Researchers at the Royal Institute of Technology in Sweden have developed two new computer mouse covers designed to prevent chronic hand ailments. Prototypes of these unique devices have undergone preliminary testing on volunteers.
The primary purpose of the robotic hands is to combat repetitive strain injury (RSI). This condition is more common among people who work at computers and is part of the so-called "office syndrome"—a cluster of symptoms associated with a sedentary lifestyle.
Both mice are designed to reduce the strain on the hands that contributes to RSI. Scientists say that traditional mice, even ergonomic ones, cannot address this problem because they must be moved and lifted "hundreds of times per hour."
One prototype, called the Fleximouse, has a flexible body: its foldable design allows users to rest the base of their palm on the desk while controlling the cursor with their fingers. The second product, developed in collaboration with the Melbourne School of Design in Australia, resembles an A-shaped wrist expander. This design reduces pressure on the interphalangeal extensor tendons in the wrist.
Both mice were tested on 28 students at the Royal Institute of Technology. Eleven of the participants had previously complained of chronic discomfort, and four had been diagnosed with carpal tunnel syndrome. According to the participants, the two prototype mice significantly reduced the need to change wrist position, effectively eliminating a major cause of discomfort.
However, some participants complained that the Fleximouse's scroll wheel was inadequate. Even slight differences in hand size can affect the comfort and naturalness of the grip on a Type A mouse. The researchers promise to develop a method to make the mouse adjustable and improve comfort. Currently, there is no news on the devices' mass production.
