Techie Doggy Toys

The human-pet interaction is a rapidly growing area of the CHI research. While the technologies supporting interaction with pets are still rare, the market is big. For instance, new technologies could support dog owners in following the activities of a lonely pet, relieving dog’s separation anxiety or finding new ways to play.

By supporting dogs’ natural way to play and interact, multimodal technologies could have a key role in enabling playful interaction between a dog and a human.

Project goal

The goal of the project is to create  1-3 completely novel interactive toy prototypes for dogs and their owners. The toys could, for example, utilize motion and capacitive sensors, vibration, light, sounds and be connected to internet, home network, owner’s mobile device or include some automation.

Desired student skills and interests

• Software development for mobile devices. Interest in signal processing is a plus.
• Knowledge on material and mechanical engineering, ability to find suitable materials and build physical prototypes.   
• Interaction design and interest for dogs and their wellbeing.