Flink designs a new kind of load bearing system, which offers the user unrestricted freedom of movement. The concept was tested on the basis of the first function and design studies.
[>] Invention of the load bearing system
[>] How does the load bearing system work
[>] Flexible Link System from 2004 to today
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Sport is motion
We at Flink have made it our goal to so completely re-design the very concept of the backpack that this indispensible item is hardly even noticed.
Invention of the load bearing system
Together with experienced athletes, we gathered, developed and tested ideas. The intensive exchange between engineers, designers and athletes characterized this creative and very productive process.
Alongside discussions and conversations, work with functional prototypes was in the forefront of this process.
How does the Flexible Link System work
[1] Thanks to a central ball-and-socket joint, the shoulder straps are motion-detached from the actual backpack. This provides the upper body with nearly unrestricted freedom of movement.
[2] The frame uses the weight as a supporting element and distributes it over a large surface area. The load’s centre of gravity is therefore as unencumbered as possible and is transferred from the spine and back musculature to the hip area.
[3] The exoskeleton, adjustable using the hip belt, holds the backpack at the optimal distance from the body. This prevents the back from getting damp with sweat.
Field test
The functional prototype has been tested for various sports. In spite of some ergonomic defects, the concept has met with great enthusiasm among our product testers. Feedback from athletes gives us important pointers for the continuing optimisation of the system [>] 
Mountainbike
First look at the Flexible Link Systems
Snowboarding has been defined as the first application for the Flexible Link System. The first design study was produced with the needs and tastes of winter sport athletes in mind.
An exo-structure was used which offers both protection and a stable fastener for the snowboard, ski-boots and sticks. The pack sack is suspended on the interior of the shell and can be accessed from the back.
Flexible Link System from 2004 - today
2008 Winter back packs for ERGON
2007 Outdoor back packs for ERGON [>]
2006 Biker back packs for ERGON
2005 Optimisation of the system (ergonomics, production)
2005 Presentation at the Ispo Brand New Award
2004 Invention and patenting of the flexible link system
The work on the Flink - Flexible Link System was awarded various national and international prizes.
The Flexible Link System has been registered for patent world-wide.
Currently, more than 10 products based on this invention are sold world-wide.