PHASE 1: RESEARCH & INVESTIGATION (PRIM)

First, we needed to gather research, primarily to learn more about the essential functions and components of a dog wheelchair. This led to another visit to the TMTRD Foundation, a shelter for up to 600 rescue dogs, at the beginning of our junior year. Many of the dogs there had mobility issues in their hind legs, which led to the foundation’s expertise in dog wheelchairs. 

During the visit, we learned of the daily routines of these dogs, with the highlight of their days being walks around the reservoir to exercise. This made me realize that not only do the wheelchairs help the dogs maintain good physical health, but by providing mobility, they can gain some independence and reduce their stress. This leads to improved overall mental well-being. Consequently, all of us were more determined to come up with affordable and sustainable wheelchairs that would grant opportunities for dogs outside this foundation. 

While taking the large group of handicapped dogs on their evening walk, I noted down crucial components of the wheelchairs, such as their angled but stable structure. Some parts needed to be improved; the straps at the back lacked security. We also took a close look at the details of the wheelchairs while gaining insight into the cost and the materials used to make them. We learned that while these are durable and high-quality (as they are made from metal and are ordered from overseas), the materials used were not decomposable in the long term, have a high cost, and cannot be sought locally. 

This visit did not just give us an overview of the general design and components of a functional dog wheelchair. We now know which aspects to make adjustments and developments to. We aim to provide a more cost-effective, accessible, and sustainable version of the wheelchair to other local dog foundations.

PHASE 2: MVP CREATION (PREME)

Visiting the dog foundation provided us with invaluable insights into the needs of dogs and how wheelchairs function to aid them. With sufficient research, the next phase of our project involved bringing ideas to life through creating a prototype. Developing a basic MVP (minimum viable product) took approximately one week. Drawing from the resources and blueprints provided by the TMTRD Foundation, we focused on the function of the wheelchair as opposed to looks. Constructing the MVP was collaborative, with constant feedback from various stakeholders guiding our progress. 

As the primary engineer and builder of the MVP, I applied skills acquired from IB Physics and Math to ensure efficiency and minimize errors. This emphasized the significance of thorough preplanning. A pivotal moment was my visit to Thaiwatsadu, where I carefully selected materials that aligned with our vision, including PVC pipes of varying sizes, wheels, and bolts. From cutting the pipes to assembling the components, I inadvertently acquired vocational skills and learned diverse methods of creating dog wheelchairs. Despite multiple approaches, this design was the one we found most efficient. 

As a team, we added the final touches to the wheelchair, sourcing cost-effective materials from a nearby 20-baht store. Our creativity thrived as we improvised, substituting items like a mini-colored sponge for the wheelchair’s dog leg cushions and a rainbow dog leash for the wheelchair’s belly support. Throughout, we fostered a lively team-bonding environment, constantly bouncing ideas and sharing laughter.

PHASE 3: 3D MODELING & PROPOSAL (EARN)

Our project needed a "full stop." We were considering where to end this project due to our ambitions and dreams. However, we all settled on a project proposal that could present this to multiple organizations. But this "full stop" only marks the ending of a chapter, not the book. Clubs and communities can take this project over and produce these wheelchairs to donate to these organizations. They can raise funds and amplify this project even further. So, we created a proposal for a new model of the dog wheelchair that can benefit dog organizations in Thailand. 

To make a proper proposal, we wanted to visualize our latest model. I created a 3D model for the dog wheelchair. It was a fun experience as I saw the final product of our material research. When comparing this model to the first model we built and the real one being used in organizations, I could see the improvements we made and the potential costs we could save for these organizations. I had to learn the 3D modeling program and build the model from scratch. Although I encountered many complications, I could render a realistic dog wheelchair that matched our vision. 

Our entire proposal consisted of an overview of our goals, specifications of our new model, costs, and 3D design. This proposal is a detailed breakdown of our redesign of the dog wheelchair, which can be used to spread information, spark ideas, or encourage investments. Student groups could take on this project and attempt to build the wheelchair using our proposal as a guide to have organizations fund them.