form a single spine bar. Selection of which pins to insert into which holes may determine the length of the spine bar. Alternatively, both sections may be provided with holes. Aligning the holes and inserting a pin, screw, bolt, or rivet through one or more of the aligned pairs of holes may form a spine bar of a desired length. 
     Alternatively to a spine bar having an adjustable length, a spine bar  14  of appropriate length may be selected from a set of spine bars of various lengths. The selected spine bar  14  may then be inserted or attached between waist belt  12  and torso harness  28  of load carrier device  10 . 
     The lower end of spine bar  14  may be inserted into spine bar opening  22  of spine bar sheath  18 . Spine bar opening  22  may be configured to maintain spine bar  14  in an approximately fixed orientation with respect to spine bar sheath  18 . For example, spine bar opening  22  may be shape so as to restrict movement of spine bar  14 . Typically, spine bar sheath  18  may maintain spine bar  14  in an approximately upright or vertical orientation when load carrier device is properly worn by a user who is standing. In order to prevent accidental withdrawal of spine bar  14  from spine bar opening  22 , e.g. due to motion of the user&#39;s body, the lower end of spine bar  14  may be permanently or removably fixed to spine bar sheath  18 . 
     Alternatively, spine bar  14  may be attached to spine bar sheath  18  such that no restricting opening is required to maintain spine bar  14  in an approximately fixed orientation with respect to spine bar sheath  18 . For example, spine bar  14  may be attached to spine bar sheath  18  at two or more attachment points such as to maintain spine bar  14  in an approximately fixed relative orientation. 
     Spine bar sheath  18  may constructed so as to be substantially rigid. Being substantially rigid component may assist in enabling spine bar sheath  18  to substantially maintain its shape when subject to stress forces. For example, a rigid plate may be constructed of a rigid plastic or metal. 
     Components of torso harness  28  may be attached to spine bar  14 . Torso harness  28  is designed to fit over the torso of a user. Sections of torso harness  28  may incorporate a padding or lining. Such a padding or lining may include soft ballistic panel material. For example, an integrated soft ballistic panel may be enclosed by layers of fabric. 
     Torso harness  28  includes shoulder straps  30 . Shoulder strap connectors  41   a  on shoulder straps  30  may be connected to shoulder strap connectors  41   b  on waist belt  12  so as to fasten shoulder straps  30  over a user&#39;s shoulders. For example, shoulder strap connectors  41   a  and  41   b  may include mating pairs of side-release buckles, of buckles, snaps, buttons and button holes, side-release buckles, straps, surfaces of hook-and-loop fastener material, laces and eyelets, or any other connector for attaching a strap known in the art. 
     Torso harness  28  is typically designed to carry one or more loads. For example, torso harness  28 , in accordance with some embodiments of the present invention, may be provided with one or more connectors  40 . For example, connectors  40  may be in the form of buckles, snaps, buttons, side-release buckles, straps, laces, eyelets, or surfaces of hook-and-loop fastener material. Connectors  40  may be mated with corresponding components of a load so as to connect the load to torso harness  28 . A load may include, for example, a load carrying panel or a backpack. 
       FIG. 2A  illustrates attachment of a lower torso harness to a spine bar of the load carrier device shown in  FIG. 1 .  FIG. 2B  illustrates attachment of a shoulder harness to a spine bar of the load carrier device shown in  FIG. 1 . Spine bar  14  may pass through sleeve  32  of lower torso harness  27 . An upper end of spine bar  14  may be inserted into spine bar pocket  33 . Typically, the interior dimensions of sleeve  32  and spine bar pocket  33  are slightly larger than the exterior dimensions of spine bar  14 . Thus, when spine bar  14  is inserted into sleeve  32  and spine bar pocket  33 , lateral relative movement between spine bar  14  and lower torso harness  27  may be limited. Alternatively to sleeve  32 , lower torso harness  27  may be provided with an aligned set of smaller loops or sleeves. 
     Prior to insertion of the upper end of spine bar  14  into spine bar pocket  33 , the upper end of spine bar  14  may be inserted through spine bar sleeve  31  of shoulder harness  29 . (Spine bar sleeve  31  is located on a side of shoulder harness  29  that typically faces inward when worn by a user. In  FIG. 2B , shoulder harness  29  is shown inverted with the typically inward-facing side facing outward.) Thus, when the upper end of spine bar  14  is inserted into spine bar pocket  33 , shoulder harness  29  may be held to spine bar  14 . 
     Lower torso harness  27 , in accordance with some embodiments of the present invention, may be provided with include abdomen closure flaps  50   a  and  50   b . Abdomen closure flaps  50   a  and  50   b  may be closed, typically over the user&#39;s abdomen, in order to secure lower torso harness to the user&#39;s body. For example, securing lower torso harness  27  to the user&#39;s body may assist in ensuring that a load carried by load carrier device  10  may be held in a comfortable and stable manner. For example, proper use of load carrier device  10  may ensure that the center of gravity of a carried load remains close to the axis of the user&#39;s body. 
     For example, an outer surface of an abdomen closure flap  50   a  may include an attachment surface  51   a , such as a surface that includes a hook-and-loop fastener material. A mating surface on an inner surface (not shown) of the opposite abdomen closure flap  50   b  may be fastened to attachment surface  51  a when abdomen closure flaps  50   b  overlaps abdomen closure flap  50   a . Alternatively, abdomen closure flaps  50   a  and  50   b  may be closable using latches, hooks, buttons, snaps, bands, laces, buckles, or any other method for closing flaps known in the art. An outer surface of abdomen closure flap  50   b  may include an outward facing attachment surface  51   b . Outward-facing attachment surface  51   b  may enable attaching a panel or other suitable component to abdomen flap  50   b.    
     Shoulder straps  30  of shoulder harness  29  may include padding, or may be otherwise designed to minimize discomfort. When a user wears load carrier device  10  in order to carry a load, shoulder straps  30  are typically arranged over the user&#39;s shoulders. Typically, one or more attachment devices  40  are attached near the distal ends of shoulder straps  30 . The distal ends may typically be attached to an appropriate device on lower torso harness  27  (as shown in  FIG. 5A ). 
     Lower torso harness  27  may be provided with tab pocket  24 . For example, a load, such as a backpack, may include a tab that is designed to fit into tab pocket  24 . When a tab of a load is placed into tab pocket  24 , lower torso harness  27  may support the load. Alternatively or in addition, a connector for supporting a backpack or similar load carrying accessory may be provided. 
     Lower torso harness  27  may also include one or more compartments configured to accommodate a panel or plate and hold it in place (in addition to any soft padding or plate material, such as integrated soft ballistic paneling, incorporated into the structure of lower torso harness  27 ). A panel or plate may be inserted into the plate compartment through plate compartment opening  58  at a bottom edge of lower torso harness  27 . For example, a plate may include a rigid ceramic ballistic plate, or other body armor components. The shape of the inserted plate may closely match the shape the plated compartment into which it is inserted. Attachment or closure means may be provided to hold a panel in place within the compartment. For example, panel opening  58  may be fastened shut. 
     An upward force applied to spine bar  14  may be adjusted by adjustment of waist belt  12 . Straps  26  of waist belt  12 , one on either side of spine bar sheath  18 , attach to elastic bands  16 . A user wearing waist belt  12  typically positions spine bar sheath  18  behind the user. 
     Thus, waist belt  12  may be configured to support spine bar  14 . The attachment of spine bar sheath  18  to waist belt  12  may be such as to enable at least limited relative movement between spine bar sheath  18  and waist belt  12 . For example, spine bar sheath  18  may be connected to an end of each strap  26  of waist belt  12  by an elastic band  16 . Elastic bands  16  may enable relative motion between spine bar sheath  18  and waist ban  12 . For example, enabling such relative may enable a user wearing load carrier device  10  to bend or move freely. Elastic band  16  may be constructed with an elastic material, e.g. silicone. Alternatively, elastic band  16  may include an elastic rubber or plastic band, a flexible rope, cord or band; a spring; or any other suitable elastic connector known in the art. 
     Attachment of elastic band  16  to spine bar sheath  18  may be such that elastic band  16  attaches to spine bar sheath  18  at an oblique angle to the horizontal. For example, in accordance with some embodiments of the present invention, elastic band  16  may be in the form of a silicone elastic ring that is loop about a groove along the outer perimeter of spine bar sheath  18 . Alternatively, ends of each elastic band  16  may be attached to spine bar sheath  18 . For example, such an attachment may include screws, rivets, stitching, laces, loops or eyelets, or any other suitable method known in the art for connecting an end of an elastic band. 
     Typically, each elastic band  16  is threaded through a loop  27  at a rearmost end of each strap  26  of waist belt  12 . For example, fabric at the rearmost end of strap  26  may be bent or folded over on itself (and sewn shut or otherwise caused to adhere to itself) so as to form loop  27 . Alternatively, elastic band  16  may be attached to an end of a strap  26  of waist belt  12  using any other connection method known in the art. 
     Elastic bands  16 , straps  26 , and spine bar sheath  18 , in accordance with embodiments of the present invention, are configured to apply a lifting force to spine bar sheath  18  by manipulation of straps  26 . Pulling straps  26  forward and away from spine bar sheath  18  may apply tension to elastic bands  16 . Application of tension to elastic bands  16  may apply a lifting force on spine bar sheath  18 . 
       FIG. 3A  illustrates application of upward force by a load carrier in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention.  FIG. 3B  is another view of application of upward force by a load carrier device. 
     For example, straps  26  may be pulled forward in the direction of arrows  36 , applying tension to each elastic band  16 . Such applied tension to elastic band  16  may apply an upward force to spine bar sheath  18  as indicated by arrow  38 . For example, forward tension may be applied to strap  26  by pulling on a strap extension  26   a  of strap  26  that extends forward from slide adjuster ring  34 . Thus, pulling forward on strap  26  of waist belt  12  may raise spine bar sheath  18 , and thus raise spine bar  14 . Waist belt  12  may be configured to maintain the applied tension. For example, strap  26  may be provided with a stop arrangement that cooperates with a ring or loop on waist belt  12  to prevent backward motion of strap  26 . A stop arrangement, such as slide adjuster ring  34 , may cooperate with strap loop  35  of waist belt  12  to maintain forward tension on strap  26 , and thus an upward force on spine bar  14 . 
     Reversing the motion may lower spine bar sheath  18 , and lower spine bar  14 . For example, manipulating a flap of releasing strap  26  of waist belt  12  that extends forward from slide adjuster ring  34  may release strap  26  of waist belt  12 . Releasing strap  26  may thus release a lifting force applied to spine bar sheath  18 . Releasing the lifting force may then enable spine bar sheath  18  to fall, lowering spine bar  14 . 
     Spine bar  14  may be provided with engaging structure, e.g. in the form of upper connector  15 A and lower connector  15 B, for connecting to a load to be carried or to torso harness  28 . For example, upper connector  15 A and lower connector  15 B may include prongs  17  for engaging structure on a torso harness  28 , such as webbing (e.g. similar to webbing  54  shown in  FIG. 5C ). In the illustrated embodiment, upper connector  15 A is fixed to an upper end of spine bar  14 . Lower connector  15 B is movable up and down, as illustrated by arrows  39 , along spine bar  14 . By moving lower connector  15 B up and down along spine bar  14 , upper connector  15 A and lower connector  15 B′ may be made to connect to or be released from the structure on torso harness  28 . When upper connector  15 A and lower connector  15 B connect to torso harness  28 , torso harness  28  may be held fast to spine bar  14 . When upper connector  15 A and lower connector  15 B release torso harness  28 , torso harness  28  may be detached or removed from spine bar  14 . 
     Various loads may be attached to torso harness  28 . Such loads may be carried by various load carrying accessories. Such load carrying accessories may be attached directly to torso harness  28 , or as part of a multi-component load carrying accessory. For example, a load carrying accessory may include a pouch, a bag, a container for fluids (e.g. a hydration system), holster, or tool case. A multi-component load carrying accessory may include, for example, a backpack or a panel with loops or other components for carrying loads. 
       FIG. 4  shows an example of a backpack designed to be carried by a load carrier device in accordance with some embodiments of the present invention. Typically, the size, configuration, and arrangement of backpack  44  may vary in accordance with an intended use or mission. Backpack  44  as shown should be understood to be a single example of the various possible configurations of backpacks or other carrier components designed to be worn on a user&#39;s back. For example, possible configurations or models of a backpack  44  may vary as to the number of, and the distribution of, compartments, pouches, or other attachment or carrying devices (e.g. hooks, loops, straps, belts, rings, buttons, snaps, hook-and-eye fasteners, clips, sleeves, or pockets). 
     Backpack  44  may include a backpack tab  46 . Backpack tab  46  typically includes a stiffened material, such a metal or plastic. Thus, when backpack tab  46  is inserted into an appropriate slot or pocket, such as tab pocket  24  of lower torso harness  27  ( FIG. 2A ), backpack  44  may be supported by torso harness  28 . Typically, backpack  44  is provided with one or more additional or alternative attachment devices  40 . Such additional attachment devices may include, for example, straps, hooks or eyes, buckles, laces, hook-and-loop fastener material, pins, clips, snaps, buttons or button holes, zippers, magnets, or any other suitable attachment device known in the art. Attachment devices  40  may attach to mating attachment devices  40  on load carrier device  10 , or to mating attachment devices on other components of a load (e.g. a front or side panel). Attaching attachment devices  40  to mating devices may provide additional stability for backpack  44 , or to provide an alternative support to backpack tab  46 . For example, attachment of attachment devices  40  may ensure that the center of gravity of backpack  44  remains close to the center of gravity of a user wearing load carrier device  10 . 
       FIG. 5A  is a front view of the load carrier device shown in  FIG. 1 , when worn by a user.  FIG. 5B  shows an inward facing surface of a panel for attachment to the front of the load carrier device shown in  FIG. 5A .  FIG. 5C  shows an outward facing surface of the panel shown in  FIG. 5B . Front panel  48  may be configured to attach to a side of load carrier device  10  that typically faces the front of a user wearing load carrier device  10 . Front panel  48  may include attachment surface  52  on an inward-facing surface of front panel  48 . For example, attachment surface  52  may include a region of hook-and-loop fastener material. Attachment surface  52  may attach to a mating outward-facing attachment surface  51   b  on abdomen flap  50   b  of lower torso harness  27 . Various attachment devices  40  on front panel  48  may attach to corresponding attachment devices  40  on torso harness  28 . 
     Typically, front panel  48  may be configured or selected in accordance with an intended use or mission. For example, an outward-facing surface of front panel  48  may be provided with various attachment means or devices, such as webbing  54  (e.g. pouch attachment ladder system—PALS—webbing), to which various carriers or load-carrying accessories may attach. Suitable carriers may include, for example, pouches, compartments, pockets, bags, bottles, canteens, loops, hooks, or any other suitable carrier. Alternatively to, or in addition to, webbing  54 , attachment devices may include hooks, clips, pins, latches, buttons, button holes, zippers, magnets, snaps, laces, belts, buckles, elastic bands, hook-and-loop fastener surfaces, or any other suitable attachment devices. 
     Front panel  48  may incorporate a padding or lining. Such a padding or lining may include an integrated soft ballistic panel material. For example, an integrated soft ballistic panel may be enclosed by layers of fabric. 
     Front panel  48  may typically include a one or more compartments, chambers, or pockets for holding a panel or plate. Plate chamber opening  56  for insertion of such a plate may be located on a downward facing edge of front panel  48 . Inserted plates may include, for example, rigid ceramic ballistic plates, or other body armor components. The shape of an inserted plate may closely match the shape the plate chamber into which it is inserted. Attachment or closure means may be provided to hold a panel in place within the plate chamber. For example, plate chamber opening  56  may be fastened shut. 
     A user may assemble and put on load carrier device  10  and associated load carriers and load carrying accessories as follows: Spine bar  14  may be inserted into spine bar opening  22  of spine bar sheath  18  on waist belt  12 . Spine bar  14  may be inserted into sleeve  32  of lower torso harness  27 . The end of spine bar  14  may then be inserted through spine bar sleeve  31  of shoulder harness  29 , and into spine bar pocket  33  of lower torso harness  27 . Shoulder straps  30  of shoulder harness  29  may be secured to lower torso harness  27 , e.g. by connecting each shoulder strap connector  41   a  to a mating shoulder strap connector  41   b . Thus, load carrier device  10  may be assembled. 
     With abdomen closure flaps  50   a  and  50   b  unconnected and open, a user&#39;s arms may be placed through shoulder straps  30 . Alternatively, shoulder straps  30  may be placed over the user&#39;s shoulders, and each shoulder strap connector  41   a  may be connected to a mating shoulder strap connector  41   b  so as to secure shoulder straps  30  to the user. 
     Closing device  13  may be closed to secure waist belt  12  to the user&#39;s waist. Abdomen flaps  50   a  and  50   b  may be closed to secure the lower torso harness  27  to the user&#39;s lower torso. Shoulder straps  30  may be adjusted in order to secure torso harness  28  to the user&#39;s shoulders. 
     A front panel  48  may be attached to the front of torso harness  28 . For example, attachment panel  52  of front panel  48  may attach to attachment panel  51   b  of torso harness  28 . Various attachment devices  40  may also secure front panel  48  of load carrier device  10 . 
     A backpack  44  may be attached to torso harness  28 . For example, a backpack tab  46  of backpack  44  may be inserted into tab pocket  24  of lower torso harness  27 . Various attachment devices  40  may also serve to secure backpack  44  to torso harness  28 . 
       FIG. 6  shows a load carrier device in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention, including a backpack and front panel. 
     A user wearing load carrier device  10  may manipulate straps  26  of waist belt  12  so as to adjust the distribution of the weight of the carried load (e.g. front panel  48  and backpack  44 ) between the user&#39;s shoulders and waist. 
     For example, a user may release straps  26  of waist belt  12 . As described above, releasing straps  26  (which cooperate via elastic bands  16 ) may relax an upward force exerted on spine bar  14 . Releasing an upward force on spine bar  14  may cause some or all of the weight of a load carried by load carrier device  10  to shift to shoulder straps  30 . 
     On the other hand, a user may pull forward on straps  26  of waist belt  12 . As described above, pulling forward on straps  26  may apply an upward force on spine bar  14  (via tension applied to elastic bands  16 ). The upward force on spine bar  14  may be transmitted to torso harness  28 . The upward force on spine bar  14  may shift some or all of the weight of the load from shoulder straps  30  to spine bar sheath  18  and waist belt  12 . 
     Thus, by manipulating strap  26   s  of waist belt  12 , a user may dynamically shift or redistribute a load carried by load carrier device  10  between the user&#39;s waist and shoulders. For example, the user may redistribute the weight so as to increase comfort, or to relieve fatigue of the shoulders and back, or of the waist. 
     A load carrier device in accordance with the present invention may enable a user to carry as part of a single integrated unit loads that might otherwise be carried by separate units. For example, the load carrier device may carry body armor, may carry equipment typically carried by a tactical vest (e.g. various pouches and equipment holders), and carry a load in an integrated backpack. A user may thus adjust a weight distribution of all loads carried with a single action. The integration of the various components may also ensure stability of the user. On the other hand, modularity of components of the load carrier device (as well as elastic components) may minimize any restriction on the flexibility, mobility of the user. 
     It should be clear that the description of the embodiments and attached Figures set forth in this specification serves only for a better understanding of the invention, without limiting its scope. 
     It should also be clear that a person skilled in the art, after reading the present specification could make adjustments or amendments to the attached Figures and above described embodiments that would still be covered by the present invention.