A group of Canadian university students have invented a device that can effectively reduce the stress of backpacks on the body, local media reported Wednesday.

Biomechanics students from St Francis Xavier University in Nova Scotia used simple materials like elastic, duct tape and thread to create a prototype for an elasticized pouch that is inserted inside a soft-walled backpack.

The pouch stabilizes the bag's contents which reduces stress on the body. The students noticed immediately how much lighter the bag felt with the pouch.

Tina Dickieson, a research assistant on the project, told Canadian Television that carrying 15 percent of the body weight in a knapsack can cause serious back injury.

The device can be added to existing backpacks, she said.

The group has filed a patent application in the United States and is currently exploring partnerships with backpack manufacturers to get their product in stores across North America.

(Xinhua News Agency May 15, 2008)