K9 Helm provides cranial protection for canines working in human rescue operations. The helmet design offers a stable platform for tactical gear such as cameras, lights, and communication electronics, as well as safety accessories such as detachable ear protection and muzzles. The headgear is designed to fit Belgian Malinois and German Shepherd dogs for use in training as well as in the field.
Project:
The original design was not made on a computer but was hand sculpted as a flowing, organic shape to work harmoniously with the anatomy and movement of the dog.
The company created extremely well-made prototype model of the components of the helmet design but needed CAD models to 3D print working samples for testing and development and ultimately manufacturing. They reached out to Laser Design for 3D scanning services to reverse engineer their prototype models into high-quality, highly accurate CAD models.
Results:
Laser Design 3D scanned the helmets using the Artec Spider and then generated a Solidworks parametric model. The CAD model was then used to 3D print the helmet for testing and evaluation using HP Multi-jet fusion 3D printing. In addition, Laser Design worked with K9 Helm to make design modifications to the models based on canine real-world field testing and evaluation to refine and improve the helmet.
K9’s says, “ The result is our Trident K9 Tactical Helmet. Made for dogs who engage in dangerous work, it’s our tribute to them and a constant reminder to us — never stop innovating, never compromise, and never, ever give up.”
Check out the K9 Helm in Action: