Data-Optimized Rebalancing Apparatus for Load-Balance Monitoring in Hiking Backpacks

Abstract

Current hiking backpacks lack real-time load-distribution feedback, leaving hikers reliant on subjective awareness. This product-design-geared project asks: Can a backpack prototype integrating dual textile-based force sensors, an Arduino Circuit Playground, and NeoPixel/haptic actuators reliably detect shoulder load asymmetry and deliver real-time visual and vibrational feedback to the user? We evaluate success by whether the sensor produces a measurable resistance drop over 200Ω under 20lbs force, and whether the system triggers alerts when analog-read difference exceeds a calibrated threshold of 25–30 units...