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Inspired by the discussion about vertical mice and keyboards on my Ergonomic work station Instructable I decided to give a vertical keyboard a chance. I checked out the Safetype, but was disappointed both by the horizontal placement of the arrow keys and the price. So, I decided to make my own tie-fighter-like vertical ergonomic keyboard.
The tie-fighter keyboard allows you type in a neutral, handshake position with your arms and shoulders supporting your hands. I consider this to be one of the lowest stress positions. As you can't look down to the see the keys, you do need to touch type to do use this; typing in passwords can, admittedly, be a bit frustrating but I'll take that over sore wrists any day.
I figure that we evolved, among other things, to pick berries rather than typing on a keyboard all day long. The tie-fighter vertical keyboard position is a lot closer to a berry-picking position than a standard keyboard.
Check out my other various ergonomic Instructables: Ergonomic Work Station, Stand Up Desk, Standing Desk, and Create an Ergonomic Standing Desk and Office on the Go.
The tie-fighter keyboard allows you type in a neutral, handshake position with your arms and shoulders supporting your hands. I consider this to be one of the lowest stress positions. As you can't look down to the see the keys, you do need to touch type to do use this; typing in passwords can, admittedly, be a bit frustrating but I'll take that over sore wrists any day.
I figure that we evolved, among other things, to pick berries rather than typing on a keyboard all day long. The tie-fighter vertical keyboard position is a lot closer to a berry-picking position than a standard keyboard.
Check out my other various ergonomic Instructables: Ergonomic Work Station, Stand Up Desk, Standing Desk, and Create an Ergonomic Standing Desk and Office on the Go.
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Signing UpStep 1Motivation and parts
A handshake position (thumb up) seems to be the most neutral and strain-free position for my hands. I've been using a handshake-position mouse (3M Ergonomic mouse) for a few years, and feel that it doesn't cause much harm. I'm not certain any computer input device causes no harm, and have recently added left and right handed Evoluent vertical mice to the mix. I now switch between left and right handed mousing at work and use the 3M at home.
However, my keyboard, a Goldtouch, only goes to about 30 degrees. So, in comparison to the mice, it is essentially flat. This position has been incrementally bothering me more and more.
Parts
Goldtouch Keyboard - they seem to run $150 new, so grab one on Ebay. I've bought several, all in great condition and some even new, for $30-$50 each.
wood - 2x4, 2x3, whatever scrap you have lying around
wood screws
2 outdoor adjustable light fixtures
However, my keyboard, a Goldtouch, only goes to about 30 degrees. So, in comparison to the mice, it is essentially flat. This position has been incrementally bothering me more and more.
Parts
Goldtouch Keyboard - they seem to run $150 new, so grab one on Ebay. I've bought several, all in great condition and some even new, for $30-$50 each.
wood - 2x4, 2x3, whatever scrap you have lying around
wood screws
2 outdoor adjustable light fixtures
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Recommend a flat keyboard first.....
Somewhat funny, I look @ my keyboard half the time in lighted areas, but touch type while driving with my laptop or in dark areas. - Homemade pedestal in my work van.
Just like texting and driving, don't drive and type
This gives me a perfect proof of concept project before I lay out any serious cash. Thanks! :-)
If you flip the keyboard over, can you use it as a plate? Or do you hide trash under there?
foot pedal added
thanks for the inspiration with the goldtouch.
(i'd tried cutting a keyboard in half and soldering longer wires between the halves, but i didn't make it, and without copper wire the soldering messed up the plastic pretty bad.)
As an I.T. guy sitting at my desk for 6-9 hours a day and then going home for more, I am always interested in ergonomic ideas.
Sadly the "freaky" and "alternative" (and often very home-made looking) desks and solutions scare a lot of people who just want things to be the same, flat and shiny. Got to do what feels right for your spine and tendons though!
I am lucky enough to have been afforded one of these in my workplace (had to go through an OH and S process/hassle to get one though).
http://www.therapod.com.au/
It has certainly helped my issues. Probably not as much as keeping active and regular stretches though.
In Australia we're looking at $250 - $290 (after taxes and shipping) for many of the ergonomic keyboards and mice available out there. Makes it a little tough to source.
I have to get around to posting my desk setup - basically a solid pull out drawer with a curved edge, that contours to your desk interaction. It is at the right height for my feet to be flat on the floor and maintain those 90% ergonomic angles. Also good because it slides out to the right distance from the screen and packs away nicely when done.
keep up the good work! ;)
I want one!