ABSTRACT
BACKGROUND: This study was conducted to assess functional parameters and comfort of a new computer mouse (Ergomice) as compared with three other input devices. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Functional parameters (i.e., task completion time and error rate) of each device were assessed by 10 participants using standardized software based on Standard No. ISO 9241-9:2000. Comfort evaluation was also undertaken for each device using the visual analogue scale technique. Statistical analysis including the Wilcoxon signed-rank test and the Friedman test was performed using SPSS version 16. RESULTS: The functional parameters of the standard mouse were better than those of the other devices. However, no significant difference was observed between this mouse and Ergomice. Overall comfort evaluation showed that the standard mouse and Ergomice were more comfortable to work with. The comfort level of hand/wrist posture in the Ergomice was higher than that of the other three devices. CONCLUSION: The design features of Ergomice could improve its functional properties. Hand/wrist posture comfort of Ergomice was judged to be high compared with that of the other devices.
Subject(s)
Computer Peripherals , Ergonomics , Upper Extremity/physiology , Equipment Design , Female , Humans , Male , Pain Measurement , Posture/physiologyABSTRACT
BACKGROUND: This study aimed to design a new mouse and evaluate some of its functional parameters. The prototype of an ergonomic mouse was made according to design principles. METHODS: The study was conducted from 2011 to 2013 in the Department of Ergonomics in Shiraz University of Medical Science. Functional parameters including Movement Time (MT) and error rate of the new mouse were evaluated by 10 participants based on ISO 9241-9 standard. RESULTS: The application of design principles in the new mouse resulted in improving MT and error rate so that they could be comparable to those of a standard mouse. MT, in both the standard and the new mouse was 0.846 and 0.864 s, respectively. Error rate of the standard and the new mouse was reported as 13% and 19%, respectively. Statistical analysis showed no significant difference between the two mice from these perspectives. CONCLUSIONS: Apparently, the studied functional parameters of the new mouse were similar to those of the standard one. The new mouse could be an appropriate substitution for the standard mouse without losing its positive characteristics.
