John D. Lloyd, PhD, CPE
Board Certified Ergonomist
32824 Michigan Avenue
San Antonio, Florida 33576
Tel: 813-624-8986
Email: DrJohnLloyd@Tampabay.RR.com
Ergonomic Evaluation of Five Writing Instruments
Abstract: Writing with pens is an ancient activity, yet little work has been done to evaluate the ergonomics and biomechanics of the pen-hand interface. To help address this issue we have conducted an ergonomic assessment of five pens at the Center for Product Ergonomics. The purpose of the study was to objectively quantify pen comfort as a function of hand anthropometry, biomechanical measures and product design.
Thirteen (13) subjects were evaluated while performing a standardized writing task. During the tasks, thenar muscle activity (EMG), three-dimensional wrist position, wrist velocity and acceleration were measured. In addition, subjects were asked to complete questionnaires rating pen features and pen preferences for each of the five writing instruments assessed. Subject hand anthropometry and upper extremity musculoskeletal health status were also recorded. This study reports on the muscle activity and product comfort ratings for all subjects tested, as well as biomechanical analysis of dynamic hand movements assumed while writing. The Pens utilized in this study were ErgoPen (A), Mont Blanc ballpoint (B), Bic Round Stic (C), Papermate Flexgrip fine (D) and Pilot V Ball extra fine (E)Please contact Dr. Lloyd for additional information