The Adjustable Dog Guide Harness

The Adjustable Dog Guide Harness - open-source assistive technology prototype by the Melbourne community

About this project

The adjustable harness enables guide dog handlers to readjust the length and/or angle of the harness handle to suit their needs. For example, if the user’s shoes cause a significant change in height, they can lengthen the handle so they can stay safely and comfortably remain positioned beside the dog. The flex in the handle helps for the handle to meet the new position whilst still maintaining the required rigidity to enable the user to feel the dog’s movements. The design can be fitted to both fabric and leather harnesses.

The challenge

Sif would like to create an adjustable handle for her dog guide harness so that she can easily alter its length. She would also like her harness to incorporate technological features in order to make navigation easier.

Who it helps

Sif Dal is a guide dog handler. Sif has Tunnel Vision, Nystagmus, Sensitivity to glare, Myopia, and is also Long Sighted. To assist Sif to navigate obstacles while walking she has Harlem, a dog guide, who wears a harness which connects to a handle onto which Sif holds.

How it works

· 3D printer

· Sand paper

o Low grit & high grit

· Metal files

· Small screwdriver

· Band saw

· Drill/Drill press

· Tin shears

· Hot glue gun & hot glue

· Hammer

· Vice

Project details

The build files for The Adjustable Dog Guide Harness are free to download from this page - open source, shared by TOM: Tikkun Olam Makers.

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