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Ergonomic keyboard for pregnant women on bedrest

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Project Overview

Although it has not been proven to be especially effective, bedrest is frequently prescribed for pregnant women at risk of pregnancy loss or preterm labor (including women with pre-eclampsia, premature contractions, weakened cervix, or multiples). The length and strictness of bedrest varies, but in nearly all cases women are advised to lay on their sides (not their backs and stomachs), with a preference for laying on the left side to promote circulation for the fetus. When in this position it is difficult to work on existing computing devices (laptops, tablets) for extended periods of time due to the poor ergonomics (particularly for the wrists) with existing keyboards.

It would be ideal to develop a new interface that works with existing computing devices- either an adjustable stand to position an existing keyboard (and tablet/laptop) or a bluetooth keyboard that would work with existing devices but be adjustable for the patient to find a comfortable position. Additional constraints are that the device can not interfere with or rest on the patients belly as fetuses may be sensitive to the heat/waves emitted by the device. As women come in all sizes and the pregnant belly can vary widely (both between patients and over time), careful consideration must be given to how to make this device accommodate those different situations.

Team Picture

Team members from left to right: Chris Blanchard, Andrew Hajek, Randal Mills, Elliott Janssen Saldivar, Justin Faanes
Team members from left to right: Chris Blanchard, Andrew Hajek, Randal Mills, Elliott Janssen Saldivar, Justin Faanes

Contact Information

Team Members

  • Christopher Blanchard - Team Leader
  • Justin Faanes - Communicator
  • Andrew Hajek - BSAC
  • Elliott Janssen Saldivar - BWIG
  • Randal Mills - BPAG

Advisor and Client

  • Dr. Jeremy Rogers - Advisor
  • Prof. Pamela Kreeger - Client
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