The CatCruiser
Date: Spring 2023
Teammates: Lindsay Beer, Kate Wojciechowski, Dalia Diab
Design Thinking and Communication Project
In partner with the Northwestern’s Segal Design Institute
March-June 2023
Problem: After returning to work in person following COVID-19, our client Balyleigh Smith noticed an increase in rowdy, destructive behavior in their pet cat as a result of heightened separation anxiety. During transitional periods of the day, when Bayleigh goes to and from work, Nuki exhibits destructive behaviors, such as scratching and knocking over objects.
Solution: A baby-walker inspired device that safely and comfortably secures Nuki during episodes of disruptive behavior, allowing him to roam without harming his surroundings. The device consists of harness system and rolling frame.
The Process
User Observations and Research
Our client exhausted their resources for pet products aimed at controlling anxious behaviors: compressive wraps, catnip, laser toys, etc.
I conducted thorough user observation, taking note of Nuki’s behavior at home and how he interacts with with his surroundings.
Ideation and Mockups
My team engaged in a group ideating session, getting our first burst of initial ideas onto sticky notes and developing an alternatives matrix to narrow down our designs.
After working through our initial ideas, we developed a system of rapid iteration and user testing. Our final prototype idea went through three rounds of user testing with Nuki.
Prototyping
Our final design is a culmination of many tests and feedback sessions from our client.
Through prototyping, I practiced materials selection and machining, learning how to use the lathe, mill, and other shop tools.
Evolution of User Testing
First Prototype:
“If you could fasten a harness [to the frame] this would be a hit”
Second Prototype:
“The ease of getting him in the cruiser was 10/10. Very simple and quick.”
Elements added
removable weights to prevent frame from tipping over
removable mesh panels to prevent Nuki from sticking paws through the frame
Final Prototype
While the final device met all the client’s needs, the following are a list of future developments that would further enhance the design given more time:
Reduce the the bulkiness of the PVC frame by changing its shape — rectangular shape is effective but takes up space
Wrap the PVC frame so that exposed PVC is not the final finish
“He realized he can move!! That was a big win in my book” ”