Prototype 12

Testing prototype 6

VIDEO //

EVALUATION //

CONCLUSION //

We could use the V-slot ( in combination with the ball) that is attached to the wheelchair in stead of a loop, for the unlocking-system. The playfull element could be helpfull to train the dog.

Prototype 11

A new prototype that was created during the visit.

VIDEO //

EVALUATION //

CONCLUSION //

We will have to develop this prototype to see what the result will be.

Prototype 10

Testing of prototype 4 ( at the first visit in Hachiko)

TEST VIDEO //

EVALUATION //

CONCLUSION //

This prototype is not ideal, there is room for improvement.

The loop for the dog could be made more stiffly with iron wire or strong fabric.

A better variation of this prototype would be an adaptation of an existing choke leash.

Prototype 9

Testing prototype 1:

VIDEO //

EVALUATION //

When the V is attached to the dog's neck, it's difficult in using, 

and rather uncomfortable for the dog.

But when the V-slot is attached to the wheelchair, 

a whole other situation is created. The dog has to put the 

ball in a box to attach himself to the wheelchair. So for the dog

it is more like a game!

CONCLUSION //

Thanks to the input of Caroline, we found a new goal for a prototype.

It will be used in a different context, with other handlings.

Benchmark 3

EXPLANATION //

A choke leash is most used leash with assistant dogs.

It is simple, and contrary to what many think, totally safe.

When the dog pulls to hard, the loop becomes smaller, and so he will walk slower.

Some choke leashes contain a safety knot or piece of leather to prevent that the loop becomes

too big/loose so the dog stumbles. (you can see that element on the second picture)

INSPIRATION //

This benchmark can be usefull for our project, because it is simple and not expensive.

It is an inspiration for designs where the leash and collar form one whole.

VISUALIZATION //

choke leash without safety element

choke leash with safety element

First visit at Hachiko

On our first visit at Hachiko's on 26/02/2014 we showed our prototypes to Caroline. Sometimes it wasn't necessary to test them wit a dog, because Caroline knew it wasn't attainable. She also showed a couple connecting systems she uses to help people with a disability who own an assistant-dog. 

On our blog, there is with every prototype a short video with the test and a table with te expectations and results. But below we are showing two videos who summarize our first visit and the help we got from Caroline and her two dogs. (Watch in HD on youtube)

1. summary of existing connecting systems and leashes

2. different kind of analysis

Questions for Caroline: 

1. For which person do we have to design: 
someone with no hand-fuction at all or poor hand-function?

Design a product for someone who can't use their hands to attach and detach the leash/collar of the dog.
Because you will be helping more people in that way.

2. Do the dogs always wear a collar or would that be a problem?

Right now, they don't wear one, but if that would be part of a solution, that wouldn't be a problem.
The dogs will not bother wearing one.

3. Can they wear a harness? or the combination collar-harness?

They can wear it, but some dogs don't like wearing this. And they can wear a collar at all time, even to sleep. A harness has to be taken off.

4. Has the collar an other function than attaching the leash to the dog?

(question 2): No, because they normally don't wear one without a leash.

5. Would velcro be a problem, with the hair that sticks to it?

No, our dog-jackets work with velcro, we have a special brush to clean the velcro.
(as seen on the picture below)

Prototype 8'

EXPLANATION //

mechanism : retractable cable device
pull once and let go: mechanism stops at the lenght that was pulled out.
Pull another time: leash goes back into the mechaism.
This mechanism can be used to improve prototype 8.

The sketch belowed is based on the mechanism shown above. 

EVALUATION //