This project began as a personal attempt to design a bike joring tow system for dogs, after noticing that most commercially available options were either limited in design or priced around $200. I prototyped a modular hitch system using 3D-printed components combined with off-the-shelf tubing, iterating through multiple versions to test fit, angle, and usability. While the prototypes were functional for controlled testing, the brittleness of the printed material made it clear that this design was not yet suitable for real-world use, especially under dynamic loads generated by dogs of different sizes and movement patterns.
measuring
get creative to with a dowel and protractor
differnent prototypes
chanigng angle
first design flex tube
flat design
angled upwards with hair dryer
second design pvc tube
smaller dog
medium dog (scared of bike)
More than producing a finished product, this project highlighted how difficult true universal design can be. Designing for safety and usability required considering material selection, print orientation, geometry, manufacturing tolerances, ease of assembly, adjustability, and the needs of multiple users—both human and animal. Small decisions, such as pin diameter or bend angle, had cascading effects on performance and durability. This project reinforced that good engineering is not just about making something work once, but about understanding context, limitations, and responsibility. It also strengthened my interest in iterative prototyping and thoughtful design processes that balance creativity with safety and real-world constraints.