Journal of Mechanical Science and Technology

The Korean Society of Mechanical Engineers (대한기계학회)
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Wrist Motion in Computer Keyboard Typing

  • Han, Jung-Soo (Department of Mechanical and System Engineering Center for Safety Science Technology Hansung University Seoul)
  • Published : 2003.12.01
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Abstract

The purpose of this study is to define how wrist motion is affected by different postures and supporting devices and to discover functional range of wrist motion for keyboard typing. The range of wrist motion (ROM) needed for fourteen experienced typists to type on a computer keyboard was measured by flexible and biaxial electrogoniometers. The most frequent wrist motion during typing was in extended and ulnarly deviated positions in both wrists. Range of wrist motion was similar in both wrists. The average ROM for keyboard typing with the typists' own posture was about 39 in flexion/extension (FEM) and 29 in radial/ulnar deviation (RUD) in both wrists. The range of wrist motion was significantly reduced to 30 in FEM and 27 in RUD with use of either wrist or forearm supporting devices, which suggests that these devices might help to relieve fatigue, discomfort, or pain during and/or after typing. Results of this study will be of interest to clinicians and helpful to those who are professionally or non-professionally involved in typing.

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