g150th 键盘拆
Imagine a Mercedes: Beautifully designed, comfortable and more efficient with every new generation. Would you drive such a car on the narrow, unsuspended wheels of the first automobile without the comfort offered by today’s technology? Well, neither would I. But why do millions of people still use a computer keyboard that was developed about 150 years ago for the first successful typewriter? A keyboard that has virtually remained unchanged since then, despite all its drawbacks?
想象一辆梅赛德斯奔驰车：每一代都经过精心设计，舒适且效率更高。 如果没有当今技术所提供的舒适性，您会在第一辆汽车的狭窄，未悬挂的车轮上驾驶这样的汽车吗？ 好吧，我也不会。但是，为什么还有数百万人仍然使用大约150年前为第一台成功的打字机开发的计算机键盘？ 从那时起，尽管有所有缺点，但实际上几乎没有变化的键盘？
为什么我写这篇文章 (Why I wrote this article)
I’ve had pain in my right forearm for years. They disappear after a long weekend or a vacation, only to come back after a few days of work. Why is that so? Well, as a communication designer, I do a lot of computer work — not just design jobs, but also research, e-mails and the organization of my projects. I am also a photographer, which means I frequently carry around a heavy camera. When I later view and edit my images I again use the computer. I can hardly avoid using the keyboard and mouse if I do what I like to do.
我的右前臂疼痛多年了。 他们在一个漫长的周末或休假后消失了，只是经过几天的工作才回来。 为什么呢？ 好吧，作为一名通讯设计师，我从事很多计算机工作，不仅是设计工作，还包括研究，电子邮件和项目组织。 我也是摄影师，这意味着我经常随身携带笨重的相机。 以后查看和编辑图像时，我再次使用计算机。 如果我愿意做的话，我几乎无法避免使用键盘和鼠标。
Many people experience a similar situation, and as digitalization progresses, their numbers are increasing. Today, there are hardly any jobs in the industrialized countries that do not include computers. For many modern professions, they are actually the basis of existence. At the same time, there have been more and more people suffering from this changes, even if they like their profession and their work. People like me. But again: Why is that so? And what causes it?
许多人也遇到类似的情况，并且随着数字化的发展，他们的人数也在增加。 今天，在工业化国家中几乎没有任何工作不包括计算机。 对于许多现代专业而言，它们实际上是存在的基础。 同时，越来越多的人遭受这种变化，即使他们喜欢自己的职业和工作。 像我这样的人。 但是再说一次：为什么会这样呢？ 是什么原因造成的？
I started looking for answers. What at first was only meant to be a small research project soon grew into something quite serious. The more I read, the more questions came up. During this time I also gained new perspectives on my own focus as a designer (which is Human-centered design). But most of all, I looked very closely at my own fingers when writing.
我开始寻找答案。 最初只是一个小研究项目，很快就变得很严肃。 我读的越多，提出的问题就越多。 在这段时间里，我对自己作为设计师(以人为中心的设计 )的关注也有了新的看法。 但最重要的是，写作时我非常仔细地看着自己的手指。
This article sums up my research. I talk about the drawbacks of traditional keyboards, about what problems they cause and why, about possible solutions, scientific studies, rethinking digital interactions and why we still need normal keyboards in the digital future we may dream of.
本文总结了我的研究。 我谈论传统键盘的弊端，它们引起的问题，原因，可能的解决方案，科学研究，对数字交互的重新思考以及为什么在我们可能梦dream以求的数字未来中我们仍然需要普通键盘。
问题所在 (The problems)
Tense neck muscles, back problems and recurring pain in forearms and hands: Millions of people who work a lot with computers are familiar with these problems. They all belong to the Repetitive Strain Injury Syndrome (RSI syndrome for short). These are injuries in which tendon tissue slowly degenerates as a result of constant stress or strain. In this case, the human body’s advantage to adapt to repetitive postures or movements has a negative effect on the nervous system, the blood supply and the ability to regenerate. The consequences can be chronic pain, numbness, loss of fine motor skills and even muscle degeneration.
紧张的颈部肌肉，背部问题以及前臂和手中反复出现的疼痛：数百万从事计算机工作的人都熟悉这些问题。 它们都属于重复性劳损综合征 (简称RSI综合征 )。 这些都是由于持续的应力或应变导致肌腱组织缓慢退化的损伤。 在这种情况下，人体适应重复姿势或运动的优势会对神经系统，血液供应和再生能力产生负面影响。 结果可能是慢性疼痛，麻木，丧失精细的运动技能，甚至肌肉退化。
“There is always a long-lasting, repetitive movement in a fixed body posture involved in developing RSI syndrome.” (Dr. Bastian Marquaß, specialist in orthopedics)
“在发展为RSI综合征时，总是以固定的身体姿势进行持久的重复运动。” (骨科专家BastianMarquaß博士)
It usually takes some time for the symptoms to get worse. In rare cases, however, they can lead to incapacity for work within a single week. In addition to ergonomic equipment and special exercises, doctors usually recommend regular breaks as well as strict rest if necessary. This means that the RSI syndrome not only has a major impact on the career of those affected, but also on the productivity of the employer and the finances of the insurance companies.
症状通常需要一些时间才能恶化。 但是，在极少数情况下，它们可能导致一周内无法工作。 除了人体工学设备和特殊运动之外，医生通常建议您定期休息，必要时请严格休息。 这意味着RSI综合症不仅对受影响者的职业产生重大影响 ，而且对用人单位的生产率和保险公司的财务也产生重大影响 。
The RSI syndrome is by no means a modern phenomenon. It was first described around 1700. Even then, certain professions were affected in particular, such as musicians or typists. Their number has risen steadily since the increasing use of computer keyboards in the 1970s. It is remarkable that the RSI syndrome is still not acknowledged as an occupational disease in all industrialised countries — although the statistics are alarming and these injuries obviously related to the respective jobs of the affected workers.
RSI综合症绝不是现代现象。 它最早是在1700年左右被描述的 。即使到那时，某些职业尤其受到影响，例如音乐家或打字员。 自从1970年代越来越多地使用计算机键盘以来，它们的数量一直稳定增长 。 值得注意的是，尽管统计数字令人震惊，并且这些伤害显然与受影响工人的各自工作有关，但在所有工业化国家中，RSI综合征仍未被公认是一种职业病。
Reports on complaints by typists, which from today’s perspective are typical of RSI syndrome, were increasingly published worldwide as early as the 1970s. At that time, scientists were already considering conventional keyboards to be a very probable cause and voiced their concerns. But as the personal computer began to spread worldwide in the early 1980s, the criticized keyboards eventually made their way into most offices and homes. Although ergonomic designs were already known among experts — the Maltron keyboard, for example, was introduced in 1977 — the basic problems remained. They became even worse when Apple introduced the computer mouse with the Lisa and the Macintosh in 1983/84 (20 years after its invention), whose shape caused further malpositions.
从今天的角度来看，打字员投诉的报告在今天看来是RSI综合征的典型代表，早在1970年代就已在世界范围内发表。 当时，科学家们已经在考虑传统键盘是很可能的原因，并表达了他们的担忧 。 但是，随着个人计算机在1980年代初开始在全球范围内普及，受到批评的键盘最终进入了大多数办公室和家庭。 尽管人体工程学设计已为专家所熟知 (例如， Maltron键盘于1977年推出)，但基本问题仍然存在。 当苹果公司在1983/84年( 发明 20年后)将Lisa和Macintosh引入计算机鼠标时，它们的情况变得更糟，它们的形状进一步引起了位置错误。
“The rapid growth of personal computers in the 1980s was accompanied by more reports of musculoskeletal problems among computer users.” (David Rempel, engineer, medical scientist and ergonomics specialist)
“在1980年代，个人计算机的快速增长伴随着更多计算机用户中骨骼肌肉问题的报道。” (工程师，医学科学家和人体工程学专家David Rempel )
In other words, the RSI syndrome indicates that certain movements and postures are not beneficial for our physical health. Related to the computer, it is usually caused by an unergonomic workstation. Not only the correct desk and seat height is important here, but also a correct posture. The greatest influence on the movement mechanics of fingers, hands and forearms, however, is caused by the keyboard and mouse. While the number of ergonomic and inexpensive computer mice has increased in recent years, international conventions prevent the necessary improvements when it comes to computer keyboards. In fact, most people are so accustomed to today’s keyboard design that only a closer look reveals its great drawbacks.
换句话说，RSI综合症表明某些运动和姿势不利于我们的身体健康。 与计算机有关，它通常是由不符合人体工程学的工作站引起的。 在这里，不仅正确的桌子和座椅高度很重要，而且正确的姿势也很重要。 但是，对手指，手和前臂的运动机制影响最大的是键盘和鼠标。 尽管近年来符合人体工程学且价格便宜的计算机鼠标的数量有所增加，但国际惯例阻止了对计算机键盘的必要改进。 实际上，大多数人已经习惯了当今的键盘设计，只有仔细观察才能发现其巨大的缺点。
是什么导致他们 (What causes them)
A common feature of all conventional keyboards is the almost identical arrangement and mapping of the keys. This layout is known as Qwerty in the US, after the first letters of the top row. The layout is slightly adapted to different languages and is therefore called Qwertz here in Germany.
所有常规键盘的共同特征是按键的布置和映射几乎相同。 在第一行的第一个字母之后，这种布局在美国被称为Qwerty 。 布局略微适应不同的语言，因此在德国称为Qwertz 。
The Qwerty layout dates back to the 1870s. At that time, the US newspaper publisher, printer and inventor Christopher Latham Sholes was looking for a new key and character arrangement for a typewriter he had developed. Conventional models often used alphabetical layouts at that time. This could cause that the printing types, which were very close to each other, could tilt with a fast keystroke sequence and thus block the entire device. This was particularly a problem with letters that often appeared in pairs and followed one another in alphabetical order, such as S and T.
Qwerty的布局可以追溯到1870年代。 当时，美国报纸出版商，印刷商和发明家克里斯托弗·拉瑟姆·肖尔斯(Christopher Latham Sholes)正在为他开发的打字机寻找新的按键和字符布置。 当时，常规模型经常使用字母布局。 这可能会导致彼此非常接近的打印类型以快速的击键顺序倾斜，从而阻塞了整个设备。 对于字母通常成对出现并按字母顺序依次排列的字母(例如S和T)，这尤其是一个问题。
Sholes solved this problem by rearranging the keys and separating frequently used letter combinations. In contrast to common belief, this did not slow down the typing speed, but even accelerated it. With Sholes’ new typewriter, people could type text much faster than they could write by hand for the first time. For this reason, it became the first commercially successful model of its kind, known as the Remington №1. Interestingly, Sholes sold his own copy shortly after its completion and refused to continue using or recommending it. It is unclear why he did this. However, the marketing of his invention was so successful that the Qwerty layout eventually became the industry standard around 1920.
Sholes通过重新排列键并分离常用字母组合来解决了这个问题。 与通常的看法相反，这不会减慢打字速度，甚至可以加快打字速度。 借助Sholes的新型打字机，人们可以比第一次手动打字更快地键入文本。 因此，它成为同类中第一个商业上成功的模型，称为Remington№1 。 有趣的是，肖尔斯(Sholes)制作完成后不久就出售了自己的副本，并拒绝继续使用或推荐它。 目前尚不清楚他为什么这样做。 但是，他的发明的营销非常成功，以至于Qwerty布局最终在1920年左右成为行业标准。
“We are committed to it, even though it was designed to satisfy constraints that no longer apply, was based on a style of typing no longer used, and is difficult to learn.” (Don Norman, cognitive scientist and usability specialist)
“尽管它旨在满足不再适用的约束条件，并且基于不再使用的打字风格并且难以学习，但我们仍致力于这一工作。” (认知科学家兼可用性专家Don Norman )
Over the years, the key layout was adapted to different languages, but its arrangement and the shape of the keyboard itself remained basically unchanged. But the limitations under which conventional keyboards were developed have been overcome for decades, and the possibilities of today’s electronic keyboards are almost limitless. Technologically, there is no reason to stick to the conventional Qwerty layout any longer.
多年来，按键布局已适应不同的语言，但其布局和键盘本身的形状基本保持不变 。 但是数十年来克服了传统键盘开发的局限性，当今电子键盘的可能性几乎是无限的。 从技术上讲，没有理由再坚持传统的Qwerty布局了。
按键：布局和映射 (Keys: layout and mapping)
In the conventional Qwerty layout, the rows of keys are offset horizontally. The reason for this is again the mechanical typewriter: The levers that connect the keys to the types are located next to each other, and therefore also the keys above them. This means that the fingers do not move naturally (up and down) but diagonally to the keys above or below. Furthermore, the rows of keys are irregularly offset (by a quarter or half a key width), so that the finger movement is not straight, but slightly wavy. In addition, the Q, A, and Y keys define a slope to the left. It corresponds to the natural angle of the right forearm but not to that the left — which usually leads to deviated wrists and fingers of the left hand.
在传统的Qwerty布局中，按键行水平偏移。 原因再次是机械打字机：将按键连接到各种类型的控制杆彼此相邻放置，因此也位于它们上方。 这意味着手指不会自然地(上下)移动，而是相对于上方或下方的按键倾斜。 此外，按键行不规则地偏移(偏移按键宽度的四分之一或一半)，因此手指的移动不是笔直的，而是略微波浪形的。 另外，Q，A和Y键定义左侧的斜率。 它对应于右前臂的自然角度，但不对应于左侧-通常导致左手的手腕和手指偏斜。
Another problem is the mapping of the keys. In the conventional Qwerty layout, the letters are not arranged according to their frequency on more or less easy to reach keys. In English, for example, only three of the ten most frequently used letters are located on the middle row of letters where the fingers usually rest (the home row). This causes the fingers to be stressed unevenly and more than necessary.
另一个问题是键的映射。 在常规的Qwerty布局中，字母不是按照其频率排列在或多或少易于到达的按键上。 例如，在英语中，十个最常用的字母中只有三个位于手指通常停留的中间字母行( 主行 )。 这会导致手指受到不均匀的压力，并且压力超过了必要。
For those who use touch typing, the problem is even worse. Here the weak and not very flexible little fingers are responsible for a disproportionate number of keys, including frequently used ones such as Shift, Enter and Backspace. For the right hand, sometimes further important characters must be added — in German the umlauts and the eszett (ß). The strong and flexible thumbs, in return, are only used for the space bar and the lower function keys.
对于那些使用触摸打字的人来说，这个问题更加严重。 在这里，软弱且不太灵活的小指负责过多的按键，包括Shift，Enter和Backspace等常用的按键。 对于右手，有时还必须添加其他重要字符-用德语的变音符号和eszett(ß)。 反过来，坚固而灵活的拇指仅用于空格键和下部功能键。
设计：大小和形状 (Design: Size and shape)
Todays common keyboard shape is a flat, landscape-format rectangle. As a relic of early computer keyboards, this design is widespread as well as unergonomic. In their natural position, our hands do not lie flat on the table but rather like if we were to grab a glass of water. Our hands usually are about shoulder-width apart in this case. In this position we can write with a pen in a very intuitive and relaxed way. But in order to use the approximately 30 centimeters wide main area of a conventional keyboard, we have to twist or bend the forearm, wrist and middle hand in three axes (wrist extension, radial deviation and forearm pronation in medical terms). A straight line from elbow to fingertips would be the natural posture though.
当今常见的键盘形状是平面的横向矩形。 作为早期计算机键盘的遗留物，这种设计不仅广泛而且不符合人体工程学。 在自然状态下，我们的手不会平放在桌子上，而是就像我们要拿一杯水一样。 在这种情况下，我们的手通常相距肩宽。 在这个位置，我们可以用一种非常直观和轻松的方式用笔书写。 但是，为了使用传统键盘大约30厘米宽的主区域，我们必须沿三个轴( 医学术语为 腕部伸展 ， 径向偏移和前臂内旋 )扭曲或弯曲前臂，腕部和中手。 从肘部到指尖的直线是自然的姿势。
In addition to the standard keys, full-size keyboards also feature the common arrow keys and a numeric keypad. For right-handers this means that the mouse is far away from the main area of the keyboard, so the hand has to cover longer distances than necessary between the two devices. This seems to cause a bad posture in the shoulder and neck area which can lead to tension and other problems.
除标准键外，全尺寸键盘还具有通用箭头键和数字小键盘。 对于惯用右手的人，这意味着鼠标距离键盘的主要区域较远，因此，手的覆盖距离必须比两个设备之间的距离更长。 这似乎在肩部和颈部引起不良姿势，从而导致紧张和其他问题。
关于科学研究 (About scientific studies)
It is obvious that today’s keyboard design is functional but yet does not offer the best possible usability and ergonomics. But unlike computer mice, keyboards are relatively complex input devices, so small changes can have big consequences, both positive and negative. For this reason, cause and effect should be examined carefully when creating improvements or appropriate standards.
显而易见，当今的键盘设计具有功能性，但并不能提供最佳的可用性和人体工程学设计。 但是，与计算机鼠标不同，键盘是相对复杂的输入设备，因此，小的更改可能会带来很大的正面和负面影响。 因此，在创建改进或适当的标准时应仔细检查因果关系。
Since the 1970s, scientists have published many papers on the ergonomics of different keyboard designs. German engineer and researcher Dr. Karl Kroemer demonstrated the ergonomic benefits of split keyboards as early as the 1960s, even before personal computers became popular. Although alternative keyboard designs never spread widely, interest has grown in recent years.
自1970年代以来，科学家就不同键盘设计的人体工程学发表了许多论文。 德国工程师兼研究员Karl Kroemer博士早在1960年代就证明了分体式键盘的人体工程学优势，甚至在个人计算机尚未普及之前。 尽管替代键盘设计从未广泛传播，但近年来人们的兴趣有所增加。
Looking at a variety of existing studies and papers, scientists seem to agree on two points in particular: The pronation of the forearms caused by conventional keyboards does not meet the biomechanical requirements of the human hand. Ergonomic designs, on the other hand, have a proven positive effect on complaints associated with RSI.However, the question whether there actually is a connection between the Qwerty layout (regardless of the keyboard shape) and the increasing occurrence of RSI has not been sufficiently researched.
通过查看各种现有研究和论文，科学家似乎特别同意以下两点：传统键盘引起的前臂内旋不符合人手的生物力学要求。 另一方面，人机工程学设计对RSI相关投诉产生了积极影响，但是，Qwerty布局(无论键盘形状如何)与RSI发生率增加之间是否确实存在联系这一问题尚未得到充分解决研究。
Selected and freely accessible publications:Keyboard to increase productivity and reduce postural stress, Stephen W. Hobday, 1988Ergonomic Test of the Kinesis Contoured Keyboard, Global Ergonomic Technologies, Inc., 1992Hand Tracking, Finger Identification, and Chordic Manipulation on a Multi-Touch Surface, Wayne Westerman, University of Delaware, 1999Design and evaluation of a curved computer keyboard, Hugh E. McLoone et al., University of Washington, 2004The Effect of Three Alternative Keyboard Designs on Forearm Pronation, Wrist Extension, and Ulnar Deviation: A Meta-Analysis, Nancy Baker und Erin L. Cidboy, University of Pittsburgh, 2006The Split Keyboard: An Ergonomics Success Story, David Rempel, University of California, 2008Biomechanics of the Upper Limbs: Mechanics, Modeling and Musculoskeletal Injuries, Andris Freivalds, CRC Press, 2011Comparison of typing speeds on different types of keyboards and factors influencing it, Siddharth Ghoshal und Gaurav Acharya, Suresh Gyan Vihar University, 2015How We Type: Movement Strategies and Performance in Everyday Typing, Aalto University, 2016Modelling Learning of New Keyboard Layouts, Aalto University, 2017许多可能的解决方案存在问题 (A problem with many possible solutions)
In addition to these studies and empirical values, there are extensive measurements of the human body as well as various medical tests, for example on finger mobility. Such data are important for the development of ergonomic keyboard designs and crucial for their acceptance and economic success. Only products that meet the physical characteristics of a large user group can be manufactured in higher quantities and thus sold at reasonable prices. An expensive niche product is unlikely to compete with a large number of much cheaper models.
除了这些研究和经验值外，还有大量人体测量以及各种医学测试，例如手指活动度 。 这些数据对于人体工学键盘设计的开发很重要，对于它们的接受度和经济成功也至关重要。 只有能够满足大量用户的身体特征的产品才能大量生产，从而以合理的价格出售。 昂贵的利基产品不太可能与大量便宜得多的型号竞争。
There is no doubt that conventional Qwerty keyboards dominate the market. Nevertheless, their ergonomic shortcomings have not gone unnoticed. A lot has been experimented with, especially within the small but very productive DIY scene. Although this often is learning by doing, it eventually led to some remarkably good designs. The scientific community is also largely in agreement here. In its conclusion, a meta-study compares various studies on the ergonomics of computer keyboards and finally even recommends an ideal shape: individually adjustable, divided into two parts that can be tented and tilted.
毫无疑问，传统的Qwerty键盘主导了市场。 然而，它们在人体工程学上的缺点并没有被忽视。 已经进行了很多试验，尤其是在小型但非常有生产力的DIY场景中。 尽管这通常是边做边学的方法，但最终导致了一些非常好的设计。 在这里，科学界也大体上同意。 在总结中，一项元研究对计算机键盘的人体工程学进行了各种研究比较，并最终建议了一种理想的形状：可单独调节，分为两个可以拉下和倾斜的部分。
不同的键映射 (Different key mappings)
The French government showed that the Qwerty layout can be improved without making a completely new mapping out of it. In 2015, they commissioned the Académie Française (the French language preservation institution) to rework the Azerty layout used in the French-speaking world. The improved layout was developed in collaboration with researchers from the Aalto University in Finland and introduced in April 2019. It has been the new standard ever since. Until then, the French layout was considered to be one of the most inefficient because frequently used characters were difficult to reach and others were completely missing.
法国政府表明，可以在不进行全新映射的情况下改进Qwerty布局。 2015年，他们委托AcadémieFrançaise(法语保护机构)对法语国家使用的Azerty布局进行了重新 设计 。 改进的布局是与芬兰阿尔托大学的研究人员合作开发的，并于2019年4月推出。自那时以来，它一直是新标准。 在此之前，法国布局被认为是效率最低的布局之一，因为难以找到常用字符，而其他字符则完全丢失。
As I mentioned earlier, the most serious drawback of the Qwerty layout is the poor distribution of characters. Several alternative layouts adress this problem, including Dvorak (1930), Colemak (2006), Workman (2010) or, for the German language, Neo (2010). The approaches are different, though the purpose remains the same: to improve the distribution of the characters among the keys, depending on how often they appear in the respective language. In theory, these layouts reduce finger movements, increase typing speed, and ensure a more even load on each hand and individual fingers. The actual practical benefits, however, are not without some controversy, and learning a new layout my not be a practicable solution for many people.
正如我前面提到的，Qwerty布局最严重的缺点是字符分布不佳。 一些替代布局 ADRESS这个问题，包括德沃夏克 (1930年)， Colemak键盘 (2006年)， 工人 (2010年)，或为德语， 新 (2010)。 尽管目的保持不变，但是方法却有所不同：根据字符在相应语言中出现的频率来改善字符在按键之间的分布。 从理论上讲，这些布局减少了手指的移动，提高了打字速度，并确保了每只手和各个手指上的负载更加均匀 。 然而，实际的实际利益并非没有争议，并且学习新的布局对于许多人来说不是可行的解决方案。
“Someday key labeling will be done by electronic displays on each key, so changing labels will become trivial. So computer technology may liberate us from forced standardization. Everyone could select the keyboard of personal choice.” (Don Norman, 2002)
“总有一天，钥匙标签将通过每个钥匙上的电子显示屏进行显示，因此更改标签将变得很简单。 因此，计算机技术可以使我们从强制标准化中解放出来。 每个人都可以选择自己选择的键盘。” (Don Norman，2002年)
One of the main problems of today’s keyboard designs — including alternative layouts — is the fixed key labeling. This means that other layouts are not visible and therefore harder to learn. A possible solution would be the use of small displays integrated into the keys. This would also allow individual mappings (when a keyboard is used by several people or in different environments), multilingualism, software-related modifications or the graphic display of certain functions (hotkeys). However, this idea has not been implemented yet.
当今键盘设计(包括其他布局)的主要问题之一是固定键标签。 这意味着其他布局不可见，因此较难学习 。 一种可能的解决方案是使用集成在按键中的小型显示器。 这也将允许单独的映射(当几个人使用键盘或在不同的环境中使用)，多语言，软件相关的修改或某些功能( 热键 )的图形显示。 但是，这个想法尚未实现。
不同的按键布局和键盘形状 (Different key layouts and keyboard shapes)
Without the restrictions of mechanical typewriters, the layout of today’s electronic keyboards can be altered almost at will. In orthogonal layouts, for example, the rows of keys are no longer offset, but are arranged in a linear grid. In the so-called columnar stagger, on the other hand, the rows of keys are vertically offset and thus take into account the different lengths of our fingers. Both approaches allow a more natural hand position and finger movement.
在没有机械打字机限制的情况下，当今的电子键盘布局几乎可以随意更改。 例如，在正交布局中，按键行不再偏移，而是以线性网格排列。 另一方面，在所谓的柱状交错中，按键行是垂直偏移的，因此考虑了我们手指的不同长度。 两种方法都可以使手的位置和手指运动更加自然。
“Split keyboards are not associated with increased productivity — the main value is improved health.” (David Rempel)
“分体式键盘与提高生产率无关—主要价值在于改善健康状况。” (大卫·伦Perl)
Split keyboards divide the keyboard into two separate areas for each hand, usually at a slight angle. They often are also split into two separate units that can be positioned freely and even tilted or tented — though users should learn touch typing to take full advantage of these keyboards.The split design is by no means new as Apple was the first major manufacturer to launch a splittable keyboard in the early 1990s. Microsoft followed a year later and, unlike Apple, has been successfully designing and selling follow-up models ever since.
拆分键盘将每只手的键盘分为两个单独的区域，通常成一个小角度。 它们通常也分为两个独立的单元，可以自由放置，甚至倾斜或倾斜-尽管用户应该学习触摸打字以充分利用这些键盘。由于苹果是第一家主要的制造商，所以分离的设计绝不是新的。在1990年代初期推出了可拆分键盘 。 一年后，微软紧随其后，自此以来，与苹果公司不同，微软一直在成功设计和销售后续机型 。
Keyboards with a split layout often assign significantly more keys to the thumb than what we are familiar with —usually enter, shift, alt, remove or backspace as well as the space bar. This reduces the load on the weaker little fingers that are otherwise responsible for these keys in the conventional Qwerty layout. Popular commercial models of this type include Microsoft’s Sculpt Ergonomic, TrulyErgonomic and the ErgoDox EZ developed by the DIY scene. In contrast to conventional full-size designs, almost all ergonomic keyboards lack an integrated numeric keypad. This allows the mouse to move closer to the main area of the keyboard, relieving hand, arm and shoulder strain for right-handers and preventing incorrect posture.
与我们所熟悉的键盘相比，具有分开的布局的键盘通常给拇指分配的键要多得多-通常是Enter ， shift ， alt ， remove或backspace以及空格键。 这减少了较弱的小指的负担，这些小指否则会导致传统Qwerty布局中的这些键产生问题。 这种类型的流行商业模型包括Microsoft的 通过DIY场景开发的人体工学 ， TrulyErnomicnomic和ErgoDox EZ 。 与常规的全尺寸设计相比 ，几乎所有符合人体工程学的键盘都没有集成的数字键盘。 这使鼠标可以移至更靠近键盘的主要区域，从而减轻了惯用右手的手，手臂和肩膀的负担，并防止了错误的姿势。
In recent years, some new keyboard models have been enhanced with additional controls, such as the rotary knob on the Logitech Craft. This allows cursor sizes, zoom levels and other screen contents to be controlled very easily and intuitively. As a separate device, Microsoft’s Surface Dial takes this idea a step further and enables completely new interactive elements. And for certain photo, video or music software there are even stand-alone input devices available, such as from Loupedeck or Steinberg, which allow users to work largely without mouse and keyboard.
近年来，一些新的键盘型号已通过附加控件进行了增强，例如Logitech Craft上的旋钮。 这样就可以非常容易且直观地控制光标大小，缩放级别和其他屏幕内容。 作为单独的设备，Microsoft的Surface Dial将这一想法更进一步，并启用了全新的交互元素。 对于某些照片，视频或音乐软件，甚至可以使用独立的输入设备，例如Loupedeck或Steinberg的输入设备，这些输入设备使用户无需鼠标和键盘即可进行大量工作。
Using well proven technologies, today’s ergonomic keyboards solve many of the problems caused by conventional designs. Most of them are aiming at a rather small scene of frequent writers, software developers and gamers. Accordingly, commercial models are comparatively expensive (up to $500), while DIY keyboards require a high level of skill and technical understanding.
使用成熟的技术，当今的人体工学键盘解决了传统设计带来的许多问题。 他们中的大多数针对的是经常写作者，软件开发人员和游戏玩家的一小部分场景。 因此，商业模型比较昂贵(高达500美元)，而DIY键盘则需要很高的技能和技术知识。
Apart from that, many of these keyboards allow for less tiring, efficient text input and a more ergonomic hand position. They also allow individual fingers to be used more appropriately according to their strenght and flexibility. The keys used in this keyboards often have a classic spring mechanism which, compared to other mechanisms, offer more precise feedback and are much more durable — therefore they are quite popular in the mentioned target group. A downside is that they usually require deeper keyboard housings. With no wrist support pads, this can result in an uncomfortable upward angulation of the hands.
除此之外，这些键盘中的许多键盘都可以减少疲劳感，有效的文本输入和更符合人体工程学的手部位置。 它们还允许根据手指的强度和柔韧性更适当地使用各个手指。 该键盘中使用的键通常具有经典的弹跳机制，与其他机制相比，该机制提供了更精确的反馈并且更加耐用-因此，它们在上述目标人群中非常流行。 缺点是它们通常需要更深的键盘外壳。 没有腕部支撑垫，这可能会导致手向上不适感。
Some of these alternative designs are also much smaller than conventional ones because they lack a number pad or f-keys. Instead, each key is assigned several functions, creating multiple virtual keyboard layers.Most models also feature the US-American layout (ANSI) in the Windows or Linux layout, which lacks a key compared to the European layout. If you want to use these keyboards on an Apple computer, you will often also miss the Command key (which is essential for MacOS) and some other Apple-typical special keys. Of course, the key mapping can be changed by software — but is not an appropriate solution, because the labels on the keyboard would still remain the same.
这些替代设计中的某些也比常规设计小得多，因为它们缺少数字键盘或f键。 而是为每个按键分配了多个功能，从而创建了多个虚拟键盘层。大多数模型还具有Windows或Linux布局中的美式布局( ANSI )，与欧洲布局相比缺少按键。 如果要在Apple计算机上使用这些键盘，通常还会错过Command键 (这对于MacOS是必不可少的)和其他一些Apple典型的特殊键。 当然，键映射可以通过软件更改-但不是合适的解决方案，因为键盘上的标签仍保持不变。
In many jobs it is also a question of how to work as ergonomically as possible with both keyboard and mouse. Here, one hand is often responsible for pressing hotkeys and shortcuts, while the other hand operates the mouse. Depending on the software, many professional users also use other input devices such as graphics tablets, midi keyboards or special CAD mice. Only a two-piece keyboard is flexible enough to allow all devices to be ergonomically positioned on the desk. If necessary, only one half of the keyboard could be used here. But unfortunately most two-piece split designs are not meant to be that modular — at least not without sacrificing functionality.
在许多工作中，还存在一个问题，即如何在键盘和鼠标上都尽可能符合人体工程学。 在这里，一只手通常负责按下热键和快捷方式，而另一只手则操作鼠标。 取决于软件，许多专业用户还使用其他输入设备，例如图形输入板，MIDI键盘或特殊的CAD鼠标 。 仅两件式键盘具有足够的灵活性，可以按照人体工程学原理将所有设备放置在桌子上。 如有必要，此处只能使用键盘的一半。 但是不幸的是，大多数两件式分体式设计并不是要模块化的-至少在不牺牲功能的情况下。
What is missing is a range of different devices that meet both the ergonomic and technical needs of a large user group and do not require difficult adjustment. Devices that simply work.
缺少的是可以满足大型用户群体的人体工程学和技术需求且不需要困难调整的一系列不同设备。 可以正常工作的设备。
虚拟键盘呢？ (What about virtual keyboards?)
Let’s be honest: On smartphones and tablets, we no longer use physical keys. Instead, we write on a touch-sensitive display. A few keyboard designs have adopted this idea as well (though they only made it to a commercial level in some rare cases). What makes these keyboards stand out is that the virtual keys can be fully adapted to the human hand in terms of size, layout, mapping, shape and arrangement. The display also enables completely new forms of interaction, such as virtual rotary or slide controls, gesture control or the recognition of handwriting. In addition, virtual keyboards lack the usual stroke travel — so pressing a key requires hardly any force. There is evidence that this has a positive impact on RSI syndrome and similar injuries.
坦白说：在智能手机和平板电脑上，我们不再使用物理密钥。 相反，我们在触摸屏上书写。 一些键盘设计也采用了这种想法(尽管在少数情况下，它们只是使其达到了商业水平)。 使这些键盘脱颖而出的原因在于，虚拟按键可以在大小，布局，映射，形状和排列方面完全适应人的手。 显示器还可以实现全新的交互形式，例如虚拟旋转或滑动控件，手势控件或手写识别。 此外，虚拟键盘缺少通常的笔划行程-因此按下键几乎不需要任何力。 有证据表明 ，这对RSI综合征和类似伤害有积极影响。
But virtual keyboards have a huge drawback: We have to see what we are typing because we can’t feel what keys we are pressing or not. But haptic feedback is the essential aspect of our normal interactions with things we touch. If we lack this feedback on a keyboard, we have to rely solely on our muscle memory and our eyes.
但是虚拟键盘有一个巨大的缺点：我们必须看到正在键入的内容，因为我们无法感觉到我们在按什么键。 但是触觉反馈是我们与所触摸事物进行正常交互的基本方面。 如果我们在键盘上缺少此反馈，则必须仅依靠我们的肌肉记忆和眼睛。
On smartphones and tablets virtual keyboards are not a problem. Their screens are both the input and output device, so the eye hardly has to move between the two areas. On a laptop, keyboard and screen are two separate areas or even two completely different devices when using a normal computer. If the keyboard would be a screen as well as the monitor, our eyes would have to travel back and forth between them — because we have to see where to tap. This is not an improvement when you consider that an experienced touch typist with a conventional keyboard doesn’t need to look at the keys at all. If he had to do so on a display keyboard this would either lead to a lower typing speed or a higher error rate. Additionally, the fingers have to hover above the touch surface to prevent unwanted input. This position is unergonomic and another drawback, as the resting position on certain keys is the most important feature of touch typing.
在智能手机和平板电脑上，虚拟键盘不是问题。 它们的屏幕既是输入设备，又是输出设备，因此眼睛几乎不必在两个区域之间移动。 在笔记本电脑上，使用普通计算机时，键盘和屏幕是两个单独的区域，甚至是两个完全不同的设备。 如果键盘既是屏幕又是显示器，那么我们的眼睛将不得不在它们之间来回移动，因为我们必须看到在何处点击。 当您认为经验丰富的使用传统键盘的触摸打字员根本不需要查看按键时，就没有任何改进。 如果他必须在显示键盘上执行此操作，则可能导致较低的键入速度或较高的错误率。 另外，手指必须悬停在触摸表面上方，以防止不必要的输入。 该位置是不符合人体工程学的并且是另一个缺点，因为某些键上的静止位置是触摸打字的最重要特征。
Before display keyboards with a usably high technical level were even available or affordable, there were already some hybrid models that combined the advantages of both concepts. In the early 2000s, for example, a small US company began manufacturing some remarkable keyboards. They featured touch-sensitive pads instead of keys, combined them with a multitouch sensor. Devices like the TouchStream LP could recognize all ten fingers, enabling a variety of gestures that previously required special keys, key combinations or mouse movements. The name of the largely unknown yet groundbreaking company: Fingerworks, founded by Prof. John Elias and Dr. Wayne Westermann from the University of Delaware.
在甚至可以买到或买得起具有高技术水平的显示键盘之前，已经有了一些结合了这两个概念优点的混合型号。 例如，在2000年代初期，一家小型美国公司开始制造一些出色的键盘。 他们采用了触摸感应垫而不是按键，并结合了多点触摸传感器。 诸如TouchStream LP之类的设备可以识别所有十个手指，从而实现了以前需要特殊键，组合键或鼠标移动的各种手势。 知名度极低但开创性的公司名称： Fingerworks ，由特拉华大学的John Elias教授和Wayne Westermann博士创立。
“The conventional mechanical keyboard, for all of its strengths, is physically incompatible with the rich graphical manipulation demands of modern software.” (Wayne Westerman, engineer and multitouch specialist)
“传统的机械键盘尽管具有所有优点，但在物理上却与现代软件丰富的图形操作要求不兼容。” (工程师兼多点触控专家Wayne Westerman )
The products of Fingerworks were based on Westermann’s dissertation which he presented in 1999. Westermann intensively studied the capabilities of multitouch surfaces to find solutions for people with RSI syndrome. In 2005, Fingerworks surprisingly stopped selling its keyboards when Apple silently acquired the company. Both Elias and Westermann were appointed senior engineers. In this way, their gesture control research and patents made their way into the first iPhone (2007) and later into most Apple devices. By now they have become the worldwide standard for touch sensitive surfaces.
Fingerworks的产品基于他在1999年提出的Westermann 论文 。Westermann深入研究了多点触摸表面的功能，以找到RSI综合征患者的解决方案。 2005年，当苹果无声收购该公司时，Fingerworks意外停止销售其键盘。 埃里亚斯和韦斯特曼都被任命为高级工程师。 这样，他们的手势控制研究和专利就进入了首款iPhone(2007年)，后来又进入了大多数Apple设备。 到目前为止，它们已成为触敏表面的全球标准。
But without further studies it remains uncertain how much tactile feedback is required to make writing on a touch-sensitive surface as fast and error-free as on a mechanical keyboard. Or if this is possible at all. In recent years, several research projects and companies have worked on these challenges and came up with some possible solutions. In a patent from March 2018, for example, Apple outlined ideas for a display with a flexible surface that can simulate the feel of individual keys using small bumps. A second patent from October 2019 extended this idea and showed the combination of a display with tiny electrodes. These allow the key shapes to be felt through electrostatic fields without physically altering the surface of the display.The touchpads of Apple’s current Macbook models prove that this kind of rethinking works (also applies to the home button of newer iPhone versions). It simulates a click with the help of a small sensor that hits the touch surface from underneath. The illusion is so good unsuspecting users hardly notice that it’s just a fixed glass plate.
但是，如果没有进一步的研究，仍然不确定需要多少触觉反馈来使在触敏表面上的书写与在机械键盘上一样快且无错误。 或者，如果有可能的话。 近年来，一些研究项目和公司已经致力于应对这些挑战，并提出了一些可能的解决方案。 例如，在2018年3月获得的一项专利中，Apple概述了一种具有柔性表面的显示器的想法，该显示器可以使用小凸起模拟单个按键的感觉。 2019年10月的第二项专利扩展了这个想法，并展示了带有微小电极的显示器的组合。 这些使按键形状可以通过静电场感觉到，而无需物理地改变显示屏的表面。Apple当前Macbook机型的触摸板证明了这种重新思考的效果(也适用于新版iPhone的主屏幕按钮)。 它借助一个小型传感器模拟点击，该传感器从下方击中触摸表面。 这种错觉是如此之好，毫无疑问的用户几乎不会注意到它只是一块固定的玻璃板。
为什么我们应该重新考虑数字互动 (Why we should rethink digital interactions)
Traditional keyboards solved a technical problem of the 19th century. They were never designed to meet the biomechanical requirements of our hands. So perhaps we not only need new keyboard shapes — we should also think about the way we use and interact with computers from scratch.
传统键盘解决了19世纪的技术问题。 它们从未被设计来满足我们双手的生物力学要求。 因此，也许我们不仅需要新的键盘形状-我们还应该考虑从头使用和与计算机进行交互的方式。
It goes back to the time of the Industrial Revolution that we began to abandon individual solutions in almost all areas of life and became used to generic products. Please do not get me wrong: Standards are important. They ensure that a fork remains a fork — a perfect, simple tool with a clear purpose. Complex tasks, on the other hand, require more individual tools. The fact that most people working with computers use an almost identical keyboard although they have different tasks is basically absurd. Chefs, shoemakers and surgeons do not use the same type of knife either.
可以追溯到工业革命时期，我们开始在生活的几乎所有领域都放弃单独的解决方案，并开始习惯于通用产品。 请不要误会我的意思：标准很重要。 他们确保叉子仍然是叉子-完美的，简单的工具和明确的用途。 另一方面，复杂的任务需要更多的单独工具。 基本上，大多数使用计算机的人使用几乎相同的键盘，尽管他们执行不同的任务，这一事实基本上是荒谬的。 厨师，制鞋匠和外科医生也不使用相同类型的刀。
In daily use, it often becomes obvious that keyboard and mouse are no longer sufficient for the many possibilities and functions of modern computer software. Additional input methods — such as new devices, voice control or gestures — make it easier to use certain types of software. But most software cannot make full use of new interactive features because everything must be controllable with keyboard and mouse. For this reason, the two classic input devices are also the limiting factor when it comes to the development of new software or operating systems.
在日常使用中，键盘和鼠标已不足以满足现代计算机软件的许多可能性和功能，这常常变得很明显。 其他输入方法(例如新设备，语音控制或手势)使使用某些类型的软件更加容易。 但是大多数软件不能充分利用新的交互功能，因为一切都必须使用键盘和鼠标来控制。 因此，在开发新软件或操作系统时，两个经典输入设备也是限制因素。
And so the introduction of the mouse in the mid-1980s was the last major innovation in the computer industry. It allowed engineers to move from a monochrome command line to a colorful graphical user interface, which was one of the reasons for the spread of the personal computer. Apart from a steady increase in computing power — in 2015, the Apple Watch was twice as fast as the fastest supercomputer of 1985 — little has happened since then. Especially the computer keyboard is like a rock in the surf of technological development. But for many years, Hollywood movies and computer games have been showing us visionary user interfaces and input methods. With today’s possibilities some of them are no longer as futuristic as they might seem at first glance.
因此，在1980年代中期引入鼠标是计算机行业的最后一项重大创新。 它允许工程师从单色命令行切换到彩色图形用户界面，这是个人计算机普及的原因之一。 除了计算能力的稳步提高( 2015年， Apple Watch的速度是1985年最快的超级计算机的两倍)之外，此后几乎没有发生任何事情。 特别是在技术发展的浪潮中，电脑键盘就像一块石头。 但是多年来，好莱坞电影和计算机游戏一直在向我们展示富有远见的用户界面和输入方法。 有了今天的可能性，其中一些不再像乍看起来那样具有未来派性。
In its Productivity Future Vision 2015, for example, Microsoft has adopted many concepts and transferred them to real-life application. It is remarkable that the designers completely abandoned the computer mouse. There are also no keyboards to be seen. Without having to pay attention to conventions, Microsoft shows interactive interfaces that can be operated intuitively using gestures, digital pens and voice control.
例如， Microsoft在其《 2015年生产力未来愿景》中采用了许多概念，并将其转移到实际应用中。 值得注意的是，设计人员完全放弃了计算机鼠标。 也没有键盘可以看到。 无需关注约定，Microsoft显示了可以使用手势，数字笔和语音控制直观操作的交互式界面。
“I believe we will look back on 2010 as the year we expanded beyond the mouse and keyboard and started incorporating more natural forms of interaction such as touch, speech, gestures, handwriting, and vision — what computer scientists call the natural user interface.” (Steve Ballmer, former CEO of Microsoft)
“我相信我们将回顾2010年，这一年我们超越了鼠标和键盘，并开始合并更自然的交互形式，例如触摸，语音，手势，手写和视觉-计算机科学家称之为自然用户界面。” ( 微软前首席执行官史蒂夫·鲍尔默 )
Microsoft seems to be serious about this vision. For the past ten years, it is the only major company that has continually tried to improve digital work spaces. As a result, most devices of its Surface series focus heavily on ergonomics, functionality and productivity — which has so far led to some groundbreaking products such as Studio, Hub or Neo. Microsoft takes the same approach with its user interface (although the design still promises much more than it actually delivers). This is also the reason why the company has opened its proprietary software architecture and is now the largest contributor to open source software. Looking at this evolution in its entirety, it becomes clear how much value, benefit and even economic success can be achieved when a company places people and their needs at the heart of its product development.
微软似乎对这一愿景很认真。 在过去的十年中，它是唯一一家不断尝试改善数字工作空间的大型公司。 结果，Surface系列的大多数设备都将重点放在人体工程学，功能和生产力上–到目前为止，已开发出一些突破性的产品，例如Studio ， Hub或Neo 。 Microsoft在其用户界面上采用了相同的方法(尽管该设计仍然承诺比实际交付的功能要多得多)。 这也是该公司开放其专有软件体系结构并现在成为开放源代码软件最大贡献者的原因。 从整个发展过程来看，很明显，如果公司将人员和他们的需求放在产品开发的核心位置，那么可以实现多少价值，利益甚至经济上的成功 。
Apple on the other hand has long neglected its professional users. The same company that changed the way we communicate — when it added a groundbreaking multi-touch interface to a phone back in 2007 — has repeatedly drawn attention to itself over the past decade because of some serious ergonomic issues. These include the removal of required ports (which led to an adapter mess), device failures during normal use (Antennagate, Bendgate, Flexgate, etc.), as well as ongoing keyboard problems. This shows how usability can go wrong if what supposed to be an innovation does not meet the needs of the customers or the way they use a product. The fact that this behaviour has not harmed Apple is mainly due to emotionally engaged (normal) users and a more satisfying experience when it comes to software and aesthetics.
另一方面，Apple长期以来一直忽略其专业用户。 同一家公司改变了我们的沟通方式-早在2007年，它就在电话中添加了突破性的多点触摸界面-在过去的十年中，由于一些严重的人体工程学问题 ，它反复引起人们的注意。 These include the removal of required ports (which led to an adapter mess ), device failures during normal use ( Antennagate , Bendgate , Flexgate , etc.), as well as ongoing keyboard problems . This shows how usability can go wrong if what supposed to be an innovation does not meet the needs of the customers or the way they use a product. The fact that this behaviour has not harmed Apple is mainly due to emotionally engaged (normal) users and a more satisfying experience when it comes to software and aesthetics.
“Good design makes a product useful.” (Dieter Rams, German industrial designer)
“Good design makes a product useful.” ( Dieter Rams , German industrial designer)
No matter how tempting a workplace like the one Microsoft shows in its vision may be: New functions or features do not automatically make sense just because they are possible. This applies particularly to the design of digital workspaces that are intended to facilitate or improve important processes. For that reason, it is also an utopian idea that we will completely abandon the computer mouse or a physical keyboard in the future.
No matter how tempting a workplace like the one Microsoft shows in its vision may be: New functions or features do not automatically make sense just because they are possible. This applies particularly to the design of digital workspaces that are intended to facilitate or improve important processes. For that reason, it is also an utopian idea that we will completely abandon the computer mouse or a physical keyboard in the future.
This does not mean, however, that new workspaces could not be significantly enhanced and improved. Recent developments in the field of artificial intelligence and machine learning show what could be possible. In fact, we are already taking advantage of some of these new technologies by using language assistants like Apple’s Siri or Amazon’s Alexa, translating text online, having Netflix suggest movies based on our preferences or unlocking electronic devices using facial recognition. Compared to the possibilities, these applications are quite basic. Special glasses like Microsoft’s HoloLens can already blend our real environment with virtual objects that we can interact with — which is something we have only seen in science fiction movies so far.
This does not mean, however, that new workspaces could not be significantly enhanced and improved. Recent developments in the field of artificial intelligence and machine learning show what could be possible. In fact, we are already taking advantage of some of these new technologies by using language assistants like Apple's Siri or Amazon's Alexa, translating text online , having Netflix suggest movies based on our preferences or unlocking electronic devices using facial recognition. Compared to the possibilities, these applications are quite basic. Special glasses like Microsoft's HoloLens can already blend our real environment with virtual objects that we can interact with — which is something we have only seen in science fiction movies so far.
This is made possible by capable software assistants. In contrast to complex artificial intelligence, these applications can only make independent decisions in small, predefined areas — if they do so at all. They have their greatest potential in workspaces where computers have not yet played a significant role, such as in medical education and diagnostics. But also in our everyday life, these virtual assistants allow an increasingly natural form of digital interaction through body, gesture and speech recognition: They help us to drive more safely because we can control the car’s navigation by voice command and keep our hands on the steering wheel. They help us wake up more refreshed because they analyze our sleep rhythm and wake us up in a suitable sleep phase rather than at an exact time. The major disadvantage of most applications of this kind is still that, although they necessarily collect user data, they do not evaluate this data themselves, but using a remote computer — which of course leads to difficulties with privacy and data protection. Nevertheless, enhancing digital workplaces with intelligent assistance programs also offers great potential for professional computer users.
This is made possible by capable software assistants. In contrast to complex artificial intelligence, these applications can only make independent decisions in small, predefined areas — if they do so at all. They have their greatest potential in workspaces where computers have not yet played a significant role, such as in medical education and diagnostics. But also in our everyday life, these virtual assistants allow an increasingly natural form of digital interaction through body, gesture and speech recognition: They help us to drive more safely because we can control the car's navigation by voice command and keep our hands on the steering wheel. They help us wake up more refreshed because they analyze our sleep rhythm and wake us up in a suitable sleep phase rather than at an exact time. The major disadvantage of most applications of this kind is still that, although they necessarily collect user data, they do not evaluate this data themselves, but using a remote computer — which of course leads to difficulties with privacy and data protection. Nevertheless, enhancing digital workplaces with intelligent assistance programs also offers great potential for professional computer users.
Why we still need computer keyboards (Why we still need computer keyboards)
So, if the mouse is something that we are probably not supposed to use in the future and digital interactions and virtual assistants become more natural and powerful year by year: Is it really worth thinking about a new generation of computer keyboards now?
So, if the mouse is something that we are probably not supposed to use in the future and digital interactions and virtual assistants become more natural and powerful year by year: Is it really worth thinking about a new generation of computer keyboards now?
The answer is yes, it does, and it is long overdue. Nobody knows what virtual environments will really look like in ten, twenty or thirty years from now and how we will interact with them. Industry leading companies like Microsoft, Google and Apple are showing how they envision the digital future — and many researchers and developers what is already possible today. But although there is a great deal of technological enthusiasm, the main drawbacks of those solutions are rarely mentioned: They are quite imprecise and inefficient compared to what we have.
The answer is yes, it does, and it is long overdue. Nobody knows what virtual environments will really look like in ten, twenty or thirty years from now and how we will interact with them. Industry leading companies like Microsoft, Google and Apple are showing how they envision the digital future — and many researchers and developers what is already possible today. But although there is a great deal of technological enthusiasm, the main drawbacks of those solutions are rarely mentioned: They are quite imprecise and inefficient compared to what we have.
For professional computer users, intelligent software assistants may have the greatest benefit. It is only a matter of time before devices can learn on their own and adapt to our personal habits and workflows. That too is what ergonomics is about: A uniform software environment is neither a perfect fit nor is it useful. But ultimately, new technologies only mean progress if they make our lives easier, better and safer. Putting people and their needs at the heart of product development means evaluating new features and functions primarily in terms of their usefulness, their usability — and not only on whether they are feasible.
For professional computer users, intelligent software assistants may have the greatest benefit. It is only a matter of time before devices can learn on their own and adapt to our personal habits and workflows. That too is what ergonomics is about: A uniform software environment is neither a perfect fit nor is it useful. But ultimately, new technologies only mean progress if they make our lives easier, better and safer. Putting people and their needs at the heart of product development means evaluating new features and functions primarily in terms of their usefulness, their usability — and not only on whether they are feasible.
It is obvious that touchscreens cannot be used as precisely with the hands or a digital pen as with a computer mouse. Yet they are increasingly replacing classic control elements. This is not always a good idea — for example, with applications that require accuracy, speed and clear haptic feedback or those that have to be controlled without visual contact. Touchscreens in ovens, stoves or cars show how quickly classic switches and rotary knobs can be of advantage or even a factor of safety. This also includes newer forms of interaction such as touchless gesture control.There is also no reasonable replacement for the classic computer keyboard. It remains essential for writing and editing large amounts of text, especially the complex software code that makes our digital visions of the future a reality — and which easily contains tens of millions of lines by now.
It is obvious that touchscreens cannot be used as precisely with the hands or a digital pen as with a computer mouse. Yet they are increasingly replacing classic control elements. This is not always a good idea — for example, with applications that require accuracy, speed and clear haptic feedback or those that have to be controlled without visual contact. Touchscreens in ovens, stoves or cars show how quickly classic switches and rotary knobs can be of advantage or even a factor of safety . This also includes newer forms of interaction such as touchless gesture control .There is also no reasonable replacement for the classic computer keyboard. It remains essential for writing and editing large amounts of text, especially the complex software code that makes our digital visions of the future a reality — and which easily contains tens of millions of lines by now.
But fortunately we no longer have to pay attention to the technical limitations of past decades. Nor do we have to bother with mass-produced standard devices where we need special equipment. There is no reason for us to use keyboards that cause injuries such as RSI syndrome, that do not match the capabilities of current or future software — and that eventually are a danger to the environment. Yet that is exactly what most computer users do. They are satisfied with something because they don’t know about its drawbacks or, if they do, cannot find an alternative device that meets their needs.
But fortunately we no longer have to pay attention to the technical limitations of past decades. Nor do we have to bother with mass-produced standard devices where we need special equipment. There is no reason for us to use keyboards that cause injuries such as RSI syndrome, that do not match the capabilities of current or future software — and that eventually are a danger to the environment. Yet that is exactly what most computer users do. They are satisfied with something because they don't know about its drawbacks or, if they do, cannot find an alternative device that meets their needs.
“Without deviation from the norm, progress is not possible.” (Frank Zappa, musician)
“Without deviation from the norm, progress is not possible.” (Frank Zappa, musician)
Developing a new keyboard means nothing less than creating the most ergonomic, efficient and sustainable interface between man and computer possible. It is about finally adapting one of the most widely used devices to our physical needs. Much has already been conceived and researched to achieve this, sometimes decades ago. If we free ourselves from unnecessary conventions, we can think digital workspaces and necessary input devices from scratch. Because we know that we can do better.
Developing a new keyboard means nothing less than creating the most ergonomic, efficient and sustainable interface between man and computer possible. It is about finally adapting one of the most widely used devices to our physical needs. Much has already been conceived and researched to achieve this, sometimes decades ago. If we free ourselves from unnecessary conventions, we can think digital workspaces and necessary input devices from scratch. Because we know that we can do better.
谢谢阅读！ (Thanks for reading!)
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Disclaimer (Disclaimer)
All rights are reserved to the respective authors or copyright holders. I have used all pictures for explanatory, reference or illustrative purposes only and thank all those who I could ask for permission and who granted it to me. Wherever possible I have mentioned the sources. I have also received neither financial support nor free test products from any of the companies mentioned.
All rights are reserved to the respective authors or copyright holders. I have used all pictures for explanatory, reference or illustrative purposes only and thank all those who I could ask for permission and who granted it to me. Wherever possible I have mentioned the sources. I have also received neither financial support nor free test products from any of the companies mentioned.
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翻译自: https://blog.prototypr.io/after-150-years-we-should-finally-redesign-the-computer-keyboard-d4aa774d7c4b
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