Projeto e protótipo de dispositivo para reduzir o som percebido por cães

Abstract

Grounded on the analysis of dogs reacting negative to loud noises, it is possible identify the opportunity of development a product aimed to minimize stress on animals. Was analyses the relationship between humans and dogs along with sound and its properties. The field data obtained from surveys online and presence demonstrate the high quantity of animals who suffer with sounds of fireworks and thunder. An additional search with three specimens describes the reaction when occurred the problem situation. Was used the methodology of Pahl et al. (2005) adapted according to the type of activity. Data surveyed included possible solutions that already exist that were correlates for the elaboration of lists with parameters for the development of a new proposal assign to solution to the conflict. Were formulated ten concepts that fulfill the function of reducing the sound perceived by dogs. However, only the concept of an environment with acoustic insulation specify for the dog is quite detailed and developed until the final stage with the design and prototype making. Were realized tests of dog’s accepting and efficiency performance tests, without animal presence, using the parameter reference “firecracker explosion’’ three meters away, a weighted sound power level of 91,6 dBA was registered. Was observed the reaction on animals several meters from the local. The artificial reproduction of the same intensity with recorded sounds of fireworks or classic music does not imply reaction on the animals. In a real situation not controlled the dog used to the prototype slept inside of the device, this suggests a very promising acceptance of the product.