Abstract:
A bag, such as a backpack, includes a back panel having an edge portion, a spacing panel having a fixed edge attached to the back panel and a free edge, an adjustment device, and a lace connecting the adjustment device and the spacing panel. The adjustment device can be configured to retract the lace, thereby translating the spacing panel toward the edge portion of the back panel, thereby increasing a space between the spacing panel and the back panel. The space between the spacing panel and the back panel can be smaller in a first configuration than in a second configuration and the back panel of the bag can be curved in the second configuration.

Description:
BACKGROUND 
       [0001]    Field 
         [0002]    Embodiments of the present invention relate to adjustable bags. More specifically, embodiments of the present invention relate to bags and backpacks that can be adjusted to form a curve in a back panel of the bag, thereby increasing or decreasing a space between the bag and the carrier&#39;s back. 
         [0003]    Background 
         [0004]    Bags, such as backpacks, are useful for storing and carrying equipment. Some backpacks are used for outdoor sports such as hiking. Sometimes it is desirable to have a backpack that is flat against the carrier&#39;s back, for example, when carrying a laptop inside the backpack. Other times it is desirable to have the backpack form a curve to provide airflow around the carrier&#39;s back during activities such as hiking. In the latter case, in order to improve the comfort of the backpack it is desirable to have a space between the carrier&#39;s back and the back panel of the backpack. This can allow for air to flow between the bag and the carrier&#39;s back, thereby cooling the carrier. However, presently backpacks are not easily adjusted to form such a curve and create such a space and must be removed from the carrier&#39;s back in order to adjust the backpack. 
       BRIEF SUMMARY 
       [0005]    In certain embodiments, a bag includes a back panel having an edge portion, a spacing panel having a fixed edge attached to the back panel and a free edge, an adjustment device, and a lace connecting the adjustment device and the spacing panel. The adjustment device can be configured to retract the lace, thereby translating the spacing panel toward the edge portion of the back panel, thereby increasing a space between the spacing panel and the back panel. In certain embodiments, the space between the spacing panel and the back panel is smaller in a first configuration than in a second configuration. The back panel of the bag can be curved in the second configuration. In certain embodiments, the spacing panel can be attached to the back panel at a lower edge of the back panel. In certain embodiments, a lower edge of the spacing panel can be attached to the lower edge of the back panel. 
         [0006]    In certain embodiments, the spacing panel can include a mesh portion. In certain embodiments, the spacing panel can include a reinforcement member disposed across a width of an upper portion of the spacing panel. In certain embodiments, a substantially rigid frame can be coupled with the back panel. In certain embodiments, the frame can be configured to flex in a curved manner as the bag transitions from the first configuration to the second configuration. 
         [0007]    In certain embodiments, the spacing panel can include a first lace support. The lace can extend through the first lace support. In certain embodiments, the back panel can have a second lace support and the spacing panel can have a third lace support. In certain embodiments, the lace can extend through, in order, the first lace support and the second lace support. In certain embodiments, the second lace support can be disposed at the edge portion of the back panel, and the first and third lace supports can be disposed along an edge of the spacing panel. 
         [0008]    In certain embodiments, the adjustment device can be configured to move the first lace support closer to the second lace support. In certain embodiments, the lace can be ultra-high-molecular-weight polyethylene. In certain embodiments, the lace can be a steel cord. In certain embodiments, at least one tube can surround a portion of the lace. 
         [0009]    The bag can include one or more shoulder straps. In certain embodiments, the lace can pass through an exterior side of the shoulder strap and an interior side of the shoulder strap. In certain embodiments, the lace can pass through a hole in the interior side of the shoulder strap. In certain embodiments, a reinforcement ring can be disposed around a circumference of the hole. In certain embodiments, the shoulder strap can include a guide component having a passage through which the lace can pass. In certain embodiments, the shoulder strap can include a reinforcement panel having a cutout through which the lace can pass. The reinforcement panel can be configured to resist twisting of the shoulder strap. 
         [0010]    In certain embodiments, the adjustment device can be an adjustment dial. In certain embodiments, rotation of the adjustment dial can tighten the lace, thereby translating the spacing panel. In certain embodiments, the adjustment device can be disposed on the shoulder strap of the bag. In certain embodiments, the adjustment device can be disposed on the back panel of the bag. In certain embodiments, the adjustment device can be disposed on the spacing panel of the bag. 
         [0011]    In certain embodiments, a backpack can include an adjustment dial disposed on the backpack, a lace extending from the adjustment dial, a back panel having an upper portion with an upper edge and a lower portion having a lower edge, and a spacing panel having an upper portion with an upper edge, a lower portion having a lower edge, and a first lace support. In certain embodiments, the lower portion of the spacing panel can be attached to the lower portion of the back panel. In certain embodiments, a space between the spacing panel and the back panel can be smaller in a first configuration than in a second configuration. In certain embodiments, the back panel of the bag can be curved in the second configuration. 
         [0012]    In certain embodiments, the lace can extend through the first lace support. In certain embodiments, the back panel can have a second lace support and the lace can extend through, in order, the first lace support and the second lace support. In certain embodiments, the second lace support can be disposed at the upper edge of the back panel, and the first lace support can be disposed along an edge of the spacing panel. 
         [0013]    In certain embodiments, the lace can pass through an exterior side of a shoulder strap and an interior side of the shoulder strap. In certain embodiments, the lace can pass through a hole in the interior side of the shoulder strap, and a reinforcement ring can be disposed around a circumference of the hole. In certain embodiments, the shoulder strap can have a reinforcement panel with a cutout through which the lace can pass. The reinforcement panel can be configured to resist twisting of the shoulder strap. In certain embodiments, rotation of the adjustment dial can retract the lace. Retracting the lace can move the first lace support toward the second lace support such that a space between the spacing panel and the back panel is smaller in a first configuration than in a second configuration, and wherein the back panel of the bag is curved in the second configuration. 
         [0014]    A method of adjusting the fit of a backpack can include rotating an adjustment dial. Rotating the adjustment dial can tighten a lace extending from the adjustment dial, which can increase an airflow space between a spacing panel connected to the lace and a back panel of the backpack. In certain embodiments, tightening the lace can translate the spacing panel and curve the back panel of the backpack. In certain embodiments, the adjustment dial can be rotated while the backpack is carried on a back of a user by at least one shoulder strap. 
         [0015]    In certain embodiments, the method can include pulling the adjustment dial, which can release a portion of the lace from the adjustment dial. This can decrease the airflow space between the spacing panel and the back panel. 
         [0016]    An adjustment system for a backpack can include an adjustment dial, a lace extending from the adjustment dial, and a spacing panel having at least one lace support. In certain embodiments, the lace can extend through the lace support to couple the spacing panel with the adjustment dial. The adjustment system can be configured to adjust a space between the spacing panel and a back panel of the backpack by forming a curve in the back panel of the backpack. 
         [0017]    In certain embodiments, a first end and a second end of the lace can be connected to the adjustment dial. In certain embodiments, rotation of the adjustment dial can retract the lace about the adjustment dial. In certain embodiments, the spacing panel can include a first and second lace support and the adjustment system can include a third lace support disposed on the back panel of the backpack. In certain embodiments, the lace can pass through, in order, the first lace support, the second lace support, and the third lace support. 
     
    
     
       BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS/FIGURES 
         [0018]    The accompanying drawings which are incorporated herein and form part of the specification, illustrate the embodiments and, together with the description, further serve to explain the principles of the embodiments and to enable a person skilled in the relevant art(s) to make and use the embodiments. 
           [0019]      FIG. 1  is a partial rear view of a bag according to an embodiment. 
           [0020]      FIG. 2  is a partial view of a shoulder strap of a bag according to an embodiment. 
           [0021]      FIG. 3  illustrates an interior side of a shoulder strap according to an embodiment. 
           [0022]      FIG. 4  is a rear perspective view of a bag according to an embodiment, including an enlarged partial view of a bag shoulder strap according to an embodiment. 
           [0023]      FIG. 5  is a plan view of a guide component according to an embodiment. 
           [0024]      FIG. 6  illustrates tightening a lace by rotating an adjustment device according to an embodiment. 
           [0025]      FIG. 7  illustrates releasing tension on a lace by an adjustment device according to an embodiment. 
           [0026]      FIG. 8  is a rear perspective view of a bag according to an embodiment. 
           [0027]      FIG. 9  is a side view of a bag in a first configuration according to an embodiment. 
           [0028]      FIG. 10  is a side view of a bag in a second configuration according to an embodiment. 
           [0029]      FIG. 11  is a rear perspective view of a bag according to an embodiment. 
           [0030]      FIG. 12  illustrates a reinforcement panel for a shoulder strap according to an embodiment. 
           [0031]      FIG. 13  illustrates a frame for a back panel of a backpack according to an embodiment. 
       
    
    
       [0032]    The features and advantages of the embodiments will become more apparent from the detailed description set forth below when taken in conjunction with the drawings, in which like reference characters identify corresponding elements throughout. In the drawings, like reference numbers generally indicate identical, functionally similar, and/or structurally similar elements. 
       DETAILED DESCRIPTION 
       [0033]    The present invention will now be described in detail with reference to embodiments thereof as illustrated in the accompanying drawings. References to “one embodiment,” “an embodiment,” “some embodiments,” “certain embodiments,” etc., indicate that the embodiment(s) described may include a particular feature, structure, or characteristic, but every embodiment may not necessarily include the particular feature, structure, or characteristic. Moreover, such phrases are not necessarily referring to the same embodiment. Further, when a particular feature, structure, or characteristic is described in connection with an embodiment, it is submitted that it is within the knowledge of one skilled in the art to affect such feature, structure, or characteristic in connection with other embodiments whether or not explicitly described. 
         [0034]    The term “invention” or “present invention” as used herein is a non-limiting term and is not intended to refer to any single embodiment of the particular invention but encompasses all possible embodiments as described in the application. 
         [0035]    Many bags and backpacks are used for outdoor activities, for example, hiking or camping. Other bags are used to transport goods, for example, books, laptops, or other portable electronic devices. Carrying a bag, particularly in warm weather, can be uncomfortable for the carrier. Heat and perspiration can get trapped between the carrier&#39;s back and the back panel of the bag. The bag can also rub against the carrier&#39;s back, causing abrasions or discomfort. The bags and backpacks disclosed herein may provide significant benefits to the carrier. For example, an adjustable spacing panel can facilitate increasing a space between the carrier&#39;s back and the back panel of the bag. The adjustment system can form a curve in the back panel, thereby increasing the space between the carrier&#39;s back and the back panel of the bag. This can allow air to flow in the space between the carrier&#39;s back and the back panel of the bag, thereby cooling the carrier. 
         [0036]    Furthermore, these benefits can be achieved while the carrier is carrying the bag. For example, by locating the adjustment device on an accessible portion of the bag, such as a shoulder strap of the bag, the carrier can adjust the spacing between the carrier&#39;s back and the back panel of the bag without the hassle of removing the bag from their back. Much or all of the adjustment system, for example the lace, can be concealed, for example, within part of the shoulder strap or behind padding, so that it is hidden from view. The adjustment device can also be hidden from view, for example, by placing it near a lower edge of the back panel or spacing panel. 
         [0037]      FIGS. 1-4  illustrate embodiments and elements of bag  100 . As shown in  FIG. 1 , bag  100  can include shoulder strap  150  and spacing panel  120 . Spacing panel  120  can have mesh portion  128  and one or more sections of padding  129 . Bag  100  can include adjustment device  130 . In certain embodiments, adjustment device  130  can be attached to shoulder strap  150 . A lace  140  (see, e.g.,  FIG. 8 ), which in certain embodiments can be surrounded by tubing  142 , can extend from adjustment device  130 . In certain embodiments, one or more straps  157  can hold lace  140  and tubing  142  against shoulder strap  150  to prevent them from snagging on objects. 
         [0038]    Because lace  140  is shown in many embodiments as housed within tubing  142 , the term “lace” may be used when both lace  140  and tubing  142  are shown in the Figures. Furthermore, the term “lace” refers to any type of wire, cord, string, cable, rope, filament, strap, tether, belt, etc. Lace  140  can be made from any suitable material, for example, but not limited to, polymers, metal, fabrics (natural and/or synthetic), and ultra-high-molecular-weight polyethylene fiber (e.g., Dyneema) that exhibit sufficient axial strength and bendability for the present application. In certain embodiments, lace  140  can have a coating, such as PTFE, nylon, or Teflon, to reduce friction. In certain embodiments, lace  140  can be woven, braided, or twisted. In certain embodiments, lace  140  can be made from steel (including stainless steel). The diameter and/or load strength of lace  140  can be adjusted depending on the desired application and size of bag  100 . In certain embodiments, a single thread-like lace  140  has two ends connected to adjustment device  130 . In certain embodiments, lace  140  is two separate laces, each connected to adjustment device  130 . In certain embodiments, a single lace  140  can extend from adjustment device  130  such that an end of the lace  140  is coupled to spacing panel  120 . 
         [0039]    Adjustment device  130 , lace  140 , spacing panel  120 , and back panel  110  can function as the main components of the adjustment system for bag  100 . Lace  140  can physically connect adjustment device  130  to spacing panel  120 . Lace  140  can act as the drive element in a pulley system. Adjustment device  130  can be used to tighten/shorten and release/lengthen lace  140 . By doing so, in certain embodiments, when lace  140  is tightened, an upper edge  125  of spacing panel  120  can be translated toward an upper edge  115  of back panel  110 . Because spacing panel  120  is connected to lace  140  and attached to back panel  110 , when lace  140  is tightened, force is applied to back panel  110 , causing back panel  110  to curve, thereby creating a space  160  between spacing panel  120  and back panel  110  (as shown, for example, in  FIG. 10 ). Similarly, when adjustment device  130  is used to lengthen lace  140 , spacing panel  120  can be translated away from an upper edge  115  of back panel  110 , thereby decreasing the curve  180  in back panel  110  and therefore the space  160  between spacing panel  120  and back panel  110 . 
         [0040]      FIG. 2  illustrates shoulder strap  150  according to an embodiment. As shown in  FIG. 2 , shoulder strap  150  can have an exterior side  152 . Shoulder strap  150  can include a cut out  153  where the adjustment device  130  can be located upon assembly. In certain embodiments, webbing  158  can be disposed along a length of shoulder strap  150 . Webbing  158  can be attached to exterior side  152  of shoulder strap  150 , for example, by stitching  174 . Webbing  158  can be any suitable material, for example, canvas, nylon, polyester, leather, etc. 
         [0041]    The dashed line in  FIG. 2  shows a pathway of lace  140 , according to an embodiment. Lace  140  can extend from adjustment device  130  and through webbing  158 , i.e., between exterior side  152  of shoulder strap  150  and webbing  158 . In this way, webbing  158  can act as a channel or passageway for lace  140 . This can prevent snagging of lace  140 , for example, on branches while hiking. It can also provide a sleek appearance of bag  100  such that lace  140  is not visible. However, in certain embodiments, lace  140  can be exposed and visible. In certain embodiments, rather than running through webbing  158 , lace  140  can run through an interior of shoulder strap  150 . 
         [0042]      FIG. 3  illustrates tubing  142 , which can house lace  140 , as it extends out of the interior side  154  of shoulder strap  150 , according to an embodiment. One or more length(s) of tubing  142  can house all or a portion of lace  140 . In certain embodiments, tubing  142  can house lace  140  at least along the length from adjustment device  130  to where lace  140  extends out of the interior side  154  of shoulder strap  150 . Tubing  142  can be made from any suitable material, for example, plastic or rubber. Tubing  142  can protect lace  140 , for example, from frictional and impact forces, to help maintain the strength and integrity of lace  140 . In certain embodiments, tubing  142  can have a low friction interior surface to facilitate the movement of lace  140  within tubing  142 . In certain embodiments, there is no tubing around any portion of lace  140 . 
         [0043]    In certain embodiments, a hole  155  can allow the lace  140  to enter shoulder strap  150  from exterior side  152  and exit interior side  154 . In certain embodiments, a reinforcement ring  156  such as a grommet can be located around a circumference of hole  155 . Reinforcement ring  156  can be made of, for example, metal or plastic. In certain embodiments, the shape of reinforcement ring  156  can be other than circular. As also shown in  FIG. 3 , in certain embodiments, binding  121  can be disposed on spacing panel  120  to provide a reinforced passage for lace  140 . 
         [0044]    In certain embodiments, lace  140  need not pass through interior side  153  of shoulder strap  150 . For example, in certain embodiments, lace  140  can exit through an opening  159  in webbing  158  (as shown, for example, in  FIG. 2 ) near where shoulder strap  150  attaches to main body  102  of bag  100 . Opening  159  can be located at other points along webbing  158 . In certain embodiments, lace  140  can enter exterior side  152  of shoulder strap near adjustment device  130  and exit back through exterior side  152  of shoulder strap near where shoulder strap  150  attaches to main body  102 . In certain embodiments, lace  140  can run exposed along a length of exterior side  152  of shoulder strap  150 . 
         [0045]      FIG. 4  illustrates a bag  100  according to an embodiment. As shown in  FIG. 4 , bag  100  can have main body  102 . Main body  102  can have pocket(s) with interior storage area(s), as is common in traditional backpacks.  FIG. 4  also illustrates shoulder strap  150  having an exterior side  152 , an interior side  154 , and webbing  158 . In certain embodiments, adjustment device  130  can be disposed on shoulder strap  150 . 
         [0046]      FIG. 4  also illustrates back panel  110  and spacing panel  120  of bag  100 . Back panel  110  can have a lower edge  117  and spacing panel  120  can have a lower edge  127 . In certain embodiments, lower edge  127  of spacing panel  120  can be attached to lower edge  117  of back panel  110 . Thus, when lace  140  is tightened by adjustment device  130 , tension is placed on spacing panel  120 . This can pull on lower edge  127  of spacing panel  120  and lower edge  117  of back panel  110 , which in turn can result in curving of back panel  110 , thereby forming a space between back panel  110  and spacing panel  120 . 
         [0047]    As further shown in  FIG. 4 , spacing panel  120  can have mesh portion  128  and one or more sections of padding  129 . Mesh portion  128  can allow for additional airflow near the carrier&#39;s back. In certain embodiments, other materials, for example, breathable fabrics, can be substituted for mesh portion  128  or used in conjunction therewith for spacing panel  120 . Padding  129  can be disposed at various locations of spacing panel  120 , for example, near shoulder and/or hip locations of bag  100 . This can provide cushioning to the carrier&#39;s shoulders and hips, typical points of contact between bag  100  and the carrier while carrying bag  100 , improving the comfort of bag  100 . Padding  129  can also cover much of the adjustment system (for example, lace  140  and lace supports  112 ,  122   a,    122   b ) to hide them from view. In certain embodiments, the adjustment system can be concealed in other ways, for example, by covering it with fabric or incorporating it under an outer layer of back panel  110 . 
         [0048]      FIG. 4  also shows an underside view of shoulder strap  150  near upper edges  115  and  125  of back panel  110  and spacing panel  120 , respectively. In certain embodiments, interior side  154  of shoulder strap  150  can include guide component  170 . In certain embodiments, guide component  170  can be made of, for example, molded rubber or plastic. Guide component  170  can provide a semi-rigid structure to facilitate a change in direction of lace  140  as it extends from shoulder strap  150  to spacing panel  120 . The semi-rigid nature of guide component  170  can help prevent lace  140  from kinking, which would make retracting lace  140  by adjustment device  130  more difficult. Similarly, as described in more detail below with respect to  FIGS. 11 and 12 , in certain embodiments, shoulder strap  10  can include a reinforcement panel  176 . 
         [0049]      FIG. 5  illustrates details of guide component  170  according to an embodiment. In certain embodiments, guide component  170  can include channel  172  which can provide a pathway for lace  140 . In certain embodiments, channel  172  can be a groove in a surface of guide component  170 . In certain embodiments, channel  172  can be a hollow passageway through an interior of guide component  170 . In certain embodiments, guide component  170  can include hole  155 , which as discussed with reference to  FIG. 3 , can include a reinforcement ring  156  in certain embodiments. Hole  155  can allow lace  140  to pass from guide component  170  through interior side  154  of shoulder strap  150 . In certain embodiments, guide component  170  can be attached to shoulder strap  150 , for example, by stitching  174 . 
         [0050]      FIGS. 6 and 7  illustrate operation of adjustment device  130  according to embodiments. In certain embodiments, adjustment device  130  can be a dial-type adjustment device for a lace. Other types of dials and/or tension adjustment systems can also be used. By way of example, in certain embodiments, the adjustment device  130  can have a rotatable reel or spool that is configured to receive the lace  140 . A knob can rotate the spool to wind the lace about the spool to tighten the lace  140 . In certain embodiments, rotating the knob in an unwinding direction can release the spool and allow the lace  140  to unwind. In certain embodiments, the spool can have ratchet teeth disposed on its periphery configured to interact with a pawl for inhibiting rotation of the spool in at least one direction. 
         [0051]    Other mechanisms for adjustment device  130  are also contemplated. For example, in certain embodiments, adjustment device  130  can be a pump buckle or a ratcheted buckle. In such an embodiment, manipulation of a lever, for example, of the buckle can tighten or loosen lace  140 . For example, lace  140  can have a toothed portion that can be pulled through the buckle by operating a lever. 
         [0052]    In certain embodiments, adjustment device  130  can be affixed to shoulder strap  150 . For example, adjustment device  130  can be affixed to shoulder strap  150  by stitching  174  or adhesive. Adjustment device  130  can also be located elsewhere on bag  100 . For example, as shown in  FIG. 8 , in certain embodiments, adjustment device  130  can be located on spacing panel  120  or back panel  110 . In such an embodiment, the carrier can still operate adjustment device  130  while carrying bag  100 . For example, the carrier can reach behind them toward the bottom of bag  100  and manipulate adjustment device  130  with one hand. 
         [0053]      FIG. 6  illustrates rotation of adjustment device  130  according to an embodiment. In certain embodiments, by rotating adjustment device  130 , lace  140  can be tightened or retracted in an incremental manner. For example, in certain embodiments, by rotating adjustment device  130  in a clockwise direction, lace  140  can be wound about a spool in adjustment device  130 . As described in more detail below, this can shorten the operative length of lace  140  and thereby translate spacing panel  120 . This, in turn, causes back panel  110  to curve and creates a space between spacing panel  120  and back panel  110 . In certain embodiments, rotating adjustment device  130  in a counter-clockwise direction can release lace  140  from the spool, thereby lengthening the operative length of lace  140  and decreasing the space between spacing panel  120  and back panel  110 . 
         [0054]      FIG. 7  illustrates release of lace  140  by adjustment device  130  according to an embodiment. As shown in  FIG. 7 , in certain embodiments, lace  140  can be released (i.e., the operative length of lace  140  is lengthened) by pulling on adjustment device  130 . For example. Adjustment device  130  can be pulled in a direction away from shoulder strap  150 . In certain embodiments, this can quickly loosen lace  140 . As lace  140  is lengthened, it can decrease the curve in back panel  110  and therefore decrease the space between spacing panel  120  and back panel  110 . In certain embodiments, pushing on adjustment device  130  can release lace  140 . In other embodiments, other user manipulation of adjustment device  130  may release lace  140 . 
         [0055]      FIG. 8  illustrates bag  100  according to an embodiment. In  FIG. 8 , adjustment device  130  is located near a lower edge  127  of spacing panel  120 . In certain embodiments, adjustment device  130  can be located on back panel  110 . Lace supports  122   a  and  122   b  can be located along spacing panel  120  at various positions. Lace  140  can run through lace supports  122   a  and  122   b  and through lace support  112  on back panel  110 . In certain embodiments, the lace supports can be, for example, loops of fabric attached to back panel  110  and spacing panel  120 . In certain embodiments, the lace supports can be plastic or nylon. The lace supports can guide the direction of the lace  140  and provide locations to connect lace  140  with back panel  110  and/or spacing panel  120 , which can facilitate distributing force applied by lace  140 . In certain embodiments, lace support  112  can be disposed near upper edge  115  of back panel  110 . In certain embodiments, lace  140  can extend from lower lace supports  122   a,    122   b  or directly from adjustment device  130  to lace support  112  on back panel  110 . Other lacing patterns are also contemplated. For example, in certain embodiments, the lace can extend directly from the adjustment device  130  to the spacing panel  120 . 
         [0056]    Features of bag  100  in  FIG. 8  can be similar to other embodiments described herein. For example, bag  100  can include main body  102 , back panel  110 , and spacing panel  120 .  FIG. 8  also shows shoulder strap  150  having interior side  154 . Back panel  110  can have an upper portion  114  and lower portion  116 . Spacing panel  120  can also have an upper portion  124  and lower portion  126 . In certain embodiments, spacing panel  120  can include mesh portion  128  and one or more sections of padding  129 . For example, padding  129  can be located near contact points of a carrier&#39;s shoulders and hips with bag  100 . In certain embodiments, lower edge  127  of spacing panel  120  can attach to bag  100  at lower edge  117  of back panel  110 . In certain embodiments, when adjustment device  130  is manipulated to tighten lace  140 , the upper edge  125  of spacing panel  120  can be translated toward upper edge  115  of back panel  110 . As in other embodiments, this can form a curve in back panel  110  thereby increasing a space between back panel  110  and spacing panel  120 . Air can flow in this space and cool the carrier. 
         [0057]      FIG. 9  illustrates bag  100  in a first configuration  10 , according to an embodiment. First configuration  10  is generally the state of bag  100  before using adjustment device  130  to tighten lace  140 , where lace  140  is at its maximum operative length and back panel  110  is generally flat. As shown in  FIG. 9 , bag  100  can have main body  102 , back panel  110 , spacing panel  120 , and shoulder strap  150 . In certain embodiments of the first configuration  10 , the spacing panel  120  can be adjacent to back panel  110 . The spacing panel  120  and back panel  110  can be generally parallel to each other. In certain embodiments, spacing panel  120  and back panel  110  can be in contact in first configuration  10  along a majority of a length of spacing panel  120 . As shown in  FIG. 9 , in an embodiment of first configuration  10  there can be little or no space between back panel  110  and spacing panel  120 . In certain embodiments, back panel  110  is not curved, for example, when lace  140  is at a maximum operative length. 
         [0058]      FIG. 10  illustrates bag  100  in a second configuration  20  (with padding  129  not shown) according to an embodiment. Second configuration  20  illustrates bag  100  after tightening lace  140  with adjustment device  130 . The distance between upper edge  125  of spacing panel  120  and upper edge  115  of back panel  110  is shorter in second configuration  20  than first configuration  10 . The relative degree of proximity depends on how much lace  140  is shortened. 
         [0059]    As shown in  FIG. 10 , bag  100  can have main body  102 , back panel  110 , and spacing panel  120 . Back panel  110  can have an upper portion  114  and a lower portion  116 . In certain embodiments, upper portion  114  can be an upper half of back panel  110  and lower portion  116  can be a lower half of back panel  110 . Similarly, in certain embodiments, upper portion  124  of spacing panel  120  can be an upper half of spacing panel  120  and lower portion  126  of spacing panel  120  can be a lower half of spacing panel  120 . In certain embodiments, lower edge  127  of spacing panel  120  can be attached to lower portion  116  of back panel  110 . In certain embodiments, lower edge  127  of spacing panel  120  can be attached to lower edge  117  of back panel  110 . 
         [0060]    As shown in  FIG. 10 , by tightening lace  140  and thereby shortening the operative length of lace  140 , the upper edge  125  of spacing panel  120  is translated toward the upper edge  115  of back panel  110 . This, in turn, causes a curve  180  to be formed in back panel  110 . This creates a space  160  between spacing panel  120  and back panel  110 . As lace  140  is tightened, curve  180  becomes more defined and space  160  between spacing panel  120  and back panel  110  may therefore become larger. Thus, the degree or radius of curvature of curve  180 , and therefore the size of space  160 , may depend on how much lace  140  is tightened by adjustment device  130 . 
         [0061]      FIG. 11  illustrates bag  100  according to an embodiment. Features of bag  100  in  FIG. 11  can be similar to other embodiments described herein and can operate in a similar manner as described herein. For example, bag  100  can include main body  102 , back panel  110 , and spacing panel  120 .  FIG. 11  also shows shoulder strap  150  having interior side  154 . In certain embodiments, spacing panel  120  can include mesh portion  128  and one or more sections of padding  129 , for example, near lower edge  127  and upper edge  125 . 
         [0062]      FIG. 11  also shows a phantom view of padding  129  near upper portions  114 ,  124  of back panel  110  and spacing panel  120 . In certain embodiments, padding  129  can have one or more cutouts  198  through which shoulder straps  150  can pass through. In certain embodiments, lace  140  can extend from adjustment device  130  and through shoulder strap  150 . In certain embodiments, lace  140  can pass through a hole  177  in a reinforcement panel  176 , which is described in more detail below. In certain embodiments, lace  140  can then exit shoulder strap  150  through hole  155  of interior side  154 , for example, as shown and described with respect to  FIG. 3 . In certain embodiments, lace  140  can connect to spacing panel  120 , for example, at a lace support as described herein. When lace  130  is tightened, tension can be placed on spacing panel  120  that draws upper edge  125  closer to upper edge  115  of back panel  110 , thereby forming a curve in back panel  110  and creating a space between back panel  110  and spacing panel  120 . 
         [0063]    In certain embodiments, spacing panel  120  can include reinforcement member  196 . In certain embodiments, reinforcement member  196  can be disposed at or near upper edge  125  of spacing panel  120 . Reinforcement member  196  can be disposed across all or a portion of the width of spacing panel  120 . Reinforcement member  196  can improve the distribution of tension across the width of spacing panel  120  when adjustment device  130  is used to tighten lace  140 . By more evenly distributing the tension across the width of spacing panel  120 , the curve in back panel  110  can more easily be formed. 
         [0064]    Reinforcement member  196  can be made of polypropylene, polyethylene, other plastics, fiberglass, metal, fabric, or other suitable materials. In certain embodiments, reinforcement member  196  can be a flat plastic strip extending across the width of spacing panel  120 . In certain embodiments, reinforcement member  196  can be a rod extending along upper edge  125  of spacing panel  120 . 
         [0065]    As shown in  FIG. 11  and separately in  FIG. 12 , in certain embodiments, shoulder strap  150  can include reinforcement panel  176 . In certain embodiments, reinforcement panel can be disposed inside of shoulder strap  150 , for example, between exterior side  152  and interior side  154 . Reinforcement panel  176  can provide additional structure to shoulder strap  150  to limit twisting of the shoulder strap  150  under tension from lace  140 . Reinforcement panel  176  can be made from any suitable material, for example, but not limited to polypropylene, polyethylene, or composite materials. 
         [0066]    In certain embodiments, reinforcement panel  176  can include one or more cutouts  177 , for example, a cutout  177  for adjustment device  130  and a cutout  177  so that lace  140  can pass through reinforcement panel  176 . In certain embodiments, reinforcement panel  176  can include a groove or channel similar to channel  172  in  FIG. 5 , for example between cutouts  177 , so that lace  140  can be disposed within the channel. 
         [0067]    As also shown in  FIG. 11  and separately in  FIG. 13 , in certain embodiments, back panel  110  can include frame  190 . In certain embodiments, frame  190  can be disposed inside of back panel  110  so that it is not visible from the exterior of backpack  100 . Frame  190  can provide additional structure to back panel  110  in order to facilitate forming a smooth curve. Frame  190  can help distribute force imparted to back panel  110  when spacing panel  120  is placed under tension by tightening the lace  140 . Frame  190  can be made from any suitable material, for example, but not limited to polypropylene, polyethylene, other plastics, or composite materials. 
         [0068]    In certain embodiments, frame  190  can be a solid, flexible board, for example, in the shape of back panel  110 , extending from upper edge  115  to lower edge  117  and across the width of back panel  110 . In certain embodiments, for example as shown in  FIG. 13 , frame  190  can have one or more cutouts  191  and a spine  192  extending along a length of frame  190 . Spine  192  can provide additional rigidity along a central portion of back panel  110 . Frame  190  can have other shapes, numbers, and patterns of cutouts  191 . In certain embodiments, frame  190  can have one large cutout  191  without spine  192 , such that frame  190  is an outline of the shape of back panel  110 . In certain embodiments, frame  190  can only be spine  192 , that is, a portion of substantially rigid material in back panel  110 . In certain embodiments, frame  192  can be spine  192  with an additional portion of material at the top and/or bottom of the spine  192 , forming an “I” or “T” shape. 
         [0069]    It is to be appreciated that the Detailed Description section, and not the Brief Summary and Abstract sections, is intended to be used to interpret the claims. The Summary and Abstract sections may set forth one or more but not all exemplary embodiments of adjustable bags and backpacks as contemplated by the inventors, and thus, are not intended to limit the present invention and the appended claims in any way. 
         [0070]    The present invention has been described above with the aid of functional building blocks illustrating the implementation of specified functions and relationships thereof. The boundaries of these functional building blocks have been arbitrarily defined herein for the convenience of the description. Alternate boundaries can be defined so long as the specified functions and relationships thereof are appropriately performed. 
         [0071]    The foregoing description of the specific embodiments will so fully reveal the general nature of the invention that others can, by applying knowledge within the skill of the art, readily modify and/or adapt for various applications such specific embodiments, without undue experimentation, without departing from the general concept of the present invention. Therefore, such adaptations and modifications are intended to be within the meaning and range of equivalents of the disclosed embodiments, based on the teaching and guidance presented herein. It is to be understood that the phraseology or terminology herein is for the purpose of description and not of limitation, such that the terminology or phraseology of the present specification is to be interpreted by the skilled artisan in light of the teachings and guidance. 
         [0072]    The breadth and scope of the present invention should not be limited by any of the above-described exemplary embodiments, but should be defined only in accordance with the following claims and their equivalents.