Canine Flotation Device with Adjustable Harness
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current water-based physical therapy methods for dogs are hindered by the animals' fear of water and the risk of stress or harm to both the dog and the assistant, as existing support systems often cause more harm than good, especially for older dogs.
Innovation Solution
A canine flotation device with a rigid and self-floating outer frame, adjustable straps, and a harness system that provides a secure and comfortable fit, allowing for custom adjustment and quick release, designed to support dogs of various sizes while minimizing side-to-side movement and enabling easy water-based therapy without stressing the animal.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a dog is placed in water for physical therapy, then the therapeutic benefits are achieved, but the dog experiences fear and stress
Solution Approach 1:
The flotation device acts as an intermediary between the dog and water, providing buoyancy support that eliminates the need for human assistance in water. This mediator enables the dog to experience water therapy without the fear and stress associated with being held or supported by a person.
Solution Approach 2:
The device enables self-service by allowing the dog to independently float and move in water without requiring an assistant to hold or support them. The flotation device provides autonomous support, reducing the dog's stress response to therapy.
2Ease of operation
If an assistant manually supports the dog in water, then the dog receives support, but the assistant becomes wet and scratched
Solution Approach 1:
The flotation device serves as an intermediary that transfers the support function from the human assistant to the device itself. The device provides buoyancy and support independently, eliminating the need for direct physical contact between the assistant and the dog in water.
Solution Approach 2:
The mechanical system of human arms and hands providing support is replaced by the flotation device's buoyancy mechanism. This substitution eliminates the harmful effects of water exposure and physical contact for the assistant while maintaining dog support.
3Reliability
If a flotation device is designed with secure straps, then the dog fit is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The device incorporates adjustable and removable straps that can be dynamically configured to fit different dog sizes and shapes. This dynamic adaptability provides secure fits for various dogs while maintaining a relatively simple overall device structure that can be easily assembled and disassembled.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
The device allows dogs to participate in water-based physical therapy and activities safely, reducing stress and risk of harm, while being easy to use and maintain, and available in multiple sizes to accommodate different breeds, promoting confidence and safety in water environments.
Implementation Method 1
The outer frame may be adapted to ride upon a water surface of a body of water. The outer frame may be made of rigid and self-floating material.
Data Source
AI summary
A Canine Flotation Device is a flotation aid for dogs undergoing water-based physical therapy rehabilitation. The device has of a section of hard foam, such as Styrofoam® which floats upon the surface of the water and borders the entire dog. The center of the foam board is cut out to accommodate the dog while the dog is in a “dog paddle” position. The dog is held in place by a textile harness which holds the chest, belly, and hind quarters of the dog. The harness is then attached to the foam board by six (6) nylon straps of which two (2) each are on the front, side, and rear of the foam. Each strap is adjustable to securely fit the dog and allow for proper floatation. It is envisioned that the device would be made available in a plurality of sizes.