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Subjective perceptual methods for comparing backpacks

S J Legg1, L Perko, P Campbell

  • 1Department of Management Systems, Massey University, Palmerston North, New Zealand.

Ergonomics
|August 1, 1997
PubMed
Summary

Subjective questionnaires revealed differences in backpack comfort, with one design preferred overall. Category ratio scale (CRS) ratings of perceived discomfort were less effective for comparing these leisure backpacks.

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Area of Science:

  • Ergonomics and Human Factors
  • Biomechanics
  • Product Design

Background:

  • Subjective perceptual methods can detect subtle differences in product design.
  • Physiological and biomechanical measures may not always differentiate minor design variations.
  • Backpack design significantly impacts user comfort and perceived load.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To compare the perceived comfort of two leisure backpack designs using subjective methods.
  • To evaluate the effectiveness of Category Ratio Scale (CRS) ratings versus written questionnaires.
  • To identify specific design features contributing to backpack comfort and discomfort.

Main Methods:

  • Two subjective methods were employed: Category Ratio Scale (CRS) for perceived discomfort and written questionnaires.
  • Ten male participants walked for 30 minutes on an uphill treadmill with two 20 kg backpacks (Pack A - New Zealand, Pack B - British).
  • Questionnaires included visual analogue scales and free-format responses to assess comfort across various body regions and overall preference.

Main Results:

  • CRS ratings failed to distinguish between the two backpack designs.
  • Written questionnaires indicated Pack A was easier to adjust but had less comfortable straps; however, it offered better balance, posture, and reduced muscular tension.
  • Pack B initially felt more comfortable but required more lumbar support and caused more pressure on waist and shoulders.

Conclusions:

  • Written questionnaires proved more effective than CRS ratings for discerning comfort differences between the backpacks.
  • The New Zealand-designed backpack (Pack A) was preferred by a majority of participants (7 out of 10).
  • Subjective perceptual methods, particularly questionnaires, are valuable for optimizing backpack design for user comfort.

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