Quantifying Mouse Grip Comfort: A Multi-Level Human Factors Evaluation Framework

Abstract

As a ubiquitous human-computer interaction tool, the computer mouse requires rigorous ergonomic design to support performance and reduce upper-limb musculoskeletal risk during prolonged use. However, current comfort assessments remain fragmented and seldom translate multidimensional perceptions into empirically weighted design priorities. This study proposes a human factors evaluation framework that combines qualitative indicator elicitation, exploratory factor analysis (EFA), and the analytic hierarchy process (AHP) to quantify mouse grip comfort. An initial pool of more than 70 descriptors was compiled from literature, user interviews, and online reviews, and an importance screening survey (N = 157) reduced these to 12 core descriptors. A second survey (N = 106) provided data suitable for EFA (KMO = 0.69), yielding four latent dimensions (Dynamic Maneuverability, Muscular Load, Static Support, and Tactile Softness) that explained 60.93% of the variance. These dimensions defined the criteria level of a three-level hierarchy (goal, criteria, and indicators), and AHP weights were derived from pairwise comparisons provided by 32 experts. Dynamic maneuverability received the highest criteria weight (0.3933), and lateral grip stability had the largest composite weight among 19 operational indicators (0.1182). A case study with three representative commercial mice further demonstrated the framework’s utility for benchmarking and design prioritization. Dynamic maneuverability was most strongly associated with overall comfort (Spearman’s rho = 0.71) based on Borg CR-10 ratings. The framework provides a structured pathway for comfort-oriented mouse design and supports future integration with objective measures such as EMG, pressure distribution, and movement smoothness.

Keywords: Grip Comfort, Computer Mouse, Human Factors, Exploratory Factor Analysis, Analytic Hierarchy Process

DOI: 10.54941/ahfe1007441