Sliding Signs for Animal Shelters

This project is a series of custom sliding kennel signs designed for use in animal shelters. I created two signs for the Milo Foundation and two for Berkeley Animal Care Services (BACS), iterating across multiple versions to improve durability, readability, and ease of installation in a real shelter environment.

Shelter signage needs to be highly visible, easy to update, durable, and safe for both animals and staff. Existing signs were worn, difficult to read, or not designed for frequent handling and cleaning.

This project evolved over several versions, and the first sign installed was not the first version designed. Each iteration responded to real-world constraints and testing.

Early Versions (Fully 3D Printed)

• Designed and printed fully 3D-printed sliding signs

• Required splitting large components into halves due to printer size limits, creating delicate seams

• Tested multiple filament types to reduce warping

• Experimented with bed adhesion techniques and print orientation

• Evaluated different adhesives and glues for durability

• Used spray-painting techniques to improve visibility

• Installed using zip ties to accommodate existing kennel structures

Mid Iterations

• Added drainage holes after observing water buildup during cleaning

• Adjusted overall dimensions to maximize readability while remaining printable on my machine

• Refined slider tolerances for smoother daily use

Latest Version (Hybrid Manufacturing)

• Transitioned to a laser-cut layered frame for the top and bottom sections

• Designed a 3D-printed sliding component and middle section

• Eliminated fragile glued seams by using laser cutting for larger pieces

• Combined laser cutting and 3D printing to leverage the strengths of both tools

• Resulted in a cleaner, stronger, and more professional final product

Tools & Skills Used

• 3D printing (iterative prototyping, material testing)

• Laser cutting

• CAD design

• Adhesives and assembly testing

• Spray painting and finishing

• Design for manufacturability

• Design under real-world constraints

This project reflects how I approach engineering: iterative, hands-on, and community-driven. Working directly with animal shelters pushed me to design for durability, accessibility, and real use rather than ideal conditions. It also taught me the value of combining multiple fabrication methods to create better solutions.