Mouse for Sharing

Aim

The aim of this project was to develop a computer mouse optimized for large office environments. The mouse should have the following capabilities:

• Contain all the functions of regular computer mice, such as left and right buttons, a scroll wheel, and additional programmable buttons.

• Incorporate the essential ergonomic features identified in the study to ensure comfort and reduce strain during prolonged use.

• Utilize a minimalist design achieved through digital sketching to focus on the essential ergonomic surfaces.

• Be durable and reliable for extensive daily use in a busy office setting.

• Is wirelessly charged and stored in a collective docking station for all users to access.

Ergonomic Study

Data from participant feedback and ergonomic measurements were analyzed to identify which specific aspects, such as shape, button placement, and weight, most significantly impacted user comfort and performance. 

Ideation

Once the optimal shape of the computer mouse was determined from the study, digital sketching techniques were utilized to visualize only the essential ergonomic surfaces. This process aimed to distill the design to its minimalist form, focusing on the key contours and features that ensure comfort and usability. 

By refining the mouse's shape digitally, they were able to iterate quickly, emphasizing simplicity while maintaining ergonomic integrity. The result was a streamlined, minimalist mouse design that retained the critical ergonomic benefits identified during the study.

Stacking

Stackable Design: The sketches illustrated a form factor that allowed multiple mice to be stacked on top of each other, saving desk space in large office environments.

Alignment Features: Visuals included alignment grooves or magnetic points to keep stacked mice stable and secure.

Digital Prototype

Once the general form of the computer mouse was chosen based on ideation sketches, the next phase involved creating technical digital sketches. These sketches were designed to ensure manufacturing feasibility, proper allocation of electrical components, and the inclusion of other essentials for successful mass implementation. The technical sketches provided detailed specifications for:

• Manufacturing Feasibility: Ensuring the design could be efficiently produced using available manufacturing techniques and materials.

• Electrical Component Allocation: Strategically placing sensors, circuits, and other electronic components within the mouse to optimize performance and functionality.

• Ergonomic Precision: Maintaining the ergonomic integrity of the design while incorporating necessary technological elements.

• Assembly Process: Streamlining the assembly process to reduce production time and costs, ensuring consistency in quality.

• Durability and Reliability: Addressing factors that impact the mouse's durability and reliability in a large office environment.

• These detailed technical sketches served as a blueprint for the production process, bridging the gap between the conceptual design and practical, mass-market manufacturing.

Final Result

The final result is a computer mouse that successfully implements stacking, lightness, visual minimalist appeal, ergonomics, and functionality. This design is optimized for large office environments.

Exploded view

An exploded view presentation of the computer mouse breaks down its components to showcase their arrangement and how they fit together. 

Technical drawing of the mouse polymer housing dimensions, illustrating draft angles to accommodate injection molding manufacturing.

Location and motion of USB pairing

Pairing the mouse to the computer is done through a USB connector. Simply detach the USB connector from the mouse, insert it into the computer to pair, and then remove the USB from the computer and reattach it to the mouse to continue using it.

The connector slot in the mouse also serves for docking and stacking purposes. The stack of mice can be easily moved or transported without the pile breaking apart, thanks to the magnets ensuring secure attachment.

Resource on BeHance: https://www.behance.net/gallery/95312229/A-computer-mouse-for-sharing