UnLimited: A Sustainable and Versatile Backpack for Urban Cyclists

Designing a Bond Between User and Recyclable Plastic

Kuan-Hua Chou, a visionary designer, has created a groundbreaking backpack called UnLimited that challenges the conventional perception of plastics. This innovative design aims to provide a sustainable solution while establishing a lasting connection between the user and the product. By utilizing recyclable materials and incorporating thoughtful design elements, UnLimited offers a unique and versatile experience for urban cyclists.

UnLimited stands out from other backpacks on the market due to its exceptional features. Made from mono-material DuPont Hytrel, or similar recyclable thermoplastic elastomers, the backpack is fully waterproof and size adjustable. Its concertina structure allows for expansion to accommodate unexpected items and compression to maintain a streamlined profile, enhancing mobility for cyclists. This design philosophy of "design of reduction" ensures that UnLimited is not only functional but also environmentally friendly.

One of the key challenges in creating UnLimited was bringing DuPont Hytrel, a material commonly used in industrial applications, into the daily life market. By carefully selecting the appropriate hardness and thickness for the concertina structure, Chou ensured a positive user experience. The heat welding technique used to seal the backpack further enhances its durability and longevity.

UnLimited provides cyclists with the freedom to carry what they need while maintaining a balance between functionality and comfort. Cyclists must consider the limitations of their bikes and ensure that the load they carry does not hinder their journey. This interaction between cyclists and their belongings reflects the essence of UnLimited - a design that encourages responsible consumption and production.

The development of UnLimited began with extensive material exploration and research into the target audience and market. Chou's journey took him to the DuPont Geneva Innovation Center in 2016, where he gained valuable insights into the potential of recyclable plastics. The concept development took place in London during the springs of 2017 and 2018, culminating in a release at the 2018 degree show at the Royal College of Art. The latest prototype was created in November 2019 in Tainan.

UnLimited has received recognition for its exceptional design and sustainability. In 2020, it was awarded the Bronze A' Design Award in the Sustainable Products, Projects, and Green Design category. This prestigious accolade acknowledges the innovative and resourceful nature of the design, which incorporates best practices in art, science, design, and technology. UnLimited not only showcases strong technical and creative skills but also contributes to improving the quality of life and making the world a better place.

UnLimited, with its unique blend of sustainability, versatility, and style, exemplifies the potential of recyclable plastics in the realm of design. By challenging preconceived notions and embracing responsible practices, Kuan-Hua Chou has created a backpack that not only meets the needs of urban cyclists but also fosters a deeper connection between users and their belongings. UnLimited is a testament to the power of design to shape a more sustainable and meaningful future.