Week 7 Update

This week we tested various ways that the farmers in Bo Klua could carry their heavy loads up a steep slope. These methods included the backpack, the front and backpack and the weight distribution method. We analyzed how the weight distribution with the different methods and came to the conclusion that the front and back pack was the most efficient and most comfortable method that could be used for carrying the heavy loads. We also considered different materials for the backpack. We obtained PVC that we will further use in our experimentation. This week we plan to continue prototyping for transporting the heavy loads. We also plan to pick up tarp material from Home Depot to start prototyping how the packs will hold the loads. Figure 1 shows of one of our group members, Dan, carrying two heavy loads with the weight distributed evenly on his shoulders.

Figure 1: Weight Distribution [17]