Assistive Devices for Assistance Dogs

thingiverse

It's not just people who need a little help from their friends - assistance dogs require some adjustments too when navigating an environment built with humans in mind. That's why this starter kit was created, including essential items like light switch paddles and doorknob pullers to assist these talented companions in the everyday tasks they've learned. Plus, it includes scent-coded training fobs that let dogs quickly spot objects in a crowded space using a unique set of scents. Every pair of colorful training fobs can be filled with distinct scents - for example, try placing oregano in both green ones and garlic flakes in blue ones. Dogs are extremely good at distinguishing between smells, so when given the owner's matching fob to sniff (like a blue/garlic combo), they can quickly find the corresponding object to work on. To prepare these items for use, follow these instructions: Print Settings: Rafts: Ignore this setting. Resolution: 0.2mm is the minimum recommended setting. Infill: Keep infill density at 20%. Post-Printing Assembly Instructions: The scent fobs need two of each component printed in the same color to distinguish them visually, making it easier for owners to recognize what each fob represents. Doorknob handle pieces can be printed from one STL file. You will also require screws and rope to secure everything into place correctly. For light switch paddles, print necessary components like a wall bracket, lever, and two links that connect the switch nub securely in place using screws. To assemble these parts properly: - Attach the handle with angled 3/8" long 6-32 x screws for maximum ease of use by your dog. - Slip the switch nub onto the end of the light switch after securing it into place correctly with a length of dowel. Post Assembly Now it's time to train both you and your dog on matching scents! Try different smells such as oregano or garlic flakes for training pairs. Attach clips to any device you'd like to instruct them on, or try attaching fobs directly to specific items to facilitate recognition skills. Don't forget to update with additional learning material and instructions.