Keyboards Under Development

As technology improves, so does ergonomics. Of course, it seems that ergonomics related to computers and computer-use is always one step behind. After all, before the commonality of keyboards and mice, for instance, there was no Repetitive Strain Injuries (RSI) associated with them. And when there was no such problem with keyboards and mice, there was no need to direct ergonomics toward “fixing” them.

Now, however, far too many people suffer from typing injuries. Many alternative keyboards and mice and software programs have already been created to help prevent and treat typing injuries, but there are also some keyboards under development. After all, when it comes to preventing and treating RSI, the field of ergonomics has room to grow.

There will always be new products, like alternative keyboards, under development. This is a good thing, because the better these keyboards become, the less suffering typists as a whole will have to experience!

Here are some examples of alternative keyboards that are under development (or that have just recently hit the market):

• Voice recognition – Yes, voice recognition software has already been developed, but it still has room for improvement. After all, most of this software has a way for the user to go in and manually fix problems using a keyboard – future voice recognition software will not have problems in the first place. They may completely eliminate the need for a keyboard.
• Ultra-adjustable split keyboards – Currently, most adjustable split keyboards have ways to adjust the “V” angle between the right hand and left hand keys as well as a way to adjust the “tent” – they can be adjusted horizontally and vertically. Future split keyboards will allow the user to adjust both the right hand and left hand side completely individually. One can be kept at a greater tilt than the other. They can be kept far apart or close together.
• Light typing – To reduce RSI, it helps to type lightly rather than hard. Certain keyboards under development (like the Typelighter, Inc.) will encourage the user to type more lightly by showing just how hard she is typing.
• Elimination of finger and wrist motion – Keyboards are being developed that will completely eliminate both finger and wrist motion!
• Custom-made keyboards – While custom-made keyboards are generally very expensive, they will become a little more commonplace. Custom-made keyboards are the best solution for many people experiencing Carpal Tunnel Syndrome or RSI. To make one, both a computer specialist and a medical specialist are consulted, and a mould of your hands is taken.

These are just a few examples of improvements and innovations you can expect to see in alternative keyboards, soon.