Backpack

http://www.instructables.com/id/How-to-make-a-backpack/

I've wanted to make my own backpack for years and as the contents of my backpack have settled, that is seaming more feasible.

The sewing is fairly complex, it may be worth finding a good starter project, like a tool bag.

Materials

Fabrics

There's a whole range here from fairly light to heavy. None will stand up to heavy wear though.

Nylon will probably be good for the strap covers because it's low friction.

Carbon Fiber or Fiber glass

I need to practice with these first, but they produce something strong and light weight.

Aluminum

Also strong and lightweight, but I have limited capacity to machine it.

Compartments

Computer

• Laptop
• Powerbrick
• Mouse
• Monitor
• BT earbuds (to buy)

The box should be able to function as the monitor stand.

Secondary

• juggling balls
• zip ties
• puck towels
• lighter
• stain pen
• CA glue
• masking tape

Straps

• pencil
• pen
• eraser
• sharpie
• skeletool

Travel

• Shampoo
• micro towel
• fist aid
• nail kit
• zombie bar

Water

I want a spot for my gopher water bottle. I'd like a second top with a plastic tube leading to the bottom so I can drink without taking the pack off. I'd like a bite valve (not sure what they're actually called). Not sure if I should buy or make this.

This could be as simple as a carabiner clip for the lid and an elastic strap to stabilize the middle.

Attach Points

The main body should also have many loops and straps to connect other things. Some of the points should be mounted right in the aluminum frame. When I need to carry additional things, I can easily attach them. I may even want to get a bag made of lightweight fabric that I can use for this.

Roll

Something I want to plan for, but doesn't need to be part of the initial build. The roll would be for carrying clothes. It would be kind of a small duffel bag with two straps to tighten it. It would go above the backpack when used, right behind my head.

Straps

I want small pockets on the straps. For pencils and my skeletool.

The straps will actually have paracord running inside them. I don't need paracord often, so I'm willing to make the trade off of losing the straps if I do need it.

Power

I'd like to build a LiIon supply into the pack. A usb port near my shoulder lets me charge right from the pack. I can also plug a flashlight in there. I'd like to put the batteries inside the main frame.

• Cells
• BMS

Padding

The back of the pack is padded with a thin layer that holds the towel. Like the straps, I don't use it often, so when I do, I'll just have to dry and replace it.

Random Half-Baked Ideas

• digital lock

Structure

The frame is rigid and sort of L shaped. It needs to be roughly formed to my back, but there will be padding. The bottom should allow me to set it down and have it remain standing up. The straps are attached to the frame and the main compartment is attached to the frame. The frame also holds the core power. I think much of this will be constructed from carbon fiber with the top and front made from fabric. The main compartment only opens from the top, leaving space along the sides for attach points.

The secondary compartment attaches to the back with 4 clips. Water attaches to the left side.