O1

by Tom McArdle

Project Description

The O1 is an input device for computers that investigates the relocation of interactions and physical inputs conducted on standard equipment, such as keyboards and mouses, to a foot-operated alternative. With computer-based jobs rising worldwide, repetitive strain injuries (RSIs) and work-related upper limb disorders (WRULDs) caused by prolonged stationary positions at workstations continue to significantly affect countless computer-based professionals, causing upper-body damage and fatigue, resulting in time off work and job pivoting within some industries.  

For professionals within creative-based industries, computer-aided design (CAD) and creative software require excessive use of the mouse/keyboard hands to conduct their daily duties. Contributing factors such as poor self-taught habits, switching between numerous software devices, or use of commonly available product archetypes result in methods such as scrolling, excessive clicking, and applied pressure dragging with unnatural overuse. Through design interventions, this product looks to find alternative means of interaction for these standard methods of conducting daily duties. 

By relocating common keystrokes, mouse inputs, and analogue actions to alternative means, the proposed product outcome aims to provide a viable archetype to assist users alongside current archetypes (keyboards/mouses) while maintaining job productivity and efficiency. This research-led project investigated the present product archetypes used to conduct work, the evolution of office environments/employer expectations, recurring issues with outdated graphical user interfaces (GUIs), data on daily computer usage, users’ habitual procedures, existing products that address evident pain points, and common locations for pain in users’ bodies.  Based on the research findings, the resulting product provides an alternative to mouse, zoom and hotkey/feature operations and interactions. 

Bio

As an undergraduate product designer, my approach to problem-solving is influenced by my passion for how design and technology impact users. I believe working within multidisciplinary teams fosters new and innovative research-led design, creating interventions that positively alter the interactions of society at large. I am endlessly curious about the ways products are made and the manufacturing methods involved. Product design combines all my passions, where I find harmony in the process and the deep thinking it facilitates. 

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