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INTRODUCTION

For the patent search, we went through the existing market for solutions for disabled dogs, and pulled patents from the most influential design of these products. We wanted patents that not only solved the problem of assisting the dogs, but also patents that had room to innovate. We wanted to find products with issues relating to our criteria, so we could design and engineer new innovations on top of those.

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PATENT #1

Patent Name: Pet harness for assisting pet mobility

Patent Number: US20200053984A1

Date of Patent: 2/16/2021

Patent Abstract: A harness to carry disabled pets around, which can reduce the stress on the dogs body.

Pros: Independent Front and Back Support, Hip Support, Independent Swivel

Cons: Load may be a lot on just the 2 points where the harness is connected

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PATENT #2

Patent Name: Walking Aid for Disabled Four-Legged Animals
Patent Number: US9279646B2
Date of Patent: 7/11/2010
Patent Abstract: A harness that can lift and support a disabled dog, easily, without the risk of injuring the animal. Since the harness is constructed into 2 different parts, the front and the rear of the harness can be used independently from each other.
Pros: Multidirectional wheels in the forward motion, Frictionally engaged locking mechanism that engages one way

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PATENT #3

Patent Name: Animal Exercising Harness
Patent Number: US4528944A
Date of Patent: 06/26/1984
Patent Abstract: A device for animals to assist in rehabilitation after being injured. The harness allows for support when the dog is running/moving, which can support muscle growth, and exercise without injuring the animal.
Pros: Fully supports the dog as it moves. Encourages the dog to exercise, while being supported, without the fear of injury. Supports from the chest and the rear legs
Cons: May provide too much restrictions for other activities like relieving themselves. May be awkward for the dog with the wires on the rear legs, that are hooked up to the chest mount.

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PATENT #4

Patent Name: Adjustable Wheelchair for Pets
Patent Number: US7549398B2
Date of Patent: 10/18/07
Patent Abstract: A wheelchair for animals includes a harness support frame having first and second lateral supports spaced from each other and a width extender adjustably
Pro: Adjustable, hold the hind legs of the injured pet off the ground, can remove harness from the support frame
Cons: Heavy and cumbersome for the injured dog, too complex for owner to put on

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PRODUCT #1

HobeyHove Adjustable Dog Cart/Wheelchair,Fordable Dog Wheelchair for Back Legs, Assist Small Pets with Paralyzed Hind Limbs to Recover Their Mobility

Pro: Light, little excretion and urination hinderance, sturdy tires, sturdy frame

Cons: Cheap harness design and materials, no laying ability

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PRODUCT #2

Walkin' Drag Bag

Pros: Breathable, easy on/off with velcro, water resistant nylon

Cons: Dog has to drag their legs on the ground, with little hope of rehabilitation, lack of durability

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PRODUCT #3

Bolux Portable Dog Sling Rear Legs - Dog Lift Harness for Back Legs, Adjustable Hip Support Harness for Canine Aid Arthritis for Small Medium & Large Dogs

Pro: Supports the dog via harness, easier for the owner to lift the dog up, strong harness support for the bottom of the dog

Cons: Integrity of the harness can be compromised, slides around on the dog, awkward for the owner to put on the dog

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SUMMARY

After evaluating established patents, the needs and faults of already created inventions were apparent. Excessive owner installation, lack of bathroom capability, inability to rest, and lack of practical rehabilitation are all problems within current wheelchairs and other paralyzed dog products. Improving on the faults of existing innovations will create a better experience for both paralyzed dogs and their owners.

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CITATIONS

Google. (n.d.). US9179646B2 - walking aid for disabled four-legged animals. Google Patents. Retrieved October 4, 2021, from https://patents.google.com/patent/US9179646?oq=dog%2Bwheelchair.

Google. (n.d.). US20200053984A1 - pet harness for assisting pet mobility. Google Patents. Retrieved October 4, 2021, from https://patents.google.com/patent/US20200053984A1/en?q=dog%2Bdisability%2Bharness&oq=dog%2Bdisability%2Bharness.

(n.d.). US4528944A - animal exercising harness. Google Patents. Retrieved October 6, 2021, from https://patents.google.com/patent/US4528944?oq=dog%2Bprosthetic%2Bharness.

Google. (n.d.). US7549398B2 - adjustable wheelchair for pets. Google Patents. Retrieved December 2, 2021, from https://patents.google.com/patent/US7549398B2/en.

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