franksterz

Hey all!

Im an Industrial Design student and I’m working on a project designing bags/backpack/carrying equipment. Im messing around with the idea of designing a bag that would be used to carry a simple mechanics tool set, torque wrench, pliers, and compartments for hardware and fittings and all sorts of things you would need at an event to work on your track vehicle. The goal of it would be to increase the convenience and comfort of carrying your stuff with you on site without having to lug around the hardness or tool boxes if there is no need. Im looking for some insight and experience with you and your tools on the track. This would be geared more towards the enthusiast rather than professional, because I feel that the pros have the means to carry their snazzy snap-on box with them and their set ups are higher complexity.

The concept would be a spin off of the conventional tool roll :



and a mechanics bag:



The concept would be worn like a backpack but open up like the tool roll. It would also contain space for various other items.

EDIT: Clarification thanks to Silverbullet:
1. What are the most common tools used when not at home.

2. What other large items do they carry

2a. if it is a backpack, what types of material have you had trouble with in the past as a backpack at the track?

Thanks guys!

S14DB

I need something I can organize at home. Be able to find everything easily. Then in the field just dump everything in when done and sort when back at home. Sub sections may make this task easier.

Ability to clean is a big importance to me. The rolls like you show get tons of dirt in the pockets. Dirt/sand and grease/oil are the biggest problems for me. I have been going between oiled canvas and rubber/plastic impregnated bags. Material is going to be as important as the design.

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franksterz

S14DB thank you for the input!

franksterz

S14DB thank you for the reply! I agree that material is going to play a huge role in the design and function of the bag. As far as contents would go, are there any items you place enough importance on that you would always carry with you, possibly enough to merit its own dedicated “slot” or compartment?

pacotaco345

needs to have a designated space for a 3/8 rachet set with normal and deep sockets ranging from 10-19mm.

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franksterz

Sounds good Paco! Thanks!

Silverbullet

franksterz, really cool idea!

When it comes to designing a product or services, one of the most important and prelimiary steps in the process is defining and analyzing the Requirements. You asked the internet, "Let me know what you think, your experiences, your concerns, wants and needs". Thats not detailed enough for most people.

I think you should start by asking people
1. What are the most common tools used when not at home (this will determine what pockets/slots are necessary since space will be the biggest constraint)
2. What other large items do they carry (ie, jack stands, ramps ect. This can help determine whehter the product will be pack back, waist belt, rolling device or something they carry in their hands depending how free their bodies are)
2a. if it is a backpack, what types of material have you had trouble with in the past as a backpack at the track

and so on

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Fries

Think about the weight and how uncomfortable it will be to have a crap load of heavy metal objects pressing into your back. I'd look into a hard support for the bag, like what is used on rucksacks.

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franksterz

Silverbullet, thank you for such concise response! This is my first year in the program so I am still learning design methodology. Im getting better at it every week. I will edit my post to reflect that.

Fries, you are on the money my man. The two out of three concepts I have mocked up integrate a frame with the same principle as that. I think those two are the best bet for comfort and use overall.

I will post my concept sketches on here and show you guys what I come up with. Critique is encouraged!

Silverbullet

i would try your marketing research on other forums. Perhaps one with more traffic and a larger population of people who go to the track.

there are various racing clubs like NASA or SCCA. You may be able to obtain more data there!

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