Article Abstract:
A study was conducted to determine the impact of keyboard keyswitch design on applied finger force and finger flexor muscle activity. Ten experienced touch typists were instructed to type on three keyboards with different keyswitch make force. Keyboard reaction forces and surface EMGs were recorded. Results show that increasing keyswitch make force causes an increase in applied finger force, and vice versa. The use of keyboard keyswitches with a make force of 0.47 N or less is recommended to lessen finger contact force and minimize strain on forearm tendons and muscles.
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Article Abstract:
Two segmented alternative keyboard designs were evaluated and compared with the linear standard keyboard. Both the alternative keyboards placed the forearm and wrist closer to neutral positions. The Open alternative keyboard reduced pronation, but increased radial deviation. The Fixed alternative keyboard held the forearm in moderate pronation, with the wrist closer to neutral. No preferences between the Fixed alternative and the standard keyboards were found, and both were preferred to the Open alternative keyboard.
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Article Abstract:
A comparison and analysis of rubber-dome desktops, spring-column desktop and notebook keyboards in terms of key stiffness and fingertip typing force was conducted. The results could help in optimizing computer key design so that subject discomfort and fatigue are reduced.
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