CARRIE JINYUE WANG






 Canine Breath


Duration
Sept 2022 - Dec 2022

Mentor
Davis BrookeMy Role
Product Design, Design Research, Concept Development, 2D/3D Prototyping, Interaction Design, Visual DesignOutcome
A  high-poly prototype and a revised end-product after usability test









Project Objective


My challenge was to bridge the communication between unspoken dogs, anxious dogs owners and ignorant passerby when the dog has to be left in a vehicle.


Context
One summer day during my college life in Texas, I saw a dog is stuck inside a SUV. I have no idea about how long the dog has been here and when its owner could be back. All I could do is wait here and try to calm down the dog.


Problem











A vehicle-attached device that connects the interior & exterior air for ventilation and temperature control,
featuring a visible interface for informing bystanders and remote monitoring for user convenience.







Research Insight

I began the research process by exploring the possibility and current limitations of pet products that placed in vehicle for multiple use with a focus on interviewing dog owner and passerby in Petco and PetSmart, research papers, and market studies of existing products. 










User Research
Users’ goals and frustrations are identified
I kicked off by conducting users interviews with dog owners and pet lovers from different backgrounds, race and genders who share interests and care in pets in vehicle. This process help me better understand the audience I’m designing for.

The interviews focus on gathering key information and help me define:
their encountered problems when driving with dogs (or other pets)
their dog’s response when be left in a vehicle
their purchased product and  the application result

Based on curiosities, I interviewed 18 pet owners (14 dog owners)  with  different sizes  and personalities of pets. The study helped me discover key insights and identify critical issues in this process.

IN CONCLUSION
When seeing/leaving dogs inside the vehicle, the reason behind the anxiety is the invisibility of inner condition once outside the vehicle. Other concern includes dog’s mental health and the safety issue of the owner’s vehicle.




Affinity map

The affinity map below showed the emotional, behavioral, and routine patterns involved in scenarios where dogs are left in vehices. It tracks the owner’s activity accorss different phrases.






Problem Statement










“

That’s where I think pet owners may not realize that while we know we’re starting to feel uncomfortable and we can go inside and get some water and cool of, our pets may not let you know until they’re sick. ”

From Los Angeles Times







Concept Development


This concept development diagram illustrates the interaction flow between the dog, the owner, passersby, and the product features designed to ensure the safety and comfort of a dog left inside a vehicle. The system revolves around real-time monitoring and responsive actions, with key components including airflow management (fan and air filters), temperature control (thermometer), visual and sound indicators, and a status monitor that keeps track of the dog’s well-being.







Interface Development
Monitor Interface
Based on the different stages I identified during the research process, I developed four distinct modes to the monitor and ensure the safety and comfort of dogs left in vehicles. Each mode dynamically adjusts based on environmental conditions, such as temperature and time, and triggers specific actions to keep both the dog and the owner informed.






Software Interface
This software interface showcases a comprehensive mobile application designed to monitor, manage, and ensure the well-being of dogs left in vehicles. The app provides real-time data, remote control features, and alerts, enhancing the safety and peace of mind for dog owners.







Prototype