Digit kinematics during typing with standard and ergonomic keyboard configurations

Abstract

This study compared the differences between digit joint angles, velocities and accelerations during two typing tasks: one on a standard keyboard configuration and one on an ergonomic keyboard configuration. A marker-based motion analysis system was used to capture digit movements during typing and digit joint angles, angular velocities, and angular accelerations were calculated. Results showed significant differences between the ergonomic and standard keyboard configurations for digit angles, angular velocity, and angular acceleration, particularly for the left metacarpophalangeal joints. Most notably, the ergonomic configuration tended to reduce the angular velocity and acceleration for metacarpophalangeal and proximal interphalangeal flexion/extension and increase these variables for metacarpophalangeal abduction/adduction. The participants showed no significant differences in typing speed and error rate between the two keyboards. This research supports other research, which suggests that an ergonomic configuration can alter keyboard kinematics, but suggests that researchers should evaluate not only the wrist kinematics, but the digit kinematics as well. Relevance to Industry This research provides information of interest to people who are considering acquiring an alternative keyboard in the workplace.