BenQ Ergo Monitor Arm
User behaviour that shaped the design of an ergo monitor arm
How much force does it take to move a monitor arm? The goal was an arm that takes less than 3 kg to move.
I led the usability study. The PM wanted the maximum force. I pushed to measure the full force curve, because people push, hit resistance, then push harder.
[One honest reflection.]
Quick question
How much force do you think it takes to move a monitor arm: less than 1.5 kg, 2.5 kg or more than 3.5 kg?
Our goal was to design a monitor arm that takes less than 3 kg of force to move, based on customer needs.
What we measured
The PM wanted the maximum force. I pushed to measure the full force curve instead, because users didn’t move the monitor with one steady force. They pushed, hit resistance, then pushed harder to get past it.
[Force curve chart.]
What I recommended
- Different directions need different force thresholds to trigger motor assistance.
- Remove a separate button, which cut development costs by 8%.
The work also helped secure 1 patent.
What I’d do differently
[One honest reflection.]