EL Wire Light-Up Dog Harness
Introduction
Whether it's to keep Fido (or in my case, Marley) visible on an adventure or as an awesome all-year-round costume, a light up dog harness is an excellent accessory for your favorite pup.
EL wire is a great option for wearable lights. It stays cool, is flexible, and comes in lots of different colors. This design uses the SparkFun EL Sequencer to automatically turn on EL wire when it is sufficiently dark outside, so you don't have to worry about locating Mr. Dog to turn the on system.
Materials
Here is a list of all the parts and tools used in making this project.
Electronics
- EL Wire
- El Wire comes in a variety of colors, pick your favorite!
- EL Sequencer
- Lithium Ion Battery
- 5V FTDI BOB (or cable)
- DC to AC Inverter - 3V
- Ambient Light Sensor
- Stackable Header pins (8 total: 5 for FTDI BOB and 3 for light sensor)
- Three (3) Male-to-Female Breadboard Wires
- Note: Purchase three (3) JST connectors for the EL wire, battery, and inverter if these components do not already have connectors.
Harness Materials
- Dog harness
- A vest or backpack will also work
- Waterproof jacket w/ pocket(s)
- Optional: Tupperware or other sealable plastic container
Tools
- Safety goggles
- Soldering Iron
- Wire Cutter/Stripper
- Epoxy (waterproof)
- Scissors
- Needle + thread OR fabric adhesive
- Optional: Velcro
Recommended Reading
If you are new to electronics, EL wire, or the EL Sequencer, or would like more information on the main components in this project, check out this tutorial:
As this design also uses a lithium ion battery, I also recommend reading this tutorial to give you an overview on proper care and handling of lithium batteries.