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Ergonomics test of BECKMANN school backpacks for first-graders

Testing BECKMANN school backpacks using the latest technology is one of the key indicators of ergonomics, health and carrying comfort. Our school backpacks were tested at NORCE Research (norceresearch.no) using pressure sensors and a robotic arm. We wanted to find out how backpacks transfer their weight to the shoulders, back and hips, and what effect the backpack's various ergonomic features have. With this modern testing, the Norwegian manufacturer BECKMANN ranks among the world leaders. See the results below.

Video of the testing with all the information

Testing process and preparation

Step 1 – 3D scan of a child

Pressure mapping-1

Step 2 – 3D printing of the child's upper body

Pressure mapping-3

Step 3 – Fitting the sensor pad and the school backpack

Pressure mapping-5

Step 4 – Testing with robot-simulated movements

Pressure mapping-12

Step 5 – Analysing the results

We were thrilled to see how our new-generation Active AIR FLX school backpack performed compared to competing school backpacks on the market. The AirFlow back system is based on a foam-and-air cushion that provides better comfort, stability and the best possible ergonomics. Below you can see the test results for our Active AIR FLX and other school backpacks.

Pressure test results

Pressure distribution BECKMANN
Active AIR FLX		 BECKMANN
Classic		 Competitor backpack Y Competitor backpack Z
Shoulders 38% 45% 45% 53%
Back and hips 62% 55% 55% 47%

  • As you can see from the images above, the air cushion in the back of the Active AIR FLX spreads pressure more evenly over a larger area of the back and provides a larger contact area between the backpack and the back. This in turn leads to better support and stability.

  • When carrying a school backpack, the weight needs to be shifted from the shoulders to the hips, which is why most BECKMANN school backpacks have a hip belt. This applies to all the tested models too. Even so, we see big differences between them. Looking at the pressure graph, it's clear that the Active AIR FLX transfers much more weight to the hips/iliac crest than the competing school backpacks we tested.

  • You can also see from the image where the backpacks' centre of gravity was during testing. It's marked with a red dot in the middle of the spine. The Active AIR FLX has a lower centre of gravity than its competitors, which means the shoulders carry less and more weight is transferred to the hips.

Should you fasten the hip belt on the Active AIR FLX?

As the table below shows, we found that if the hip belt isn't fastened, the shoulders bear more of the load. 

Active AIR FLX With hip belt Without hip belt
Shoulders 38% 46%
Back and hips 62% 54%

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