Design and evaluation of a curved computer keyboard

Ergonomics
Hugh E McLoonePeter W Johnson

Abstract

Conventional, straight keyboards remain the most popular design among keyboards sold and used with personal computers despite the biomechanical benefits offered by alternative keyboard designs. Some typists indicate that the daunting medical device-like appearance of these alternative 'ergonomic' keyboards is the reason for not purchasing an alternative keyboard design. The purpose of this research was to create a new computer keyboard that promoted more neutral postures in the wrist while maintaining the approachability and typing performance of a straight keyboard. The design process created a curved alphanumeric keyboard, designed to reduce ulnar deviation, and a built-in, padded wrist-rest to reduce wrist extension. Typing performance, wrist postures and perceptions of fatigue when using the new curved keyboard were compared to those when using a straight keyboard design. The curved keyboard reduced ulnar deviation by 2.2 degrees +/- 0.7 (p < 0.01). Relative to the straight keyboard without a built-in wrist-rest, the prototype curved keyboard with the built-in padded wrist-rest reduced wrist extension by 6.3 degrees +/- 1.2 (p < 0.01). There were no differences in typing speed or accuracy between keyboards. Perceived fatigu...Continue Reading

References

Apr 1, 1985·Human Factors·M NakasekoR Gierer
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Sep 12, 2002·Journal of Electromyography and Kinesiology : Official Journal of the International Society of Electrophysiological Kinesiology·Peter W JohnsonMats Hagberg
Jun 30, 2006·Applied Ergonomics·David RempelEd Young
Aug 12, 2008·Human Factors·David Rempel

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Citations

Aug 12, 2014·European Journal of Applied Physiology·Jeong Ho Kim, Peter W Johnson

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Software Mentioned

Elite
Typing Workshop Deluxe
Labview
JMP

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