Development of a New Ergonomic Computer Mouse

Abstract

Developing a new computer pointing device abiding to the requirements set out in ergonomics literature necessitates joining contributions from several areas including the systematization recommended for product design projects, ergonomic recommendations and principles and guidelines applicable to hand tools as well as anthropometric considerations. The development of new geometries for computer pointing devices constitutes a complex process as these are simultaneously hand tools, enabling the interaction with the computer, and at the same time, meant for use by people from both sexes and practically all ages, as its use today is practically ubiquitous. The paper reports on a study aimed at developing an innovative PC mouse geometry supported by literature review and an adequate design methodology. In particular, reducing forearm pronation was set as a goal for the new design.